Podcasts about Teacher leadership

Send us Fan MailThe countdown to the first day of school is on.If you're like most school leaders, your to-do list is growing by the hour. Schedules, staffing, professional development, open houses, and a flood of emails can make August feel like a race to simply get everything done.But what if the key to a successful school year isn't checking off more tasks?In this episode of The Empowered Educator Show, Dr. Mel challenges a common mindset that keeps many principals stuck in reactive leadership long after the first bell rings. Instead of focusing on everything that needs to be completed before students arrive, you'll discover a different way to prepare—one that can shape the entire school year.Through the lens of the Leader • Logistics • Learning framework, Dr. Mel shares practical insights, leadership stories, and research-backed principles that will help you think differently about the weeks leading up to the start of school.If you want to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose this year, this episode is for you.In This EpisodeWhy being busy isn't the same as being preparedThe hidden mistake many school leaders make every AugustThree simple shifts that can have a lasting impact on your school cultureResearch-based leadership insights that support sustainable successA biblical perspective on leading with wisdom and intentionalityA practical challenge you can implement before the first day of schoolResources MentionedHorng, E. L., Klasik, D., & Loeb, S. (2010). Principal Time-Use and School Effectiveness. American Journal of Education, 116(4), 491–523.The Wallace Foundation. (2021). How Principals Affect Students and Schools: A Systematic Synthesis of Two Decades of Research.Gallup. State of the Global Workplace (latest editions).ScriptureProverbs 24:3 – "By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established."Support the showMillion Podcasts ListDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Successemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailSupport the showMillion Podcasts ListDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Successemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailWhat if the biggest challenge facing schools isn't academics—it's the experience families have every day?In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Mel sits down with educational consultant, speaker, and author Nathaniel Provencio to explore why today's school leaders must begin thinking like service leaders. Nathaniel challenges traditional leadership thinking by showing how customer service, culture, and intentional experiences directly impact student success, staff retention, and family trust.Whether you're a new principal or a veteran leader, this conversation will stretch your thinking and give you practical ways to create a school people are excited to join—and reluctant to leave.In This Episode You'll Learn: Why school leadership is really about creating exceptional experiences—not just managing academics.  How your school's first impressions shape trust, culture, and family engagement.  Simple leadership shifts that improve student, staff, and parent satisfaction immediately.  Why every principal should evaluate their school through the eyes of the people they serve. Power Surge TakeawayAsk yourself one simple question: Would I enthusiastically choose this school for my own child? If the answer isn't an immediate "yes," identify one experience you can improve this week for students, staff, or families. 

Send us Fan MailSupport the showMillion Podcasts ListDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Successemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailPerfection isn't the goal—progress is.In this episode, Dr. Mel sits down with leadership coach Kevin Voisin to unpack why perfectionism keeps so many school leaders stuck. If you're a new principal or educational leader feeling the pressure to have all the answers, this conversation will help you shift your mindset from fear to growth.Together, they explore how embracing powerful imperfection leads to stronger leadership, greater confidence, and lasting impact. They also discuss personal responsibility, navigating rapid change, and why AI should be viewed as a tool—not a threat.In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why perfection is a direction—not a destination.  How embracing "powerful imperfection" helps you lead with confidence.  The mindset shift that moves you from reacting to intentionally creating your leadership journey.  How educational leaders can adapt and thrive in the age of AI. Remember: You don't have to be a perfect leader to make a powerful impact. "Perfection is a horizon—it gives you direction, but it's never the destination."  Support the showMillion Podcasts ListDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Successemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailSupport the showMillion Podcasts ListDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Successemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailWhat if working longer hours is actually making you a less effective leader?In this episode, Dr. Mel sits down with leadership coach and former British Army officer Jimmy Burroughes to discuss why so many school leaders burn out—and what to do instead.New principals often believe that success comes from simply working harder, staying later, and saying yes to everything. Jimmy challenges that mindset by sharing practical leadership strategies that help leaders maximize their impact without sacrificing their health, relationships, or effectiveness.If you're preparing for a new school year or you're already feeling overwhelmed by leadership demands, this conversation will help you rethink how you lead.In This Episode You'll Learn: Why working harder and longer eventually leads to diminishing returns  The "Leadership Backpack" analogy and why every leader must let go of old habits  How to recognize the early warning signs of burnout before it's too late  The hidden danger behind constantly saying, "I'll just..."  Why everything cannot be your highest priority  How the Effort-Impact Matrix can help you make better leadership decisions  The importance of delegating, developing others, and building leadership capacity Power Surge Statement"An open-door policy isn't always the best leadership strategy. Schedule uninterrupted thinking time each week so you can focus on the highest-impact work that only you can do."Connect with Jimmy Burroughes

