Episode 225: Creating High Performing Leadership Teams with the AWESOME Framework

In this solo episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard shares the framework and mindset behind truly effective leadership teams. Drawing on his work from coast to coast, including a recent workshop at the Innovative Schools Summit in Nashville, Darrin explains why high-performing leadership teams don’t happen by accident—they’re built with clarity, trust, and purpose.

Through powerful stories and practical takeaways, Darrin walks you through his AWESOME framework, a leadership model that has helped schools and districts across the country move from dysfunction to alignment. Whether you're leading a building or a district, this episode offers actionable insights to help your team become more aligned, accountable, and impactful.

In This Episode:

• What separates great leadership teams from the ones that just get by
• The most common traits of ineffective teams (misalignment, lack of trust, unclear roles)
• How to implement the AWESOME Teams Framework:
• Accept the challenge
• Welcome feedback and support
• Examine your priorities
• Stand on your values
• Operate intentionally
• Model what you expect
• Engage in reflection
• Why team norms and trust are essential for collaboration
• How to align your leadership team around shared instructional goals
• The value of team retreats and neutral-facilitated reflection

Memorable Quotes:

“If I want a better WE, I’ve got to be a better ME.”

“Great leadership teams aren’t built by accident. They’re built on purpose.”

“Be the thermostat, not the thermometer—set the tone instead of just reflecting it.”

Resources & Links:

• RoadToAwesome.net – Website
• The Principal Academy – Online leadership course
• Blog: Road to Awesome – Weekly leadership insights
• Book: Road to Awesome: The Journey of a Leader
• Book: Culture First Classrooms

Connect with Darrin:

• Instagram/Facebook: Darrin M Peppard
• TikTok/X: @DarrinMPeppard
• LinkedIn: Darrin Peppard
• Leadership Retreats: Contact via Road to Awesome

Call to Action:

• Share this episode with your leadership team and start a conversation about how you work together.
• Reflect: What is one step your team will take this week to become more aligned and intentional?
• Looking for a leadership retreat or customized support for your team? Reach out to Darrin to schedule your session.