Leadership for the Common Good

About Leadership for the Common Good

Welcome to Leadership for the Common Good, the podcast where we dive into the stories and strategies behind leadership that truly makes a difference. I’m your host, Jennifer McDowell, founder and Principal Coach at Common Good Coaching. Whether you’re leading a team or a project, or simply seeking to lead your life with more intention and impact, this podcast is for you. I believe leadership should feel human — it should inspire, create hope, and deliver real results. Together, we’ll explore what it means to lead in a way that serves the common good, especially in challenging times.

Publisher

Common Good Coaching

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

28 Apr 2025

Latest episode

14 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   14 Sept 2026

   Shared Leadership in Community Schools: Principal + Community School Coordinator

   Jennifer McDowell talks with Mark Bea, principal in Kentwood, Michigan, and Gabi Coty, community school coordinator at Endeavour Elementary, about what community schools look like in practice and why shared leadership is central to making the strategy work. The conversation focuses on how they structure teams, distribute responsibility, and keep the work aligned with mission so the strategy stays transformational rather than becoming a side program. In this episode Mark Bea shares how a community school strategy differs from a traditional school model by embedding supports for students, families, staff, and the broader community into the core of the school. Gabi Coty explains her path from elementary teacher to community school coordinator and how her background shaped her focus on the whole child. Mark and Gabi describe community schools as a strategy, not just a list of extra services, field trips, or volunteers. They unpack the relationship between the principal and coordinator as the key driver of shared leadership. They explain Endeavour’s action team structure, including MTSS, academic extension, belonging and connection, and family engagement. Gabi describes how she leads the belonging and connection team and uses survey data to set goals and plan initiatives. Mark explains how the inverted leadership structure works, with the principal and assistant principal supporting team leaders rather than controlling every detail. They discuss how open invitations, aligned goals, and staff passion help develop more leaders across the building. They talk candidly about the risks of shared leadership without systems, including confusion, misalignment, and initiatives getting out of hand. Both reflect on the common good as serving people well, including students, families, and the community. 00:00 — First Michigan community schools conversation and introductions 01:25 — Gabi Coty’s path from teacher to community school coordinator 04:39 — Mark Bea’s leadership background and mission-driven approach 09:43 — Community schools as a strategy, not just extra services 11:20 — What a community school looks like in everyday practice 14:24 — Why shared leadership is a core part of the strategy 15:41 — What shared leadership means in a school setting 20:01 — Why the strategy cannot live on the sidelines 23:16 — The five action teams at Endeavour 24:13 — How the belonging and connection team uses data and initiatives 27:11 — The inverted triangle model and distributed leadership 29:23 — Why the team structure was designed this way 31:31 — Gabi’s experience stepping into a new leadership role 35:33 — Why the coordinator must be part of the core strategy 39:29 — District alignment and why it matters for community schools 42:09 — How Gabi helps identify and develop other leaders 46:56 — Concerns about decision-making in shared leadership 47:33 — Planning, approval, and keeping initiatives aligned 52:27 — Lessons learned from an initiative that got too far ahead 56:21 — Why leadership systems matter more than individual heroics 59:40 — Gabi on trying new things and building capacity 61:17 — Leadership training as essential to the community school coordinator role 62:19 — Closing reflections on the common good Timestamps 🎙️ Listen to the full conversation and discover how coaching can strengthen schools, support educators, and advance leadership for the common good. Learn more about Jennifer's coaching work at Common Good Coaching. Connect with Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn. #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #CommunitySchools #InstructionalCoaching #EducationalLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #CoachingForLeaders #SchoolTransformation

2. 

   7 Sept 2026

   Embracing Relational Leadership: Insights from Michigan

   This panel explores the transformative power of relational leadership, emphasizing how relationships shape effective leadership and community building. The speakers share personal journeys, practical practices, and insights on fostering relational cultures in schools and organizations. 🎙️ Listen to the full conversation and discover how coaching can strengthen schools, support educators, and advance leadership for the common good. Learn more about Jennifer's coaching work at Common Good Coaching. Connect with Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn. #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #CommunitySchools #InstructionalCoaching #EducationalLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #CoachingForLeaders #SchoolTransformation

3. 

