Better Leaders Better Schools

Creativity in schools isn't about talent, it's a system. Budget cuts and constraints make your team more creative, not less.Creativity in schools gets treated like an elective — something reserved for art class and cut the moment budgets tighten. Creativity researcher and author Susan Riley joins the show to make the… Read more

Delegating feels impossible when you run a school alone — until you turn what's stuck in your head into a playbook someone else can run. Delegation is the hardest skill for a principal running a school without an assistant principal — every checklist, process, and judgment call lives in one head, and that head is… Read more

Currently in his eleventh year of school administration and his twenty-fifth in education, Bill Renner has run the full course through the Ruckus Maker system — the Mastermind, one-on-one coaching, and now Digital Danny. A middle school principal transitioning back to his first love, elementary, he's spent this year… Read more

Student behavior changed when the adults did: 25 discipline calls a day dropped to about one. Here's the adult-first work behind it. School discipline problems don't start with the kids. Sarah spent years answering 20 to 25 walkie calls a day for escalated students. Tokens, red-light-green-light charts, taking away… Read more

Leading the Alliance for Decision Education's work to make decision science part of core curriculum are David Samuelson, the organization's Executive Director, and Mary Call Blanusa, its Director of Public Policy. Samuelson spent his career leading digital transformation at national associations before turning to… Read more

Over two decades in Memphis-area schools will teach you how to spot a leader who's still growing. Fred Holmes — known inside the Ruckus Maker Mastermind as the Velvet Hammer — started as a science teacher in Shelby County Schools, moved through teacher leadership and an assistant principalship, ran his own building as… Read more

Dr. Naphtali Hoff trains school leaders and teachers to perform at their best without running themselves into the ground. A former educator and school leader himself, Dr. Hoff now coaches and trains school leaders on management, productivity, and delegation across the country. He's the author of three books, and his… Read more

She studies why anti-racist professional development in schools so often fails to change how teachers actually treat students — and what works instead. Dr Abby C. Emerson is an assistant professor of Childhood Education at Hunter College, CUNY, where her research spans anti-racist and abolitionist teacher education,… Read more

Building AI tools that replace one-size-fits-all personality tests with real career plans is what got Corey Kossack into K12 education. He's the founder and CEO of Orchard, an AI-powered career counseling platform for schools, and Aspireship, an employee upskilling platform — work born from watching his own father… Read more

Phil Brown trains educators to build the kind of learning moments a curriculum can't schedule. As an experiential and adventure education trainer at High 5 Adventure Learning Center, he's guided everyone from Iraqi high schoolers working through conflict resolution to NHL players from the Boston Bruins and Calgary… Read more

Jenny Curtin partners with schools and districts across New England on behalf of the Barr Foundation, where she helps build and scale Transformative Learning Experiences — rigorous, project-based units developed with partner Springpoint that pull students out of the classroom and into courtrooms, communities, and real… Read more

A principal and coach based in Prince George, British Columbia, Canada, this episode's guest flips the usual format and turns the mic on Danny Bauer instead of the other way around. He brings the same coaching lens to the conversation that he uses inside the Better Leaders Better Schools Mastermind, where he works… Read more

Zaretta Hammond has spent her career pushing school leaders past feel-good equity language and into the instructional core, where the real gaps live. Her latest book, Rebuilding Students' Learning Power: Teaching for Instructional Equity and Cognitive Justice , names a pattern she calls cognition redlining — the… Read more

Running an elementary school in rural British Columbia hasn't stopped this Ruckus Maker from building an indoor worm farm, growing hydroponic lettuce, and taking a self-funded year off to reset — proof that a principal's personality is not a distraction from the job. Dan Watt is a Mastermind Coach inside the Ruckus… Read more

Confidence as a principal isn't something you're born with — it's something you build. I've been asking new Mastermind members and Digital Danny users why they're signing up, and I keep hearing the same thing: they're working on their confidence. Most won't say it out loud. Most think their doubt means they're not cut… Read more

Leading a 25-school network to a 96% graduation rate and 91% staff retention — with zero tenure protection — takes more than good policy. It takes a leader who has lived the exact inequity his schools now solve for. Pablo Villavicencio grew up in East LA, where his own neighborhood school graduated less than half its… Read more

Building a tutoring nonprofit that now serves 25,000 students a year — with a vision to reach millions — required someone who'd lived the exact gap she was trying to close. Aly Murray grew up a low-income student raised by a single immigrant mother, moved through a string of Title 1 schools, and felt firsthand what… Read more

Adam Wolfsdorf chairs the Humanities Department at Bay Ridge Preparatory in Brooklyn and teaches graduate students at NYU and Wesleyan, drawing on 26 years inside the classroom. He's the author of Teaching in the Riptide , where he names the moments educators get pulled under by something more powerful than their plan… Read more

She spent six years hiding her autism diagnosis from everyone — peers, friends, even herself. Then she built a neuroscience-backed video game that's changing how neurodivergent students understand who they are. Vanessa Castañeda Gill the founder of Social Cipher, an SEL video game platform designed by and for… Read more

