Gary Waddell, Ed.D.Writer. Educator. Speaker.
I grew up in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina catching fireflies in mason jars. I've spent the thirty years since trying to hold onto that particular quality of attention — in classrooms, in boardrooms, in leadership teams, and now on the page. I'm a former Superintendent who now spends my days consulting, coaching, and writing about the intersection of creativity and connection. I'm based in Palm Springs, where I volunteer in the arts community, write the Letters2Leaders newsletter, and walk my Chihuahua, Picasso, under the desert stars.
BOOKS
Wonder: An Owner's Guide to Your One Extraordinary Life
Creative Spark Consulting LLC · October 2026
Thirteen lyric essays in four movements — on beauty, music, place, and the people who change us. It opens with fireflies in a mason jar and closes by asking: what is in yours?Additional books by Gary: The Art of Everything: Leading for We in the Age of Me.
CONSULTING & SPEAKING
Through Creative Spark Consulting, I work with educational leaders, organizations, and teams on the intersection of creativity, equity, and leadership.
Keynote speaking on wonder, creativity, and leading with intention
Leadership coaching for superintendents, principals, and executive teams
Workshops on creative problem-solving, empathy-driven leadership, and organizational culture
For speaking and consulting inquiries: [email protected]
LETTERS2LEADERS
A newsletter about leadership, creativity, and the ideas worth carrying into your work and life. Published on LinkedIn with 1,500+ subscribers.
CONNECT[email protected]
Instagram: @WonderWithGary
LinkedIn: GaryWaddell
wonderthebook.org · Palm Springs, California