Leaders Coaching Leaders

What happens when schools focus on the right kind of data? Elaine Allensworth joins the Leaders Coaching Leaders podcast to discuss the transformative power of meaningful metrics in education. Drawing from her groundbreaking work in Chicago Public Schools, Elaine shares how identifying critical data points, like ninth-grade course failures, can create a ripple effect of dramatic improvements in student outcomes. With decades of experience in education research, Elaine highlights the role of ninth-grade success as a foundation for long-term achievement and explains why data is best used as a tool for communication and collaboration. Unraveling the complexities of data overload, she outlines ways for educators and district leaders to prioritize actionable insights that lead to meaningful impact. Inspiring, insightful, and packed with strategies, this conversation will leave you rethinking how data can fuel positive change in education.Let us know what you think!

What does it take to turn classrooms into spaces of healing, empowerment, and belonging? What if education prioritized love, courage, and community over compliance? Educators and authors Shane Safir and Sawsan Jaber join Leaders Coaching Leaders to explore these questions in an eye-opening discussion about dismantling inequities and championing radical love in education. Drawing from their collaborative forthcoming book, Pedagogies of Voice, published by Corwin, they share strategies to elevate teacher and student agency while humanizing learning spaces. Through the lens of their personal stories and decades of experience, Safir and Jaber uncover how micro-communities, inquiry, and authentic leadership can reignite the spark for teaching. This conversation will leave you inspired to transform your classroom into a sanctuary where every learner feels seen, valued, and heard.Let us know what you think!

What does it truly mean to build resilience in education? Lindsay Prendergast and Piper Lee share insights from their groundbreaking book Habits of Resilient Educators and offer a passionate look into how habits can transform the personal and professional lives of educators. Having observed thousands of instructional rounds and professional learning sessions, they've identified key practices that help educators not just survive but thrive in challenging times. From grounding your work in purpose to setting healthy boundaries, Lindsay and Piper discuss how resilience is more than a buzzword; it's a science. They also preview their upcoming book, Habits of Resilient Leaders, which explores how leaders can foster environments where wellbeing and balance are truly achievable. Whether you're a teacher, leader, or lifelong learner, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered and better equipped to take on the challenges of education.*Piper Nichols now goes by Piper LeeLet us know what you think!

Leadership isn't just about guiding others; it's about growing yourself. On this episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, cohosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson talk with Jennifer Abrams, renowned educator and author of Stretching Your Learning Edges: Growing Up at Work. Jennifer dives into the essential skills leaders need to succeed, including building resilience, managing challenging conversations, and cultivating professional cultures rooted in trust and collaboration. Drawing on her extensive experience working with schools and organizations, Jennifer offers advice on fostering self-awareness and navigating interpersonal dynamics with confidence and care. Don't miss this empowering conversation packed with practical wisdom for leaders looking to grow their impact.Let us know what you think!

In this impactful episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, Dr. Latish Reed, a trailblazing equity specialist and author of the upcoming book, The Complexities of Equity: Navigating Shades of Gray in Schools and Organizations, shares her unique and deeply personal insights on equity in education, drawing from her tenure as Milwaukee Public Schools' first equity administrator. Through her “shades of gray” framework, she explores the complexities of addressing equity in schools and other organizations, highlighting the transformational power of leadership, moral courage, and intentional action. From her reflections on building shared understanding of key equity concepts to practical solutions for navigating challenging political and organizational contexts, Dr. Reed inspires leaders to leverage their spheres of influence for meaningful change. You'll also hear heartfelt stories of her dedication to creating better educational outcomes for all students, as well as her personal motivation to make schools work for every child—including her own son. Whether you're leading a school, tackling DEI challenges, or interested in fostering equitable practices, this conversation with Dr. Reed is filled with actionable insights and hope for the future of education. Don't miss this fascinating discussion, and prepare to think deeply about how we can all do better for our students, staff, and communities!Let us know what you think!