Send us Fan MailSupport the showMillion Podcasts ListDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Successemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailSupport the showMillion Podcasts ListDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Successemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailWhat Strong Instructional Leaders Study in SummerSummer offers school leaders something that's often in short supply during the school year—time to think, reflect, and grow. But with so many books, podcasts, conferences, and professional learning opportunities available, how do you know what deserves your attention?In this episode, Dr. Mel Vandevort shares three areas that strong instructional leaders intentionally study during the summer to better support teachers and improve student learning. Rather than chasing the latest educational trend, you'll be challenged to focus on learning that creates lasting impact in your school.Whether you're a new principal, an experienced administrator, an instructional coach, or an aspiring school leader, this conversation will help you be more intentional about how you invest your professional growth before the school year begins.In this episode, you'll discover:Why instructional leaders should study student learning before studying programsThe connection between understanding high-quality instruction and coaching teachers effectivelyWhy learning how adults grow is just as important as understanding how students learnOne practical step you can take this summer to strengthen your instructional leadershipReflection Question:What are you intentionally studying this summer that will make you a stronger instructional leader this fall?References Robinson, V. M. J., Lloyd, C. A., & Rowe, K. J. (2008). The Impact of Leadership on Student Outcomes: An Analysis of the Differential Effects of Leadership Types.  Hattie, J. (2015). High-Impact Leadership.  Bendikson, L., Robinson, V., & Hattie, J. (2012). Principal Instructional Leadership and Secondary School Performance.  Çelik et al. (2022). The Association Between Principal Leadership and Student Achievement: A Multivariate Meta-Meta-Analysis. Support the showMillion Podcasts ListDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Successemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailSupport the showMillion Podcasts ListDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Successemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailDo you ever reach the end of the week feeling exhausted, yet unsure if you actually moved the most important work forward?In this episode, Dr. Mel explores one of the most overlooked leadership habits of effective school leaders: intentionally planning the week before it begins. This isn't another time-management conversation. It's a leadership conversation.You'll discover why some principals seem to make consistent progress despite the constant interruptions that come with the job, while others spend their days reacting to whatever comes next. Through reflection questions and practical insights, you'll be challenged to think differently about how your calendar, priorities, and leadership impact are connected.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why your calendar may be revealing more than you think• The connection between planning and leadership effectiveness• Why strong leaders create space before they need it• How intentional planning helps leaders focus on what matters most• A simple reflection exercise to help you prepare for the week aheadWhether you're a new principal, aspiring administrator, or experienced school leader looking to lead with greater purpose, this episode will help you evaluate how you're spending your most valuable resource—your time.

Send us Fan MailWhat if one of the biggest missing pieces in teacher retention is how we support mentor teachers?In this episode, Becca talks with John Pascarella, professor of clinical education at USC and Chief Academic Officer of the USC Race and Equity Center, about why mentor teachers are often asked to support new teachers without the training, role clarity, compensation, or coaching they actually need.They unpack why being a great teacher does not automatically make someone a great mentor, how mentoring adults requires a different skill set, and why schools need to stop treating mentorship like informal volunteer work.This conversation is for instructional coaches, school leaders, district leaders, and teacher leaders who want to strengthen new teacher support, improve teacher retention, and build more effective mentoring systems in schools.John's Info:Faculty profile  |  CCTE Policy Brief (free download, includes my brief on mentor teachers)  |  Learning Policy Institute (Stanford University)Buy "The Resistance Solution" here!Let's Stay Connected!Website  |  Instagram |  Twitter |  Linkedin |  Facebook |  Contact Us

Send us Fan MailBefore you can improve your leadership, you need an honest picture of where you are today.In this episode, Dr. Mel Vandevort guides school leaders through a practical self-assessment designed to uncover strengths, identify growth opportunities, and reveal the areas that may be creating unnecessary frustration or overwhelm.Through a series of reflective questions, you'll evaluate your leadership across three critical areas: leading people, managing the work, and supporting learning. You may discover that the challenge you're experiencing isn't where you thought it was.Grab a notebook and prepare to think deeply about your current leadership reality. The awareness you gain today could be the catalyst for meaningful growth tomorrow.In this episode, you'll:• Reflect on your current leadership effectiveness• Identify potential "warning lights" in your leadership practice• Evaluate key areas that impact your daily success• Determine where focused growth could create the greatest impactThis is the second and final free episode in The Principal Operating System™ series. Future episodes and implementation resources will be available exclusively inside the Empowered Educator Community.

