It’s been SAId: Conversations on Leadership

Legislative Update with Dave Daughton — March 27, 2026

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This March 27th episode covers week eleven.

A Legacy of Leadership: Lessons from Three Retiring Superintendents

In this reflective episode of It’s been SAId, Executive Director Lisa Remy hosts a roundtable discussion with retiring Iowa superintendents: Pella's Greg Ebeling, West Lyon's Shawn Kreman, and Burlington's Robert Scott.
As they prepare to conclude their careers in June 2026, these veteran leaders look back on the dramatic evolution of school district leadership—from navigating increased public visibility to managing the growing complexity of modern education. The conversation dives deep into the realities of the "relentless" nature of the job, offering a rare glimpse into their most challenging moments, the skills that matter most in today's climate, and the essential strategies for building trust with boards and communities.
Whether you are an aspiring administrator or a seasoned educator, this episode serves as a powerful masterclass in resilience, legacy, and the enduring hope that drives Iowa’s educational leaders. Listen to the wisdom and reflection from these three great leaders in this 45-minute podcast

Legislative Update with Dave Daughton — March 20, 2026

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This March 20th episode covers week ten.

Legal Vortex: Dealing with End-of-Year Decisions — Retentions, Commencements, and Student Behavior

In this episode of the It’s Been Said Podcast, SAI Legal Services Director Matt Carver discusses some common end-of-year legal issues that school administrators face. These issues include:
Dealing with student behavior and reminding staff to remain calm and professional.
Navigating requests to exclude parents or family members from end-of-year celebrations.
Addressing requests to use alternative names during graduation ceremonies.
Managing student dress code for commencement ceremonies, especially regarding cultural or religious attire.
Clarifying the legal rights of parents and school districts regarding student retention and advancement.
Prepare for your next 10 weeks of classes by listening to this 15 minute podcast.

Legislative Update with Dave Daughton — March 13, 2026

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This March 13th episode covers week nine.

Legislative Update with Dave Daughton — March 6, 2026

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This March 6th episode covers week eight.

Leadership Life Fit: Protecting and Refueling Your Cognitive Energy

In this special edition episode of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Dana Schon, SAI's associate executive director of professional learning, explores the hidden drain on a leader's most valuable resource: cognitive energy.
Using the relatable metaphor of a web browser cluttered with dozens of open tabs, Schon illustrates how unresolved tasks, lingering worries, and unrealistic self-expectations act as "mental tabs" that leak energy throughout the day. She challenges the traditional narrative of the "always-on" leader, encouraging listeners to "close the tabs" by setting boundaries and reframing their internal stories to achieve a better leadership life fit.
Learn practical strategies to "close unneeded tabs" in this nine-minute podcast.

Legislative Update with Dave Daughton — Feb. 27, 2026

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This Feb. 27th episode covers week seven.

A New Chapter for SAI

In this special episode of It’s been SAId, Executive Director Dr. Lisa Remy sits down with her successor, Dr. Brad Buck, to discuss the upcoming leadership transition at the School Administrators of Iowa. Dr. Buck, the current Waukee superintendent and long-time SAI member, will take the helm this summer.
Key highlights from their conversation include:
The "Spark" for Change: Brad shares the personal realization that led him to pivot from district leadership to leading the professional association.
Navigating Leadership: Strategies for maintaining a non-partisan, student-centered focus in a polarized political climate.
Vision for the Future: Brad outlines his first-year goals, focusing on building credibility with diverse constituents and advancing SAI’s mission to recruit and retain high-quality educational leaders.
Personal Insights: A look at the books and hobbies that shape Brad’s leadership style and help him recharge.
Dr. Remy expresses her confidence in the transition, noting the peace she feels leaving SAI in the hands of a leader who deeply understands the organization’s mission. Listen and learn more about Dr. Buck in this 25-minute podcast.

Legislative Update with Dave Daughton — Feb. 20, 2026

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This Feb. 20th episode covers week six.