Jeff Meade spent 20 years building companies. Then a friend asked him one question on a hike near Mount Fuji — what makes you happy? — and he couldn't answer it. That four-hour conversation led him to Paul Quinn College in Dallas, where he now serves as Chief Innovation Officer and runs a program with one… Read more

A researcher, Edtech expert, and PhD candidate studying the intersection of AI, learning, and human experience, Kris brings a rare combination of academic rigor and real-world application to the question every principal is quietly asking: is all this technology actually helping? His work with Play Piper puts him at… Read more

Eight years ago, Chad Weiden walked into one of South Carolina's most underperforming elementary schools — a campus so low-rated that the state took it over, failed to fix it, and handed it back to the district. He just turned it into a good school. The strategy for school turnaround he used wasn't a new curriculum, a… Read more

A decade into the Better Leaders Better Schools Ruckuscast, Danny Bauer has coached and interviewed hundreds of school leaders — and the patterns are clear. Dan Watt, elementary principal in British Columbia and Ruckus Maker, flips the microphone and puts Danny in the guest chair. What follows isn't nostalgia. It's… Read more

She helps principals stop surviving their schools and start leading them. Michelle Sloan is an educator, author, and leadership coach who spent seven years building a school from the ground up — which gave her something rare: " firsthand proof that mission-driven leadership isn't a feel-good concept, it's a survival… Read more

The principal drive home test: if you can't name one thing that mattered today, you're in reactive mode. Here's the fix. Principal burnout doesn't start in a crisis. It starts in the car at 6pm, when you've done a lot but moved nothing forward — the instructional leadership, the culture work, the long game stuff that… Read more

A professor at San Diego's High Tech High Graduate School of Education and co-author of PLC+: Better Decisions and Greater Impact by Design , Nancy Frey has spent decades studying how teachers actually collaborate — and why most of it doesn't work. Her research-backed PLC+ framework is the difference between a… Read more

Her career started in Philadelphia public schools in the 90s, full of idealism and a master's in counseling psychology. A decade later, she was coaching executives in global corporations. Now Sage Hobbs coaches school principals and superintendents on the skill that drives everything else — the ability to have… Read more

A Chicano educator from Los Angeles has spent nearly 20 years building the infrastructure that schools won't — the kind that catches students before they fall through the cracks. Hector Chaira is the Director of Education Programs at the Latino Film Institute , home to the Youth Cinema Project, a filmmaking mentorship… Read more

The man who co-created category design — the strategic framework behind companies like Salesforce, HubSpot, and Drift — has a blunt message for principals: your recruiting ads are announcing that nobody wants to work at your school. Christopher Lochhead is co-author of Play Bigger , Niche Down , and Category Pirates ,… Read more

Ten years of school leadership podcasting reveals one consistent truth: most principals are doing it alone when they don't have to. In this special anniversary episode, Danny Bauer sits down with co-host Dan Watt to trace the arc from isolated AP to category-defining podcast host — and what he's learned coaching… Read more

🧰 The Ruckus Report Quick take: This episode is a masterclass in what happens when a teacher stops delivering lessons — and starts creating life-changing experiences. 🙋‍♂️ Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Jesus Huerta is an educator and innovation coach who transforms classrooms into launchpads for curiosity,… Read more

📋 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most principals accept their school building as a fixed constraint. Anne Seeley proves it's actually your most under-utilized leadership tool — and you don't need a construction budget to start. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Anne Seeley , a Senior Associate Project Manager, NCARB,… Read more

Principal leadership development is broken — 3 out of 4 school leaders have no coach, no mentor, no one to think it through with. Principal coaching and self-mentorship are the difference between leaders who wait for answers and leaders who generate their own. Corey, a Chicago principal, logged 910 conversations with… Read more

📋 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Schools didn't gradually adopt tech — they surrendered to it. This episode is a wake-up call for leaders ready to reclaim learning, relationships, and childhood from screens. 🎓Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Emily Cherkin , M.Ed., The Screentime Consultant, is leading the fight for a… Read more

📋 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most systems are designed to control people, not empower them.This episode shows what happens when a leader flips that script — and trusts the people closest to students to lead. 🙋‍♂️ Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. Lindsay Whorton is president of The Holdsworth Center, a nonprofit… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: You can't force engagement — but you can design for success. Tommy Floyd breaks down how one meaningful win can transform disconnected students into confident, motivated learners. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Tommy Floyd originally became involved in NASP® in 2003, while serving as… Read more

📕 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most strategic plans fail for one simple reason — leaders try to sell a vision the community didn't help create. Drew Howick and Dr. Jeffrey Axelbank reveal how the Future Search process flips that script by putting the whole community in the room to design the future together. 🫂 Meet… Read more

🧰 The Ruckus Report Quick take: This episode flips the script on school culture and student motivation. Adrian Ireland shows why most engagement issues aren't about effort — they're about environment — and what to do instead. 🫂 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Adrian Ireland is an international educator, systems… Read more