Send us Fan MailSupport the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Coaching the Whole Educator, Becca Silver talks with Principal Kafele about what happens when high expectations meet resistance in schools and how leaders can respond without slipping into compliance-driven leadership.Together, they explore how school leaders can create a true culture of high expectations, not by demanding instant transformation, but by helping educators experience steady, measurable growth. Principal Kafele shares why leaders must connect expectations to a larger purpose, build authentic relationships with staff, and understand what is beneath the pushback before deciding how to respond.This conversation digs into the difference between teacher resistance, overwhelm, and low expectations, and why leaders cannot diagnose those differences without ongoing trust, coaching, and collaboration. Becca and Principal Kafele also discuss the role of leadership identity, including how the way leaders see themselves shapes how they respond to hesitation, pushback, and resistance.Listeners will walk away with practical insight into how to: Hold high expectations without leading through compliance  Recognize growth as progress, not perfection  Build a school culture where expectations become normal behavior  Respond to resistance with curiosity instead of judgment  Strengthen leadership identity during difficult conversations  Support educators through change while maintaining clear standards This episode is especially valuable for principals, assistant principals, instructional coaches, district leaders, and school leadership teams who are navigating resistance to change, supporting adult learning, and working to build cultures of growth, accountability, and meaningful progress.[BOOK] Grab There Resistance Solution: Why Educator Resist and What They Need Instead HERE! Let's Stay Connected!Website  |  Instagram |  Twitter |  Linkedin |  Facebook |  Contact Us

Send us Fan MailBuild People, Not Just ProgramsPrograms may create momentum, but people create lasting impact.In this episode of Power Surge, Dr. Mel reminds leaders that sustainable success isn't built through initiatives alone—it's built by investing in the people who carry the mission forward. Discover why coaching, encouragement, and intentional development matter more than any program you implement.Scripture Focus: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." — Galatians 6:9Power Surge Statement: I will invest in people with intention because when people grow, schools grow.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dr. Mel sits down with educator, speaker, and leadership coach Danny Steele for an honest conversation about school leadership, culture, and sustaining joy in education.Danny shares the difficult lesson that reshaped his entire leadership philosophy after losing out on his first principalship—and why new administrators must shift from being advocates for students to becoming champions for teachers and staff.Together, Mel and Danny unpack:The mindset shift from teacher to administratorWhy supporting teachers is a leader's most important responsibilityHow administrators can redefine their “lightbulb moments”Practical ways to build meaningful school cultureThe importance of making every adult and student feel seenLeadership systems that keep students from falling through the cracksThe “Lifelines” initiative and how schools can create intentional student support systemsWhy clear leadership non-negotiables matterDanny also shares powerful stories about:Birthday selfies with studentsBuilding relationships with paraprofessionals and support staffCreating a “Wall of Dreams” for studentsHelping educators reconnect with their “why”This episode is full of practical encouragement and tangible strategies for new and aspiring school leaders who want to lead with both purpose and people in mind.Connect with Danny Steele:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInNewsletter: Free weekly leadership inspiration delivered every Sunday morningIf this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another school leader who needs this reminder today.This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailIf you're counting the days until summer every single year, it may be time to rethink the way you're leading and living. In this Power Surge episode, Mel challenges educators and leaders to stop normalizing survival mode and start building rhythms, systems, and boundaries that create peace during the school year—not just escape during the summer.Rooted in Matthew 11:28–30, this episode is a reminder that Jesus never called you to carry every burden alone. Real rest is not found in a calendar break—it's found in walking closely with Him while leading with purpose and wisdom.Scripture Reference:Matthew 11:28–30“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the The Empowered Educator Podcast, Dr. Mel sits down with Chad Ostrowski from the Teach Better Team for a powerful conversation about instructional alignment, mastery learning, and the leadership systems schools need to truly improve student outcomes.Together, they unpack why lesson planning often becomes “activity-focused” instead of outcome-focused—and how that disconnect creates gaps in student learning. Chad shares practical insight into backward design, standards alignment, mastery learning, and the importance of establishing clear instructional non-negotiables as a school leader.Dr. Mel and Chad also discuss:Why ambiguity creates stress and inconsistency in schoolsHow leaders can identify the 3–5 instructional practices they want to see in every classroomThe role of data, anecdotal evidence, and classroom observations in instructional decision-makingWhy teacher autonomy and instructional clarity must coexistHow the GRID Method supports student-centered learning and masteryThe shift from teacher-centered instruction to facilitation and personalizationWhy systems—not programs—create sustainable instructional improvementThis episode is packed with practical leadership insight for principals, instructional coaches, curriculum leaders, and teachers who want to create aligned, student-centered learning environments that actually move achievement forward.Key TakeawaysClear instructional expectations reduce overwhelm and improve implementation.Backward design helps teachers align standards, instruction, and assessment.Student-centered learning still requires strong teacher facilitation.Effective school improvement starts with instructional clarity, not compliance.Sustainable change happens when leaders focus on practices instead of products.Connect with Chad OstrowskiTeach Better TeamTeach Better Team InstagramChad Ostrowski IGTeach Better Team IGThis episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

