The Inside Ride: A Top 20 Training Podcast

This week Tom and Kevin interview DeWayne Patterson from Bixby High School in Bixby, OK. Please listen,...you'll feel good and walk with great empowering ideas!If you have questions for DeWayne, his email is below.dpatterson@bixbyps.org

This week Kevin and Tom are joined by teammate Mara Schanfield to discuss their new program for Athletic Programs!info@top20training.commaracgllc@gmail.com (Mara Schanfield)

Top 20 Training has developed a new program for coaches/advisors, their programs, athletes/student participants, parents, and more! Listen and find out more!info@top20training.com for more info. or to set up a FREE meeting!www.top20training.com

Today's episode is full of joy and heart as Kevin and Tom interview Rhett Ladner, Superintendent of Hancock School District. in Kiln, Mississippi. If you're curious about the Fuzzy Strawberry Spotter title, go ahead and start listening and you'll find out!If you have questions or want to contact Rhett, his email is below:rladner@hancockschools.net Thanks so much,Kevin and Tom

This week Kevin and Tom reconnect with Jon Florence, an Assistant Principal at Beaumont High School in Beaumont, California. His coaching background transitioned him into an effective AP because in a sense he now coaches everyone! Have a listen and share!Jon's email is below:jflorence@beaumontusd.k12.ca.us

What a great guest Kevin and Tom interviewed this week (says everyone that listens!)!!!Sierra Green, a Third Grade teacher from Elk Creek Elementary in Newcastle, Colorado, shares her experiences and her WHY!Enjoy!

This week Kevin and Tom share stories and memories of Co-founder and Co-owner of Top 20 Training, Paul Bernabei. Paul passed away last month after months of battling pancreatic cancer. His impact is felt far and wide. Rest in Peace Paul.

This week Tom and Kevin chat with Chris Sindelar, a dynamic and authentic Activities Director from Fontana High School in Fontana California! Kevin and Tom had the opportunity to visit his school and speak to his student leaders and faculty/staff. Chris is full of what's good for students,...so we thought we'd share Chris with you!!!

Kevin and Tom talk about the challenges and joys of education. Top 20 is very tuned in to the administrators and educators across the country and as we listen, we try to find helpful ideas and strategies as the new school year approaches. ENjoy!

Hello Folks,This week Kevin and Tom share thoughts on how to end the school year in a way that reminds about meaning, instill belief, and offers hope!www.top20training.cominfo@top20training.com

Gail Bentley, principal of Del Oro High School in Bakersfield, CA has worked VERY hard to create a school that TRULY takes on the challenge of creating life-long learners. From paint color choice, to the absence of bells, to equitable grading,...her school is striving to accomplish lofty goals. I'd say they've achieved those goals! https://deloro.kernhigh.org/

This week's episode brings an educator to the microphone that is built for human connection and belonging. As ASB (Associated Student Body) Director for his High School (think Stu. Co., Leadership, etc.) he creates moments and teaches classes that prioritize bonding, connection, and showcasing all students' successes!If you have questions or would like to reach out to Rod, please see he email below:Rod.keillor@sduhsd.net

This week Kevin and Tom talk with Joe Beckman. He is relevant and is spreading a message or connection, confirmation, and affirmation. Definitely worth the listen!till360.comjoebeckman.com

This week Kevin and Tom focus on hope and human development as a means of doing what matters in schools. Ideas, examples, and hope are only a listen away. Press play!

This episode Kevin and Tom use a current, real-life example to explain Thought Circles and how to silence them. Enjoy!

This week Kevin and Tom discuss ideas, tools, and strategies to make Day 1 more effective for your students and for you! *And if you're thinking, "well,...I already had our Day 1!" That's ok,...you can put the ideas into practice any time!