📕 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Danny tells the brutal story of a "worst first day of school ever" moment — when half the students had no schedules — and uses it to make the case for a 90-day entry plan that builds trust fast, reduces stress, and keeps your campus from spiralling into avoidable chaos. 🔨 Breaking… Read more

🧨 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most leaders say they want innovation… then rebuild the same dusty campus experience with newer paint. Will Campbell shows what happens when you press reset, redesign the human experience of school, and trust students to build the culture while teachers get time to grow inside the… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Kim Strobel's been attacked for teaching differently — and still chose joy. In this episode, she shows school leaders how happiness isn't fluff — it's the foundation. Learn how to fight for your fire, rewire your brain, and lead a school worth showing up for. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus… Read more

📣 The Ruckus Report Quick take: What if the cure for disengagement isn't better apps, but real tools in real hands? In this episode, Kris Rockwell challenges the one-way screen model that dominates modern classrooms — and makes a powerful case for hands-on learning that sparks joy, confidence, and curiosity. 🤝 Meet… Read more

📣 The Ruckus Report Quick take: What if the best learning doesn't happen in a classroom? Dr. Annalies Corbin shares 5 proven strategies to design schools that actually connect learning to real life. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. Annalies Corbin is the Founder & CEO of the PAST Foundation , a trailblazing… Read more

🎙 The Ruckus Report Quick Take: What happens when a high school sophomore builds the tool he wishes his teacher had? You get Markify — a collaborative, accessible classroom platform now used by 20,000+ students. In this episode, Anthony Beckett shares how a missed note sparked a movement and what school leaders can… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: If you're leading from an empty tank, you're not leading at all. Joël McLean learned the hard way that transformational leadership starts within — and he built a roadmap any school leader can follow. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Joël McLean is a former principal turned certified… Read more

📣 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Ryan Hennessey didn't just walk away from teaching — he dropped the mic. In this episode, he reveals how to leave on your own terms, build brave spaces that spark curiosity, and model vulnerability without losing yourself in the process. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Ryan Hennessey… Read more

😎 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Micah Ali dismantles outdated mindsets about urban education and shares how Compton Unified went from a district people had written off to one that's setting the pace for California. Learn what it takes to build trust, flip expectations, and drive equity by doing what's ethical. 🙌… Read more

📣 The Ruckus Report Quick take: What if the key to student achievement wasn't curriculum coverage or test prep, but trust? Joe LaTorre's classroom proves that when you lead with relationships, kids show up, lean in, and thrive. 🤝 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Joe LaTorre is a nationally recognized middle school… Read more

📣 The Ruckus Report Quick take: When the system broke her heart, she built a new one. From a classroom with no chairs to a network of 1:1 micro schools, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian is rewriting the rules of what school can be. 🤝 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Lynna Martinez-Khalilian is a former classroom teacher who… Read more

📣 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Jessica Levine restructured Wednesdays to unlock autonomy, connection, and deep learning in her sixth-grade science class. Joined by Mitch Weathers, this episode explores student voice, the power of routine, and why helping kids feel known is just as critical as teaching content. 🎓… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most schools are drowning in Tier 2 and Tier 3 referrals. Mitch Weathers shows why fixing Tier 1 first is the only way out — and how to actually make it work. 🤝 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Mitch Weathers is a veteran educator, author, and co-founder of Organized Binder. He's helped… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Dr. Brandi Kelly offers a refreshing reminder that hope isn't fluffy — it's foundational. In this episode, she unpacks how school leaders can reconnect with what matters most: the heartbeat of their schools. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. Brandi Kelly is a seasoned educator with… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Traditional discipline assumes kids will reflect, reset, and return on their own. Charle Peck and Joshua Stampe r expose the myth of self-regulation and offer a proven, trauma-informed framework that transforms behavior systems from reactive to relational. 🤝 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: What if connection — not curriculum — was the real driver of academic success? In this episode, Dr. Anne Paonessa reframes student disengagement as feedback, not failure, and reveals how connection fuels attendance, learning, and belonging on every campus. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: If you think skipping lunch and glorifying stress proves your worth as a school leader, this episode will hit different. Danny and Jethro rip the mask off martyrdom in education and offer a new, healthier way to lead. 🤝 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Jethro Jones is a former principal… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most schools are stuck in the past. But Anna Rita Pergolizzi-Wentworth is building a future-fluent model that fuses AI, global citizenship, and joy — and it's working. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Anna Rita Pergolizzi-Wentworth is Head of School at Pine Street School, a private… Read more

🖊 The Ruckus Report Quick take: What if the most powerful classrooms in American history operated under segregation? Dr. Karida L. Brown reframes our understanding of Black education during Jim Crow and offers a compelling vision for nurturing students through ecosystems of care. 🤝 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr.… Read more

📣 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most leaders ask the wrong question. They obsess over what to do next instead of who they're becoming. In this episode, Dr. Chad Dumas unpacks how self-awareness, non-verbal cues, and intentional presence shape your entire school culture before a single decision is made. 🎓 Meet Your… Read more