A Quick Note to Listeners: Before this week’s interview, Will Parker and Jen Schwanke take some time to answer a listener question. This week’s question is: I've been leading short-handed with an Assistant Principal on leave and without the kind of support I've wanted from my central office. Any advice for wrapping up a school year strong when I'm feeling tired and discouraged? Listen in to hear their response! Meet Chris Jochum: Dr. Chris Jochum is the founder and CEO of CJ Leadership Solutions. He is a nationally recognized speaker, trainer, and coach who believes leadership is about influence, not titles. Chris works with organizations across the U.S. and abroad to strengthen culture, climate, and leadership at every level. He also serves as Professor and Chair of Teacher Education at Fort Hays State University, leading a large teacher preparation program. Over nearly three decades in education, he has worked in K-12 and higher education, beginning his career teaching Spanish and English as a Second Language in public schools, and later holding faculty roles at the University of Central Missouri and the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Chris's research centers on leadership development and the value of study abroad. He hosts The Department Chair Leadership Podcast and is the author of The Department Chair: A Practical Guide to Effective Leadership, and You Don't Have to Leave to Lead: A Practical Guide to Teacher Leadership. The Foundation of Teacher Leadership: Dr. Jochum emphasizes that every school is a reservoir of untapped potential, akin to a diamond mine waiting to be discovered. He shares a compelling analogy about an African farmer who searched far and wide for diamonds, unaware that his own land was rich with them. Similarly, schools possess hidden leadership capabilities among their educators. By creating an environment that encourages teachers to step into leadership roles, schools can increase student achievement and improve faculty morale. Inviting Teachers into Leadership: Will Parker recounts a conversation with a principal who, despite his best intentions, had not actively invited teachers to participate in leadership discussions. This highlights a common issue where leaders may feel protective of their staff, inadvertently excluding them from decision-making processes. Dr. Jochum stresses that inviting teachers into these discussions can unlock their potential, allowing them to contribute to school improvement in meaningful ways. Practical Strategies for Identifying and Supporting Teacher Leaders: Dr. Jochum outlines several key strategies for identifying and nurturing teacher leaders: Model Leadership: Leaders should demonstrate the behaviors they wish to see in their teachers. By modeling effective leadership, principals can set a standard for their staff. Share the Vision: Clearly communicate the importance of empowering teachers and encourage them to take ownership of their roles in leadership. Provide Support: Acknowledge that not everyone will be on board with new initiatives, but encourage open dialogue and support among staff. Insights from Future Educators: Dr. Jochum also sheds light on the perspectives of current education students, emphasizing the importance of communication between teachers and their leaders. He advises principals to foster an environment where new teachers feel comfortable expressing their challenges and uncertainties. By reassuring them that making mistakes is part of the learning process, leaders can create a more supportive atmosphere. The Credo for Teacher Leaders: One of the highlights of the discussion is Dr. Yokum's “Credo for Teacher Leaders,” which outlines essential beliefs and commitments for effective leadership: It's not about me, but it starts with me. I must give up to go up. I'm in the people business, and people are messy. Other people's irresponsibility will oftentimes become my responsibility. I will never have a perfect group of people, and they will never have a perfect leader. I must be vulnerable. Conflict happens every day, and that's okay. Relationships and influence are not optional. These principles serve as guiding values for educators stepping into leadership roles, fostering a culture of collaboration and understanding. Staying Connected: If you would like to learn more about Chris Jochum and his work, you can visit his website https://cjleadership.com/. The post PMP501: Developing Teacher Leaders with Dr. Chris Jochum appeared first on Principal Matters.

