This podcast is dedicated to all my fellow K-12 educators as I reflect on my experiences & best practices working in K-12 education as a former teacher & current administrator. New episodes are released bi-weekly on Friday's at 4 PM (excluding special bonus episodes). Subscribe so you don't miss any new episodes! Additionally, feel free to leave a review! Contact Information: Email-> leadingoutthewoods@gmail.com Twitter-> @woodfromawoods Website-> leadingoutthewoods.com
Matthew Woods - Education Podcast Network
Summer Leadership Recharge: Principal EditionIn this episode, Dr. Woods is joined by Dr. Burroughs to explore Creating Impactful Professional Development Plans, as part of our special Summer Leadership Recharge: Principal Edition 5 part series. Designed specifically for current and aspiring principals, this series offers practical strategies to help school leaders reflect, reset, and re-energize for the upcoming school year.
In this episode, Dr. Woods reflects on a common leadership dilemma: knowing the difference between a good idea and a true priority.With so many initiatives, programs, and “must-dos” in education, it's easy to get overwhelmed or lose focus. Dr. Woods breaks down how leaders and educators can filter the noise, align their work with meaningful goals, and stay grounded in what really matters for student success.
Throwback Thursday! Student Content Creator featuring Rachelle Dene PothOriginally Released On: 3-12-2021This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Rachelle shares her thoughts on students having input on the content they create in classrooms.✅ Rachelle discusses the paradigm shift from teachers being the “gatekeepers” of knowledge to more a facilitator of learning.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Throwback Thursday! Mindfulness Awareness for Educators featuring Danielle NuhferOriginally Released On: 5-31-2024This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Danielle shares her three tips for bringing mindfulness awareness into the classroom for educators.✅ Danielle discusses her book, “ The Path of the Mindful Teacher.”Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Episode #121 is up! Check it out!!!Beyond Self-Care SundayIn this episode, Dr. Woods is joined by school psychologist, author, and founder of Thriving School Collective—Dr. Rebecca Branstetter—for a deep and refreshing conversation around educator wellness. Together, they move beyond surface-level “self-care” slogans and dive into what it really means to create sustainable habits that support mental health and professional resilience.Dr. Branstetter shares practical strategies, mindset shifts, and systems that help educators thrive—not just survive—throughout the school year. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to reclaim balance and joy in the work.
Throwback Thursday! Title: Support(ing) Students Affected by Trauma featuring Anthony SwannOriginally Released On: 7-2-2021This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Anthony shares how he supports students in his classroom related to his personal experiences with trauma.✅ Anthony gives strategies that could benefit other educators working with a variety of students.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Throwback Thursday! Diversity as Value-Added featuring Dr. Leighangela BradyOriginally Released On: 9-8-2023This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Brady shares the work her team is doing in National School District to develop exceptionally prepared learners.✅ Dr. Brady gives tips on engaging all stakeholders in meaningful planning and strategic partnerships.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Anchor Chat #19: Dangerous AssumptionsIn this episode, Dr. Woods discusses why dangerous assumptions lead to confusion, frustration, and missed opportunities. In this quick episode, he shares why it's essential to build context, check for understanding, and offer shared reference points—whether you're teaching a lesson, leading a meeting, or calling home.
Throwback Thursday! Title: Leveraging Leadership featuring Dr. Robert ThornellOriginally Released On: 5-20-2022This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Thornell shares the five distinct activities he believes all principals should exhibit. ✅ Dr. Thornell advocates for principals to “tell the story” about their school to generate buy-in and support for their staff and students.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
In this powerful episode, Dr. Alex Chisholm joins Dr. Woods to share his journey from working in K12 schools to becoming a leader in higher education. He reflects on lessons learned, unexpected challenges, and the transferable skills that helped him thrive in a new educational space.
Throwback Thursday! Leading Through Crisis featuring Charles WilliamsOriginally Released On: 1-28-2022This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Charles discusses the way he led his staff through the COVID pandemic.✅ Charles shares his philosophy of S.M.A.R.T. that he implements during crises.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Throwback Thursday! Learning from Mistakes & Failure in the Classroom featuring Dr. Julie WarnerThis week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Warner discusses why she believes self-reflecting on mistakes and failure in your instructional practice is vital for improving your teaching.✅ Dr. Warner shares several examples from her book, “Failure Before Success: Teachers Describe What They Learned from Mistakes.”Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Anchor Chat #18: School EtiquetteIn this episode, Dr. Woods explores how strong school etiquette lays the foundation for respectful learning environments. Drawing from key themes in his book Leading Out The Woods: Nurturing School Etiquette for Success, he unpacks the importance of self-reflection, clear expectations, and understanding student needs when implementing discipline.
