Aspire: The Leadership Development Podcast

In a previous Aspire episode, I had a wonderful conversation with https://joshstamper.com/aspire-episodes/leading-equity-and-change-featuring-dr-sheldon-l-eakins/ (Dr. Sheldon Eakins) as we discussed the issues of racial justice, equity and implicit bias. After that conversation, I was convicted to assess not only my own practices, but the practices of my school to determine the biases that exist. I didn’t want to stop the conversation there. This week, I have an amazing leader, Andre Daughty, as we focus on the questions, what is the starting point for a school or a district to create equitable practices?  Andre shares a variety of stories on how to:  Use Student Interest to Guide Engagement Identify Multiple Intelligences Diversifying Literature Options for students And Andre’s YouTube Channel About Andre Daughty:Andre Daughty's educational journey truly began after hearing Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu state, "If you observe children, they will teach you how to teach them." That phrase shifted An

As the year has progressed, the educational landscape has changed dramatically during the school year. Districts throughout the country have multiple learning environments from distance learning, face to face or a hybrid system. Regardless of how students are learning, educators everywhere are asking, “What technology tools are going to provide the most engagement, accurate assessments and organization of the curriculum. This week's guest, Jake Miller, shares how his journey from Technology Coach to Science Teacher has influenced his choice of technology tools and has changed his perspective on how to lead during this time of change.    In this Episode, we discuss: Changing the Collaboration model Engagement Strategies for Online Learning Effective Technology Tools And “Educational Duct Tape Podcast” About Jake Miller:Jake is an edtech and learning enthusiast who hosts the Educational Duct Tape podcast and has created more than 100 #EduGIFs. He works as a science teacher for a public middle sch

We are starting the season of teacher evaluations and there are many questions from the teacher and administrator perspectives. In this episode we are going to be answering many questions on this topic, such as: Have you ever had a terrible evaluation and wished you could have a redo?  Or began your first administrative job to find you are extremely nervous to evaluate a teacher?  What do you do if you observe a teacher that needs to grow in multiple areas? Evaluations for educators can be a tough part of the job and this week's guest, Michael Earnshaw and Joshua Buckley, discuss the important areas of performing an evaluation from both the administrator and teacher perspective.   In this Episode, we discuss: How much time is needed to observe The Important aspects of providing feedback Encouraging risk taking in the classroom And what it means to have a “Punk Rock Classroom”  About Michael Earnshaw:Michael Earnshaw, The Punk Rock Principal, is helping to change the game of educa

In this 16th 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 and discuss preparing staff for changes, practices we would keep after virtual learning, goals for starting a new school and some exciting announcements!   Featuring Jeff Gargas and Joshua Stamper  NEW Aspire Swag with Discount Code: ASPIRE  https://teachbetterswag.com/collections/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast https://joshstamper.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Not-Just-A-Teacher-Ad2.jpg () Follow Jeff Gargas:Twitter:https://twitter.com/jeffgargas ( https://twitter.com/jeffgargas) Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/_jeffgargas/ ( https://www.instagram.com/_jeffgargas/) Follow Joshua Stamper:Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/ ( https://joshstamper.com/contact/) Twitter:http://www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper ( www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper) Instagram:http://www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper

Have you ever interviewed for a job only to find you were not selected for the position? This experience can be extremely painful and defeating. This week’s guest, Tim Cavey, shares how he overcame the disappointment, changed his mindset, and advanced to the next level.   In this Episode, we discuss: The Key Aspects of Administration Unexpected Challenges of Teaching and Leading Tips to Balance Work and Family And the “Teachers on Fire” Podcast About Tim Cavey:Tim Cavey is a husband, stepfather of two, 8th grade teacher, and assistant principal in Vancouver, Canada. In 2019, he completed a Master's in Educational Leadership degree that reignited his fire for teaching and put him on a new path of growth, professional reflection, and content creation. Tim is a firm believer in the growth mindset and advocates often for the kinds of informal professional learning that can be found on social media and in blogs, vlogs, or podcasts. When he's not creating content or spending time with his family, you'll f

