E5 How a Superintendent Builds Connection Trust and Energy in a School District with Dr. Grenita Lathan
Award winning superintendent Dr. Grenita Lathan explains how relationship centered leadership, humor, and intentional connection create an energized workplace culture, while sharing practical ideas like Let’s Talk Live, Superintendent Solutions, and a literacy first focus that strengthens student outcomes.
What does energized leadership look like inside a high impact school district? In this episode of The Energized Leader Podcast, Desi Payne interviews Dr. Grenita Lathan, superintendent of the largest public school district in Missouri, and a Women Who Mean Business award recipient.
Dr. Lathan shares practical education leadership strategies for building an energized workplace culture, increasing staff engagement, and strengthening school community connections. You will hear how she fuels enthusiasm across classrooms and departments by leading with relationships, recognition, and approachability, plus the simple ways she uses humor and connection to break down walls.
You will also learn about her initiatives like Let’s Talk Live (bringing feedback and problem solving directly into the community), Superintendent Solutions (student voice and leadership input), and Read to Succeed (a literacy focused effort that supports student growth). If you lead a team in education, business, or any people focused organization, this conversation delivers real world takeaways to help you lead with energy, confidence, and heart.
With more than 25 years of experience as an entrepreneur, leadership trainer, and award-winning speaker, I combine dynamic storytelling with practical tools that boost morale, elevate culture, and help teams perform at their best.
I'm Desi!