Throwback Thursday! The Importance of Play featuring Dr, Michael HynesOriginally Released On: 3-6-2021This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Hynes discusses why the concept of “play” is a foundational learning theme for children.✅ Dr. Hynes shares how he empowers educators to actively think about and consider play-based instruction, while adhering to testing mandates and regulations.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Throwback Thursday! Teacher Internships featuring Jeff DavisOriginally Released On: 12-31-2021This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Jeff discusses the current teacher preparation environment.✅ Jeff shares strategies on enriching clinical experiences for aspiring teachers.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. Don't forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!
Episode #119 is up! Check it out!!!Special Guest Christina Hidek joins Dr. Woods to share how school administration and PTO partnerships are key for healthy school communities. Additionally, Christina shares strategies to boost family and community engagement. Visit her website at https://ptoanswers.com/ to learn more about her work.
Throwback Thursday! Unlocking an Innovative Mindset featuring George CourosOriginally Released On: 1-14-2022This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ George shares how he encourages staff to adopt an innovative mindset.✅ George discusses the inhibitors to avoid that prevent innovation from occurring.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Throwback Thursday! Community Engagement thru PLC's featuring Dr. Nathaniel ProvencioOriginally Released On: 7-16-2021This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Provencio shares how community engagement propels student achievement and promotes a positive school culture.✅ Dr. Provencio gives strategies from his book, Community Connections and Your PLC at Work.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Anchor Chat #17: The Art of QuestioningIn this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods dives into how asking the right questions can drive deeper thinking, spark engagement, and elevate instruction across all classrooms.
Throwback Thursday! Title: The Science of Happiness & Wellbeing for Educators featuring Kim StrobelOriginally Released On: 12-17-2021This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Kim shares why the science of happiness and wellbeing is important to her.✅ Kim gives strategies and tips for educators to increase their happiness.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Throwback Thursday! Do You Have Meeting Goals? featuring Dr. Thomas Van SoelenOriginally Released On: 10-21-22This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Van Soelen discusses why schools chronically experience poorly-facilitated meetings.✅ Dr. Van Soelen shares strategies to effectively and efficiently use time wisely when meeting.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Episode #118 is up! Check it out!!!Unpacking Collaborative LeadershipSpecial Guest Ms. Pamela Ehnle, Education Consultant and Author, joins Dr. Woods on episode #118 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Unpacking Collaborative Leadership. In this episode, they share the inspiration behind their latest book, Leading Out The Woods: Collaborative Leadership, and explore why collaboration is essential for effective leadership in education. They define collaborative leadership, highlight key themes from the book, and discuss practical examples.Connect with Pam via LinkedIn: Pamela Ehnle, website https://empoweringlearners101.com/ and email at: pamela.ehnle@gmail.com
Throwback Thursday!Title: School Law featuring Dr. John DaytonOriginally Released On: 1-29-21This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Dayton dives into a variety of school law topics that teachers and administrators deal with on a daily basis.✅ Dr. Dayton shares tips and strategies from his renowned educational leadership book, Education Law: Principles, Policies, and Practice.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Throwback Thursday! Title: Art of In-School Suspension featuring Johnathan CranfordOriginally Released On: 6-16-2023This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Johnathan discusses his strategies on implementing a successful in-school suspension program at his school.✅ Johnathan details how the success led to his book, "The Art of In-School Suspension: A Discipline Program that Benefits Staff and Students."Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Anchor Chat #16: Project-Based Learning for Deeper EngagementIn this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on Project-Based Learning for Deeper Engagement, sharing insights on how this instructional approach can foster student curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking. He discusses strategies for designing meaningful projects that connect learning to real-world experiences, empowering students to take ownership of their education.
