Member Voices

Latest Episodes:

Connecting Through Curiosity with Patricia Sasser, Former Assistant Head of School, Saint Mary’s School Sep 02, 2025

Show notes

Patricia Sasser, former Assistant Head of School for Academic Affairs at Saint Mary’s School (NC), shares her journey from a globally nomadic childhood to a career in television at ESPN, and ultimately to leadership in independent schools. Patricia reflects on how her early experiences shaped her curiosity, empathy, and people-first approach to leadership. She discusses the transition from journalism to education, the power of storytelling in fundraising, and her commitment to faculty well-being and retention. Patricia also explores the nuances of working in boarding versus day schools, single-sex versus coeducational environments, and the importance of mentoring and human-centered leadership. Now on sabbatical, she opens up about prioritizing family, pursuing creative passions, and continuing her doctoral work—all while staying deeply connected to the mission of supporting students and educators. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

What is your proudest moment? Aug 25, 2025

Show notes

In our last compilation episode, school leaders share their proudest moments. This episode is the final part of a series celebrating 100 episodes of Member Voices. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

What's your biggest challenge? Source of inspiration? Aug 18, 2025

Show notes

As we continue to celebrate 100 episodes of Member Voices, we hear from school leaders about the biggest challenges they've faced, and where they turn to for inspiration. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

What are you reading right now? Aug 11, 2025

Show notes

We are celebrating 100 episodes of Member Voices with compilations of responses to key questions from all our past seasons. In this episode, school leaders share what they've read that they feel has helped prepare them for this moment. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Best pieces of advice that you've received? Aug 04, 2025

Show notes

To celebrate 100 episodes of Member Voices, we are releasing 5 “bitesize” episodes compiling responses to key questions from all our past seasons. In this episode, past guests share the top pieces of advice they're received on their professional journey. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Was this always the plan? Jul 29, 2025

Show notes

To celebrate 100 episodes of Member Voices, we are releasing 5 “bitesize” episodes compiling responses to key questions from all our past seasons. In this episode, past guests discuss their career journey and answer the question, “Was this always the plan?” You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

The Conversation: Cultivating a Culture of Mattering Jul 07, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, two longtime thought partners—Jennifer Wallace, author of "Never Enough," and Dr. Tara Christie Kinsey, new head at Charlotte Country Day School—discuss what it means for educators to truly matter. They explore how school leaders can foster a culture where teachers feel seen, supported, and valued—and why that sense of mattering is foundational not only to teacher resilience, but to student success and thriving school communities. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Leading with Relationships with Todd Herauf, Head of School, The Galloway School Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

Todd Herauf, Head of School at The Galloway School (TX), reflects on his transition from public education to independent schools, the lessons he's carried forward, and the values that guide his leadership style. He shares how a commitment to people-first leadership, clear communication, and relationship-building has helped him strengthen school culture, engage with the board, and support his faculty. Todd also discusses the joys and challenges of leading a small school, his approach to governance and strategic change, and what inspires him most as a lifelong educator. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Innovating with Intention with Rob Short, Head of School, Trinity Episcopal School May 05, 2025

Show notes

Rob Short, Head of School at Trinity Episcopal School (VA), discusses how his school integrates innovation, AI, and creativity across the curriculum while fostering student wellness and agency. Rob shares the story behind their “Discover Your Path” philosophy, the design of their discovery period and innovation challenges, and the importance of balancing new technologies with ethical thinking and human connection. He reflects on his own journey from microbiology to school leadership and offers insights into navigating complexity through strategic planning and student-centered design. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Building Relationships with Liz Joyce, School Counselor, Nashoba Brooks School Apr 06, 2025

Show notes

Liz Joyce, School Counselor at Nashoba Brooks School (MA), discusses the multifaceted challenges she faces in her role - particularly regarding student wellbeing - the impact of social media, and the importance of engaging with parents. She emphasizes the need for relationally based learning and community support among faculty and staff. Liz reflects on her professional journey, the lessons learned, and the evolving landscape of child development post-COVID, while also sharing her proudest moments in helping students and families navigate challenges. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

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