🧨 The Ruckus Report Quick take: What if everything you believed about math education was wrong? In this episode, Ted Dintersmith , bestselling author of Aftermath and What School Could Be , pulls back the curtain on how math has been weaponized — and how school leaders can transform learning by teaching the math that… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: What if the most disruptive thing you could do as a school leader isn't another program — but rethinking when school starts? In this candid and funny conversation, Danny Bauer and Mitch Weathers dig into how protecting sleep actually protects learning, how parent boundaries preserve… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most principals fear AI. Ruckus Makers see it as fuel for innovation. In this solo episode, Danny shares 3 foundational AI principles that will redefine school leadership in 2025 — showing you how to trade fear for leverage and ideas for bold action. **You can unlock all 10 AI… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: What if you could deliver six weeks of learning in a single hour? Simon Strong did exactly that — and the results are challenging everything we think we know about teaching, memory, and curriculum. 🤝 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Simon Strong is the founder of Download Learning, a… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: What happens when two rival schools — with decades of "us vs. them" history — are forced to become one? Derek Cantrell didn't just merge Alleghany and Covington into a single high school. He built a "Better Together" culture while weaving in AI tools that are reshaping instruction and… Read more

Quick take: What happens when a leader ditches ego, prioritizes relationships, and treats students like real-world innovators? Jeremy Quals proves you can turn around struggling schools and create one of the most exciting entrepreneurial programs in the country. 🤝 Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. Jeremy Qualls is… Read more

The Ruckus Report. Quick take: What if the secret to becoming a more effective school leader was … leaving school? Joe Clausi, known as the Traveling Principal , shares how stepping out of the building helped him step into his purpose. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Joe Clausi, aka The Traveling Principal , is… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: If you're facing pushback on your bold school vision, this episode is your playbook for flipping critics into raving fans. Learn how one principal shifted the narrative — and built massive community support in the process. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. Christopher Jones is a high… Read more

What started as a frustrating Sunday afternoon mistake in a tiny Chicago apartment turned into a million-download podcast that changed everything. Join 5,000+ Ruckus Makers who want to Do School Different 👉 https://ruckusmakers.news/subscribe Ten years ago, I almost quit before I even started. I lost my first… Read more

🎯 The Ruckus Report Quick take: If you're still blocking ChatGPT, you're playing the wrong game. In this episode, William Grube of Groovy Education shows how to turn AI from a perceived threat into a daily teaching advantage — one that saves teachers time, levels up rigor, and makes cheating irrelevant. 🤝 Meet Your… Read more

_*]:min-w-0 !gap-3.5"> The Ruckus Report Quick take: From pushing a broom to leading the boardroom — Dr. Chris Jackson's journey from custodian to principal at his own alma mater proves that grit, humility, and authentic community connection matter more than pedigree when transforming schools. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: Two beards, two red hats, one mission to blow up education's broken boundaries. Mitch Weathers reveals why saying "no" to district busywork and "yes" to what actually moves the needle isn't rebellion — it's leadership. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Mitch became a gifted teacher because he… Read more

_*]:min-w-0 !gap-3.5"> The Ruckus Report Quick take: The most dangerous myth in school leadership is that problems will eventually stop. Jennifer Schwanke reveals how embracing challenges and shifting from "trustworthy" to "trust willing" transforms toxic school cultures into thriving communities. Meet Your Fellow… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: Student voice isn't just nice to have—it's the missing ingredient in creating schools worth showing up for. Casey Wright proves that when you design with students instead of around them, everything from panini lines to classroom layouts becomes a catalyst for engagement. Meet Your Fellow… Read more

Most principals feel like they're doing everything right — but something still feels wrong. That's not a personal failure. It's proof you're playing someone else's game. In this episode, Danny Bauer invites school leaders to stop following broken rules and start authoring their own. Breaking Down the Old Rules 🔨 Key… Read more

_*]:min-w-0 !gap-3.5"> The Ruckus Report Quick take: When 21 kids are on your roster but only 3 show up on time, you don't quit — you reinvent how learning works. Rob Barnett's journey from near-burnout to building a model that reaches 100,000+ educators proves that ditching whole-class instruction might be the best… Read more

_*]:min-w-0 !gap-3.5"> The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most school leaders are waiting for someone else's permission to create the change they know their students need. Will Parker destroys that myth and reveals the #1 barrier standing between you and transformational leadership — yourself. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker… Read more

Jethro Jones on Breaking the Robot Principal Playbook The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most school leaders are trained to lead like emotionless robots. But students aren't spreadsheets and staff don't need a boss with a checklist — they need a human being. Time to reject the premise that logic alone should run our… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: The biggest legal risk most districts face isn't a headline-grabbing lawsuit — it's the hidden gap between the accommodations they promise and the ones students actually receive. Sam Feeney built a tool that collapses this compliance gap to 10 seconds and a single click. Meet Your Fellow… Read more