Send us Fan MailIn this week's Power Surge, we're talking about the connection between feelings, thoughts, and actions—and why self-awareness is one of the most important disciplines for leaders. Learn how to recognize spiraling thoughts, take them captive, and lead from truth instead of emotion. Remember: your feelings become thoughts, your thoughts become actions or inactions. This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailWhat do you do when the pressure feels heavier than usual?In this Power Surge, inspired by hometown winner Hannah Harper and her journey on American Idol, we're talking about grace under pressure, leadership in hard seasons, and what it looks like to keep showing up when life feels overwhelming.This one is personal.This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailYou're carrying more than your bags into your building every day.Some of it is necessary.Some of it… isn't.In this Power Surge, we're taking a cue from Elsbeth and talking about what happens when leaders carry too much—and why it's costing you clarity, confidence, and presence.If you've ever replayed a conversation, questioned a decision, or felt the weight of everything at once…This one is for you.It's time to check your bags.This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailWhat does leadership look like when the future of work is changing faster than schools can adapt?In this episode, Dr. Mel sits down with Dr. Albert P. DuPont, Founder and CEO of TraxMethod Consulting Group, to discuss how principals and district leaders can prepare students for an AI-driven future while leading schools with clarity and purpose. With more than 35 years in public education and district leadership, Dr. DuPont helps schools redesign learning around durable skills, career pathways, and student agency while coaching leaders to navigate change with confidence.Together, they unpack leadership in the AI era, future-ready schools, innovation, student readiness, and the importance of building capacity over dependency, coherence over complexity, and purpose over position.If you're a new principal or aspiring school leader trying to lead through uncertainty while creating meaningful opportunities for students, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to think differently about leadership and the future of education.Dr. DuPont shares practical insights on: Preparing students with durable, future-ready skills  Why student agency matters more than ever  Using AI tools to support leadership and decision-making  Building coherence instead of overwhelming staff with complexity  Redesigning high schools around career pathways and real-world readiness  The mindset shifts new principals need to lead with confidence If you're a new principal, aspiring administrator, or district leader trying to balance innovation with everyday leadership demands, this episode will help you think bigger about what's possible for your school community.

Send us Fan MailThe end of the school year in middle and high schools is high-pressure and high-stakes. From final exams and graduation readiness to discipline and credit recovery, this episode breaks down how you stay focused, organized, and in control when everything feels urgent.

Send us Fan MailThe end of the school year can feel overwhelming for an new elementary principal—field trips, field day, awards, graduations, and everything in between. In this episode, you'll learn how to manage it all with clarity and confidence by leaning into three core systems: Leader, Logistics, and Learning. This is your roadmap to finishing the year strong without the chaos.Power Statement“I will lead the end of this year with clarity, not chaos—by building systems that support my people, protect our time, and finish strong.”You don't have to end the year perfectly—but you should end it intentionally. How you close this year will shape how you start the next.This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailState testing season doesn't have to feel chaotic or stressful.In this episode, you'll learn how to lead testing with clarity using three simple systems: Leader, Logistics, and Learning. You'll also shift your mindset around testing—because it's not about the test, it's about the data and how you use it to grow your school.

Send us Fan MailYou Asked for It… Here's the ProtocolLast week, we talked about how to lead testing season with intention—not stress.And a lot of you asked for the system behind it.So in this quick follow-up, I'm giving you exactly that.The Test Success Protocol is a simple, step-by-step tool to help you organize everything before, during, and after testing—so nothing gets missed and your team can execute with clarity.

Send us Fan MailSupport the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Dr. Chelsee Hudson Jacobs (Dr. CHJ) is the founder of Dr. CHJ Consulting, LLC. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Early Childhood/Childhood Education, Master of Science in Literacy, Advanced Certificate in Educational Leadership, and Doctorate in Educational and Policy Leadership at Hofstra University. She began her teaching career as an elementary teacher in Wyandanch School District and received the Outstanding Teacher Award presented by Suffolk County Legislature Presiding Officer DuWayne Gregory in her final year in the classroom (2018). Dr. CHJ transitioned into an assistant principal position in William Floyd School District where she worked hard to provide quality instructional feedback for teachers and build relationships with teachers, students, and caregivers. She currently serves as the Texas Clinical Practice Director at Relay Graduate School of Education where she coaches, teaches, and cultivates educators. Dr. CHJ is passionate about mentoring educators and facilitating teacher leadership workshops to support teachers across the country to fulfill her mission: My mission as an educator is to empower teachers to become leaders who realize their limitless potential, advocate for students, and foster a collaborative environment that encourages risk-taking and meaningful learning experiences. Website: https://www.drchjconsulting.com/ LinkedIn: Chelsee Hudson Jacobs, Ed.D.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsee-hudson-jacobs-ed-d-ba7a8472/ Facebook: Dr. CHJ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579453238596 Instagram: @askdr.chj https://www.instagram.com/askdr.chj?igsh=ZW1saWN5djY3Mmt5 ______________________________________________________________________ The Edupreneur: Your Blueprint To Jumpstart And Scale Your Education BusinessYou've spent years in the classroom, leading PD, designing curriculum, and transforming how students learn. Now, it's time to leverage that experience and build something for yourself. The Edupreneur isn't just another book; it's the playbook for educators who want to take their knowledge beyond the school walls and into a thriving business.I wrote this book because I've been where you are. I know what it's like to have the skills, the passion, and the drive but not know where to start. I break it all down: the mindset shifts, the business models, the pricing strategies, and the branding moves that will help you position yourself as a leader in this space.Inside, you'll learn how to:✅ Turn your expertise into income streams, without feeling like a sellout✅ Build a personal brand that commands respect (and top dollar)✅ Market your work in a way that feels natural and impactful✅ Navigate the business side of edupreneurship, from pricing to partnershipsWhether you want to consult, create courses, write books, or launch a podcast, this book will help you get there. Stop waiting for permission. Start building your own table.Grab your copy today and take control of your future.Buy it from EduMatch Publishing https://edumatch-publishing.myshopify.com/collections/new-releases/products/the-edupreneur-by-dr-will