This week's guest is Matt Percival from Eastview High School in Apple Valley, MN. Matt is an Athletic Director, Assistant Principal, a dad, and an amazing educator. Listen to Matt share stories about the IMPACT that can be made when students are engaged and involved and how intentionality is everything.Matt Percival952-210-7112 Matt.percival@district196.org

This week's installment of The Inside Ride brings Melissa Stanley of Minot, North Dakota to the world! Melissa has been working in public education for a long time and is currently in the Professional Learning Coordinator for the district. Listen to her stories of constantly searching for the answer to the question, "What do they (kids, teachers, leaders, etc.) need and how can we get it for them?"If you'd like to pick her brain, feel free to reach out via email or phone. Contact is listed below. melissa.t.stanley@gmail.com701-721-2625

Kevin and Tom have a great conversation with Jim Johnson. Jim is a basketball coach, speaker, author, and has a beautiful story that landed him on Oprah! Please check out his info. and links below! coachjimjohnson.comJ-Mac ESPN video: https://youtu.be/O-nMab6XDNIWho's Your J-Mac? https://youtu.be/Nyg7gmKXAkU

This week Kevin and Tom discuss small ways to make a BIG impact on students during your last days with them in school!

This week Kevin and Tom share the need for educators to "hang in there" in these final months of school and discuss ways to do so!

This week Kevin and Tom tackle negativity. It needs to be tackled,...so they tackled it.

This week Kevin and Tom tackle the age-old challenge of relevancy in school. Some students don't see school as relevant. Kevin and Tom give some tips about how to help them see school as relevant. 

This week Kevin and Tom discuss the impact CONFUSION has on students' willingness to learn and stay engaged. Tune in to hear them cover tips and strategies for helping students get past the roadblock of confusion.

This week Kevin, Tom, Willow, and Paul team up to share greetings and gratitude! There's also a brief history of how Top 20 began!

Today's episode brings Mike Haugh of Eastview High School to the Inside Ride. Mike teaches Math as well as an SEL/Leadership class, but he really teaches kids. Enjoy!

This week brought pure joy to Kevin and Tom's HUGE hearts as they were able to reconnect with Steve Ring, Director of Clinic Operations of the Hegg Health Center in Rock Valley, IA. Steve's personal journey of revision and growth is a message of hope for all. 

This week was fantastic because Kevin and Tom were able to catch up with long-time friend, Shari Murphy of Quantum Learning. Her love of life and education come out in this great conversation!quantumlearning.com@qleducation@ShariMurphy14

This week Kevin and Tom chat with long-time friend Eric Nelson of Fanschool. Eric was a classroom teacher that got curious enough to ask, "how can we get students to own their learning?" Listen and find out how!

This episode is sure to please ALL listeners! Michael Cole is a visionary, an inspiration for all walks of life, and a the ultimate reflector! As cofounder of Top 20 Training and President and cofounder of Salon Business Training, Michael has impacted countless lives across our wonderful globe.You can find him by searching the following on Facebook and Instagram:Michael Cole SummitMichael Cole Mindfullness

This week Kevin and Tom discuss the real pressures of education and some of the reasons for burnout. They also give some solutions and major gratitude to the world's educators!

This week Kevin and Tom chat with Ken Essay, principal of Harriet Bishop Elementary School in MN. Ken shares hope and purpose and we think everyone needs to hear his message! Please enjoy and pass it along!

This week's episode is a chance to talk with Jay Gross from Morley Stanwood, MI! He is an English, Speech, and Debate teacher. He also teaches as an adjunct professor for English and Speech at Mid Michigan Community College and online with the Blended Learning in the Classroom (BLiC). Twitter: @jgross811jaygrossproductions.org

Today Kevin and Tom talk to Dr. Bonita Jungels (Bonnie) of Notre Dame Academy in Minnetonka, Minnesota! She shares her SEL/Top 20 journey as a person and administrator. Her FULL implementation of SEL/Top 20 strategies, concepts, and curriculum at Notre Dame Academy is a great model to share with all of our friends in the education world.Check Notre Dame Academy out by visiting https://nda-mn.org/ or get in contact with principal Jungels at bjungels@nda-mn.org.

