The Journey
A Path That Didn't Start in a Classroom
Four chapters, one throughline — understanding people, building trust, and creating the conditions for others to do their best work.
Twelve Years in the Restaurant Industry
Before entering education, Neal spent twelve years in the restaurant industry, where he received some of his earliest lessons in leadership. Beginning in management shortly after college, he quickly advanced to managing his own restaurant and later took on responsibilities in training and leadership development.
Those years taught him lessons about people, service, organizational culture, accountability, and developing others that would continue to shape his leadership philosophy decades later.
Building Alongside Martha
Neal’s experience in business did not end when he entered education. Alongside his wife of 32 years, Martha, he has co-owned several successful business ventures — reinforcing the importance of relationships, calculated risk, adaptability, customer and community connection, and the responsibility that comes with building something alongside others.
A Career Change That Became a Life's Work
Neal entered public education after twelve years in the private sector, beginning his career as a classroom teacher. What started as a career change ultimately became his life’s work — through building-level administration, district leadership, Deputy Superintendent, and ultimately Superintendent of Schools.
Working in school systems serving communities with different strengths and challenges reinforced his belief that leadership begins with listening and relationships, but requires the courage to make difficult decisions.
What Drives the Work Now
His leadership journey has shaped a belief that runs throughout his book: the most successful leaders do not build organizations that depend on them — they build the capacity of the people around them. Neal believes one of a leader’s greatest responsibilities is recognizing potential in others and leaving an organization stronger than he found it.