   7 Jul 2026

   Building Coaching Cultures in Community Schools with Esperanza Martinez & Cora Watkins

   What does it take to build a coaching culture that helps educators thrive—and creates better outcomes for students? In this episode, Jennifer McDowell sits down with Esperanza Martinez and Cora Watkins, leaders who have helped shape the Community Schools movement within the Los Angeles Unified School District. Together, they explore how coaching can become a powerful driver of school transformation, strengthening leadership, supporting educators, and creating the conditions for every student to succeed. Drawing on decades of experience, Esperanza and Cora share the lessons they've learned about building systems that prioritize collaboration, trust, and continuous learning. They also discuss the realities of implementing this work—from navigating limited resources to shifting long-held beliefs about what coaching is and why it matters. Whether you're a school leader, coach, educator, or anyone committed to building stronger learning communities, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration for creating sustainable change. The history and evolution of the Community Schools movement Why coaching is essential to lasting school improvement How coaching builds leadership capacity and strengthens educator practice Creating cultures of collaboration, trust, and continuous growth The connection between educator support and student success Common challenges in building coaching infrastructure—and strategies for overcoming them Lessons for district leaders committed to long-term, systems-level change Community schools succeed when they invest in both people and systems. Coaching empowers educators to grow, collaborate, and lead with confidence. Sustainable school transformation requires intentional leadership, ongoing support, and a culture of continuous improvement. Investing in educators ultimately creates better experiences and outcomes for students and families. 🎙️ Listen to the full conversation and discover how coaching can strengthen schools, support educators, and advance leadership for the common good. Learn more about Jennifer's coaching work at Common Good Coaching. Connect with Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn. #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #CommunitySchools #InstructionalCoaching #EducationalLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #CoachingForLeaders #SchoolTransformation

4. 

   26 Apr 2026

   Empowering Leadership in School Communities

   The insights shared by Jennifer McDowell and David Osta highlight the transformative power of community organizing and effective leadership in education. As they explore the gradual release of responsibility and the importance of building relationships within school communities, it becomes evident that empowering others to lead is essential for fostering a thriving educational environment. Key takeaways include the value of betting on oneself, the significance of gradual responsibility release, and the enduring legacy of community organizing. Tags: community schools, education, leadership development, community organizing, gradual release of responsibility, Jane Addams, relational organizing, coaching, empowerment.

5. 

   23 Oct 2025

   Collective Care is the Common Good with Danna Thomas

   In this conversation, Jennifer McDowell and Danna Thomas discuss the evolution of their friendship and the importance of supporting educators' mental health through the Happy Teacher Revolution. They explore themes of gratitude, the impact of small gestures, the need for safe spaces, and the significance of collective care in education. The discussion highlights the challenges teachers face, the importance of self-care, and the role of parents in fostering a supportive environment for children. They emphasize the need to shift focus from problems to solutions and the importance of data-driven insights in understanding teacher well-being. 🎙️ Tune in to the episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at ⁠⁠Common Good Coaching⁠⁠. Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Jennifer McDowell⁠⁠ #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

6. 

   16 Oct 2025

   The Power of Mattering with Zach Mercurio

   In this conversation, Jennifer McDowell and Zach Mercurio explore the concept of mattering, emphasizing its importance in personal and professional contexts. Zach shares his journey and research on how feeling valued impacts individuals' ability to contribute meaningfully to society. They discuss practical strategies for fostering connections, the role of curiosity, and the significance of intentional interactions in combating feelings of insignificance. The conversation highlights the cyclical nature of mattering, where giving and receiving value enhances relationships and contribute to the common good. 🎙️ Tune in to the episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at ⁠⁠Common Good Coaching⁠⁠. Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Jennifer McDowell⁠⁠ #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

7. 

