David K. Richards: 30-Second Q&A

We asked David K. Richards, Founder of Growth Public Schools, what he’s been listening to, reading, and what he’s optimistic about.

Current book you’re reading?
15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership. I love this book because it breaks down the wisdom teachings that I live my life by, and translates them to a professional setting for leadership. We have used the book at our school, and it has completely changed the way we lead.

Favorite podcast?
Track Your Life with Boyd Varty. He spends time in the jungle and shares his experiences each day living from his most authentic self that comes out when he connects with nature. It shows us how far we have gotten from who we truly are and how we are living from the false self.

A daily routine that helps to keep you going as a leader?
I started doing meditation based on a recommendation from Tim Ferriss, and I have been doing it consistently every day for 4 years. It completely changed my life and has given me a clearer perspective on our true nature as humans.

Social media must-follow?
Brené Brown. The work she is doing around leadership is phenomenal and she is way ahead of her time. This is the future of leadership. Her research will be used for years to come. Mark my word :) You heard it here first!

Interesting idea that has struck you recently? What are you optimistic about?
I will answer these together. We are in a time of great change. This is one of the most monumental times of change that we will experience in our lifetimes. We are experiencing a paradigm shift where many of the systems, structures, and institutions will be changing in the next decade. Education is a vital part of this change. Many of the old systems will fight back to maintain the status quo, but through grassroots change you will see the systems change slowly but surely as people demand more equitable and transparent systems at all levels. It will be painful and dramatic, but times they are a changin’ as Dylan said! Again, come back to me in 10 years. You heard it here first!

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