Episodes

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...

Join us for an engaging conversation with Mitch Weathers as we delve into the crucial topic of creating safe and predictable learning environments. Mitch, an expert in the field and a "Best Selling" book, shares insights and practical strategies for educators to establish environments that foster trust, security, and optimal learning conditions for students. From implementing proactive measures to address behavioral challenges to promoting positive relationships and routines, this episode offers...

Engage in a compelling conversation with Laura Williams as we delve into the core principles of authentic learning through Project-Based Learning (PBL). Discover how Laura leverages partnerships with local businesses to enhance programing, creating valuable work-based experiences for students. We'll also explore the importance of recognizing our shared humanity and the power of lifting each other up in both personal and professional realms. Laura will also share insights from her book "Improveme...

Join us for an engaging conversation with Jason Williamson as we explore the power of collective commitments in driving school culture. Jason discusses the importance of putting students first and prioritizing their learning experience. We delve into the significance of supporting each other as educators and committing to personal and professional growth. Discover how to incorporate collective commitments into every aspect of school life, including instructional conversations, coaching dialogues...

Join special guest, Brad Hughes, as we discuss trauma responsive care and the upcoming Teach Better event, the 12Hour Live! Brad and Joshua break down misconceptions restorative practices, how trauma impacts the body, and strategies to implement in schools to help build relationship and teach students the correct behavior. About Brad Hughes: Brad Hughes is the host of The Good News, Brad News Podcast. Brad is an elementary school principal in Ontario, Canada, with 25 years’ experience in educa...

Join my special guest, Grace Stevens, for an insightful conversation on educator empowerment and avoiding burnout! We delve into the science of happiness and explore how teachers and leaders can incorporate these habits into their classrooms. Discover Grace’s ECHO Framework for educator empowerment, designed to promote balance and well-being. In addition, Grace shares insights from her podcast, "Balance Your Teacher Life," and her book, "Positive Mindset Habits for Teachers." Learn about the man...

In this week’s insightful conversation, Jethro Jones candidly shares his journey of overcoming adversity and personal transformation. From being denied advancement opportunities in his district to taking a leap of faith and relocating to a new state and district, Jethro discusses the challenges and triumphs of his career path. He also opens up about his struggles with stress-induced eating and how he successfully transformed his habits, ultimately losing an incredible 70 pounds. As the host of i...

In this episode of the Aspire to Lead podcast, join host Joshua Stamper as he sits down with special guest Dr. Jerod Phillips to explore "Strategies to Build an Effective Leadership Team." Dr. Phillips shares invaluable insights on various aspects of leadership, including building winning teams, fostering personal growth, combating complacency, and the importance of engagement with state affiliations in school leadership organizations. Don't miss this engaging conversation packed with actionable...

Embark on an insightful journey with Adam Stolzeras we delve into the topic of overcoming setbacks when not securing the job on the first attempt, navigating beyond traditional leadership styles, emphasizing the significance of school culture and leading with passion and pride rather than just from the school office. Uncover the Power of Purple and how it influences the culture of any campus. This episode is a treasure trove for aspiring leaders and seasoned professionals alike. Join us for a de...

Explore the transformative world of school discipline with the latest episode, "The 4 Pillars of a Trauma Responsive ISS," featuring the insightful Johnathan Cranford. We unravel the inefficiencies of traditional In-School Suspension (ISS) programs and explore the blueprint for a successful academic and trauma responsive ISS room. Join us as we delve into trauma-informed strategies within ISS, providing practical insights for fostering a supportive environment. We also unveiled the launch of "Th...

Join special guest, Brad Hughes, as we delve into powerful strategies for school administrators to provide constructive and positive feedback to teachers. Discover the art of cultivating curiosity in feedback sessions, fostering growth, and creating a collaborative and supportive educational environment. This discussion is a valuable resource for administrators seeking to enhance their feedback approach and build stronger relationships with their teaching staff. Tune in now for insights that can...

Embark on a crucial episode with the insightful Charle Peck as we explore the urgent need to address the mental health crisis in schools. Charle shares profound insights on managing our own mental health while fostering more effective responses to students. Uncover the reasons behind the current mental health challenges and discover immediate relief strategies for both staff and students. Charle introduces the valuable School Mental Health Audit, a free resource available on ThrivingEducator.org...

Dive into the future of education with our latest episode of the CEO of Belouga, Evin Schwartz. We explore the transformative realm of personalized learning, its impact on students, and collaborative efforts among educators globally. Evin shares insights on navigating education's evolving landscape and makes predictions on the future, addressing challenges like the increasing number of teachers leaving the field. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that delves into the innovations resha...

Join this thought-provoking episode with special guest Kristina Mattis on "Equitable Technology for Every Student." We explore the crucial topic of ensuring equitable access to necessary technologies for all students. Kristina, a Change Management practitioner, shares her expertise in managing transformational change and discusses her book, "Guiding Transformational Change in Education." Discover practical strategies and insights to promote inclusivity in educational technology, foster positive ...

In this episode with the amazing Evan Robb, we focus on the differences between Public and Private School Leadership. Discover valuable insights on navigating the challenges of shifting to a new community, adapting to a fresh student body and staff, and effectively making changes to old campus traditions. Whether you're a seasoned leader or aspiring to take on a leadership role, this episode offers practical wisdom and perspectives to enhance your experience in new educational environments. In t...

Dive into a transformative conversation with the incredible Mickey Smith Jr.! In this episode of Aspire to Lead, we explore the art of leadership learning, crafting a life plan, and preparing your vision as a leader. Mickey Smith Jr., renowned educator, musician, and host of "See the Sound" podcast, shares profound insights on how to sync your passion with your leadership journey. Join us for a dynamic discussion that unveils the harmony between leadership and life, and discover the symphony of ...

In this insightful conversation with the esteemed Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket, we navigate the path to school leadership, exploring key topics such as mentoring, work-life balance, and the art of building lasting relationships with students. 🔍 Key Topics Explored: Mentoring: Dr. Edoho-Eket shares valuable insights into the significance of mentoring in the journey to school leadership. Discover the impact of mentorship on personal and professional growth, and gain practical tips for both mentors and m...

Join us as we delve into the nuanced world of leading teachers, exploring key topics such as collectivism versus individual achievement, the profound influence of positive psychology on the learning process, and the transformative power of positive feedback. 📚 Key Topics Explored: Collectivism vs. Individual Achievement: Uncover the dynamics between collectivism and individual achievement in the realm of education. Meghan shares valuable insights on finding the right balance to foster a collabo...

In this special episode, the remarkable Phil Januszewski explores the pivotal theme of nurturing teacher wellbeing, offering valuable insights and practical strategies that not only reignite the passion within educators but also equip them with the tools to avoid burnout. 🔍 Topics Explored: Helping Teachers Flourish: Dive deep into the heart of teaching as Phil shares transformative strategies aimed at helping teachers rediscover their passion. The discussion illuminates the importance of tappi...

Have you ever felt burdened by the idea that stress is your enemy? In this captivating discussion with the esteemed Dr. Deborah Gilboa, she challenges the deeply ingrained narrative that stress is an absolute poison, inviting you to reconsider and transform stress into a source of resilience. 🔍 Key Takeaways: Unveiling the BIG lie: The pervasive notion that "Stress is bad and bad for us!" is dissected and debunked. Insights on connections and boundaries: Dr. Gilboa shares valuable perspectives ...