Mitch Weathers on Breaking the Bottleneck Leadership Trap The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most principals think they're the chief problem solver—but that mindset is actually what's breaking their schools. When you're the go-to for every fire, you're not leading, you're enabling dependence. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: The "lone wolf" leader is a toxic myth that's burning out school administrators and failing students. Veronica Holyoke proves that transformational leadership happens in community, not isolation — and one hour a week can change everything. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Veronica Holyoke is… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most districts are dumping water into leaky buckets while wondering why they can't fill them. Nate Eklund shows us why we've been solving the wrong problem — and how "punching the shark" creates the workplace conditions that make educators want to stay. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Nate… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: If your school has beautiful values painted on the walls but nobody's living them, you're running a theater, not a school. Jimmy Casas exposes the brutal difference between what we say and what we do. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Jimmy Casas has been an educator for over 30 years,… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: Most principals manage buildings instead of transforming lives. Dr. Chris Jones flips the script by putting teachers at the center of every decision, creating scheduling magic that serves everyone — and proves that embracing resistance makes you stronger. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: Award-winning Superintendent Dr. Nick Polyak reveals why the most innovative school leaders aren't just adding new programs—they're actively tearing down outdated practices to make room for transformational student experiences. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. Nick Polyak is the proud… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: Visionary school leaders don't follow dusty rulebooks. In this episode, Jethro Jones joins Danny Bauer to burn the old manual and co-create a new playbook for Ruckus Makers — one bold idea at a time. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Jethro Jones, 2017 NASSP Digital Principal of the Year, is… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: Award-winning Principal Demetrius Ball reveals how intentional leadership, strategic decision-making, and being consistently present creates a school culture where students feel more connected than ever before. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Demetrius Ball was born and raised in Ohio. He… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: International school leader Jennifer Bertram reveals how trusting your intuition can lead to unexpected leadership opportunities, and how joining a supportive community of fellow leaders transforms professional growth. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Originally from Canada, Jennifer's… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: When traditional approaches to school improvement aren't working, the answer may not be more control - but rather more connection. Dr. Mitchell reveals how transformative leadership starts with listening and building authentic relationships. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. Derek… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: This experimental episode explores emerging educational trends with Mitch Weathers, diving into AI's impact on teaching, the evolution of education's purpose, and whether teaching remains a recommendable profession. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Mitch became a gifted teacher because he… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: The factory model of education is dead. This school leader transformed a failing campus into a Blue Ribbon award winner by reimagining intervention through WIN Time - and now she's showing thousands of leaders worldwide how to do the same. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Stephanie is a… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: In a system built for efficiency rather than connection, Dr. Godfrey shows how one district is creating space for what truly matters—from targeted reading interventions to wellness days for staff—proving that even large districts can make the human element their highest priority. Meet… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: Schools only account for 20% of a child's waking hours. Reschool co-founder Amy Anderson reveals how innovative partnerships with families and communities can transform the other 80% into powerful learning opportunities that create more equitable education for all. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: When transforming struggling schools, following the traditional playbook isn't enough. Learn how effective turnaround leaders strategically break rules, build relationships, and create rapid improvement while working within traditional systems. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Amy Galloway… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: In this special episode, Danny shares his journey from rule-following student to educational disruptor, then delivers key updates on everything happening at Ruckus Maker HQ in 2025 that can help you transform your leadership. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Danny Bauer is the founder of… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: Missouri Superintendent Dr. David Buck shows how real-world learning experiences are transforming education from standardized "assembly lines" into dynamic pathways that prepare students for a future even educators can't predict. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. David Buck has been an… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: A veteran educator shares powerful insights on building trust, implementing anchor practices, and creating a school culture where both teachers and students want to show up every day. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker A middle school principal with 14 years of experience in education… Read more

Dr. Lupita Hightower on Strategic Planning: Turning Belief into Transformation The Ruckus Report Quick take: Arizona's Superintendent of the Year drops a masterclass on how strategic planning—when done right—creates school systems where every child is valued as a treasure and success is the expectation, not the… Read more