Throwback Thursday! Authentic Literature featuring Dr. Donyall DickeyOriginally Released On: 5-7-2021This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Dickey shares what authentic literature and how it should be used in teaching and learning.✅ Dr. Dickey discusses his book, Mitigating Curricular Chaos, which shares strategies on constructing and procuring core content curricula that addresses and mitigates the achievement gap.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Throwback Thursday! Loving Your Neighbor featuring Chris SingletonOriginally Released On: 7-28-2023This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Chris shares his inspirational message of resilience, unity and forgiveness.✅ Chris discusses the way he works with schools, universities, and other organizations to promote love and acceptance of others. Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Episode #117 is up! Check it out!!!Special Guest Mike Henrich joins Dr. Woods to discuss his book Teacher Boy. In this episode, Mr. Henrich shares his motivation and overarching message in the book. Additionally, he offers strategies and insight on improving the student/teacher experience in classrooms.Grab your copy of 'Teacher Boy' on Amazon! Connect with Mike via Instagram @classroom_clamor and his website teacherboy.com
Throwback Thursday!Title: Teachers of Promise featuring Wade WhiteheadOriginally Released On: 09-09-2022This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Wade discusses what the Teachers of Promise Institute is and the impact it has made on education.✅ As a Milken Award Winner and National Teachers Hall of Fame Inductee, Wade shares proven classroom practices and strategies that enhance student achievement and foster a positive, engaging learning environment.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Throwback Thursday!Rural Education featuring Dr. Jamon FlowersOriginally Released On: 05-08-2020This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Flowers discusses what rural education looks like for educators.✅ Dr. Flowers explains why this topic needs to have more attention brought towards it to help educators navigate this space.
Anchor Chat #15: Mentorship vs CoachingIn this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on Mentorship vs. Coaching, examining the key differences between the two and their impact on professional growth. He discusses how both roles support educators in unique ways and emphasizes the importance of knowing when to mentor, when to coach, and how to leverage each approach effectively.
Throwback Thursday!Cultivating a Sense of Belonging featuring Dr. Terrel StrayhornOriginally Released On: 12-24-2020This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Strayhorn discusses how his work focuses on four categories: 1) community, 2) support system, 3) membership, and 4) acceptance.✅ Dr. Strayhorn shares strategies on cultivating a sense of belonging with students in your classrooms and schools.
Throwback Thursday!I Choose to Stay featuring Dr. Salome Thomas-ELOriginally Released On: 7-29-2022This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Thomas-EL discusses why ‘he chose to stay' in education.✅ Dr. Thomas-EL shares strategies on improving staff morale and capacity.
Episode #116 is up! Check it out!!!Special Guest Kenneth Williams joins Dr. Woods to discuss his book Ruthless Equity: Disrupt the Status Quo and Ensure Learning for ALL Students. In this episode, Mr. Williams explores how educators can become equity warriors; committed to delivering excellence, achievement, and learning opportunities for all students, regardless of their backgrounds.Connect with Mr. Williams via his website https://unfoldthesoul.com/
Throwback Thursday! Rethinking Black History featuring Dr. LaGarrett King Originally Released On: 2-12-21This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. King discusses the importance of black history and how to properly reframe its instruction in k12.✅ Dr. King provides strategies on how to incorporate black history education in your daily history/social studies instruction.
Throwback Thursday! Started from the Bottom, Now I'm Here featuring Darrion Cockrell Originally Released On: 6-18-21This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Darrion discusses how he motivates and inspires his students and school community.✅ Darrion shares advice with other educators trying to make a positive impact with students at-risk.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Anchor Chat #14: Personal Well-BeingIn this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on Personal Well-Being, sharing insights on the importance of maintaining balance and self-care as an educator. He discusses strategies for prioritizing mental and physical health, managing stress, and setting boundaries to sustain personal and professional success. Dr. Woods encourages educators to reflect on their own well-being and make intentional efforts to nurture it.