   9 Oct 2025

   Healing, Leadership, and Community in Baltimore with Arica Gonzalez

   In this inspiring episode of Leadership For The Common Good, host Jennifer sits down with Arica Gonzalez, Executive Director of Urban Oasis—a Baltimore-based organization dedicated to creating spaces of healing, belonging, and empowerment for youth and families. Arica shares her journey as a community leader and advocate, discussing how Urban Oasis integrates mindfulness, social-emotional learning, and community partnerships to help people thrive in urban environments. Together, Jennifer and Arica explore what it means to lead with authenticity, build sustainable support networks, and nurture collective well-being in the face of systemic challenges. Whether you’re a community builder, educator, or nonprofit professional, this episode offers rich insights into the power of healing-centered leadership and the importance of creating spaces where everyone can be seen and supported. Learn more about Arica’s work at theurbanoasis.org (https://www.theurbanoasis.org/) and explore Jennifer’s coaching and leadership resources at commongoodcoaching.com (https://www.commongoodcoaching.com/). 🎙️ Tune in to the episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at ⁠⁠Common Good Coaching⁠⁠. Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Jennifer McDowell⁠⁠ #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

8. 

   16 Sept 2025

   Embracing Personal Growth in Leadership with Gwendolyn Unoko

   In this heartfelt conversation, Gwendolyn opens up about her remarkable journey through a tapestry of leadership roles, vividly illustrating the transformative power of personal growth and the deep, lasting impact of community. She delves into the essential traits that characterize effective leadership, shining a light on the importance of encouragement like a beacon of hope, and the unwavering need for compassion and honesty in our connections. Gwendolyn reflects on the indelible influence of her family and the nurturing embrace of her community, painting a picture of the uncomplicated joys of childhood experiences. She emphasizes the profound responsibility that leaders bear to create a brighter, more understanding world founded on respect and empathy. 🎙️ Tune in to the episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at ⁠⁠Common Good Coaching⁠⁠. Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Jennifer McDowell⁠⁠ #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

9. 

   21 Aug 2025

   Self-Discovery in Leadership with Marissa Badgley

   In this conversation, Marissa Badgley and Jennifer McDowell explore the importance of creating transformational spaces for individuals to express their authentic selves. They discuss the impact of childhood experiences on leadership styles, the challenges of professional burnout, and the need for compassionate work environments. The dialogue emphasizes the collective responsibility to address systemic issues in the nonprofit sector and the importance of emotional acknowledgment in fostering well-being. They also highlight the significance of self-compassion, the use of metaphors in leadership, and the role of community support in navigating challenges. Learn more about Marissa https://www.truereloveution.com/about 🎙️ Tune in to the episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at ⁠⁠Common Good Coaching⁠⁠. Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Jennifer McDowell⁠⁠ #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

10. 

    6 Aug 2025

    Empowering Leadership: A Journey of Growth with Lauren Stevens

    In this conversation, Jennifer McDowell and Lauren discuss the intricacies of leadership, personal development, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for team members. Lauren shares her journey from feeling overwhelmed in her leadership role to embracing a more reflective and curious approach. They explore the significance of one-on-one meetings, the role of coaching, and how to empower team members while fostering a culture of curiosity and growth. The discussion culminates in a reflection on the common good and the impact of individual actions on the broader community. This podcast isn’t just for CEOs or executives — it’s for anyone who believes leadership is about service, community, and courage. If you’re ready to lead in a way that lifts others and leaves a lasting impact, this space is for you. 🎙️ Tune in to the episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at ⁠Common Good Coaching⁠ (https://www.commongoodcoaching.com/). Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: ⁠Jennifer McDowell⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachjennifermcdowell/) #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

11. 

    16 Jul 2025

    The Power of Failure in Growth with Wesley Jamison

    In this conversation, Jennifer McDowell and Wesley Jamison explore the intersection of leadership, youth development, and health and wellness. Wesley shares his journey from being a young fitness enthusiast to leading MissionFit, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering youth through health and wellness programs. They discuss the importance of creating safe spaces for young people, the role of failure in the learning process, and the significance of active listening in leadership. Wesley emphasizes the importance of morning routines and self-care for effective leadership, as well as the need to build identity and brand in youth development. The conversation also touches on the balance between achieving results and fostering leadership development, crafting impactful stories for fundraising, and the essence of the common good in allowing individuals to express their authentic selves.

12. 

    25 Jun 2025

    Organizing with Heart with Abby Baldwin

    Community organizers Abby Baldwin and Jennifer McDowell discuss authentic community engagement through deep listening, storytelling, and honoring cultural traditions to create lasting change, in this interview.

13. 

