Aug. 10, 2025
344. Stressed Leader Strategies to Stay in the Game: Featuring Dr. Dan Stecken
Superintendent and author Dr. Dan Stecken joins me to share his personal journey through burnout and the inspiration behind his book Stressed Leaders: Stay in the Game. In this candid conversation, we discuss why leaders aren’t broken—they’re burned out—and how that critical distinction can reshape how we approach leadership, recovery, and sustainability.
Dr. Stecken reveals the moment he realized his leadership approach was unsustainable, the mindset shifts and boundaries that help leaders protect their well-being, and the daily habits that fuel long-term success without sacrificing purpose. We also explore the Stressed Leaders movement and the supportive community he’s building for leaders who want to thrive instead of simply endure.
If you’re feeling the weight of leadership, this episode offers practical strategies, renewed perspective, and the encouragement you need to stay in the game.
About Dan Stecken: Dan Stecken is the District Superintendent of Seneca Township High School in North Central Illinois. He is known for implementing "The Seneca Way" and achieving the "Great Place to Work" certification for his district. Stecken also authored "A Stressed Leaders Journey, the Rookie's Guide to Being a School District Superintendent" and hosts a weekly newsletter with the same title. He created the Stressed Leaders Conference and is dedicated to supporting leaders who are experiencing burnout. Beyond his work in education, Stecken has also focused on his own well-being, experiencing a health scare and prioritizing work-life balance after noticing the challenges other leaders faced. He has lost over 100 pounds, and his journey has inspired him to create the Stressed Leaders Conference and community to support other leaders. His work emphasizes the importance of community, accountability, and finding purpose in leadership roles. Follow Dan Stecken- Website: https://www.stressedleaders.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-stecken/
https://www.amazon.com/Stressed-Leaders-Stay-Dan-Stecken/dp/B0FCBY9K8M?crid=2C0KDGD81A13K&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TD3w0n-0AHVc5qx6sPNRUQ.gxDiwhqfXD3oL4g8bBkGJcx6ANNVkPzWmJmE7iYBW1o&dib_tag=se&keywords=stressed+leaders+dan+stecken&qid=1754841191&sprefix=stressed+leaders+dan+stecken%2Caps%2C175&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=f60b88d9f0bf40874a2214a06293be5d&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl —
Magic Mind
If you are a long time listener, an ASPIRE Leader, You know I only work with brands that I believe in myself and I integrate in my everyday life, so I’m super happy to talk to you guys about Magic Mind! I started drinking Magic Mind a while back as I was looking for several things, specifically in the afternoon.- A boost of energy
- Healthy Ingredients
- Easy to drink throughout the day
EXCITING OFFER! Try Magic Mind for up to 50% off: magicmind.com/ATLMMJ Use my code ATLMMJ in the checkout **Shipping is not included — #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders —
