The Waymaker Approach: Leading with Purpose, Authenticity, and Curiosity

Today’s education leaders are under immense pressure, juggling administrative duties while trying to stay connected to their students, staff, and communities. Many are searching for ways to lead with greater authenticity and purpose. With teacher burnout and turnover reaching critical levels, there’s an increasing need for leadership that prioritizes human connection and values-driven action. A waymaker can guide others with empathy and clarity, helping them navigate challenges and rediscover their sense of purpose. These individuals inspire and uplift those around them through their thoughtful, compassionate approach to leadership.

How can education leaders embrace this Waymaker mindset to create more meaningful connections within their schools? And how can they ensure their leadership remains authentic in an increasingly metric-driven environment?

On Just Thinking, Kevin Dougherty, Chief Strategy Officer at 806 Technologies, speaks with Justin Richardson, President of Waymaker Leadership Development, about how education leaders can adopt the Waymaker approach. They discuss the importance of staying connected to values, storytelling as a leadership tool, and the role of curiosity in fostering meaningful relationships.

Key Takeaways:

• Waymakers Influence Others Through Care and Purpose: Justin Richardson defines “waymakers” as individuals who help others find or remember their purpose, offering support and care that instills confidence and growth. His company, Waymaker Leadership Development, aims to foster this approach in leadership.
• Soulful Leadership and Authenticity: Justin emphasizes the importance of being genuinely present and authentic in leadership. He encourages a “soulful” approach, which focuses on meaningful, values-based leadership that prioritizes relationships and care for others.
• The Role of Curiosity in Leadership: Justin highlights curiosity as a critical component of leadership, encouraging leaders to ask better questions and genuinely engage with those around them, fostering deeper connections and trust.

Justin Richardson has over 26 years of experience in education, rising from classroom roles to Assistant Superintendent. As the Chief Learning Officer of Lead Forward, he helped nearly 900 school districts across Texas. Now, as President of Waymaker Leadership Development, Justin is focused on guiding leaders to adopt a values-based, soulful approach to leadership.