EP234: Kevin Macki on Servant Leadership, Building Connections, and Raising the Next Generation of Leaders

Leadership Conversations with Jonno White Podcast

In this episode of The Leadership Conversations Podcast, Jonno White talks with Kevin Macki, Director of School Relations at Calvary Christian Academy and Schools United. Kevin shares his journey from being a teacher and school administrator to his current role in building global peer networks for Christian educators. His insights into servant leadership, fostering connections, and nurturing future leaders are a treasure trove for anyone passionate about leadership and education.

Kevin begins by sharing how a pivotal moment in high school, when his basketball coach recognized his hard work and leadership potential, set the foundation for his leadership journey. This early experience taught Kevin the value of affirmation and helped him develop his philosophy of leadership: seeing and cultivating potential in others. This perspective has remained central to his career, shaping his approach to building strong teams and nurturing future leaders.

The conversation delves into Kevin’s passion for creating a culture of connection and collaboration in Christian education. He explains how Schools United fosters unity among educators globally by breaking down barriers and building peer networks. Kevin highlights inspiring stories of elite schools sharing resources with smaller institutions, demonstrating how collaboration can transform education and create a more unified community.

Kevin also explores the importance of visibility in leadership. Drawing from his experience as a head of school, he emphasizes the value of getting out of the office, building relationships with teachers, parents, and students, and addressing challenges before they escalate. This hands-on approach fosters trust and creates a culture of openness and support, essential for any successful leader.

Another key theme is the courage to have difficult conversations. Kevin reflects on his early struggles with classroom management and how constructive feedback from a mentor helped him grow. He shares how this lesson shaped his approach to leadership, encouraging leaders to give honest, thoughtful feedback with kindness and purpose to help others reach their full potential.

Throughout the episode, Kevin stresses the importance of developing future leaders. He shares practical advice on identifying potential, mentoring emerging leaders, and creating opportunities for growth within an organization. For Kevin, leadership isn’t about holding onto power—it’s about empowering others to lead and succeed.

This episode is packed with actionable advice and powerful insights from Kevin’s decades of experience in education and leadership. Whether you’re an educator, a leader, or someone passionate about creating positive change, this conversation will leave you inspired to lead with humility, courage, and connection. Tune in now to learn from one of the most thoughtful voices in Christian education!