Aspire: The Leadership Development Podcast

A fast-track colleague is elbowing their way up the professional ladder in your organization by faking reports. Your boss asks you to lie to a stakeholder. The team leader is a serial sexual harasser. What should you do? Nobody prepared you for this part of professional life. You face a gut-wrenching choice: "go along to get along" or risk negatively impacting your career by speaking up for what you know is right. In this week’s episode, Richard Shell shares his value model and how this structure has helped so many people find solutions to extremely difficult experiences.  In this episode, we also discuss: Leading From Any Position The Role of a Professor  And his books, The Conscience Code: Lead with Your Values. Advance Your Career  About G. Richard Shell:Richard Shell is Professor of Legal Studies, Business Ethics, and Management – and former Chair of its Legal Studies and Business Ethics Department -- at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Over his 30-year career, he

Aspire to Lead with Empathy, Creativity, and PassionWith the upcoming launch of my new book, Aspire to Lead, Sarah Johnson joins me to share about her author contribution on leadership identity. In this Episode, we discuss: Finding Your Identity in Your Leadership Role Rediscovering and Refining Who We Are as a Leader  Focusing on Our Strengths https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09D4NR5MV/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B09D4NR5MV&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=60ce6e83608b2d2bd59e959614ef7f38 About Sarah Johnson:Sarah Johnson is a former teacher and school principal, turned author, speaker, and podcaster. She is passionate about assisting others in seeking greater satisfaction in all areas of their full lives by helping them go beyond work-life balance as well as develop strong leadership foundations. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education, Master of Science in Educational Administration, and a Certificate for Women in Leadership

Lack of mentorship and coaching is a leading reason for leader attrition in education, but it doesn’t have to be this way. If it’s true that "Everyone wins when the leader gets better," then your community is counting on you to prioritize your own professional growth. In this week’s episode, Danny Bauer shares the Mastermind model and how this structure has created extensive growth in each participant.  In this episode, we also discuss: School District Lack of Development Fish Bowl Structure Community Building as a Support And his books, Mastermind: Unlocking Talent Within Every School Leader About Danny Bauer:Daniel Bauer is an unorthodox Ruckus Maker who has mentored thousands of school leaders through his Better Leaders Better Schools blog, books, podcasts, and powerful coaching experiences.  https://us.corwin.com/en-us/nam/mastermind/book275490#description (Mastermind: Unlocking Talent Within Every School Leader) is a book that reimagines what professional development for school administrators l

Aspire to Lead with Empathy, Creativity, and PassionWith an exciting announcement coming September 7th, Nathan Maynard joins me to share about his author contribution in my upcoming book, Aspire to Lead. In this Episode, we discuss: Empathy as a Leadership Strength Acknowledging and Owning Mistakes  The Restorative Discipline Group About Nathan Maynard:Nathan is a youth advocate, educational leader, and change maker. He is the co-author of Washington Post bestselling and award-winning Hacking School Discipline: 9 Ways to Create a Culture of Empathy and Responsibility Using Restorative Justice. Nathan also is the co-founder of BehaviorFlip, the first restorative behavior management software. Nathan studied Behavioral Neuroscience at Purdue University and has been facilitating restorative practices since 2008 in juvenile justice and educational settings.  He was awarded “Youth Worker of the Year” through dedicating his time with youth involved with the juvenile justice system in Indiana. He was instru

The world has and continues to change in ways that are difficult to predict. Regardless of the forces at hand, educators and leaders play a pivotal role in preparing students for success now and in the future. In this week’s episode, Eric Sheninger makes the compelling case that the best way to do this is to create a disruptive thinking culture in the classroom and beyond. In this episode, we also discuss: Characteristics of a Disruptive Leader Future Ready Skills for Students Classroom Practices that need to Change And his books, Disruptive Thinking in Our Classrooms About Eric Sheninger:Eric is an Associate Partner with the http://www.leadered.com/services/digital-leadership.php (International Center for Leadership in Education (ICLE)). Prior to this, he was the award-winning Principal at New Milford High School. Under his leadership, his school became a globally recognized model for innovative practices. Eric oversaw the successful implementation of several sustainable change initiatives that radically tra

