Episodes

What if the answer to burnout wasn’t escape, but empowerment? In this transformative episode, Dr. Casey Jakubowski—educator, consultant, and founder of OK to Outstanding—joins me to unpack the real challenges and untapped potential within the profession. Together, we explore what it truly means to lead in education, even without a formal title, and how teachers can overcome imposter syndrome to embrace their inner leadership. From innovative mentoring models to creative recruitment and retention...

What if the leadership phrases we rely on—like “clear is kind”—are actually holding us back? In this thought-provoking episode, Casey Watts, educational consultant and creator of the Clarity Cycle Framework, challenges conventional leadership wisdom and invites us to rethink how we lead, grow, and collaborate. We explore how faux collaboration is silently stalling school progress, how to recognize real growth beyond promotions, and the importance of embracing both vertical and lateral leadershi...

In this short solo episode of Aspire to Lead, I share a lesson from the art room that turned into a leadership metaphor I never forgot. Every year, students tried to "hack" an art project using the width of a ruler instead of following directions—and every time, it led to more work and frustration. As leaders, we do this too. Whether it’s a hasty email or skipping essential context, shortcuts often backfire. Tune in for this quick leadership reflection and stay to hear an exciting announcement a...

What if the key to classroom behavior isn’t discipline—but cognitive clarity? In this mind-shifting episode of Aspire to Lead, Mitch Weathers, author of Executive Functions for Every Classroom and creator of Organized Binder, joins us to unpack the real impact of cognitive overload and working memory on student behavior. We explore how executive functioning isn’t just a set of skills—it’s the backbone of a thriving learning environment. Mitch breaks down practical strategies that help educator...

What does it mean to lead like a BISON? In this energizing episode, Kim Gameroz joins me to talk about her new book Becoming the Bison, her powerful new podcast Unleashing the Bison, and the highly anticipated VIBE Edu event on August 1st—where I’m honored to be speaking! Together, we explore how school leaders can launch Social Emotional Learning the right way, avoiding the culture-killing mistakes that make it feel like “just one more thing” for teachers. Kim shares how her team partners with ...

In this milestone episode of Aspire to Lead, we’re celebrating eight years of the podcast alongside the incredible CJ Reynolds, educator, speaker, and creator of Real Rap with Reynolds. As both of our platforms mark eight impactful years of serving educators, we reflect on the journey, share lessons learned, and look ahead to what’s next—including CJ’s exciting new TV show, The Rules of Engagement. Together, we explore how educators can finish the year strong and prepare for the next one with cl...

In this end of the school year Aspire Mailbag episode, I’m joined by Jeff Gargas, COO of the Teach Better Team, as we answer listener-submitted questions on two key areas of school leadership—celebrating staff and building systems for future success. From end-of-year recognition ideas to practical strategies for hitting campus goals in the upcoming year, we explore what it takes to lead with consistency, intentionality, and heart. Tune in to discover the leadership mindsets and actionable habit...

What if the key to transforming your school culture is as simple as celebration and storytelling? In this energetic episode of Aspire to Lead , Josh Tovar, veteran principal and host of the Para #Ganas Podcast , joins me to share how his relentless positivity, powerful use of social media, and commitment to daily recognition have redefined leadership on his campus. We dive into practical ways administrators can build a culture of belonging, why telling your school’s story matters, and how l...

What happens when educators put classroom culture at the center of everything they do? In this engaging episode, I sit down with authors Katie Kinder and Darrin Peppard to explore their bold new book, Culture First Classroom . We unpack the mindset shifts teachers and leaders must make to prioritize culture over compliance, why laughter and relationships are essential to learning, and how the fusion of creativity and strategy can transform any classroom. Katie and Darrin share real-world exam...

In this forward-thinking episode of Aspire to Lead , Dr. Matthew Rhoads, author of Co-Teaching Evolved and Crush it from the Start , joins me to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping instructional coaching, co-teaching, and school leadership. Dr. Rhoads shares powerful insights on building equitable and inclusive classrooms while embracing tech-powered strategies that truly support educators and students alike. Together, we break down the essential components of successful co-t...

In this heart-centered episode of Aspire to Lead , I’m joined by globally recognized speaker, educator, and author Angela Maiers to explore the movement that changed everything—#YouMatter. Angela shares the powerful story behind the origin of this global initiative and how a simple affirmation can shift mindsets, unlock potential, and ignite lasting change in students, educators, and communities. We unpack how leaders can go beyond surface-level praise to cultivate environments where everyone...

In this week’s episode, Kyle Morin shares the journey that took him from substitute teaching in Colorado to leading a charter school through the pandemic and now shaping education policy with a practitioner’s lens. Kyle reflects on his teaching experience in Taiwan, how international education systems compare to the U.S., and the leadership challenges he faced during one of the most disruptive periods in modern education. We also explore why it’s essential for educators to have a voice in policy...

