Next Man Up: An MCEL Podcast · 2026-03-18 · 32 min
About this Episode Kareem Thomas, host of Next Man Up, The MCEL Podcast , sits down with Dr. Rodney Harrison and Barry Wilkins to explore the real life of assistant principals. This conversation dives into leadership, identity, and creating safe, community-centered schools, while also shedding light on the daily challenges, rewards, and the necessity of leading with authenticity and prioritizing self-care. Key Takeaways Community is the foundation of school culture Authentic leadership matters AP's role is both a pipeline and a pressure cooker Self-care is essential, not optional About Barry Wilkins Barry Wilkins was born and raised in Philadelphia. He has spent nearly two decades in the financial sector, holding leadership roles in investment banking and wealth management. But in 2016, a shift in the national landscape forced a personal reckoning. He realized that the most important work wasn't in a boardroom; it was in our schools. His mission is to position our scholars for limitless success by investing in their social-emotional well-being, championing equity, and challenging them to be the architects of their wildest dreams.
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