S3 E8: From Vision to Action: Turning Ideas into Impactful Leadership Moves with Dr. Neil Gupta Artwork

School on a Mission Podcast

Welcome to "School on a Mission," the podcast for educators by educators. We're here to help school leaders navigate the ups and downs of leadership in education. Join us for candid conversations, practical advice, and inspiration from experienced educators and experts. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an aspiring administrator, we've got you covered. Tune in and join the mission to create thriving learning environments for the next generation.

The School on a Mission podcast is brought to you by Growing Leaders powered by the Maxwell Leadership Foundation. You can learn more about the work of transforming the lives of students at growingleaders.com.

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School on a Mission Podcast

S3 E8: From Vision to Action: Turning Ideas into Impactful Leadership Moves with Dr. Neil Gupta

December 04, 2025 • Growing Leaders x Maxwell Leadership Foundation • Season 3 • Episode 8

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Vision without action is just a dream—but action without vision? That’s a recipe for burnout. In this episode of School on a Mission, Dr. Neil Gupta, Superintendent of Oakwood City Schools and a nationally recognized leadership voice, joins Andrew and Gina for an inspiring and deeply practical conversation about what it takes to turn bold ideas into meaningful change.

Dr. Gupta shares real-world strategies for leading with empathy, building trust, and creating space for both innovation and well-being—at every level of a school system. From bringing coffee in a Rubbermaid tote to creating monthly check-ins with his team, Dr. Gupta reveals how small rhythms build big momentum.

You’ll walk away with tangible leadership moves, a fresh mindset on vision-setting, and permission to slow down in order to go far—together.

What You’ll Learn

How to lead with both clarity and care
Why empathy and listening are essential change tools
The role of check-ins, team retreats, and feedback loops in sustainable leadership
How to model well-being in high-performing schools
Practical ways to re-center your “why” when the work gets heavy

🚀 Welcome to the School on a Mission Podcast! 🎙️

Hosted by Andrew McPeak and Gina Watts, this podcast is for educators, school leaders, and change-makers who believe in building schools where leadership, character, and social-emotional growth matter just as much as academics. If you believe education should inspire, equip, and empower the next generation—you’re in the right place!

Each episode features engaging conversations, expert insights, and real-world strategies to help you create a school culture where students thrive. From leadership principles and community engagement to AI in education and social media strategy, we tackle the most pressing topics in modern education.

🎧 New episodes drop regularly—don’t miss out!

💡 Connect with us at schoolonamissionpodcast.com

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🔹 The School on a Mission Podcast is produced by Growing Leaders, powered by the Maxwell Leadership Foundation.