Step into the inspiring world of Jennifer Gonzalez, the creative force behind the Cult of Pedagogy, with this episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast. Our co-hosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson sit down with Jennifer to explore her groundbreaking ideas on empowering educators and fostering growth in schools. From the inspiring story behind the Cult of Pedagogy's name to actionable strategies for feedback, leadership, and teacher support, Jennifer offers a treasure trove of insights. The discussion dives into how education leaders can balance high expectations with emotional and professional support for their teams, seamlessly blending innovation and practicality. Discover how Jennifer repurposes content to drive learning and how leaders can leverage similar techniques to build stronger, more resilient school communities. Packed with humor, real-world examples, and tools for slowing down to focus on what matters most, this conversation delivers an empowering perspective for educators, principals, and district leaders alike. Don't miss this chance to harness Jennifer's wisdom and take your leadership practice to new heights!Let us know what you think!

Jim Knight delves into the remarkable success of his latest book, The IC Toolkit, which became a bestseller within two weeks of its release. This comprehensive toolkit is designed for instructional coaches and those who support them, o organized around seven critical success factors for coaching, encompassing personal attributes, professional practices, and systemic support. Knight emphasizes the importance of role clarity for coaches, highlighting that without it, coaches may engage in low-impact activities rather than focusing on strategies that significantly enhance student achievement and wellbeing. He also underscores the necessity of leadership in coaching, noting that effective coaches are supported by leaders who understand and value the coaching process. The reach of Knight's work is global, facilitated by partnerships with organizations like Growth Coaching International, which allows for a broader impact on educational practices worldwide. He passionately advocates for treating teachers as professionals, arguing that this respect is crucial for fostering an environment where both teachers and students can thrive. Knight's insights are not only a testament to his extensive experience and research but also a call to action for educational leaders to invest in meaningful professional development and support systems that empower coaches and, ultimately, benefit students.Let us know what you think!

Disability rights activist Tim Shriver, Chairman of Special Olympics, editor of The Call to Unite and author of Fully Alive, delves into the profound impact of unity and dignity in education and beyond. Shriver eloquently discusses the transformative power of inclusion, recounting personal anecdotes and professional experiences that highlight how bringing people together fosters empathy, resilience, and a sense of belonging. He emphasizes the critical role of educators in nurturing these values, advocating for the integration of programs like unified sports and Best Buddies in schools to bridge divides and promote mutual respect. Shriver also introduces the Dignity Index, a tool designed to measure and encourage respectful dialogue, which he believes is essential in combating the pervasive culture of contempt. His insights are not only a call to action for educational leaders but also a beacon of hope, underscoring the potential for societal change through compassionate leadership and community engagement. This interview is a must-listen for those committed to fostering inclusive environments and driving positive change in their communities.Let us know what you think!

Co-hosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson delve into the transformative power of collective leader efficacy for this premiere episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders podcast's 9th season. Sharing insights from their extensive collaboration with New Brunswick schools, they discuss the critical role of trust, clarity, and coherence in developing shared understanding among leaders, and how these elements foster effective joint work, emphasizing the importance of long-term partnerships and reciprocal learning. Through engaging anecdotes, such as a puzzle activity that underscored the necessity of collaboration, our co-hosts demonstrate how collective leader efficacy can break down silos and enhance both teacher and student outcomes. This interview is a must-listen for educational leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of collective efficacy and its practical applications in fostering a supportive and high-performing school culture.Let us know what you think!

Dive into the heart of educational leadership with this dynamic podcast compilation featuring Peter DeWitt, Michael Nelson, Tiffany Anderson, Sonja Hollins-Alexander, Nicole Law, and Thomas Guskey. Tiffany Anderson shares a poignant story about a student that underscores the critical role of community in education. Sonja Hollins-Alexander and Nicole Law discuss the essence of equity, emphasizing the need for tailored support to help every student thrive. Thomas Guskey delves into the nuances of grading and assessment, drawing on his extensive research and insights from educational pioneers. This episode is packed with powerful anecdotes, expert advice, and actionable strategies, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about transforming education. Join the conversation and be inspired by these leaders who are making a real difference in schools and communities.Let us know what you think!