Julia Gray is back (previously guest on Episode 2)!!! Kevin and Tom check in with Julia as she navigates year one of college. She shares some bumps and some successes and she CONTINUES to persevere!!!

Kevin and Tom had a ball talking with long-time friends and partners in education, Tracy and Sarah of Saint Mary's University of Minnesota! This is part 1 of more to come from these two great educators! Program contact info.:  med@smumn.eduTracy is a former math teacher, and is currently Program Director and facilitator in Saint Mary's University's M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning program. She is the  mother of four daughters, a life-long learner, and is truly passionate about empowering teachers and students.Tracy Lysne, M.Ed. (She/her)Program Director, M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning ProgramGraduate School of EducationTLYSNE@smumn.eduSarah is a former Physical Education and Health Teacher and is currently Associate Director and Facilitator for Saint Mary's University's  M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning Program.  Sarah is passionate about cultivating educator's self-awareness while awakening, nurturing, and empowering them as human beings.Sarah O. Haugen, M.Ed. (she/her/herself)Associate Director M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning ProgramCourse Observation AdvisorGraduate School of EducationSHAUGEN@smumn.eduTwitter:  @haugenso8

This episode is well worth the listen! Dr. Farah Ortega-Choate is an educator from the Coachella Valley region of California. She is an English teacher, and activities director, a Josten's renaissance leader, and is involved with about a million other wonderful student-first activities! Her story is meant to be told and meant to be heard. Pass it along!

Today's episode is a conversation with Lee Carlson of the Windom School District in southwestern Minnesota. Lee has a true purpose and perspective that enables him to be a highly effective educator.

It's that time of year to take advantage of some moments for refueling and refreshing. Kevin and Tom discuss some easy-to-implement ways to get it done!

This week Kevin and Tom talk with long-time partner in education, Jerry Griffin from Malone Central Schools in NY! His experience and dedication to education is not only motivating, but a solid model for others in this great field! Enjoy!!!

Kevin and Tom discuss the ever-present increase in what students need vs. what they're actually getting with Dr. Kimberly Miller of Ohio! As superintendent of a career & technical school, Dr. Kim makes it priority #1 to remove as many obstacles as possible so students can move towards goal achievement. She's doing some amazing work; this is well worth a listen!Check out her blog HERE and follow her on twitter @KimMiller_LearnBIO:Dr. Kimberly Pietsch Miller has spent her career in public education. She has demonstrated her expertise in administration, teaching, and learning in diverse and high-performing school districts. She has recently been named the Superintendent/CEO of Eastland Fairfield Career and Technical Schools. Dr. Miller has also served as the Superintendent of Bexley Schools for three years where she led the development and implementation of a comprehensive strategic plan, aligned instruction around key goals, developed the Bexley Learner Profile, reorganized the organizational structure to be more flexible and responsive, implemented instructional coaches, passed a levy, developed a comprehensive tech plan, launched an expansive 1:1 device program, and opened the important conversations of mental health and racial inequities in our educational systems.Dr. Miller has also served as the Chief Academic Officer at Dublin City Schools and held leadership roles in Loveland City Schools, Indian Hill Exempted Village Schools, and Lakota Local Schools. Colleagues describe Miller as a visionary who is able to inspire people, assess situations and execute programs. She earned her bachelor's degree in English from The Ohio State University. She earned her master's degree in education from The University of Cincinnati and her superintendent's license from Xavier University. She completed her doctorate in Educational Leadership from Miami University.

Kelly Sherwin is more than a coach and more than an educator from Eastview High School in Minnesota. He makes a difference in students' and athletes' lives. Hear Kelly discuss coaching and its impact as well as hearing about how he had Top 20's Kevin Brennan in class back in high school. Kevin tells the story of how being in Mr. Sherwin's math class and the relationship they built became a true game changer for him. Everyone has those moments in their lives where they meet someone that makes a profound, positive impact on their lives. Sometimes we know it in the moment. And sometimes, we realize it after the fact. Mr. Sherwin was that special person for Kevin.