Send us Fan MailBusy leadership can look productive, but it often keeps a school dependent on the leader rather than strong enough to run smoothly without them. Systems leadership shifts the focus from constant reaction to intentional design, building routines and structures that help the whole organization work better together.In this episode, you'll hear the difference between staying busy and leading with systems, why strong leaders move from heroic control to collaboration, and how shared routines and rituals can strengthen consistency and reduce dependency. You'll also be challenged to identify one area of your leadership that needs a better process so you can move from firefighting to forward movement.SourcesWorld Economic Forum, “Systems leadership can change the world - but what exactly is it?”PMC / qualitative systematic review, “Systems Leadership: a qualitative systematic review of advice for policymakers”Harvard Business School Executive Education, “Strengthen Teams with the Power of Rituals”Taking It Forward, “The Power of Workplace Rituals: Creating Structure and Success in Your Daily Routine”Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailYou don't need more time—you need to stop leading on empty.In this Power Surge episode, you're challenged to rethink what burnout really is. It's not just about workload… it's about disconnection from your source. When you're constantly pouring out without being filled, your leadership shifts from purpose to depletion.Grounded in Psalm 23:5, this episode reminds you that you were never called to barely get by—you were called to lead from overflow.If your patience is thinning, your clarity is fading, or your decisions feel heavier than usual, this episode will help you reset, refocus, and reconnect so you can lead with strength, presence, and purpose.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailLeader, this is where it all comes together.You've worked on how you lead yourself. You've started strengthening how your school operates.But now the question becomes:Is instruction actually improving?In this episode, you'll dive into the third system every school leader needs: Learning Systems—the structures that ensure teaching gets better and students achieve at higher levels.Because here's the reality: Instruction doesn't improve by chance. It improves through intentional systems.In this episode, you'll be coached through the key systems that drive instructional growth, including: Creating a clear instructional focus so your staff isn't pulled in too many directions  Using walkthroughs and coaching cycles to actually change classroom practice  Building data and PLC systems that turn conversations into action  Strengthening assessment and progress-monitoring to measure what's working  Developing intervention systems so all students receive the support they need  Aligning curriculum, instruction, and expectations across classrooms  Monitoring implementation so your initiatives don't lose momentum Because when Learning Systems are strong, you don't just manage a school…You lead one that grows.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailConfusion drains momentum in schools and organizations, but strong leadership replaces chaos with clarity. In this Power Surge, you'll be challenged to lead with clear priorities, expectations, and vision so your team can move forward with confidence. When you create clarity, you remove hesitation and empower people to do their best work. ⚡ Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary Power Surgeemail: melinda@empowereducator.com

Send us Fan MailLeader, if your day feels like constant problem-solving, interruptions, and answering the same questions over and over again… this episode is for you.Many school leaders assume chaos is just part of the job. But most of the time, it's not a people problem—it's a systems problem.In this episode, you'll explore the second system every school leader needs: Logistics Systems.Logistics Systems are the operational structures that help your school run smoothly day to day. When they're clear and consistent, teachers know what to do, students know what to expect, and leaders spend less time reacting to problems.Without them, even strong leaders can feel overwhelmed.In this episode, you'll hear coaching around several areas where strong logistics systems make a major difference in schools, including:Teaching and learning routines that keep instruction alignedStudent culture and behavior supports that create consistencySafety and crisis procedures that prepare staff for the unexpectedBuilding and technology operations that prevent daily disruptionsCommunication systems that keep staff informed and connectedYou'll also walk away with a simple leadership reflection to help you identify where your school might need stronger operational systems.Because when Logistics Systems are strong, leaders gain something incredibly valuable:time and clarity to focus on what matters most—student learning.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowereducator.co...

Send us Fan MailIn this Power Surge, Dr. Mel reminds leaders that true influence comes from purpose, not pressure. Discover how shifting from reaction to intention can restore calm, refocus your “why,” and reenergize your team. Includes a simple pause-and-reflect action step to help you lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowereducator.co...

