Next Man Up: An MCEL Podcast
Next Man Up: An MCEL Podcast
Podcast Description
Next Man Up amplifies the voices and experiences of men of color in educational leadership. Hosted by Kareem Thomas, the podcast explores the triumphs, challenges, and pivotal moments that shape leaders breaking barriers and driving systemic change in education. Through candid conversations and expert insights, Next Man Up inspires listeners to embrace their unique power, build community, and foster mentorship. Whether you’re a current leader, aspiring changemaker, or ally, this podcast will empower you to step up and make an impact. The next man up could be you!
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast highlights themes such as mentorship, leadership challenges, systemic barriers, and the importance of community. Specific episodes delve into topics like the transformative power of diverse leadership, the effects of mentorship in personal growth, and the key traits necessary for resilience among men of color in education. For instance, one episode discusses the significance of honest feedback in leadership effectiveness, while another focuses on the role of allyship in breaking barriers.
Next Man Up amplifies the voices and experiences of men of color in educational leadership. Hosted by Kareem Thomas, the podcast explores the triumphs, challenges, and pivotal moments that shape leaders breaking barriers and driving systemic change in education. Through candid conversations and expert insights, Next Man Up inspires listeners to embrace their unique power, build community, and foster mentorship. Whether you’re a current leader, aspiring changemaker, or ally, this podcast will empower you to step up and make an impact. The next man up could be you!
About this Episode
In Part 2 of this conversation, Next Man Up: The MCEL Podcast host Kareem Thomas continues his discussion with Dr. Ariel Lajara and Dr. Renny Lajara on the question, Who Has the Principal's Back?
Together, they explore what meaningful support for school leaders really looks like and why trust, coaching, mentorship, and strong relationships matter. Through honest stories and practical insights, they share how district leaders can help principals grow, navigate challenges, and lead with confidence.
If you are a principal, assistant principal, district leader, or aspiring administrator, this episode offers valuable leadership lessons that will inspire and strengthen your practice.
About Dr. Ariel Lajara
Dr. Ariel Lajara serves as the Assistant Superintendent for the School District of Philadelphia. With an extensive background as a turnaround principal and educator, he specializes in leveraging data-driven strategies to foster systemic equity and sustainable school improvement. Dr. Lajara is a dedicated advocate for inclusive leadership and frequently delivers keynote addresses and coaching in both English and Spanish to support diverse teams. In 2026, he was selected to lead the Vineland, New Jersey, School District as superintendent.
About Dr. Renny Lajara
Dr. Renny Lajara is an accomplished educational leader with more than 20 years of experience in public education and currently serves as an Assistant Superintendent in the School District of Philadelphia. Beginning in July, he will assume the role of Superintendent of the Bethlehem Area School District. Originally from the Dominican Republic and a proud product of Philadelphia public schools, Dr. Lajara is widely recognized for his commitment to equity, student success, and building high-performing school communities through authentic, student-centered leadership.
About the Podcast
Next Man Up amplifies the voices of men of color in education. Hosted by Kareem Thomas, it explores the challenges and triumphs of educational leaders who drive systemic change. The podcast empowers current and aspiring leaders to embrace their power and make an impact.
Learn More: To learn more about the Next Man Up podcast or to be a guest, visit mcelleaders.org/podcast or follow us on social media at @mcelleaders.
Disclaimer
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