What makes an energized leader? For Brad McCloskey, educational leader and incoming superintendent of Ottumwa Schools, it starts with relationships.

In this episode of The Energized Leader Podcast, Desi Payne talks with Brad about the leadership lessons he has learned throughout more than two decades in education, from science teacher and coach to principal, associate superintendent, and superintendent.

Brad shares why strong relationships are the foundation of effective leadership, how listening can strengthen workplace culture, and why leaders should resist the temptation to match someone else's negative energy during difficult conversations. He explains how listening sessions have helped employees feel heard and how following through on employee feedback can build greater trust within an organization.

You'll also discover Brad's perspective on building positive workplace culture, strengthening teams, managing stress, supporting employee wellness, using humor at work, and creating an environment where people can have fun while still achieving meaningful goals. Brad also discusses the challenges facing today's educators and why supporting teachers and recognizing the professionalism of education matters more than ever.

If you are a leader, educator, school administrator, manager, or anyone who wants to build stronger relationships and a healthier workplace culture, this conversation is packed with practical leadership wisdom you can use immediately.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why relationships are at the heart of energized leadership How great teams help people thrive during difficult days Why leaders need to listen before reacting How to handle conflict without matching someone else's negative energy Why employee feedback must be followed by action How humor and celebration strengthen workplace culture Ways leaders can support employee wellness and resilience Why perspective is one of a leader's most valuable tools

Brad's final leadership advice says it beautifully: keep it in perspective. Problems may feel overwhelming in the moment, but leaders who bring people together, consider different perspectives, and remember to enjoy the journey can create workplaces where people and organizations thrive.

Read Brad McCloskey's Full Bio Here:

The Ottumwa School District Board of Education has selected Bradley McCloskey as the district’s next superintendent; his contract was approved by the Board at a special Board meeting this morning.   McCloskey is Ottumwa Schools' current associate superintendent, a role he has held since 2022. He started his career as an educator with the district in 2004, having served as a biology and anatomy teacher at Ottumwa High School for six years. He then taught science at West Branch Middle School for three years.   After serving as a teacher for nine years and an Upward Bound instructor at Indian Hills Community College, McCloskey shifted his career toward administrative roles. Before returning to Ottumwa as associate superintendent, he served as an assistant principal at Keokuk High School, as principal at Keokuk Middle School, and as principal for grades 5-8 in the Davis County Community School District.   Board President David Weilbrenner shared, “We were blessed with three outstanding finalist candidates; all of them could have done the job and done it well. However, as the process unfolded, Brad separated himself from the others and earned the position.” Weilbrenner added, “On behalf of the entire Board, I also want to thank the 65 or so people who served on the mixed interview teams and provided outstanding feedback to the Board on all the candidates. The data from the mixed interview teams solidified what the Board saw in Brad. We are thrilled that Brad rose to the top and will become our next superintendent.”   As associate superintendent, McCloskey led Ottumwa Schools in the adoption of district-wide instructional frameworks, along with professional development to support staff through their implementation. He also collaborated with the district’s human resources department to introduce new hiring practices designed to attract and retain educators.   “I am truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as the next superintendent of the Ottumwa Community School District. We have an amazing team of professionals here, and it is my great privilege to work alongside them as we strive to make our district a premier destination and the best in Iowa,” said McCloskey. “I look forward to continuing and growing the legacy and vision established by Mr. McGrory and the school board. We will pay tribute to Mr. McGrory and all of our retiring staff through the achievements we will attain on our journey to "Be the Best."