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A Quick Note to Listeners:
Before this week’s interview, Jen Schwanke and Will Parker take a few minutes to discuss the following question:
What should I be thinking as I step into the school year, especially if I am starting a new role?
Listen in to hear their response!
Meet LaVonna Roth:
With almost 20 years of experience speaking on four continents, LaVonna Roth helps leaders across various industries ditch self-doubt, break barriers, and step boldly into their shine. Through her signature S.H.I.N.E.® Framework, she draws on emotional intelligence, brain sciences, and wellness to create impactful and transformative experiences.
To open the episode, Jen recalls first seeing LaVonna present years ago, finding herself impressed by LaVonna’s focus on the human side of leadership, rather than just technical skills. LaVonna shares her diverse professional background, including teaching and corporate experience, and how negative experiences motivated her to start her own business, emphasizing the importance of treating people well.
S.H.I.N.E. Framework:
LaVonna explains the “S.H.I.N.E.” framework, which stands for “Self, Heart, Inspire, Navigate, and Exceptional.” It’s designed to help individuals identify their strengths and passions, inspire others, navigate challenges, and ultimately become exceptional leaders. She stresses that leadership is not just a title, but about making an impact. She addresses the common “imposter syndrome,” noting that it can be overcome by focusing on strengths and personal values. The S.H.I.N.E. framework is meant to be integrated into existing practices, rather than being a separate program, making it something that school principals could adapt and adjust to their own learning needs.
Challenges and Pressures of Leadership:
The conversation delves into the pressures and challenges faced by school leaders, including dealing with higher leadership, policy changes, and maintaining morale. LaVonna advocates for using “appreciative inquiry,” a method of focusing on past successes to find solutions, rather than dwelling on problems. She emphasizes the importance of building a supportive team and recognizing the value each member brings. The discussion also touches on the pervasive nature of imposter syndrome, attributing it to societal pressures and comparative culture, and encourages individuals to define their own measures of success.
Aligning Work with Passions and Strengths:
LaVonna and Jen address the importance of aligning one’s work with their passions and strengths, and not feeling pressured to conform to external expectations. LaVonna shares personal stories of impactful moments, highlighting the importance of recognizing and celebrating individual contributions. She encourages listeners to focus on their unique strengths and passions, and to create a life that aligns with their personal values.
Staying Connected:
LaVonna can be found at igniteyourshine.com and on social media platforms like Instagram (@igniteyourshinenow) and LinkedIn (@LaVonna Roth). You can also connect with her via email: lavonna@igniteyourSHINE.com
