Building Trust and Authenticity: Leading with Integrity to Strengthen Relationships with Patrick Erwin Artwork

School on a Mission Podcast

Welcome to "School on a Mission," the podcast for educators by educators. We're here to help school leaders navigate the ups and downs of leadership in education. Join us for candid conversations, practical advice, and inspiration from experienced educators and experts. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an aspiring administrator, we've got you covered. Tune in and join the mission to create thriving learning environments for the next generation.

The School on a Mission podcast is brought to you by Growing Leaders powered by the Maxwell Leadership Foundation. You can learn more about the work of transforming the lives of students at growingleaders.com.

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School on a Mission Podcast

Building Trust and Authenticity: Leading with Integrity to Strengthen Relationships with Patrick Erwin

November 13, 2025 • Growing Leaders x Maxwell Leadership Foundation • Season 3 • Episode 6

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What makes a great leader? According to Patrick Erwin, it’s not just vision or charisma—it’s trust.

In this compelling live interview, School on a Mission co-hosts Andrew and Gina sit down with Patrick M. Erwin, Curriculum Director at the Maxwell Leadership Foundation and a nationally recognized speaker, to unpack how trust and authenticity shape emotionally resilient schools.

From his years as a high school band director to his current work training leaders across the country, Patrick shares personal stories and practical insights on leading with integrity, sustaining real relationships under pressure, and rebuilding trust when it’s been broken.

Whether you’re a principal, teacher, coach, or student leader—this conversation will equip you to lead with courage, consistency, and heart.

What You’ll Learn:

Why trust is a culture, not a checklist
How to lead authentically, even when it’s hard
Small daily habits that strengthen relationships
How to rebuild trust after a breakdown
Why vulnerability and accountability can co-exist

Tune in for an honest, hope-filled conversation that will challenge and inspire your leadership.

🚀 Welcome to the School on a Mission Podcast! 🎙️

Hosted by Andrew McPeak and Gina Watts, this podcast is for educators, school leaders, and change-makers who believe in building schools where leadership, character, and social-emotional growth matter just as much as academics. If you believe education should inspire, equip, and empower the next generation—you’re in the right place!

Each episode features engaging conversations, expert insights, and real-world strategies to help you create a school culture where students thrive. From leadership principles and community engagement to AI in education and social media strategy, we tackle the most pressing topics in modern education.

🎧 New episodes drop regularly—don’t miss out!

💡 Connect with us at schoolonamissionpodcast.com

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🔹 The School on a Mission Podcast is produced by Growing Leaders, powered by the Maxwell Leadership Foundation.