All Episodes
Episode #16
Dr. Gina Zietlow: Rethinking Student Wellness in Education
In this episode of the Superintendent Hot Seat podcast, Michael McCormick engages with Dr. Gina Zietlow, Superintendent of ABC Unified School District, discussing the pressing challenges of student wellness, mental health, and the evolving role of educators in supporting students. They explore the importance of mental health resources in schools, the shift in student awareness regarding their own wellness, and the initiatives taken to address these issues, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Dr. Zietlow shares insights on the significance of social-emotional learning, the expansion of career and technical education, and the necessity of fostering a supportive environment for both students and staff.
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Episode #15
Dr. Richard Cobb: Belonging Starts Before the First Bell
Dr. Rick Cobb (Mid-Del Public Schools) explains how his district creates “soft landings” for students and families at every transition point — from the first day of school to the move into middle and high school. He highlights programs that build connection and pride, including athletics, fine arts, CareerTech, e-sports, and upgraded facilities, while sharing how he keeps himself grounded by staying close to principals, students, and community.
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Episode #14
Dr. Ben Churchill: Listen First then Lead with Focus
How do you enter a large district mid-year and still set a clear path forward? Dr. Ben Churchill (Poway USD) shares his 90-day listen-and-learn plan, school visits across 41 campuses, and a leadership approach built on focus over frenzy: double down on what works, let go of what doesn’t, and align the organization around a few wildly important goals. He also lays out how Poway balances district direction with principal autonomy—and why that combination increases engagement and results.
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Episode #13
Dr. Michael Matsuda: Unleashing Teacher Creativity and Student Purpose
What happens when you free teachers from test score pressure and trust them to design for the whole child? In this inspiring conversation on Superintendent Hot Seat, Michael Matsuda shares how he transformed Anaheim Union High School District into a hub of innovation — from capstones and student TED Talks to AI-powered mentors that know each learner’s story.
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Episode #12
Dr. Barbara Mullen: Healing-Centered Leadership – Building Belonging from the Inside Out
How do we build student wellness that truly lasts? In this episode of Superintendent Hot Seat, Dr. Barbara Mullen shares how she’s reshaping district culture by focusing on healing-centered leadership. From building communities of practice for staff to designing joyful “Level Up” kickoffs and creating schools where every student feels seen, her approach is rooted in connection, trust, and belonging.
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