The bonus podcast of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast features a compilation of insightful excerpts from previous interviews with educational leaders John Hattie, Viviane Robinson, and Marc Brackett. John Hattie emphasizes the importance of educators developing a theory of learning that aligns with their teaching methods, highlighting the need for teachers to focus on learning strategies. Viviane Robinson discusses the concept of leadership as an influence process accessible to everyone, stressing the importance of teachers exercising leadership in their roles. Marc Brackett offers insights and advocates for using emotions wisely to achieve goals and improve relationships. The hosts, Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson, reflect on these themes, sharing personal anecdotes and emphasizing the practical application of these insights in professional learning and workshops. The compilation underscores the value of continuous learning, leadership, and emotional intelligence, and, of course, leading with intention in education.Let us know what you think!

In a fascinating interview on the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, Marc Brackett, the founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and author of the bestselling book Permission to Feel, delves into the profound importance of emotional intelligence and self-regulation in both personal and professional realms. In this conversation with co-hosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson, Brackett emphasizes the necessity of understanding and managing emotions to achieve goals and maintain well-being and discusses the challenges posed by political polarization and the misconceptions surrounding social-emotional learning, advocating for clear definitions and practical applications. Brackett's insights are particularly relevant for leaders, highlighting the critical role of emotional intelligence in creating a positive school culture and climate. He shares compelling research findings, including the significant impact of emotionally intelligent leadership on teacher satisfaction and retention. Through engaging anecdotes and evidence-based strategies, Brackett provides actionable advice for educators and leaders to foster emotional intelligence, enhance communication, and build supportive environments. This interview is a must-listen for professionals seeking to understand the transformative power of emotions in education and leadership.Let us know what you think!

In this compelling interview on the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, David Sousa, a respected educational neuroscience consultant and author, delves into the profound impact of technology on the developing brain. Sousa, known for his groundbreaking work on brain plasticity and the rewired brain, highlights the alarming increase in technology use among preteens and teenagers over the past decade. He underscores the critical role of nurture in shaping the brain, challenging the theory that genetics predominantly determine brain development. Sousa articulates concerns about how excessive screen time affects memory, thinking skills, attention, and social skills, emphasizing that the brain's plasticity makes it highly susceptible to environmental influences. He discusses the importance of educators and parents understanding these changes to better support children's cognitive and social development. Sousa also addresses the potential dangers of artificial intelligence, stressing the need for discernment between real and fake information, especially for the young. His insights are a call to action for educators and administrators to balance technology use with activities that promote higher-order thinking and interpersonal skills. The interview is a thought-provoking exploration of how modern technology is reshaping the educational landscape and the urgent need for informed strategies to mitigate its negative effects while harnessing its benefits.Let us know what you think!

Join hosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson on the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast as they engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Kate Anderson Foley about her latest book, Radically Excellent School Improvement. In this episode, Dr. Foley draws from her extensive background in educational leadership to highlight the critical importance of strategic planning and maintaining a student-centered focus in decision-making. She emphasizes the interconnected nature of school departments and advocates for a strength-based approach to support all students effectively. The conversation delves into current challenges such as teacher shortages, the crucial role of professional development, dual certification for teachers, and the significant impact of coaching for both educators and principals. Dr. Foley also sheds new light on the role of the business office in supporting educational objectives and the importance of equity audits. This episode offers valuable insights for professionals dedicated to advancing educational excellence.Let us know what you think!