Send us Fan MailStrong schools don't happen by accident—they are built on systems. In this episode, you're introduced to the first of three leadership systems that help principals move from survival mode to sustainable leadership: Leader Systems.Before you lead the school, you have to lead yourself. Leader Systems are the personal structures that help you grow professionally, manage your time effectively, and stay focused on what matters most. Without them, even talented leaders end up reacting to problems instead of leading with purpose.In this episode, you'll learn why personal professional learning is essential for school leaders and how building intentional leadership habits strengthens your capacity to lead others.Coming NextIn the next episode, we'll explore Logistics Systems—the operational structures that keep schools organized, consistent, and running smoothly.Resources and ReferencesResearch consistently shows that leadership quality is one of the most influential factors in school success.Wallace Foundation – How Principals Affect Students and Schools (Leithwood, Louis, et al.)Atomic Habits by James Clear – Building small systems and habits that create lasting improvementThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey – Time management and principle-centered leadershipSupport the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.Join here: Empowered Educator CommunityBook: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowereducator.co...

Send a textSchool leaders carry a lot. Meetings, emails, student issues, instructional leadership, planning, and the constant stream of unexpected interruptions can make every day feel overwhelming.But leadership isn't about doing everything. It's about focusing your time and energy on the work that actually moves your school forward.In this episode of The Empowered Educator Show, you'll explore practical systems for prioritizing tasks and managing your time more effectively as a leader—especially if your brain tends to move fast and juggle a lot of ideas at once.Mel shares the real systems she uses to stay focused, reduce overwhelm, and make sure the most important leadership work doesn't get buried under daily urgency.This episode is professional development on the go for school leaders who want practical tools they can start using immediately.In This Episode, You'll Learn• How the Eisenhower Matrix helps leaders sort tasks by urgency and importance • A simple decision filter: Delay, Delete, or Delegate • Why visual organization (like a color-coded calendar) can improve focus • How the Big, Middle, and Small Rocks system keeps daily priorities clear • A strategy for identifying Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 priorities across the school yearSupport the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more. I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources. I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant. Join here: Empowered Educator Community Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowere...

Send a textLeadership speaks long before you say a word.Every day in your school, you're painting a picture of what leadership looks like. Your staff may not remember every meeting or every message, but they will remember how you showed up when things were difficult.Scripture often teaches through imagery. In Psalm 1:3, we see the picture of a leader who is “like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither.” A leader who is steady, rooted, and fruitful.Your calm in chaos, your patience with struggling teachers, and your faith during hard seasons all paint a picture others begin to follow.Colossians 3:23 reminds you to work with all your heart, as working for the Lord.So here's the reflection for today:What picture is your leadership painting right now? Is it full of color—steady, hopeful, and rooted in purpose?Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more. I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources. I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant. Join here: Empowered Educator Community Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowere...

Send a textIn this episode of Empowered Educator, you'll rethink traditional “sit-and-get” PD and learn how to design professional learning that actually changes classroom practice. You'll walk away with a simple, 7-question leader checklist you can use before you approve or plan your next PD session, so you stop running events and start building a learning culture for your staff.For the full written article, including all seven questions and key ideas, grab the companion post here: Stop Wasting PD: Professional Learning That StickIn This Episode, You'll Learn How To:Focus PD on clear student outcomes and specific instructional moves.Treat teachers as adult learners with voice, choice, and real relevance.Make learning job-embedded through PLCs, coaching, and team time.Shift from “sit-and-get” to active, practice-based learning.Use microlearning and short “PD sprints” instead of marathons.Build in coaching and feedback so new strategies actually stick.Plan PD as a series over time, not a one-off event.One Simple Action StepBefore your next PD, run it through the 7-question PD Check from this episode (and the article linked above). If you can't answer at least five questions clearly and specifically, revise the plan before you put it on the calendar.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more. I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources. I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant. Join here: Empowered Educator Community Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowere...

Send a textIn this Power Surge episode, Dr. Mel Vandevort reminds  school leaders that rest isn't a luxury—it's a leadership strategy. She shares a personal story about taking time off during the school year to reconnect with family and the powerful lesson it revealed about balance, growth, and sustainability.Listen in to discover why stepping away is one of the most impactful forms of professional learning you can practice right now.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more. I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources. I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant. Join here: Empowered Educator Community Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowere...

