From Coach to System Leader: Leadership Lessons in Emotional Intelligence and School Culture with Dr. Daniel Winters

In this episode of the Innovative Pedagogy Podcast, Chris Garcia speaks with Dr. Daniel Winters, Director of Research, Evaluation, and Educational Technology at Sweetwater Union High School District.Dr. Winters reflects on his leadership journey from his early years as a coach to roles as a school administrator, district director, and assistant superintendent. The conversation explores lessons from his first year coaching, the realities of opening a new school, and how emotional intelligence shapes leadership decisions over time.Drawing from decades of experience, Dr. Winters shares practical insights on building school culture, leading adults, and developing the self-awareness required to sustain leadership in education.