GREAT timing for Kevin and Tom to have a GREAT conversation with Dr. Jenny Severson. Topics: self-awareness & self-management, the beauty of how the BRAIN rewires & fires, and ways we can get ourselves on track. Bio: Dr. Jenny Severson believes people matter and relationships change the world.She loves learning and teaching; speaking to teacher/leader audiences across the globe.Her passion for evidenced based strategies that work in classrooms combined with a love of the brain makes her a rare talent. She's an educational consultant that loves to come alongside leaders, districts and teams to improve retaining top talent and make huge gains in student achievement.Jenny partners with The Applied EQ Group and Quantum Learning Education whose content has transformed millions of lives. She is the author of 2 books, lives in Minnesota with her husband Todd and three growing children.website: JennySeverson.comTwitter: @severson_jInstagram: @dr.jenny.seversonEmail:  jeniferjseverson@gmail.comtext her some positivity @ 608-347-7325

This week Kevin and Tom interview Dwight Carter! There's plenty to learn and a bunch to share in this podcast so prepare yourself for greatness! Dwight's bio and contact info. is below:Dwight Carter is a nationally recognized school leader from Central OH and has been an educator for 27 years. Because of his collaborative and innovative leadership, in 2010, he was inducted into the Jostens Renaissance Educator Hall of Fame. He was also named a 2013 National Association of Secondary School Principals Digital Principal of the Year, the 2014 Academy of Arts and Science Education High School Principal of the Year, the 2015 Ohio Alliance of Black School Educators Principal of the Year, and a 2021 Columbus Afrocentric Early College Sankofa Emerging Leader Award winner. He is currently the Director of Student Support Systems for the Eastland-Fairfield Career and Technical Schools He is the co-author of four books: What's In Your Space? Five Steps to Better School and Classroom Design (Corwin, 2015), Leading Schools in Disruptive Times: How to Survive Hyper-change (Corwin 2017), the second edition of Leading Schools in Disruptive Times (Corwin, 2021), and Because of a Teacher: Stories of the Past to Inspire the Future of Education curated by George Couros. Additionally, he has contributed to several educational books and articles.  Twitter: @Dwight_CarterLinkedIn: Dwight Carter

Kevin and Tom discuss the need for educators to set the stage for learning right away on Day 1,...and that doesn't mean taking out textbooks! Have a listen and share!

Tommy Murray is a Spanish teacher at Cretin-Derham Hall High School in St. Paul, MN. He is an expert in SEL, Multiple Intelligences, and simply doing what's right for students and student learning!

This week Kevin and Tom discuss the NEED for educators to rejuvenate themselves in the time they have away from schools and the wonderful chaos of education. 

For today's ride we have our Top 20 Training Co-Founder and Co-Owner, Willow Sweeney with us. Willow has been a coach and a teacher, and is an amazing all-around human. Today she'll touch on habits and those ever-circulating feelings of NGE (Not Good Enough).

Today we are joined by Paul Bernabei. Paul has been a coach, a teacher, a counselor, an administrator, and is now the Director of Top 20 Training. He's also a grandpa,…and his grandpa wisdom helps us focus on the power of the messages, both positive and negative, that are often sent to children by coaches, parents, teachers, and others.   

This week Tom and I hear Darrin Peppard's story. Darrin has been a coach, a teacher, a principal, a superintendent, and now a keynote speaker and consultant. Our interview covers his natural journey in education and his current focus on leadership. You can find him @darrinmpeppard on all social media platforms or check him out at www.darrinmpeppard.com or www.roadtoawesome.netThanks for coming along for the ride!

This week Kevin and Tom take a deep dive on the power of relationships for learning. When teachers put in authentic work to build rapport and form relationships with students,...learning follows. Listen for quick strategies for the classroom and beyond.