Throwback Thursday!Title: Episode #27_Staff Motivation & Morale featuring Dr. Todd Whitaker Originally Released On: 2-26-21This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode, we:✅ discuss the importance of staff motivation and morale in school management,✅ provide tips on what you can do to ensure this is happening in your school.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Throwback Thursday! Title: Episode #46_Teaming for Well-Being - A Whole New Type Of Leadership featuring Jen BaldwinOriginally Released On: 11-18-22This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode, we explore:✅ Strategies to address Mental-Health concerns (post-pandemic)✅ Addressing SEL in a proactive mannerWhether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Episode #115 is up! Check it out!!!Special Guest Dr. Eisa Cox, Superintendent of Ashe County Schools, joins Dr. Woods on episode #115 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Digital Leadership: The New Frontier. In this episode, they explore how leaders are leveraging technology to tackle challenges, enhance efficiency, and drive innovative problem-solving in education.Connect with Dr. Cox via email eisa.cox@ashe.k12.nc.us and X @Eisa_Cox
Throwback Thursday!Title: Episode #46_The Art of Delegation featuring Dr. Marcus BelinOriginally Released On: 11-19-21This week, we're revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode, we explore:✅ How ‘Delegation' is an essential concept of leadership.✅ Empowering colleagues to complete tasks unsupervised.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.
Anchor Chat #13: Managing Student Behavior without PunishmentIn this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on Managing Student Behavior without Punishment, sharing alternative strategies for addressing behavior proactively. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the root causes of behavior and using preventative approaches to create a positive and supportive classroom environment.
Episode #114 is up! Check it out!!!Special Guest Dr. Krystal Clemons, Founder and CEO of Our Village Education Consulting LLC, joins Dr. Woods on episode #114 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss The Village Model of Community Engagement. In this episode, they explore her innovative framework, strategies for overcoming barriers to engagement, best practices for fostering involvement, and building impactful community partnerships.Connect with Dr. Clemons via Instagram: ourvillageconsulting or LinkedIn: Dr. Krystal Clemons
Anchor Chat #12: Artificial Intelligence in the ClassroomIn this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom, sharing insights on how AI is transforming teaching and learning. He discusses its potential to personalize instruction, streamline administrative tasks, and foster innovation in education. Dr. Woods encourages educators to explore ways to integrate AI responsibly, ensuring it enhances student engagement and supports equitable learning opportunities.
Episode #113 is up! Check it out!!!Special Guest Ja'Quez D. Taylor, North Carolina's Youngest School Board Chair, joins Dr. Woods to discuss how effective collaboration among these key stakeholders can drive student success and strengthen school communities.
Anchor Chat #11: Effective Co-Teaching ModelsIn this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on Effective Co-Teaching Models, sharing insights from his own teaching experiences. He emphasizes the importance of understanding various co-teaching models and how each can be applied to enhance collaborative instruction. Dr. Woods encourages educators to explore and adapt these models to better meet diverse student needs and foster a cohesive learning environment.
Episode #112 is up! Check it out!!!Media Literacy in the ClassroomSpecial Guest Bill Selak, Director of Technology and NAMLE Board Member, joins Dr. Woods to discuss the importance of media literacy in the classroom. In this episode, they explore practical strategies for teaching students to critically evaluate media sources and become responsible digital citizens.Connect with Bill via X: @billselak, Instagram: BillSelak or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billselak
Anchor Chat #10: Data Driven InstructionIn this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods discusses the importance of leveraging data to guide instructional decisions, track student progress, and refine teaching strategies for greater effectiveness. Dr. Woods shares insights on how educators can leverage data to make informed choices that improve student outcomes and support individualized learning.
Episode #111 is up! Check it out!!!The Leader's AlgorithmSpecial Guest Pablo Muñoz, Managing Director of Muñoz & Company and former school superintendent, joins Dr. Woods to discuss his leadership journey, his book “The Leader's Algorithm”, and the strategic framework for transformation.Connect with Mr. Muñoz via Instagram: @themunozcompany, LinkedIn: Pablo Muñoz and his website https://www.themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm
Anchor Chat #9: Time ManagementIn this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods breaks down the essential skills and strategies for effective time management in education. From prioritizing tasks to maintaining work-life balance, Dr. Woods provides actionable insights for educators striving to optimize their daily schedules.
Episode #110 is up! Check it out!!!Special Guest Joshua Stamper, Director of Innovation for the Teach Better Team, author of Aspire to Lead, podcaster, leadership coach, joins Dr. Woods to discuss his book “Aspire to Lead: With Empathy, Creativity, and Passion”, and how he assists educators in viewing Behavior as a Language of Communication. Connect with Joshua via Twitter: @Joshua__Stamper (@Joshua__Stamper), Instagram: @Joshua__Stamper (@Joshua__Stamper) or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper/