Episodes

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 gain support in a non-biased way as a current leader, ensuring you have the backing needed to drive positive change. We also delve into the crucial steps required to be successful in a doctoral program, offering practical advice for aspiring leaders looking to further their edu...

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 regarding shifting perspectives on assessment, exploring practical starting points for standards-based grading, and examining the intricate relationship between student emotional wellness and assessment. Additionally, Natalie shares exciting details about her new book and la...

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 are essential for student success. Mitch shares his expertise on the importance of Tier 1 interventions and teacher efficacy in fostering executive functioning skills in all classrooms, not just special education. Discover why it’s vital to shift our focus and ensure that e...

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 his expertise on creating a staff leadership team that ensures comprehensive input, using real-life examples like grading policy adoption, the MTSS process, and the PLC framework. We delve into the workings of the Principal’s Advisory Leadership Council, a student leadership...

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 common challenges and the strategies that help navigate them. We explore practical approaches for leaders to become more adaptive and future-focused amidst the evolving landscape of education. Alyssa emphasizes the importance of embracing the human side of leadership, offering e...

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 functioning skills for both teachers and students, emphasizing the importance of these skills in fostering academic success and personal growth. We also delve into the concept of neurodiversity in education, exploring how embracing diverse learning needs can create a more inclusive...

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 most important quality of an effective leader? - Andrea Bitner Can you talk about some key strategies for accountability with people who have a fixed mindset (so they don’t feel attacked)? - Dr. Amy Perez How do you address rejection after making complicated decisions? - Dr...

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 pushing past fear to try new things, emphasizing the importance of taking risks and embracing innovation in the classroom and beyond. As the school year winds down, he offers practical strategies for keeping students engaged and motivated, ensuring that learning remains dynamic...

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 lessons learned from navigating the barriers and challenges that often arise during major implementation plans. From resistance to change and logistical hurdles to gaining buy-in from staff and fostering a supportive culture, we cover the key strategies and practical tips ...

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: What Makes A Great Principal? 3 Key Elements: A clear emphasis on what truly matters Strategies from teachers and students What makes an impactful school leader? 5 Pillars Essential to Great Principals: What are the 5 pillars or which pillar would you like to highlight t...

In this Aspire to Lead episode, we dive into the world of physical education with Dr. Aaron Beighle, author of "Dynamic Physical Education for Elementary School Children (20e)." Discover the latest insights on school-based physical activity programs and how to prepare future physical educators for their upcoming roles. We explore the importance of connecting with students first, teaching with wonder, and continuously improving our methods “to do things better and do better things”. Join us for a...

Join this captivating conversation with Dr. Donya Ball as we delve into the passion behind effective leadership and navigating the challenges of educational administration. Discover invaluable insights on overcoming adversity and maintaining resilience in the face of storms. Explore strategies for retaining leaders and fostering positive cultures within school districts. Plus, learn about Donya's exciting projects, including her Virtual Leadership Series and her impactful book series, which incl...

Dive into a dynamic conversation with Mitch Weathers as we explore practical techniques for teaching executive functioning skills to students. Discover how to cultivate safe learning environments and understand the crucial role of structure and routine in education. Gain insights into assessing students' mastery of executive functioning skills and learn strategies to enhance their overall academic success. Join us for an insightful episode packed with actionable advice for educators seeking to e...

Explore trauma-responsive strategies for fostering empathy and love in schools with Matthew Bowerman. Discover the significance of origin-building and how individuals can find their purpose through personal assessment. Gain insights into providing social-emotional support to students and staff, and learn how to create trauma-sensitive spaces. Plus, learn about Matthew's transformative book, "HEARTLEADER: A Trauma Responsive Approach to Teaching, Leading, and Building Community." About Matthew J....

In this episode of the Aspire to Lead podcast, we sit down with Brad Hughes to discuss the essential steps needed to secure a promotion in school administration at both the school and district levels. Brad shares valuable insights, tips, and tricks to help you gain the necessary experience, ace your interviews, and cultivate the right mindset to achieve your goal of advancement in your educational career. Whether you're aspiring to become a principal, assistant principal, or district-level admin...

Discover valuable insights in our conversation with Alana Winnick as we delve into the implications of artificial intelligence on education. Discover how AI is reshaping assessment and learning, and delve into its implications for detecting cheating. We also discuss the importance of AI policy in schools and how it impacts the game of education, prioritizing process over product. Plus, don't miss out on exciting announcements from the Empowerment Project and recommendations for further explorati...

Join us for an insightful follow-up Q&A session on behavior prevention strategies with Joshua Stamper and Charle Peck. Building upon our recent webinar, we dive deeper into practical approaches for fostering positive behavior in educational settings. From proactive interventions to cultivating a supportive learning environment, this episode addresses common questions and offers actionable insights for educators. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable strategies and resources to enhance beh...

Join us for an insightful conversation with Matthew Ebert as we delve into the importance of cultivating a "Culture of Care" for adults in our educational settings. Learn how to operationalize this essential doctrine and why leaders should prioritize creating space for adults, both personally and professionally. Don't miss out on Matthew's upcoming TED Talk and explore his valuable insights through Ebert Educational Consulting and his thought-provoking articles in EdWeek. About Matthew Ebert Mat...

Explore the transformative power of compassionate leadership with Dr. Matthew Woods in this engaging Aspire to Lead episode. Dr. Woods shares insights from his new role as Assistant Superintendent of Student Services and delves into the importance of defining common school etiquette and misbehavior verbiage. Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn more about his additional resources, such as his podcast, "Leading Out The Woods," and his book, "Leading Out The Woods: Nurturing School Etiquette...

Embark on an enlightening journey with us as we delve into the science of happiness with Kim Strobel. Uncover the profound connection between happiness and success, and explore practical strategies for enhancing teacher wellbeing. From adopting happiness habits to implementing effective techniques for fostering joy in the classroom, this conversation offers invaluable insights to enrich your life. Don't miss the chance to glean wisdom from Kim's latest book, "Teach Happy: Small Steps to Big Joy,...

Welcome to our latest episode featuring Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper as they unveil their exciting new book, "The Language of Behavior''. Join us as we explore the nuances of interpreting behavior, assessing underlying issues, and devising creative solutions to foster positive behaviors in students. Scheduled for release in fall 2024, just in time for the new school year, this book promises to be a game-changer in the field of education. Don't forget to check out the link in the show notes for...

Join us for an enlightening conversation on the Aspire to Lead podcast with special guest Katie Novak as we delve into the transformative power of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Discover why UDL is essential in education and how educators can seamlessly integrate its principles into their teaching practices to benefit students of all learning abilities. We also explore the shift towards a student-led environment, exploring its benefits and strategies for implementation. Additionally, we ta...

In this special bonus episode of Aspire to Lead, Steve Milliken discusses the upcoming Midwest Education Leadership Conference (MELC) in Breckenridge, Colorado. Steve provides an insider's perspective on the conference, highlighting key presentations and themes that will be covered during this impactful event. From national special education information and regulations to innovative strategies for student discipline and Joshua’s Keynote presentation on improving leadership capacity and our menta...

In this captivating episode, Coach Jim Johnson joins us to delve into the art of creating safe and predictable learning environments. Drawing from his wealth of experience in coaching and leadership, Coach Johnson shares invaluable insights into fostering environments where students feel secure, supported, and empowered to thrive. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the importance of instilling qualities such as perseverance and loyalty in team members, highlighting their profound impact on...