Episode 36

full
Published on:

19th May 2025

The Power of Authenticity: Embracing Your True Path

Welcome back to Teach.Lead.Innovate.!

Dave is back with exciting personal news and reflections about authenticity, passion, and the importance of staying true to oneself.

In this heartfelt episode, Dave shares his journey of choosing to return to his role as principal, emphasizing the deep joy and fulfillment he finds in direct school leadership. He dives into why authenticity is critical, not just for personal happiness but also for effective leadership, student achievement, and overall community growth.

Dave supports this powerful message with insights from scholarly research:

Kernis, M. H., & Goldman, B. M. (2006). A multicomponent conceptualization of authenticity: Theory and research. In M. P. Zanna (Ed.), Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, 38, 283-357. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0065-2601(06)38006-9

Yagil, D., & Medler-Liraz, H. (2019). Personally committed leaders: A study on the relationship between authentic leadership and employee well-being. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 24(4), 407–419. https://doi.org/10.1037/ocp0000124

Brown, B. (2018). Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. Random House.

Dave also shares inspiring modern examples, including Simone Biles and Kevin Love, who demonstrate how embracing authenticity impacts personal well-being and public leadership.

Listen to Teach.Lead.Innovate. weekly on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Spotify, YouTube Music, or watch on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a comment, and share!

Stay true and authentic!

#TeachLeadInnovate #Authenticity #Leadership #Education #Podcast

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About the Podcast

Teach.Lead.Innovate.
A show committed to discussing bold and innovative ideas in education, technology, and leadership!
The Teach Lead Innovate Podcast is a show aimed at exploring topics in educational leadership, technology, instructional strategies and trends, current events, and leadership practices in both the private and public sectors.

About your host

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David Walker

Dave Walker is an elementary school principal, adjunct professor of history, and avid cyclist. He is also an Apple Distinguished Educator - Class of 2023, as well as a Captain the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary, Civil Air Patrol.