Aspire to Lead with Empathy, Creativity, and PassionWith an exciting announcement coming September 7th, Latrese Younger joins me to share about her author contribution in my upcoming book, Aspire to Lead. In this Episode, we discuss: Finding your voice as a new leader Being authentic Understanding your values About Latrese Younger:Latrese D. Younger has over thirteen years of education experience across several different school districts. She began her journey as an English Language Arts teacher in Dinwiddie County, VA, which she credits with firming her foundation in education excellence. Throughout her career, she has taught ELA for grades 6-12. She possesses a Bachelor of Arts in English Education from Virginia State University and a Master of Educational Leadership with a concentration in Technology Education from Strayer University Henrico Campus. She is a writer, a web curator for thehttp://vate.org/about-us/officers-and-board/ ( Virginia Teachers of English (VATE)) social media sites, and founder of th

What leadership qualities are the most important qualities to possess? This week’s guest, Kelly Croy, shares his six primary elements of leadership to guide you to personal and professional leadership.  In this episode, we also discuss: Anxiety as a superpower Attitude is everything Creating vs Consuming The Wired Educator Podcast And his books, Unthink Before Bed and Along Came a Leader About Kelly Croy:Kelly Croy is the author of Along Came a Leader, and host of The Wired Educator Podcast. He is a teacher, artist, writer, and speaker. Unthink Before Bed is Kelly’s second book. He wrote and illustrated it to help people deal with their anxiety.  Kelly taught seventh grade English for 26 years at Oak Harbor Middle School and has served the last four years as the Director of Innovation and Instruction for Port Clinton City Schools. Kelly travels the world as a speaker, educational consultant, and leadership coach.  Kelly is married to his best friend, Lorrain. They are the proud parents of four

What is the best way to prepare our students for future ready careers and enhance their essential skills? This week’s guests, Zach Rondot and Grayson McKinney, share the importance of providing students with real world problems, providing outside experts, and letting them explore unique and creative solutions.  In this episode, we also discuss: Misconceptions of Project Based Learning Gathering experts outside of the school Assessing projects and providing feedback And their new book, The Expert Effect About Zach Rondot and Grayson McKinney:Zach Rondot is a passionate fourth-grade teacher in Troy, Michigan. His mission is to teach students the 21st-century skills, mindsets, and attributes that will help them succeed long after they leave his classroom. In 2019, Zach was named the Troy School District Elementary Teacher of the Year and the Oakland County Elementary Teacher of the Year. Zach is an instructor in the Master's program of Learning, Design, and Technology at Central Michigan University. He util

In this 22nd Aspire Mailbag episode, Jeff Gargas and I answer questions on different leadership topics provided by the listeners. Please join us for this episode as we answer questions on how to support new teachers at the beginning of the school year, measuring your influence, the knowledge needed to be a leader, and the latest news with the Teach Better Team!

Why is it important for schools to develop many leaders? This week’s guest, Chris Legleiter, shares how he continues to build leadership capacity in his staff and build up their strengths.   In this episode, we also discuss: The main focus of the upcoming school year Prioritizing areas we can control Increasing Student leadership Mentorship Practices About Chris Legleiter:Chris currently serves as a Middle School Principal at Leawood Middle School of the Blue Valley School District. The district is a suburban district in the Kansas City area. He has been in education for 25 years and started as a high school science teacher for 11 years. This experience was in 3 different school districts, both suburban and rural areas, and also Chris was a coach and sponsor of many student activities. For the past 14 years Chris’ role has been as an administrator. This administrative experience includes time as an assistant principal at both the middle school and high school levels prior to his current ro

