Welcome to "A Seat at the Table" Podcast - Episode 007, where host Wiley Brazier, V invites educational leader and founder of EduGladiators, Marlena Gross-Taylor, to the table. Join them as they delve into the world of educational leadership, discussing the critical need for leaders to prioritize instructional leadership, engage with parents, and find balance in their roles and responsibilities.

In this episode, Marlena Gross-Taylor shares her wealth of experience as a district leader in schools, emphasizing the importance of knowing one's strengths and investing in professional development for instructional tools. She stresses the need for schools to understand the generational differences in parent engagement, offering strategies such as the use of digital newsletters, social media platforms, and video content to effectively engage parents and students. The discussion also touches upon the universal nature of children's needs in different school settings and how educators can create a meaningful environment for children.

As the conversation unfolds, Marlena shares her insights on finding balance in educational leadership roles, advocating for the empowerment of assistant principals, teachers, and staff to handle certain tasks. She offers strategies for creating white space in the calendar for self-development and visioning, highlighting the importance of avoiding the unrealistic expectation for principals to be everything to everyone.

The episode also delves into personal preferences, with discussions about a perfect day and desired abilities or qualities. Marlena shares her personal story, providing a glimpse into her passion for education and her vision for EduGladiators, a platform focused on advocacy for the profession, branding in schools, and the power of leveraging social media to share positive stories of achievements in education.

Throughout the episode, Marlena Gross-Taylor and Wiley Brazier, V engage in a dynamic and informative exchange, touching on topics such as the Association of Middle Level Educators (AMLE), the importance of networking and sharing experiences, and the impact of becoming a connected leader to influence personal, professional, and school growth.

This episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and anyone passionate about the field of education. Join Wiley Brazier, V and their guest Marlena Gross-Taylor for a thought-provoking and insightful discussion on "A Seat at the Table" Podcast, Episode 007.