Send a textAre You Coaching… or Just Commenting?You can observe lessons all day long. You can write detailed notes. You can even have thoughtful post-observation meetings.But if instruction isn't changing, something is missing.In this episode, we're talking about feedback conversations that actually produce growth. Not compliance. Not documentation. Not polite agreement. Real instructional movement.You'll learn:Why anchoring feedback in student learning (not teacher behavior) lowers defensiveness and increases impactHow to use John Hattie's three feedback questions — Where are they going? How are they going? Where to next? — to structure powerful conversationsWhy narrowing to one high-leverage action step increases implementationHow rehearsal during feedback meetings dramatically improves next-day executionThe difference between isolated feedback and true coaching cyclesThis episode challenges you to examine your leadership approach:Are teachers leaving your office inspired — or equipped?Because effective instructional leadership isn't about pointing out gaps. It's about building teacher capacity over time.If you're serious about moving from evaluator to coach, this conversation will help you sharpen your practice and strengthen your impact.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more. I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources. I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant. Join here: Empowered Educator Community Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowere...

Send a textEvery school leader has faced it — the one staff member who consistently complains, resists change, or quietly undermines culture.In this Power Surge episode, you'll learn how to handle negative staff behavior without losing your confidence, emotional stability, or leadership clarity.If you've ever felt drained by repeat complainers, passive resistance, or chronic negativity on your team, this episode gives you practical strategies to protect your energy while strengthening your school culture.Key Leadership Reminder:You are responsible for stewarding culture — not managing everyone's attitude.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more. I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources. I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant. Join here: Empowered Educator Community Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowere...

Send a textYour school can be busy and still not be growing.In this episode, we unpack the critical difference between activity and real student growth. Just because classrooms are full of movement, collaboration, and completed assignments doesn't automatically mean learning is happening.You'll reflect on:Why visible engagement isn't the same as masteryHow to shift your walkthrough lens from motion to measurable impactThe one leadership question that reveals whether growth is actually happeningIf you're leading a building and want to move from celebrating busyness to measuring transformation, this conversation will challenge and sharpen your thinking.Because your school doesn't need more activity — it needs more impact.Support the showDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more. I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources. I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant. Join here: Empowered Educator Community Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowere...

Send a textIn this Power Surge, Mel reminds school leaders that they are stewards—not owners—of the people, mission, and outcomes entrusted to them. Rooted in 1 Corinthians 4:2 and the Parable of the Talents, this episode reframes leadership as faithful responsibility with humility, not control. If you've been carrying the weight of results, this is your reminder to lead with excellence—and release what was never yours to own.Reflection: Am I leading as an owner—or as a steward?Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more. I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources. I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant. Join here: Empowered Educator Community Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowere...

Send a textI missed Friday's episode — and instead of ignoring it, I'm modeling what we expect from our staff: ownership and reflection.In this short Presidents' Day message, we're talking about what building leaders can learn from presidential leadership — not about politics, but about presence, resilience, and sustainability.You may not sit in the Oval Office, but you set the tone for your entire building.Today's reminder:Leadership is about steadiness, not perfection.Your nervous system sets the climate.Rest is not weakness — it's strategy.As the weather warms up and the sun starts shining, this is your cue to step outside, move your body, reset your energy, and protect your stamina for the long haul.You don't have to lead perfectly. You just have to keep showing up.Go lead well this week.Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more. I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources. I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant. Join here: Empowered Educator Community Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowere...

Send a textDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more. I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources. I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant. Join here: Empowered Educator Community Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowere...

Send us a textProfessional development doesn't have to feel draining or disconnected. In this episode, Dr. Mel breaks down the biggest disconnect between what teachers are tired of and what they actually want when it comes to PD. Using a simple side-by-side comparison, this conversation offers clarity for teachers, instructional coaches, and school leaders who want professional learning to feel purposeful, practical, and respectful of time.If you've ever left a PD session feeling more exhausted than inspired, this one will feel like a breath of fresh air.Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more. I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources. I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant. Join here: Empowered Educator Community Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance SuccessGrab a complimentary POWER SessionWith Rubi.ai, you'll experience cutting-edge technology, research-driven insights, and efficient content delivery.email: melinda@empowere...

You've made big moves in your math program—but something still feels stuck. Why?After a full year of supporting school and district teams, we're reflecting on the shifts that created real traction—and the patterns that quietly stalled progress. Whether you're leading math at the classroom, school, or system level, this conversation names the challenges we've seen most often and celebrates the bright spots where real change is taking hold. These lessons aren't just reflections—they're a blueprint for what's possible in 2026.Listeners will:Recognize key signs that a math practice or resource is being used—but not yet deeply implementedLearn how clarity of roles builds momentum across the systemIdentify ways to strengthen coherence and keep math improvement moving forwardPress play to carry your team's progress into the new year—with clarity, confidence, and purpose.Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Show Notes PageLove the show? Text us your big takeaway!Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don't want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.