The 90-Day Accelerator: Launching Your School Year for Legendary Impact Danny Bauer on Transforming School Leadership Through Intentional Planning The Ruckus Report Quick take: A game-changing framework for school leaders who want to escape the firefighting trap and create intentional, high-impact leadership from day… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: A compelling look at how embracing AI and creativity can transform education, told through the journey of a young entrepreneur who went from feeling constrained by traditional schooling to teaching others how to innovate. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Today's episode features two… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: A former teacher turned ed-tech founder reveals how simple daily actions - from hallway check-ins to thoughtful class placements - can transform school culture and help every student thrive. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Mike Cronley is the CEO and co-founder of Class Composer, bringing… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: A veteran superintendent reveals how shifting from a mastery mindset to an unfinished mindset can transform school leadership and create environments where innovation thrives, student voice matters, and continuous growth is celebrated. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. Michael Lubelfeld… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: In this special coaching episode, a K-4 principal shares his honest struggles and breakthroughs in implementing project-based learning, revealing why communication and teacher buy-in are crucial for meaningful educational change. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dan is a K-4 principal with… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: As California mandates AI literacy in schools, education leaders face a critical choice between teaching basic AI operation and empowering students to reimagine what's possible with AI fluency. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Hannah Grady Williams is the Chief Rebel at d'Skills, where she… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: In this transformative session, Danny Bauer shares the powerful RISE method to help school leaders move from playing it safe to creating meaningful change in their schools. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Danny Bauer is the founder of Better Leaders Better Schools, author of multiple… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: From surviving childhood trauma to revolutionizing student mental health, Dr. Watson reveals how schools can transform their approach to student wellbeing from crisis response to proactive skill-building. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. Hayley Watson is the founder and CEO of Open… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: From middle school gum empire to innovative children's author, Mr. B reveals how embracing uniqueness and real-world learning can transform education from standardized to remarkable. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Mr. B is a multi-faceted creative and entrepreneur, blending Hip-Hop music,… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: Start 2025 strong with three game-changing frameworks that help school leaders move from traditional planning to actionable transformation. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Danny Bauer is the founder of Better Leaders Better Schools and host of the top 1% education leadership podcast… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: From humble beginnings in Greenfield to becoming an award-winning superintendent, Dr. Galván shares powerful insights on leading with empathy, building authentic relationships, and preparing students for an AI-driven future. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. Zandra Jo Galván serves as… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: Discover how a veteran superintendent transforms traditional power structures into collaborative leadership, proving that giving away authority actually strengthens your impact as a leader. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. Tricia Mooney brings 30 years of educational experience to her… Read more

Dr. Chris Nagy on Transformational Educational Leadership The Ruckus Report Quick take: In this paradigm-shifting conversation, educational futurist Dr. Chris Nagy reveals how superintendents can create innovative learning environments by embracing entrepreneurial mindsets and emerging technologies, challenging… Read more

The Ruckus Report Quick take: Want to sleep well at night as a school leader? Dr. Jon Bartelt shares how embracing joy, listening deeply to students, and staying true to core values helps him lead with confidence through 23 years as superintendent. Meet Your Fellow Ruckus Maker Dr. Jon Bartelt serves as Superintendent… Read more

Every principal deserves high quality coaching and mentorship. Who is your coach or mentor? What would you be able to accomplish with help figuring out how to accomplish your biggest goals? At Ruckus Maker HQ we have two great options for you: Option 1: Join the BRAND NEW Ruckus Maker Club. Learn more here Option 2:… Read more

Dr. Tracy Vitale proudly serves as Superintendent of Schools for the Seneca Valley School District, one of the largest public school districts in Western Pennsylvania. She is credited with opening and implementing the district's first elementary world language program, accelerating academic rigor and leading educators… Read more

. Chris Loeffler is the Head of Wilmington Friends Lower School. Prior to this role, Chris spent 7 years in administration, 13 years in the classroom, and even graduated from Wilmington Friends. His experience as a student, where he felt valued and given a voice in a peaceful environment, motivates him as an educator… Read more

. Kwame Sarfo-Mensah holds a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education from Temple University. For nine years, he served as a middle school math teacher in Philadelphia, PA and Boston, MA. Currently, he is the founder of Identity Talk Consulting, a global educational consulting… Read more

Dr. Derrick Gay is a globally recognized intercultural competency strategist, dedicated to fostering cultures of dignity and respect. With multifaceted expertise as an international speaker, author, researcher, educator, and university lecturer, Dr. Gay empowers individuals and organizations to deepen belonging and… Read more

Every principal deserves high quality coaching and mentorship. Who is your coach or mentor? What would you be able to accomplish with help figuring out how to accomplish your biggest goals? At Ruckus Maker HQ we have two great options for you: Option 1: Join the BRAND NEW Ruckus Maker Club. Learn more here Option 2:… Read more

Every principal deserves high quality coaching and mentorship. Who is your coach or mentor? What would you be able to accomplish with help figuring out how to accomplish your biggest goals? At Ruckus Maker HQ we have two great options for you: Option 1: Join the BRAND NEW Ruckus Maker Club. Learn more here Option 2:… Read more

Frederick Buskey leverages 33 years of k-12 and higher education leadership experience. He provides simple frameworks and practical tools to help leaders make immediate incremental improvements. Frederick hosts The Assistant Principal Podcast , and is the author of A School Leader's Guide to Reclaiming Purpose . He… Read more

Every principal deserves high quality coaching and mentorship. Who is your coach or mentor? What would you be able to accomplish with help figuring out how to accomplish your biggest goals? At Ruckus Maker HQ we have two great options for you: Option 1: Join the BRAND NEW Ruckus Maker Club. Learn more here Option 2:… Read more

Every principal deserves high quality coaching and mentorship. Who is your coach or mentor? What would you be able to accomplish with help figuring out how to accomplish your biggest goals? At Ruckus Maker HQ we have two great options for you: Option 1: Join the BRAND NEW Ruckus Maker Club. Learn more here Option 2:… Read more