In this inspiring episode of Aspire to Lead, I’m joined by renowned inclusion expert Toby Karten to explore the heart of inclusive education through her ADMIRE Inclusion Framework. Together, we dismantle common misconceptions about inclusion, dive into strategies for supporting diverse learners, and reveal how strong family partnerships can transform the learning environment. Toby shares hands-on tools that empower educators to meet a wide range of student needs without losing momentum. If you'r...

What if the traditional education system isn’t broken—but outdated? In this compelling episode of Aspire to Lead, I’m joined by Richard DeLorenzo, founder of the Re-Inventing Schools Coalition, Roxy Mourant, CEO of CBE Ignited, and Jessica Enderson, COO of CBE Ignited, to explore the transformative power of Competency-Based Education (CBE). Together, we unpack the foundational principles from their book, Competency-Based Education Ignited, and examine how CBE differs from past reform efforts. We...

In this energizing episode of Aspire to Lead, Chad Dumas, award-winning researcher and author of The Teacher Team Leader Handbook, joins the conversation to break down what it truly means to lead within a professional learning community. Chad shares how teacher team leaders can move beyond the title and embrace a powerful, purpose-driven role that impacts culture, collaboration, and student achievement. Together, we explore the foundational responsibilities of teacher leadership, the essential m...

In this inspiring episode, Vicki Davis, veteran educator, edtech expert, and edublogger, joins me to explore the evolving world of educational technology and artificial intelligence in the classroom. Vicki shares how she teaches students to use AI art tools with prompt stacking techniques, discusses the importance of formative assessment, and explains how educators can reach every learner. We also dive into the mindset behind servant leadership, the value of collaboration in education, and why e...

Leadership isn’t about staying busy—it’s about making an impact. In this episode, Dr. Samuel Nix, author of 6 Steps to a Strong School Culture, shares how school leaders can shift their focus from activity to meaningful results. We dive into the leadership cycle, common pitfalls in creating change, and real-world examples of schools that have successfully implemented sustainable improvements. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, this conversation will provide actionable steps...

What if building a positive school culture didn’t have to be so traditional? In this week’s episode of Aspire to Lead, the amazing educator, speaker, consultant, and magician, Dr. David Rishe, shares his innovative strategies for transforming school environments in ways that inspire both staff and students. We explore the power of creative leadership through unique approaches like staff mud runs, flipped faculty meetings, and using magic to motivate and engage. David also unpacks how leaders can...

How can school leaders prepare for the challenges of tomorrow while making informed decisions today? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Dr. Richard Bernato, author of Co-Creating the Future, shares groundbreaking insights on futures-based leadership and how simulations can help leaders experiment with change in a low-risk environment. We explore the power of futuring in leadership, how simulation design can enhance professional and academic development, and what it means to lead from the top of...

What if the key to student success lies in the environment we create? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Dr. Layne Dillard shares how building a strong, student-centered learning environment is essential for growth. She introduces the LEAD Framework, a powerful approach that emphasizes leadership and vision, engaged instruction, and data-driven accountability—all with students at the core. Dr. Dillard also dives into innovative programs like Ready, Set, Work!, a simulated workforce experience de...

Society is evolving at an unprecedented pace, but are our schools keeping up? In this compelling conversation, Adriano Di Prato, co-author of Game Changers: Leading Today’s Learning for Tomorrow’s World, explores the balance between honoring our traditions and exploring innovation in education. We discuss how school leaders can adapt to a rapidly changing world, what it means to be a "game-changing" leader, and the role courage and purpose play in transforming schools for a future-ready model. I...

In this special bonus episode, Charle Peck and I join Jeff Gargas from the Teach Better Team to celebrate the release of our new book, The Language of Behavior! We dive into the framework, share key strategies for supporting students, and discuss how educators can shift their approach to behavior management in meaningful ways. Whether you've already started reading or are just hearing about the book, this episode is packed with insights to help you create a more supportive and responsive learnin...

Get ready for a conversation that flips the script on leadership, motivation, and what it truly means to connect with today’s students. Dr. Christopher Culver, an experienced educator, consultant, and professor, joins me to unpack the evolving dynamics of Gen Z and Gen Alpha, the power of kindness in shaping school culture, and why understanding motivation is key to retention and success. With his high-energy approach and passion for cultivating strong, positive environments, Dr. Culver shares i...

In this Aspire Mailbag episode, Jeff Gargas and I tackle two critical leadership questions submitted by our listeners: How do you know when it's time to coach someone out instead of coaching them up? How do we coach teachers so they don’t feel fear through the process of evaluation? We dive into the delicate balance of supporting struggling staff while recognizing when a different path may be best for both the educator and the school community. We also explore how to shift the evaluation proc...