I want to kick this episode off with a statement and I want to see if you agree. As a leader, you can grow and learn from creating content. Now, initially, you may think that to create content we have to have all the answers. In this episode I have two amazing teachers, Chey Cheney and Pav Wander, who share how through the content creation process, they became better leaders, inspired educators and connected to a greater community.   In this Episode, we discuss: The Benefit of Genius Hour Personal Professional Development Sharing Your Voice with Other Connected Educators  And their passion projects, “The Staff Room Podcast” and “The Drive” About Chey Cheney:Chey Cheney is a middle school teacher with 20 years of teaching experience, originally from Ottawa, Ontario. He currently teaches English and Physical Education in the north Toronto area, and does lots of coaching and leadership work with students in the school. Along with his former teaching partner Pav Wander, Chey co-hosts a podcast

It’s the chicken before the egg dilemma of career advancement. How does a person gain experience while not in the role they seek when aspiring up the proverbial career ladder? In today’s episode featuring Adam Cottos, we tackle the issue many aspiring leaders face.  In this Episode, we discuss: The challenges Adam has faced in gaining experience for administrative positions Strategies has used to communicate his experience to prospective employers Suggested ways to navigate hearing no, gaining authentic feedback, and seeking out mentors with similar experience About Adam Cottos:Adam W. Cottos is an educator in the greater Cleveland area. He is married and enjoys spending time with his wife, family, and golfing. He is currently a 4th and 5th grade teacher at Communion of Saints School in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. He has worked at the high school and elementary grade levels for over the past 10 years. He has worked with a diverse group of students which has allowed him to develop a greater passion for educa

Today, I wanted to bring on someone to help us reflect and refocus on what is important in our profession. As we are being challenged each day, it is so vital that we discover our “why”. Why do we work with students and Why do we lead in education? This week’s guest, Barbara Bray, shares how we can use our creativity, passion, and talents to revolutionize our profession.  In this Episode, we discuss: Growing as a Leader through Stories Redefining Virtual Learning Coaching through Observation and Listening And “Define Your Why” About Barbara Bray:Barbara Bray is a creative learning strategist on a mission to transform teaching to make learning more authentic and meaningful. On her website http://barbarabray.net/ (Rethinking Learning), she shares stories, events, and journeys of inspirational educators and difference makers, along with hosting the https://barbarabray.net/podcasts/ (Rethinking Learning podcas)t. She also co-hosts the #rethink_learning Twitter chat every other Monday at 4p PT. Barbara is the

Have you ever learned what not to do as a leader by experiencing a toxic working environment or encountering constant negative communication? This week’s guest, LaVonne Roth, shares how her negative experience in the business world transformed her as a leader, educator, and coach to enhance the skills of others by creating a wonderful program called SHINE.   In this Episode, we discuss: Coaching with Confidence Multiple forms of Intelligence Mental Health During a Difficult Time And Prime to SHINE About LaVonna Roth:LaVonna Roth was an elementary and secondary teacher, before setting out on her mission to help teachers understand the brain and how it learns to increase student achievement. Although educators teach the brain every day, many have never taken a teacher prep course on understanding the brain. What a disconnect! LaVonna strives to help teachers understand the latest brain research and its implications in the classroom through interactive presentations and workshops. If you are looking fo

In a recent study, 3000 employers were asked, what is the #1 skill they were seeking in their future employees? I know for myself, my mind went straight to hard work, content knowledge, and honesty, which are all important characteristics and skills. However, as Trevor Muir shares, the number one desired skill is collaboration. How are we as educators creating dynamic and effective opportunities for our students to work together? In this Episode, we discuss: Making Learning Authentic Soft Skills are Essential Skills Connecting Lessons to Real World Issues And the Collaborative Classroom About Trevor Muir:Trevor is a teacher, author, and international speaker. He is the author of the books The Epic Classroom and The Collaborative Classroom. Trevor is a professor at Grand Valley State University, a former faculty member for the Buck Institute for Education, and is one of the Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation speakers. His work has been featured in the Huffington Post, The Atlantic, Edutopia, EdWeek, and WeAreTeache

Have you ever started a difficult leadership task and felt alone, inadequate or unworthy? This week’s guests, Jeff Zoul and Jimmy Casas, share how through their connection with other educators and leaders, they were able to gain inspiration, knowledge, and confidence to overcome the most difficult tasks of their careers.   In this Episode, we discuss: The Process to Connect with Other Leaders Regaining your Confidence Best Advice for Leaders And ConnectEDD Books About Jeff Zoul:Dr. Jeffrey Zoul is a lifelong teacher, learner, and leader. During Jeff’s distinguished career in education he has served in a variety of roles, most recently as Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning with Deerfield Public Schools District 109 in Deerfield, Illinois, one of the highest-performing school districts in the state. Jeff also served as a teacher and coach in the State of Georgia for many years before moving into school administration. Jeff has been recognized as an outstanding principal in the State of

As a leader, have you ever found yourself feeling attacked when a colleague is providing critical feedback? This month’s aspiring leader, Alana Gilliam, shares how she struggles to feel comfortable and confident in crucial conversations.  In this Episode, we discuss: A challenge Alana shares in her leadership experience Importance of emotional intelligence for leaders and complexity in giving and receiving feedback Resources for engaging in important and effective conversations About Alana Gilliam:She is a 6th grade math teacher and team leader in Bentonville Arkansas. She just started her 11th year teaching, and is currently working on her specialist degree in educational leadership. Alana has a passion for supporting both students and teachers in meeting the diverse needs of students. Follow Alana Gilliam: Twitter: https://twitter.com/MrsAGilliam (https://twitter.com/MrsAGilliam) Blog: https://t.co/hoFN0ucjSV?amp=1 (inspiringinjuniorhigh.blogspot.com) Instagram: @InspiringintheMiddle Resources fro

In this 15th Aspire Mailbag episode, Jeff Gargas, Lindsay Titus, and I answer questions on different leadership topics provided by the listeners. Please join us for this episode as we answer questions and discuss how to build relationships with our staff during virtual learning, create a culture of change, learn about the Teach Better Podcast Network and the newest podcast addition!   Featuring Jeff Gargas and Joshua Stamper  50% Off Mindset Meet Up with Discount Code: ASPIRE  https://progressivemasterylearning.lpages.co/mindset-meet-up/ (https://progressivemasterylearning.lpages.co/mindset-meet-up/) Special Guest, Lindsay Titus:Define YOUniversity Podcast: https://www.defineyouniversity.com/podcast-page (https://www.defineyouniversity.com/podcast-page) Twitter: https://twitter.com/ltitus828 (https://twitter.com/ltitus828) Website: https://www.defineyouniversity.com/ (https://www.defineyouniversity.com/) Follow Jeff Gargas:Twitter:https://twitter.com/jeffgargas ( https://twitter.com/jeffga

Have you ever been in a situation where you needed guidance in your leadership journey? In this episode of Aspire to RISE, Sarah Johnson and Joshua Stamper share their vision of the show and how coaching helped them face their leadership challenges. In this Episode, we discuss: Our Leadership Backgrounds The Podcasts Origin Stories Coaching and Mentorship And Future Episodes We are glad you joined us on Aspire to Rise where we will ascend to new leadership heights together. Join us again next month where we will share our conversation with a wonderful aspiring leader. Until then, keep reaching friends!    Follow the Hosts, Sarah Johnson: Website: http://www.sarahsajohnson.com/ (www.sarahsajohnson.com) Twitter: https://twitter.com/SarahSajohnson (https://twitter.com/SarahSajohnson) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahsajohnson/ (https://www.instagram.com/sarahsajohnson/) Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsajohnson/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsajohns

Have you ever acted differently in a new leadership position because you thought you had to present a certain persona? This week’s guests, Latrese Younger, shares how she realized authenticity with her staff was the key to building connections and enhancing collaboration in her building. In this Episode, we discuss: Equity Practices in Schools Enhancing Student’s Writing Skills New Leadership Mistakes And Helping Aspiring Black Women Educational Leaders 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 wri

