Dr. Chris Dennis reflects on the unglamorous but essential work of conflict resolution and mediation in schools, emphasizing the value of preparation, de-escalation skills, and calm leadership when challenges arise.

He also shares personal reflections about slowing down, connecting with community, and balancing the demands of leadership with self-care and human connection.

📍 30 days out from Lonely Graduation. And today I’m thinking about proximity. Had lunch with a friend I’ve known since 2007.

He still had a picture on his phone from when he visited me at a school where I worked years ago. That hit me. Because your career isn’t just built on titles. It’s built on moments. On how people experienced you. Yesterday, someone told me: “It’s not about who you know. It’s about who knows you.” What do people remember when they think of you? How did you show up in the elevator? In the meeting? At lunch? Networking isn’t collecting contacts. It’s being present long enough to matter. I’m feeling inspired tonight. Grateful. Building. Reflecting. Enjoying the moment. If you’re in a hard stretch — keep going. Tomorrow could shift everything. #OnTheWayToSchool #LonelyGraduation #LeadershipJourney #EducatorLife #NetworkingMatters #PurposeDriven

Dr. Chris Dennis discusses how educators and administrators should handle reference checks with honesty and integrity. He advises sharing areas for growth in an asset-based, actionable way that supports the candidate and helps hiring teams make informed decisions.

The episode covers formal and informal references, the importance of face-to-face feedback when possible, and the responsibility of referees to communicate candidly while preserving opportunities for a fresh start.