In this episode, I sit down with my friend Mark Abenth — a retired elementary principal, current professor at Saginaw Valley State University, and someone who has spent over 30 years showing up for students and staff the right way.

We start with The Honoring, where I share why Mark means so much to me — not just as a leader, but as a person. He’s approachable, resourceful, and someone who has always put people first. He’s also part of the reason this podcast exists, after a conversation we had about how much it matters to recognize others publicly.

From there, we get into a really honest conversation about what actually works in education when it’s done well.

🔹 What Does “Great” Look Like?

Mark reflects on his career and paints a picture of what it looks like, feels like, and sounds like when a school is truly working. One of the best parts of this — he brings it back to people. Real people who made a real impact along the way.

🔹 His “Best Day” in Education

Not the answer you’d expect — and that’s what made it so good. A reminder that the moments that stick with us in this profession aren’t always the obvious ones.

🔹 Leadership That Actually Supports People

We talk about what great leadership looks like in action — not theory. Mark shares real examples from his time as a principal and what it actually means to show up for your staff.

🔹 Preparing Future Educators

Now working at SVSU, Mark shares what he’s seeing from future teachers and what he’s trying to instill in them before they ever step into their own classrooms.

🔹 One Word: The Ideal Educator

A simple question with a meaningful answer — and a good reminder of what really matters in this work.

🔹 Why Consider Becoming a Principal?

A real, honest look at the role — the impact, the challenges, and why it might be worth it for someone considering that path.

🔹 Legacy

We close with a conversation about how Mark wants to be remembered and what he hopes people say he stood for when it’s all said and done.

This was one of those conversations that just felt natural — like the kind you’d have sitting in an office or grabbing coffee and talking about the work.

If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like when education is done well… this one’s worth a listen.

👉 To continue the conversation and connect with other educators, head over to the Honoring Educators Facebook page.