What is the driving force to improve the culture of your building and move your school toward success? This week’s guests, Emily Paschall, shares how she makes connections to help every student, parent, and colleague achieve excellence! In this Episode, we discuss: How to Build Partnerships with Families Feedback to Teachers Making an Impact as a New Leader And Multiply Excellence in Your Schools About Emily Paschall:Emily Paschall has served as a teacher, district coach, school administrator, professional learning trainer, and motivational speaker. Her passions lie in teaching, learning, and serving others. She leads a nation wide group of administrators through supportive social media sites with shared ideas, information, and motivation. She is best known for founding the ElemAPNetwork where she offers various opportunities for administrators to experience a live exchange of best practices and fresh ideas. Her work is recognized around the world from educators who desire to learn how to create a climat

In this 14th 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 and discuss how to be transparent as a leader, reigniting burn out, promoting new leaders and Teach Better announcements!   Featuring Jeff Gargas and Joshua Stamper50% Off Mindset Meet Up with Discount Code (ASPIRE): https://progressivemasterylearning.lpages.co/mindset-meet-up/ (https://progressivemasterylearning.lpages.co/mindset-meet-up/) Follow Jeff Gargas:Twitter:https://twitter.com/jeffgargas ( https://twitter.com/jeffgargas) Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/_jeffgargas/ ( https://www.instagram.com/_jeffgargas/) Follow Joshua Stamper:Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/ ( https://joshstamper.com/contact/) Twitter:http://www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper ( www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper) Instagram:http://www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper ( www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper) Linkedin:http://www.linkedin.

Every day, educators across the country give students their very best. Often, many teachers feel overwhelmed, stressed out, underpaid, and unheard. This week’s guests, Adam Welcome and Rae Hughart, share how teachers and educators deserve more respect, time, connection and autonomy. This is a time to celebrate teachers and all the wonderful things they do for our students.  https://twitter.com/share?text=+-+&via=Joshua__Stamper&related=Joshua__Stamper&url=https://joshstamper.com/?p=2372 (Tweet This)In this Episode, we discuss: How Important Teachers are  The Future of Education Modeling as a Leader And Teachers Deserve It About Adam Welcome:Adam has been an elementary school teacher, Elementary Principal, Director of Innovation for a district with 35,000 students and enjoys pushing the envelope to always do what's best for kids! Adam was Principal of the Year for his region, a 20 To Watch for the National School Board Association, guest blogger for EdWeek, NAESP magazine, and many other

On this podcast, we have talked about mentorship before and the importance of seeking coaching. However, sometimes there are people in our lives that are extremely persistent even when we aren’t looking for it. So, have you ever had someone who saw something in you that you didn’t even see yourself? This week’s guest, Greg Moffitt, shares how he was tapped on the shoulder multiple times to become an administrator, the reasons he fought the idea, and the importance of breaking through doubt.  https://twitter.com/share?text=+-+&via=Joshua__Stamper&related=Joshua__Stamper&url=https://joshstamper.com/?p=2372 (Tweet This)In this Episode, we discuss: Guidance in Coaching The Importance Family Time Connecting to Other Leaders And Social Emotional Leadership About Greg Moffitt:Greg Moffitt is the Principal at Fairmont Charter Elementary School in the Vacaville Unified School District (Vacaville, CA) where he works with staff, parents, and – most importantly – students to create a school community tha

In this bonus episode Sarah Johnson shares how leaders can positively cope with stress, rediscover their passion and find safety in coaching.    https://twitter.com/share?text=+-+&via=Joshua__Stamper&related=Joshua__Stamper&url=https://joshstamper.com/?p=2372 (Tweet This)Follow Sarah Johnson:Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarahsajohnson?lang=en (Sarah on Twitter)Website: https://sarahsajohnson.com/ (Sarah's Website)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahsajohnson/?hl=en (Sarah on Instagram)Facebook: http://facebook.com/sarahsajohnson (facebook.com/sarahsajohnson)Podcast: http://inawetorise.com/ (The In AWE Podcast Website)LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsajohnson/ (Sarah on LinkedIN)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 le