    9 Jun 2025

    Strategies for Leadership Development with Arnie Graf

    Leadership strategist Arnie Graf discusses with Jennifer McDowell strategies for identifying and nurturing leadership within communities, drawing from experiences in mentoring emerging leaders and organizing for social change in this interview.

14. 

    28 May 2025

    Overcome Performance Anxiety: Mairin Srygley

    Mezzo-soprano Mairin Srygley discusses her journey overcoming performance anxiety and embracing self-compassion to connect authentically with her audience in this interview with Jennifer.

15. 

    14 May 2025

    Small Steps, Big Shifts: Ruth Farfel on Growth, Community & Curiosity

    In this week’s Leadership for the Common Good episode, host Jennifer McDowell sits down with Ruth Farfel, a Baltimore-based coach, facilitator, and solopreneur, for an honest and deeply resonant conversation about curiosity, creativity, and collective well-being. Together, Jennifer and Ruth explore moving from feeling stuck to stepping into purpose—slowly, intentionally, and with care. Ruth reflects on her journey toward solopreneurship, the impact of societal pressures on curiosity, and the radical act of asking good questions. They discuss how survival mode suppresses exploration, why perfectionism is a threat in the do-good space, and how leadership can and should model vulnerability. This episode is a heartfelt call to embrace experimentation, redefine self-care, and build a community rooted in authenticity. It invites listeners to reflect on their values, lean on others, and imagine a version of leadership that makes space for the messy, beautiful work of collective growth. Key Themes: The power of small steps in creative processes Burnout, perfectionism, and the self-care industrial complex Leadership is honest modeling, not having all the answers Why curiosity is critical to thriving communities Building a culture of support in a world of individual pressure

16. 

    1 May 2025

    Legacy, Leadership & Lasting Change with Carol Reckling

    In this powerful new episode of Leadership For the Common Good, host Jennifer McDowell sits down with longtime nonprofit leader Carol Reckling for an honest and deeply reflective conversation about the meaning of leadership across time. Together, they explore: What leadership really looks like in action How change unfolds across generations The emotional and professional journey of leaders who helped build movements and institutions And the important question: What does it mean to be remembered? Carol shares hard-won wisdom from her decades of service, offering a grounded perspective on impact, growth, and what it feels like to step back and reflect on a career devoted to social good. Whether you're an emerging leader or someone reflecting on your own legacy, this episode will leave you inspired to lead with intention — and to honor those who paved the way. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. 🔗 Visit: commongoodcoaching.com (https://www.commongoodcoaching.com/) for more. #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #NonprofitLeadership #LegacyLeadership #CarolReckling #PurposeDrivenLeadership #SocialImpact #CommonGood

17. 

    28 Apr 2025

    Welcome to Leadership for the Common Good: Our Vision and Purpose

    We’re proud to announce the launch of Leadership For the Common Good, a new podcast hosted by leadership coach and transformational guide, Jennifer McDowell! Jennifer brings years of experience coaching leaders across sectors — from nonprofits to businesses to community organizations — helping them lead with purpose, resilience, and authenticity. As a trusted coach, speaker, and advocate for ethical leadership, Jennifer’s mission is clear: to empower leaders to create lasting, positive change for the people and communities they serve. In Leadership For the Common Good, Jennifer shares her leadership wisdom and engages in thoughtful conversations with leaders who are shaping a better future. Each episode explores the real-world practices, lessons, and mindsets that define impactful leadership today — from building strong teams and leading through uncertainty to staying grounded in values while striving for success. The first episode features a special conversation between Jennifer and podcast producer Ahmad, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the podcast's inspiration, the series's vision, and what listeners can expect as they journey together toward more authentic, service-driven leadership. This podcast isn’t just for CEOs or executives — it’s for anyone who believes leadership is about service, community, and courage. If you’re ready to lead in a way that lifts others and leaves a lasting impact, this space is for you. 🎙️ Tune in to the first episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at Common Good Coaching (https://www.commongoodcoaching.com/). Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: Jennifer McDowell (https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachjennifermcdowell/) #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

Who has been a guest on Leadership for the Common Good

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Abby Baldwin
• Jennifer McDowell
• Arnie Graf

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

8 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 29 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

38

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

51

Contact Leadership for the Common Good

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.