It’s been SAId: Conversations on Leadership

Legal Vortex: A Year-End Appreciation for Iowa's School Leaders

SAI Legal Services Director Matt Carver is usually on the other line supporting administrators through a critical legal situation. But in this year-end episode of Legal Vortex, he sets aside the complex legal challenges to share his genuine appreciation for Iowa's public education leaders. Tune in for a thoughtful, 16-minute celebration of the positive aspects and attributes that often go unrecognized in the world of school administration.

Legislative Update with Dave Daughton — December 2025

In this special edition Legislative Update with SAI Government Relations Director Dave Daughton, several key topics are addressed in this five-minute podcast.
He provides a concise pre-session briefing as the 2026 Iowa Legislative Session approaches. The latest REC report shows an encouraging upward revision for FY27 revenue estimates. Daughton briefly covers the recent legislative special elections and the forthcoming 'fix' for the required HF 706 board training.
Finally, he the most critical advocacy message for all education leaders: emphasizing that over $80\%$ of school expenses are dedicated to staffing, making adequate funding essential for competitiveness. Tune in for your quick recharge before the session begins on January 12th!

Workforce Essentials: The Skills Iowa Employers Demand —with IBC President Joe Murphy

In the latest episode of the It’s Been SAId podcast, host Dr. Lisa Remy focuses on the question: What skills do Iowa employers really need? She welcomes Iowa Business Council (IBC) President Joe Murphy to discuss this timely topic. 
Together they dive into the IBC’s newly released "Professional Proficiencies" (Communication, Resiliency, Organizational Mindset, and Tolerance for Ambiguity). Learn how these four essential attributes connect education to the modern workforce and what opportunities they create for the future of Iowa in this 37-minute podcast.

Legislative Update with Dave Daughton - November 2025

In the first podcast version of his monthly update, SAI's Government Relations Director Dave Daughton updates listeners on preparation for the 2026 Iowa Legislative Session. Listen to learn what you need to know in this seven-minute podcast.

Leadership Life Fit: Know Your Ultradian Rhythm to Balance Rest and Productivity

In this special edition of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Dana Schon, associate executive director of professional learning with SAI, delves into the nature of rest, and in particular, our body's rhythms related to productivity and rest.
Dana defines what ultradian rhythm is and the importance of being in tune with our rhythm so we can incorporate needed rest breaks throughout the day.
She emphasizes the importance of rest for an optimal leadership-life fit. Learn more in this 15-minute podcast.

Learn About Ames Community School District's PK & Beyond Learning Model

In this episode of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Lisa Remy talks with Superintendent Scott Grimes with the Ames Community School District. 
Together they discuss the background and implementation of this learning model and the intended long-term outcomes. The core goal of creating a unified pathway for career exploration that begins at age four differentiates Ames from most school districts. 
Learn more about how the broader Ames community supports this learning model by listening to this 27-minute podcast conversation.

Who Can Make Decisions Related to a Student’s Education?

Listen to Matt's November edition of Legal Vortex where he addresses decision-making as it pertains to a student’s education. He covers examples related to joint legal custody, step-parents, grandparents, and/or other significant others involved in a student’s life. He also discusses court-ordered guardianship and homeless student caregiving authorization situations.
You will glean helpful advice by listening to this 17-minute podcast.

From Consequences to Connection: Reimagining In-School Suspension with Restorative Practices

In this episode of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Lisa Remy talks with three leaders from Danville Community Schools. 
“From Consequences to Connection,” shines a light on how Danville reimagined in-school suspension—not as a place for punishment, but as an opportunity for growth.
The conversation covers what it takes to move from a traditional discipline model to one centered on restorative practices, social-emotional learning, and authentic accountability. Pat Wallace, Danville Superintendent, Jaci Thornburg, JH/HS Principal, and Liz Long, Curriculum Director and Dean of Students have led this shift in their own district and have seen powerful results—more than 80% of students who go through the process never return to in-school suspension. 
Enjoy this in-depth 48-minute podcast conversation!
Access Danville's Restorative Action Plan

How to Address Employee Investigations When There May Be An Unreported Diagnosis or Disability

Listen to Matt's October edition of Legal Vortex where he addresses the sensitive topic of employee investigations. Specifically, what should you do if you are investigating an employee who may have an unreported diagnosis or disability? He provides guidance on what questions to ask how to prioritize the safety of students, staff, and the employee.
Matt covers a lot of ground in this 19-minute podcast.

Leadership Life Fit: Just Say No

In this special edition of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Dana Schon, associate executive director of professional learning with SAI, shares how you can discover how learning to say “no” can strengthen your leadership, protect your energy, and sharpen your focus on what matters most. Learn more in this 15-minute podcast.