In this interview, Keziah Featherstone, an executive head teacher in the West Midlands of England, discusses her leadership philosophy and experiences. She emphasizes the importance of authentic leadership, challenging the homogenized model of leadership that often excludes women and people of color. Featherstone advocates for “punk leadership,” which encourages leaders to stay true to their values and be adaptable. She highlights the significance of relationships and impact over rigid adherence to traditional leadership models. Featherstone also touches on the challenges of recruitment and retention in education, stressing the need for leaders to find joy and fulfillment in their roles. She shares insights on creating inclusive environments and the importance of being intentional in supporting diverse leadership. The conversation also explores the role of men in championing women in leadership and the universal challenges faced by educators worldwide.Check out her book, Punk Leadership: Leading Schools Differently at Corwin.com.Let us know what you think!

In this episode of Leaders Coaching Leaders, Principal of the Year honoree Washington Collado shares his personal and professional leadership journey. He underscores the significance of leading with intention and creating a safe environment for open communication among students, staff, and families, discussing how to achieve the respect and trust that are foundational to effective leadership. Reflecting on his upbringing in the Dominican Republic and the loss of his mother at a young age, Collado shares how these experiences shaped his commitment to education and advocacy for underrepresented groups. He highlights the importance of integrating diverse histories into curricula, explaining how this is essential for equity in education. Additionally, he previews his upcoming book, The Four Pillars to Guide Visionary Educators, which focuses on strategies for supporting students in high-poverty schools through collaborative leadership and community engagement. Collado's insights underscore the transformative power of education and the necessity of intentional leadership in fostering inclusive learning environments.Let us know what you think!

Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson interview Michael Hinojosa, a seasoned superintendent with 27 years of experience in large school districts. ​ Hinojosa shares his insights on maintaining a long-term superintendency, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with the school board, staff, and community to navigate the often complex politics of school districts and the larger education community. ​ He discusses his personal journey from to educational leadership, highlighting resilience and the impact of public education. Hinojosa also introduces his upcoming book, Superintendent-Wise: Critical Lessons for Leading Your District, which offers strategies and stories for effective district leadership. ​ The conversation underscores the significance of intentional leadership and navigating political challenges in education.Let us know what you think!

In this episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, Viviane Robinson delves into the theme of Leading with Intention to discuss the core purposes of educational institutions, emphasizing the importance of serving students and the student-centered impact of strong instructional leadership. Robinson–a researcher who has studied educational leadership for years and shaped ed policy around the world–highlights the challenges leaders face in balancing their roles. Her insights on leading strategically for testable results and clear measures on impact provide valuable, real-world guidance for education leaders worldwide. Author of Virtuous Educational LeadershipLet us know what you think!

As co-host Peter DeWitt says, a talk with Tom Guskey always feels like a master class. Legendary education leader Thomas R. “Tom” Guskey has written twenty-seven books, all widely used and acclaimed in his field. In this conversation, he discussed his newest one, Grading With Integrity. He'll clarify pervasive mistaken assumptions about grading, what frustrates parents most, challenges teachers and school administrators face, and how to move toward toward effective, useful grading that tells schools, administrators, teachers, students, and parents alike what they need to know.Let us know what you think!

What can a world-renowned children's book author and illustrator teach us about leadership? Loren Long is a New Tork Times bestselling picture book author and illustrator. In this episode,  he reveals the creative thought process behind his emotionally resonant illustrations for Amanda Gorman's Change Sings and how he learned from Matt de la Pena, whose book Love he illustrated, that he was already an activist whether he knew it or not. Children's books Long has both written and illustrated include the Otis series and The Yellow Bus. In this interview with our co-hosts, unabashed fans, Long opens up about his journey, his craft, and how he sees his role in inclusion.Let us know what you think!

Zaretta Hammond draws on her book Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain, her upcoming new title Teaching for Instructional Equity and Cognitive Justice, and her decades of experience to discuss what impacts equity, from challenges to supports. In this eye-opening conversation, she encourages school leaders to find new framings and perspectives that create conscious intentions around equity and inclusion and take concrete action steps toward these goals. One constant throughout her message: put the student first.Let us know what you think!

In this special-format episode, our co-hosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson explain and set the theme for the exciting new season of the Leaders Coaching Leaders podcast with a lively discussion and interview of each other! Hear their deeply personal stories about what set them on the path to education leadership and to leading with intention. They'll reveal their approach to their mission and their deeply felt learning mindset – and how they've been shaped and affected by the collaborative, mutual learning they experience every day with the many dedicated educators they feel so fortunate to work with.Let us know what you think!

Get to know the person behind the research in this thoughtful conversation with acclaimed education researcher John Hattie. Join host Peter DeWitt and cohost Mike Nelson as they chat with John Hattie about his journey as a lifelong learner, how his Visible Learning research has resonated globally, and his goal for every educator to have a theory of learning. And, learn about John Hattie's highlight of his week--the days he spends with his grandson. Tune into this season seven finale of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast for insights from an award-winning expert on enhancing student learning and achievement.Let us know what you think!

Join host Peter DeWitt and Mike Nelson as they interview Dr. Susan Enfield, an alumna of Harvard's urban superintendent program. In this episode, we delve into the importance of mentorship, helping students feel seen and heard, and the need for self-reflection. We also discuss the necessity of taking calculated risks in addressing prominent issues within our educational organizations and solving problems. Dr. Enfield shares her perspective on the bold moves required to face inequities, emphasizing that in order to do right by our children, we must sometimes make our lives harder.We then explore how to support women in leadership roles, highlighting the importance of making them feel seen and valued in subtle ways. Dr. Enfield explains how humanizing and supporting women in their personal lives can enhance their professional performance and discusses the value of creating a supportive network.Don't miss Dr. Enfield's impactful way of posing questions and the wealth of knowledge she generously shares.Let us know what you think!

Delve into the enriching world of authentic leadership with Kim Fry, a seasoned educational leader who journeyed from a student to the superintendent of Rochester School District. In a role where the average duration is 5 years, Kim has been there for 12 and shares how to be agile and empower others to lead while staying true to herself. She emphasizes the need for listening and constant learning as the cornerstones of leadership, while offering crucial insights from a woman's perspective. Throughout the episode, Kim, Peter DeWitt, and Mike Nelson explore the importance of creating exclusive spaces for women, harnessing authentic leadership gifts, and championing for one's self and others. She highlights how strategic use of AI tools can free up a leader's time, allowing them to focus on mentoring, coaching, and relationship-building. And casts a critical eye on the decision-making processes regarding Superintendent appointments, delving into how to better educate school board members and bridging the gap between women in education leadership and all education leaders.

How do we unlearn frames of mind that no longer work for us so that we can embrace new learnings that will help us build communities where all can thrive? Join Peter DeWitt, Mike Nelson, Nicole Law and Sonja Hollins-Alexander as they offer deeply thought-provoking reflections on unlearning, learning, soul-searching self-assessment, and what it takes to build a culture where all scholars feel a sense of belonging and recognition. 

When the world stops and education needs to pivot on a dime, educators have to ask themselves, “What is the purpose of education? How can I take what I know to be sound pedagogy and how do I make technology fit that understanding? How do I make technology work for me and not me work for it?" And ultimately, "How do I make technology work for my students?”The technology that educators are currently grappling with is how AI fits into classrooms. Join technology expert Jeff Utecht, along with Peter DeWitt and Mike Nelson as they dive deep into how educators can leverage technology and artificial intelligence -not be controlled by it- so they can reshape pedagogy to provide the best for students. 

Prepare yourself for an engaging conversation in this podcast episode. Host Peter DeWitt and co-host Mike Nelson will be taking you through the inspiring journey of an educational trailblazer, known for her characteristic white sneakers, Dr. Tiffany Anderson. A dynamic figure in her school community, Dr. Anderson is not just confined to the corridors of academia. She's out there greeting students in the mornings, visiting classrooms, and interacting with parents in the community; she's fundamentally reshaping what it means to be a school leader.In this episode, we'll uncover what drives Dr. Anderson's deep respect for her school community and her unwavering commitment to listen to their needs. We'll delve into her unique and innovative ways of turning visions of a successful school into a tangible reality - even in seemingly unheard of ways! And above all, we'll explore how her contagious optimism infuses an expansive perspective where there are no barriers, only unexplored opportunities.

In this episode,  Peter DeWitt, co-host Mike Nelson and guest Elisa MacDonald tackle the challenging, yet rewarding task of discussing the importance of vulnerability within the educational community. Not only does MacDonald urge educators to be open about their struggles with their students, but she also emphasizes the need for this transparency amongst professional peers. She believes that by allowing students and colleagues to witness our challenges and the process of turning them into triumphant victories, we forge a potent precedent. This approach aids in constructing a culture that values perpetual learning and growth. In an interesting twist, MacDonald points out an intriguing paradox: the power in leading with intent and purpose while simultaneously staying open and receptive to the learning process. Join Peter, Mike, and Elisa for a deep dive into the nuanced art of teaching, leading, and learning, painting a picture where vulnerability is reframed from weakness to strength.

In this episode, we delve deep into the complex challenges often faced by students in urban areas - obstacles compounded by factors such as race, gender, social class, and more. Our guest is none other than Tyrone Howard, the President of AERA and a national authority in urban education. Howard brings his extensive knowledge and experience to the table, providing valuable insights and guidance for educators and leaders. He emphasizes the crucial role of listening to parents and students, encouraging them to actively participate in cultivating a thriving school culture where every student feels a sense of belonging while fostering a passion for learning. Additionally, Howard advocates for an organic and holistic approach to data collection in education, focusing on truly hearing what students have to say. This, he believes, is essential for shaping school policies that genuinely reflect students' needs and are specifically tailored to guarantee their success. Join Peter DeWitt and Season 7 Co-host, Mike Nelson, as we explore these critical issues with Tyrone, uncovering pragmatic strategies aimed at overcoming barriers to create an inclusive, successful learning environment for all students.

With her emphasis on relationship building as the backdrop for linguistically and culturally sustainable assessment, the bestselling author Margo Gottlieb tells educators that we can do better when it comes to how we assess multilingual learners. In this episode she discusses her latest edition of Assessing Multilingual Learners, and she offers educators welcoming and encouraging ways to support multilingual learners to succeed in school and beyond. How?  By authentically integrating the needs of multilingual students as core to the assessment as opposed to just adding on components that may fail to meet their needs. To do this, Gottlieb suggests educators use asset-based language, student centered activities, relevant classroom assessments and more.

Politics, learning loss and a tsunami of initiatives can get in the way of what matters most in education: strategies aligned to key goals, systems for high quality professional learning and, most of all, creating a culture where all are seen and heard. Lionel Allen, hand picked by Arnie Duncan to lead the nation's first turnaround school, is committed to helping leaders and teachers remember their “why.” In this episode, he passionately discusses a vision for our schools that centers students and values the adults charged to educate them. As he outlines in his new book Lead With CARE, affirmation, responsiveness, relationships and empowerment are all integral to designing the schools that students deserve. 

 A perfect storm is upon us and educators are in the middle of it. Identity issues often incite and divide us, but they are actually our way out of the storm. This is what this episode's guests, Andrew Hargreaves and Dennis Shirley, posit. In their latest book, The Age of Identity, they seek to shed light on this topic to help educators make meaning of this highly complicated issue. They demonstrate how to be vulnerable, ask questions, and interrogate our own thinking to better prepare young people for a future where they can learn to live together and help others belong. 