What does it mean to be equitable or inclusive in your school? This week’s guest, Traci Browder, shares powerful stories, actionable steps, and practices to ensure students have the same resources to be successful.   In this episode, we also discuss: Why “just a teacher” is a lie Influence outside of the classroom INTELLIGOGY the Podcast And Traci’s new book from DBC inc.! About Traci Browder:Traci Browder is a trailblazer in education inspiring & mentoring teachers & changing the lives of children for more than 17 years. Traci is known best for her innovative, out of the box teaching style with a mixture of Montessori, gifted/talented, & special services all rolled into one classroom environment. Her classroom is a live learning lab in which teachers and administrators both in and out of her district routinely visit.  Traci is a champion for equity and is working on her first book with DBC on the same topic. She partners with the authors of Lead Like a Pirate, Beth Houf & Shell

In your lesson plans, outside of the content in the curriculum, what skills do you teach your students? This week’s guest, Dennis Mathew, shares how he goes beyond the curriculum to share essential life skills, such as conflict resolution simulations and social skills practice activities.  In this episode, we also discuss: Leading with the “1” Social emotional learning tactics Equity in public schools And his new book, “How Grizzly Found Gratitude”! About Dennis Mathew:Dennis is an elementary school speech pathologist going into my 15th year working in the public schools. Since 2019 I have also been a children's author and songwriter. I have three books and one music album published. My content is all integrated with SEL, the 7 mindsets, the growth mindset, trauma informed care, language enrichment, social skills topics etc. To date I have sold around 15K copies of my books (90% of which has been distributed to public schools nationwide), presented to around 120 schools and reached 70K+ students with my

I had the amazing opportunity to moderate a segment for the Teach Better Team on mental health and trauma informed practices. In this bonus episode, Maurice Martin and I discuss important strategies to use to enhance our emotional well-being, practice mindfulness, and overcome failure.  About Maurice Martin:Maurice F Martin is a sought after speaker, counselor, certified life coach, and co-host of the TV show “Getting The Word Out”. He also works with schools and businesses to take their culture and relationships to the next level. Maurice’s true passion is shown in the combining of inspirational speaking and his EMBRACE Method, helping others to harness the power of today, love the moment they are in, and realize their purpose in order to live their best life. In 2020, Maurice’s powerful video “Color Blind” was featured in the Youtube Original “Bear Witness, Take Action”, which has been viewed by over 4 million people. In addition to speaking, Maurice is an award-winning vocalist and songwriter who

If you have thought about becoming a campus or district leader, what are the next steps in the process to get to the next leadership level? This week’s guest, Robert Breyer, shares steps to gain additional and necessary experiences, finding the right coach, and excelling in the interview process.  In this episode, we also discuss: Preparing and guiding aspiring leaders to successfully attain leadership positions. The importance of leadership coaching. Impactful leadership experiences for aspiring leaders outside the classroom. And Rob’s new book, “Taking The Leap: A field guide for aspiring school leaders”! About Robert Breyer:Robert is married to Jennifer and together they have 4 children. He is the author of Taking The Leap: A Field Guide for Aspiring School Leaders, and also makes time to coach aspiring leaders who are looking to make the transition from teacher to administration. He is also the host of The Guiding Principals Podcast, where he allows visionary school leaders to share the story of

In this bonus episode, Michelle Papa shares her five top leadership books and the reasons she loves these amazing resources. In addition, we discuss her new promotion and the transition to the new school year.  About Michelle Papa:Michelle Papa is an Assistant Principal at Jefferson Township High School in Oak Ridge, New Jersey. She is passionate about the amplification of student’s voices, healthy school culture, trauma-informed education, and equity for all students. She has presented workshops on the topics of using digital tools for formative assessment, community building in the virtual classroom, text-dependent questioning, state testing rubrics, and the ALICE response to active shooter events. She is also a mom of two and wife to Danny Papa, a K-12 Supervisor of Social Studies, Fine Art, and Technology Education in the same school district. Follow Michelle Papa: Twitter: http://twitter.com/MPapaEdu (@MPapaEdu) Blog: https://edlifeweb.wordpress.com/ (https://edlifeweb.wordpress.com/) Link

