Episodes

Sept. 25, 2024

Working Memory and Beginning Routines with Mitch Weathers

In this Bonus episode of Aspire to Lead , we dive into an insightful conversation with Mitch Weathers, author of Executive Functions for Every Classroom . Together, we explore the critical role of working memory in student su...
Sept. 21, 2024

306. The Leader Inside: Featuring Lauren Kaufman

In this episode of Aspire to Lead , we sit down with Lauren Kaufman, author of "The Leader Inside," to explore the untapped greatness that lies within each of us. Lauren shares her journey and insights on why mentorship plays...
Sept. 14, 2024

305. Blueprint of Leading Through Change: Featuring Todd Bloomer

In this engaging episode , we sit down with Todd Bloomer to explore critical topics in educational leadership. Todd shares his experiences and strategies for effectively leading a large campus in the wake of COVID, addressing...
Sept. 7, 2024

304. Building Resilience in Education: Featuring Alison Smith

In this thought-provoking episode, Alison Smith discusses the pressing challenges facing both educators and educational leaders, including burnout, compassion fatigue, emotional dissonance, and a lowered sense of mattering. A...
Aug. 31, 2024

303. Learning-Focused Supervision: A Conversation with Lauren Lipton

In this insightful episode of Aspire to Lead , we're joined by Lauren Lipton, co-author of Learning-Focused Supervision , to explore the transformative role of leaders in education. Lauren dives into the concept of leaders as...
Aug. 25, 2024

302. Personalize: Meeting the Needs of All Learners with Eric Sheninger and Nicki Slaugh

In this episode, we dive deep into the newly released book "Personalize: Meeting the Needs of All Learners" by Eric Sheninger and Nicki Slaugh. Join us as we explore how personalized learning is set to revolutionize education...
Aug. 17, 2024

301. Building Inclusive Schools and Addressing Mental Health: Featuring Trisha Backman

Join us for a compelling conversation with Trisha Backman as she explores some of the most urgent challenges in today’s education system. Trisha shares her insights on the critical role of mental health in schools and how cul...
Aug. 10, 2024

300. Celebrating 300 Episodes and the New Era of Education with Rick Wormeli

Join us in this special 300th episode of Aspire to Lead as award-winning author, Rick Wormeli, shares about the evolving educational landscape as the post-pandemic practices have shifted. Rick shares his insights on the major...
Aug. 8, 2024

Exciting Announcements with Charlie Peck and Joshua Stamper

In this special episode, Charlie Peck and Joshua Stamper share thrilling updates about their upcoming book, "The Language of Behavior," which is set to transform how educators approach student behavior in the classroom. But t...
Aug. 4, 2024

Leading Without Burning Out: Insights with Darrin Peppard & Joshua Stamper

In this enlightening episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper collaborates with leadership expert Darrin Peppard to explore essential strategies for avoiding burnout and overcoming superhero syndrome in the field of educatio...
July 28, 2024

299. Simplifying the Journey of Leadership: Featuring Bob Sonju

In this compelling episode of Aspire to Lead , we delve into the creative process and inspiration behind the influential book "Simplifying the Journey." Discover the story behind why Bob felt it was essential to share his ins...
July 20, 2024

298. The 5 Values of Learning Through Play: Featuring Vanessa Castañeda Gill

Join us in this educational and inspiring episode of Aspire to Lead as Vanessa Castañeda Gill, co-founder of Social Cipher and a champion for neurodivergent students, dives into the transformative power of play and fandom cul...
July 17, 2024

BONUS: Who Smarted? – How Did Football Become Known as Soccer?

Welcome to a special bonus episode of Who Smarted?, the world’s most popular kids' educational podcast! With over 15 million downloads in just three years, Who Smarted? delivers fun, educational content three times a week, ma...
July 13, 2024

297. Who Smarted?: Featuring Jerry Kolber

In this enlightening episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with the Emmy-nominated co-creator and Showrunner of National Geographic’s #1 series, Brain Games, Jerry Kolber. Known for his creative genius behind ed...
July 7, 2024

Focusing on the Leadership Foundations: Featuring Sarah Johnson

Join us for an enlightening conversation with leadership expert Sarah Johnson as we explore the essential introduction topics needed to embark on your leadership journey. In this episode, Sarah shares her wisdom on how to gai...
June 30, 2024

295. Assessment through the Lens of Story: Featuring Natalie Vardabasso

In this brilliant conversation on assessment and standards based grading, we explore the vital connection between student wellness and assessment with special guest Natalie Vardabasso. We delve into planting a seed of change ...
June 28, 2024

Rallying Around 3 Keys of Executive Functioning with Mitch Weathers

Join us for another insightful conversation with our monthly guest, Mitch Weathers, the founder of Organized Binder. In this episode, we dive deep into the critical aspects of executive functioning and explore the 3 keys that...
June 23, 2024

294. Capturing Feedback as the Principal: Featuring Richard Larson

This week, I am thrilled to welcome my old college roommate turned principal, Richard Larson. Together, we delve into the crucial process of incorporating all voices in decision-making within a school setting. Richard shares ...
June 16, 2024

293. Embracing MESSY Leadership: Featuring Alyssa Gallagher

In this episode, special guest Alyssa Gallagher, co-author of Embracing MESSY Leadership , shares the intricacies of effective school leadership. Alyssa shares insights from coaching over 20,000 school leaders, discussing com...
June 9, 2024

292. Championing Neurodiversity and Executive Functioning: Featuring Christine Zuppa

In this enlightening episode of Aspire to Lead, we're joined by Christine Zuppa, host of the Making the Grade Podcast, to discuss pivotal topics in education today. Christine shares her insights on enhancing executive functio...
June 6, 2024

Aspire Mailbag: Accountability Strategies and Addressing Rejection

Welcome to this special Aspire Mailbag episode where Joshua Stamper and Jeff Gargas dive into your most pressing leadership questions! Join us as we address insightful queries from our Aspire to Lead listeners: What is the mo...
June 2, 2024

291. Fearless Teaching and Embracing New Experiences: Featuring CJ Reynolds

In this annual Aspire to Lead conversation, we sit down with the amazing CJ Reynolds, an accomplished author, YouTuber, and speaker, to discuss a range of critical topics for educators and leaders. CJ shares his wisdom on pus...
May 29, 2024

Bonus Episode: The Failure Files with Tisha Richmond

In this insightful episode of "The Failure Files," we sit down with Tisha Richmond to delve into the complexities of implementing large-scale initiatives on a school campus. Tisha shares her firsthand experiences and valuable...
May 26, 2024

290. What Makes A Great Principal?: Featuring Allyson Apsey

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Allyson Apsey to discuss her new book, "What Makes A Great Principal?" Dive into the key elements and pillars that define outstanding school leadership! Topics Covered: New Book: W...