Too many schools still rely on deeply ingrained, segregated practices that fail to serve all students. Author of the book Leading for All and district leader Jennifer Spencer-Iiams would like to change this. In this episode she shares lessons learned from spending nearly a decade building a school district where all students are served in their neighborhood school and in classrooms with their general education peers. Hear how to get better academic outcomes for all students, not just those identified with disabilities, by promoting self-efficacy, improving social and emotional health, and consistently implementing research-based instructional strategies. 

One does not often pair unreasonable and irrational with care and hospitality, but superstar superintendent Mike Nelson does. As he sees it, to get at the kind of collaboration most school leaders crave requires them go far deeper into human relations than usual. In this episode, he defines what he calls human interconnectedness and provides specific examples of what it looks like and how to get there. Topics include how to make your staff feel seen and heard every day, the benefits of taking the time to build strong connections and tips for fully immersing yourself in the daily experiences of those you lead.  

When there's a nuclear meltdown happening with a student in your school, you don't have a second to think. Author and consultant Ben Springer, shares the framework from his bestselling book Happy Kids Don't Punch You in the Face, to discuss what to do in the heat of the moment, and how you can decrease the chances of incidents happening in the first place. His approach is a field-tested, integrating principles of behavioral intervention with the best practices of positive psychology—a fresh, effective response that respects the tough realities facing today's educators.

On this episode, Pamela Snow, renowned speech-language pathologist and psychologist, gives an incisive analysis of how good people all over the world came to eschew the science of what works for reading instruction.  She makes a compelling case for viewing school as a public health intervention, making it of the utmost importance that we get our teaching practices right. The bottom line is that while how we feel as educators matters, efficacy matters even more—and the two don't have to be in competition. If you are looking for points to persuade educators to abandon low-value practices and to champion the right to literacy for all, you will find it in Pamela's knowledge and wisdom. 

Have you ever started your school year as a principal feeling overwhelmed and pulled in a million directions? It's a common experience and one not addressed explicitly in a many training programs. This episode's guest, Daniel Bauer, is on to talk about a practical solution: creating the perfect principal entry plan. You will hear him discuss his framework that promises big payoffs for just a few hours of focused work. If you believe crystal clear clarity on your goals is the most efficient way to support your team and sustain continuous improvement, hit play.

Planning for equitable accelerated learning is analogous to preparing a meal. Similar to a chef selecting the menu, gathering ingredients, and planning the occasion, educators choose aligned curricula to prioritize learning to help students internalize instruction. Straight from their new book Serving Educational Equity, Sonya Murray and Gwendolyn Turner  share with listeners how to distinguish acceleration from remediation, establish effective foundational instruction, expand student engagement for all students, and use student excellence as the driver for full equity. 

Research repeatedly shows that educators spend a lot of time doing activities that do not connect to student outcomes. Not on purpose, but in a world with so many distractions it becomes easy to lose the North Star. In this podcast, author and consultant Lyle Kirtman implores us to shed any projects or behaviors that do not align with our goals for student outcomes. In fact, he stresses that this is imperative if we want to stop the rapid rate of burnout that is impacting schools at all levels. Listeners will get tips on how to talk to data-averse teachers about data, use guiding questions to make decisions about what to do and what not to do, and how to skillfully push back against mandates that run counter to a school's mission.

Schools need leaders, but fewer and fewer are entering into the position. And far too few are thriving once they are in the role. Two reasons: a mismatch of expectations and a lack of clarity about what the job entails. These signal that it is time to take a hard look at how we prepare aspiring leaders. Tim Cusack and Bustamante have surveyed the landscape, and share their findings in their latest book, Leader Ready. They propose four pathways to get budding leaders to bloom, including standards-based support, guided practice with mentors and mastery experiences. 

New teaching staff, whether novice or veteran, are a central part of a successful school year. So why is it that they are often greeted at the door of our school community with the autopilot vibe of a ticket taker at the movies? In their latest book Onboarding Teachers, Fisher, Frey, Shin and Biscocho change the rules of engagement, offering activities and practical strategies that focus leaders and coaches on critical aspects of success for that make-or-break first year. 

