WEP 257: Lead From Who You Are, an Interview with Joe Sanfelippo

Wired Educator Podcast Episode 257

Lead From Who You Are with Dr. Joe Sanfelippo

In Episode 257 of the Wired Educator Podcast, Kelly Croy interviews Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, nationally recognized speaker, former superintendent, and author of the new book Lead From Who You Are. It has been 122 episodes since Joe’s last appearance on the podcast, making this conversation both timely and meaningful.

Together, Kelly and Joe explore leadership identity, consistency, self-awareness, and what it truly means to show up for others during challenging seasons in education. This episode blends practical leadership insight with personal reflection and encouragement.

About the Guest

Dr. Joe Sanfelippo recently retired after 26 years in education, including 12 years as superintendent of the Fall Creek School District in Fall Creek, Wisconsin. Under his leadership, Fall Creek was named an Innovative District twice by the International Center for Leadership in Education. Joe was named Education Dive’s National Superintendent of the Year in 2019 and was selected by the U.S. Department of Education as a Future Ready Superintendent and Personalized Learning Leader.

Joe is widely known for his leadership reflection videos and is the author of multiple books, including Lead From Where You Are, The One Minute Walk to Work, Hacking Leadership, The Power of Branding, and his newest release, Lead From Who You Are.

Joe Sanfelippo’s website:
https://www.jsanfelippo.com/

Joe’s book, Lead From Who You Are: https://amzn.to/4a6HOiB

Episode Summary

This episode focuses on the idea that leadership begins with identity before position. Joe explains why consistency often matters more than charisma and introduces the concept of the “mirror test,” encouraging leaders to reflect on how others experience them.

Kelly and Joe also discuss repairing relationships after mistakes, the importance of vulnerability paired with follow-through, and how leaders can better support educators who are overwhelmed. Joe shares practical advice on meeting people in their space, offering help that is usable and timely, and maintaining steady leadership rhythms regardless of external pressures.

The conversation also touches on comparison, social media, and why late winter can feel isolating for educators. Joe offers a powerful reminder that connection, even with just one person, can make a significant difference.

Key Takeaways from Episode 257

• Leadership starts with knowing who you are before focusing on where you lead

• Consistency builds trust more than charisma alone

• Vulnerability without action creates doubt, while follow-through builds credibility

• Leaders support others best by meeting them where they are

• Awareness and regulation help leaders remain steady in difficult moments

• Comparison distracts from meaningful leadership work

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and overview
01:21 Joe Sanfelippo’s journey and the origin of the book
08:56 Awareness, the mirror test, and leadership consistency
11:55 Consistency versus charisma
17:23 Repairing relationships and rebuilding trust
22:42 Supporting overwhelmed educators
30:31 Comparison, social media, and leadership identity
35:56 A message for educators during a challenging season

About the Host

Kelly Croy is the host of the Wired Educator Podcast, a speaker, author, and Director of Innovation and Instruction. Kelly works with schools and districts across the country on leadership, culture, and growth.

Kelly Croy’s website:
https://kellycroy.com

Kelly’s book, Along Came a Leader

To learn more about having Kelly Croy speak at your event, visit his website to connect.