Every principal deserves high quality coaching and mentorship. Who is your coach or mentor? What would you be able to accomplish with help figuring out how to accomplish your biggest goals? At Ruckus Maker HQ we have two great options for you: Option 1: Join the BRAND NEW Ruckus Maker Club. Learn more here Option 2:… Read more

Every principal deserves high quality coaching and mentorship. Who is your coach or mentor? What would you be able to accomplish with help figuring out how to accomplish your biggest goals? At Ruckus Maker HQ we have two great options for you: Option 1: Join the BRAND NEW Ruckus Maker Club. Learn more here Option 2:… Read more

Every principal deserves high quality coaching and mentorship. Who is your coach or mentor? What would you be able to accomplish with help figuring out how to accomplish your biggest goals? At Ruckus Maker HQ we have two great options for you: Option 1: Join the BRAND NEW Ruckus Maker Club. Learn more here Option 2:… Read more

Every principal deserves high quality coaching and mentorship. Who is your coach or mentor? What would you be able to accomplish with help figuring out how to accomplish your biggest goals? At Ruckus Maker HQ we have two great options for you: Option 1: Join the BRAND NEW Ruckus Maker Club. Learn more here Option 2:… Read more

Dr. Chara N. Willaford, founder of Be Your Best Yet Coaching and Consulting, is an educational leader with 25+ years of experience. A National Mentor and Trainer, she specializes in turning around schools, empowering future and early-career principals. Dr. Chara's journey spans roles at state, district, national, and… Read more

Adam Stolzer is the Burwell Jr./Sr. High School Principal located in Burwell, Ne. Adam is an educational leader who makes a ruckus with his mobile office, Longhorn Support Days, and helps facilitate bringing out students' passions. Adam takes great pride in leaving a daily legacy of being a model of support for… Read more

K athy Kolbe is an acclaimed theorist, best-selling author and pioneer, Kathy Kolbe was the first to prove the existence of the conative mental faculty, which causes us to act, react and interact. She has spent over 40 years collecting and analyzing conative traits to help us be ourselves. She founded Kolbe Corp, was… Read more

Hannah's story began in a blue pickup truck at age 12. Sparked by this intro to business by her dad, she went to college early, graduating with her bachelors at 18. Now, Hannah is the Chief Rebel at d'Skills - a hub where students turbo-charge their passions with AI, then convert them into paid, real-world projects.… Read more

Ari Gerzon-Kessler is author of On The Same Team: Bringing Educators & Underrepresented Families Together, which won the Independent Publishers Book Awards 2024 IPPY Gold Medal for outstanding education book. He is a speaker, trainer, and coach working with schools and districts committed to forging stronger… Read more

Where is the Teacher? 12 Shifts for a Student Centered Classroom Kyle Wagner, the founder of Transform Educational Consulting Limited, has always had a bold mission since he became an educator 15+ years ago: Create transformational learning experiences that connect students' interests and passions to issues that… Read more

Graham Dugoni is the founder and CEO of Yondr. Founded in 2014, Yondr is the pioneer of "phone-free spaces." The company helps educators, artists, and organizations around the world create distraction-free environments where focus and creativity can flourish in the absence of technology. Show Highlights Phone-free… Read more

Show Highlights A Ruckus Maker Club for innovative school leaders who want to do school differently with shared ideas and support. Ruckus Maker Club features and benefits Access to tools and free content Coaching calls Innovation labs Accountability space. Discussions on challenges in educational leadership Tech… Read more

Lindsay Cravens is currently in transition from being the High School Principal at Stockton (KS) for the past 3 years to my new position of High School Principal at Republic County (Belleville, KS). This fall will be her final semester working towards my EdS in District Administration from Fort Hays State University.… Read more

Charles Hartney is the Head of Upper School and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion coordinator at The Park School of Buffalo, a progressive, independent school serving students from PreK and Montessori through Grade 12. Outside of school, Charlie is a proud husband and father of two, an avid reader, and a lifelong… Read more

Leticia Britos Cavagnaro, Ph.D., is a scientist turned designer who has created and facilitated a wide range of learning experiences in design, creativity, and innovation at the Stanford d.school and beyond. Her creative methods include the use of emerging technologies to help people grow as self-directed,… Read more

Laura Di Franco is the CEO of Brave Healer Productions, an award-winning publisher for holistic health and wellness professionals. She spent 30 years in holistic physical therapy, has 14 years of training in the martial arts, and has authored 10 books. Her company has published over 60 Amazon bestselling books with a… Read more

Danielle Nuhfer, a former teacher turned coach and author of "The Path of the Mindful Teacher," has dedicated over 20 years to supporting educators in navigating the challenges of the school system. As the founder of Teaching Well, she works with teachers and school leaders to prioritize well-being and transform… Read more

Andy Rodford is the Principal of Venture Gained Consulting and works with school, camp, and business leaders to build capacity. He's been involved in education for 30 years, holding senior roles at various independent schools, and is passionate about experiential learning. He has degrees in Science, Education, and… Read more

