This month, we’ve been focused on one thing: building plans that don’t just sound good—but actually work.

In this episode, Darrin is joined by Kathleen Beckham, Molly Dexter, and Brandon Mawhorter from digiCOACH for a real, unscripted conversation about what it takes to build—and execute—a plan that improves classroom instruction.

This isn’t about theory.

It’s about what actually moves the needle.

Drawing from their experiences as educators, coaches, and system-level partners, Kathy, Molly, and Brandon share practical insights on focus, feedback, data, and the role of leadership presence in driving meaningful change.

Key Takeaways

• You can’t focus on everything
• The best leaders narrow their priorities to 1–2 key areas
• More than that creates noise and reduces impact
• Clarity beats generalities
• “Improve instruction” isn’t a plan
• Leaders must define what they expect to see in every classroom, every day
• Teacher voice matters
• Growth happens through partnership, not directives
• Collaboration builds buy-in and improves outcomes
• Presence is non-negotiable
• If you’re not in classrooms, your plan won’t move forward
• What gets calendared—and protected—gets done
• Data must lead to action
• Walkthroughs without follow-up don’t create change
• The real impact comes from Coaching conversations and feedback cycles
• You don’t have to do it alone
• Outside partners bring perspective, accountability, and expertise
• Sometimes you need someone to pull you out of the weeds and back to the balcony

Final Thought

The best plans aren’t built on ambition alone.

They’re built on:

focus, intentional action, and consistent follow-through

And most importantly…

They’re built with people—not just for them.

Learn more about DigiCoach here

Sponsor Spotlight

This episode is sponsored by HeyTutor.

If improving student outcomes is part of your plan for next year, don’t wait until the fall to build your support systems.

HeyTutor provides high-dosage tutoring in Math and ELA—both in-person and online—while handling recruitment, training, and management of tutors.

Learn more at HeyTutor.com

Let’s Connect

If you’re working to turn your plan into real, actionable steps between now and August, Darrin can help.

Through coaching, leadership retreats, and team development, he supports leaders in building clarity, alignment, and momentum.

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Darrin Peppard Dr. Darrin Peppard

Dr. Darrin Peppard is an author, leadership coach, consultant, and speaker focused on organizational culture and climate, and growing emerging leaders. Darrin is the best-selling author of the book Road to Awesome, and is the host of the Leaning into Leadership podcast. As a ‘recovering high school principal’, Darrin shares strategies and lessons learned from 26 years in public education to help leaders gain clarity, find joy in their work, and walk in their purpose.