With the stress of your leadership role, how do you take care of your mental health? This week’s guest, Lindsay Titus, shares important steps to take to improve your mental well-being, decrease anxiety and combat stress.     In this episode, we also discuss: Administrative Certification Program  Behavior Management Strategies for Students Gratitude Reflections And Lindsay’s 30 day journal, “Define YOUniversity”! About Lindsay Titus:Lindsay Titus is a passionate and energetic educator! She uses her expertise as a board certified behavior analyst and a former classroom teacher, to ignite the passion of any educator. She is eager to transform the mindset educators hold about behavior, and use this dynamic shift to increase connections with all students! Lindsay is a speaker, coach, podcaster, author, and founder of DEFINE YOUniversity where she offers weekly podcast episodes, courses, coaching, and events for educators to help guide them through the journey of finding relief from the ove

What role and impact does your school culture have within your building? This week’s guest, Darrin Peppard, shares how the culture created by the leaders in the building impacts every aspect of the school, which could lead down the road to awesome!    In this episode, we discuss: The importance of knowing the logistical management and the instructional development   Surprises as a Superintendent  How to improve your leadership skills through coaching And Darrin’s new book, Road to Awesome! About Darrin Peppard:Darrin Peppard is a keynote speaker, author, publisher and consultant focused on what matters most in leadership. Darrin is an expert in school culture and climate as well as coaching and growing emerging leaders. He is known for his keen insight, culture-first leadership style, and dynamic personality. In 2016, Darrin was named Wyoming Secondary School Principal of the Year by WASSP/NASSP and was the 2015 Jostens Renaissance Educator of the Year. In 2017, Darrin earned his

In this bonus episode, Dr. Jill Siler shares her five top leadership books and the reasons she loves these amazing resources. In addition, we discuss the latest book award she received and her new position.  About Dr. Jill Siler:Dr. Jill Siler has been serving as the Superintendent of Gunter ISD, a growing school district an hour north of Dallas, since 2012. Jill grew up in Rochester & Buffalo, NY and completed her undergraduate work at the University of Pittsburgh where she was a collegiate swimmer. She moved to Austin in 1996 and began serving as a high school World Geography teacher and swim coach at John B. Connally High School in Pflugerville ISD. Jill earned her Masters from Texas State University and began her administrative career in Marble Falls ISD where she served as the Assistant Principal for Instruction. In 2004, Jill went to Lake Travis ISD where she served as a campus and district leader for 8 years. During that time, she completed her doctorate at the University of Texas. In her firs

How would you describe a productive and effective Professional Learning Community (PLC)? In my experience in multiple schools and districts, this model has looked drastically different in each setting. This week’s guest, Chad Dumas, shares a practical guide for leaders on how to collaborate and get sustained results for students.   In this episode, we discuss: The Steps Needed to Get the Correct Leadership Experience for Aspiring Leaders Tips to Create Effective Meetings How to Increase Your Professional Development And Chad’s new book, Let’s Put the C in PLC About Chad Dumas:Chad Dumas is a Solution Tree associate and international educational consultant, presenter, and award-winning researcher whose primary focus is collaborating to develop capacity for continuous improvement. With over two decades of successful leadership experience, Chad has led significant improvements for both students and staff. He shares his research and knowledge in his new books, Let’s Put the C in PLC and An Action Guide

What if, in the world of education, grades did not exist? This week’s guest, Starr Sackstein, shares how she removed grades from her classroom, focused on critical feedback to her students, and incorporated social emotional and equity components to the assessment process.  In this episode, we discuss: Systems of evidence mastery Changing the way we assess The stigma that is attached to grades And Starr’s new book, Assessing with Respect: Everyday Practices That Meet Students' Social and Emotional Needs About Starr Sackstein:Starr Sackstein is a recovering perfectionist who is an assessment reforming enthusiast. Currently, she works with teacher teams to engage students in the learning process, advocate for personal growth, and effectively use student data to drive instruction with the Core Collaborative. She also works as publisher for Mimi & Todd Press. In her past lives, she was a high school English and journalism teacher, a lead Humanities learner, and social media manager. Additionally, Sta