The one and only John Hattie joins LCL to share the sequel of his seminal book, Visible Learning.  It is not merely an update on previous content, but a concerted effort to focus on what we don't already know about, along with data that has changed. He also discusses the importance of paying attention to what teachers believe about learning, the need to highlight the many schools doing the work well and how to choose where to focus our limited time as educators. He reminds us that teachers and leaders have some of the highest coping strategies of any profession and that there is much to celebrate in all we do. 

Scheduling common planning times is not just about moving some pieces around on a chart. It is also about the educators who enter these spaces and the beliefs they carry with them. In this episode Donahoo and Katz help listeners see that many decisions have both a technical and adaptive aspect to them. They ask listeners to reflect on unhelpful stories, bogus barriers, overconfidence, and other behaviors that need interruption. They also implore leaders to get comfortable with discomfort because it is the only way to get good ideas to stick.

Going deep into education research can feel daunting, but not when you're listening to Tom Guskey. Sharing the highlights from his latest book, Implementing Mastery Learning, third edition, Guskey begins with a short history of mastery learning and ends with its continued relevance today.  You will hear about formative assessment, effective correctives, high-quality enrichment, how to change mindsets, and much more. Rooted in a conviction that every students should have access to the tools of a scholar, Guskey reaffirms our belief that excellence for all is possible. 

How much training did you get on classroom management before you became a leader or teacher? The answer is probably: not much—and we are seeing the catastrophic results.  Larry Thompson is on a mission to elevate this work, so it stands shoulder to shoulder with all we know about curriculum and instruction. He views poor behavior as a skill deficit that can be improved with strategic coaching.  Thompson touches upon how to listen to what a child is actually saying when they are upset, “spot” them in ways that build their autonomy and agency and ultimately advance high-quality culture in your school.

Do you know how to identify the white space in your organization? No? Well not knowing could explain why some of your great ideas fail to gain traction. In this podcast, James Marshall discusses how school leaders can master successful implementation. Based on his new book Right From the Start, Marshall sets forth a pathway to get predictable results from your programming. From needs assessment straight through to evaluation, you'll get user-friendly guidance on how to tackle this work with confidence.

Joseph Johnson, an expert in urban education reform, shares what leaders in high performing urban schools do differently. He skillfully articulates that great achievement with these students is not an anomaly and, in fact, reliably occurs when certain pieces are in place. This includes making students and families feel valuable, focusing on mastery, ensuring culturally responsive teaching, progress monitoring and so much more. Johnson calls on listeners to reject the status quo that keeps so many students stuck. Instead, he shows how we can look to models of excellence for the strategies that actually work to help urban students thrive.  

If we look at the data, we can safely say women are doing the work of classroom teaching while disproportionately, men are making administrative and leadership decisions. On this episode, three school leaders discuss how to start breaking down barriers and leading the way for future generations of women leaders. This includes finding the right mentors, identifying the differences in the superintendency versus the instructional track and embracing traditionally “female traits” in leadership roles. This open and honest conversation will point all listeners towards a more inclusive leadership environment.

In this episode, world renown neuroscientist David Sousa and differentiated instruction expert Carol Ann Tomlinson discuss matters of the brain and its connection to effective instructional strategies. Listeners will hear why cooperation, engagement and belonging are precursors to achievement and what they can start to do about it. They will also get some updated definition of terms in desperate need tweaking. Whether you think you know a lot about learning and the brain, or are just getting started, this episode will help you walk away with some new tools to improve practice.

“If it's not sustainable, then it's not best practice.” This quote speaks to Paul France's commitment to honor both teachers and students. In this episode, France provides a clear yet nuanced understanding of personalized learning. He explains how personalized learning is different from other adjacent concepts such as differentiated instruction and individualized learning plans. He advocates for a process that respects teacher knowledge and time, the optimal learning environment for students and the need for all to have a voice.