Alexandra Mejia, who goes by Sasha, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in private practice specializing in working with complex trauma, dissociation, and personality disorders. She aims to de-stigmatize trauma and personality disorders through her social media platforms and Clinical Residency Program and to spread… Read more

Robyn Hamasaki is the Managing Director of Leadership Development at the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). Leading a multidisciplinary team of Leading & Learning, Student Program Operations, Recognition & Engagement, and External Relations, she fosters the growth and engagement of school… Read more

Camp is Head of Teaching & Learning at NEIA. He oversees the development of systems to recruit, hire, support, and evaluate teachers and helps teachers develop and implement the curriculum. He's been a leader and a teacher at a variety of schools throughout his 29-year career: boarding, day, single-sex and college.… Read more

Veronica Holyoke, has been working in education for 24 years. Originally from the East Coast she moved to Utah in 2012. She has held various leadership roles in the Jordan School District before becoming a school administrator 3 years ago. Veronica underwent a transformative journey through the Ruckus Maker… Read more

Michael Frino, Ph. D, Director Organizational Development at Boston Scientific | WSJ Bestselling Author | Performance Researcher. Over the last 25+ years he has worked with Fortune 500 companies in the areas of sales, sales training and leadership development. I am passionate about building high-performing teams and… Read more

Show Highlights Register for the 2024 Spring Success Series here: https://betterleadersbetterschools.com/2024-spring-success-series/ Read my latest book! Learn why the ABCs of powerful professional development™ work – Grow your skills by integrating more Authenticity, Belonging, and Challenge into your life and… Read more

Navigating the Path of Educational Leadership Pablo Muñoz is the managing director of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization. A first-generation high school graduate, Muñoz earned a bachelor's in psychology from Yale University and a master's in educational administration from Columbia… Read more

Show Highlights Come to The Sustainable School Leadership Summit and bring a friend for free! Register today: https://betterleadersbetterschools.com/school-leadership-summit/ Read my latest book! Learn why the ABCs of powerful professional development™ work – Grow your skills by integrating more Authenticity,… Read more

Bradley James Davies A Georgetown University Leadership Coaching Program graduate and ICF-certified coach with over two decades of corporate and nonprofit leadership experience, he works with clients to help them optimize their lives both at work and at home. A strategic listening expert and dedicated leadership… Read more

Nick Saccaro is the President of Quest Food Management Services, providing onsite food and hospitality services to K-12 schools and other organizations throughout the Midwest. A proven innovator and leader in the industry, Nick has 15+ years generating rapid, sustained growth and high-performing teams. Prior to his… Read more

Vince Bustamante, M.Ed., is a Calgary-based instructional coach, curriculum content developer, and author. Formerly focused on school improvement, Vince now specializes in working with teachers, leadership teams, schools, and school districts in implementing high impact strategies and systems. Vince is currently… Read more

Loren Brody is an elementary school principal in Northern Virginia. He is also a husband, father of two teenagers, amateur violinist, dedicated swimmer, new vegetarian cook and mindfulness devotee, and Washington Wizards and Nationals sports fan -- still holding onto his New York roots with allegiance to the New York… Read more

Kevin works at the American Cooperative School of Tunis and is the secondary school principal. This is his 23rd year in education. Kevin is originally from Philadelphia, PA USA and is a die-hard sports fan. He has been married for 22 years to his wife Pascale and has three children. Kevin loves learning. In his spare… Read more

Kristen Horton began her career in education at Navajo Mountain Community School as a teacher in a multi-age classroom. Dr. Horton has a commitment to supporting students and teachers through collective educator agency and relational capacity. Dr. Horton currently serves as principal of Continental Colony Elementary… Read more

David Moffa is the Principal at Holy Cross Preparatory Academy, a private school in Delran, NJ serving students in grades 9-12. David has taught at the high school level in both public and private schools, and his mission as a school leader is to build communities where teachers and students feel a deep sense of… Read more

Mitch became a gifted teacher because he was a mediocre student. Despite taking seven years to graduate college, he navigated the classroom with discomfort. This unique perspective fueled Mitch's teaching approach. Recognizing the importance of laying a foundation for learning, he created Organized Binder. This… Read more

David Moffa is the Principal at Holy Cross Preparatory Academy, a private school in Delran, NJ serving students in grades 9-12. David has taught at the high school level in both public and private schools, and his mission as a school leader is to build communities where teachers and students feel a deep sense of… Read more

Show Highlights & Resources Opportunity for educational disruptors to create a lasting influence. Key cultural values to be addressed at the summit, exemplified by gaping void's culture tiles. Broadening school success metrics beyond academic scores. This summer you're invited to attend the ONLY event in education… Read more

5 Benefits You Will Experience In Nashville Show Highlights & Resources Danny highlights five benefits that attendees can expect from the Sustainable School Leadership Summit. This summer you're invited to attend the ONLY event in education available to Ruckus Makers. Join us in Nashville this July 12-14 for The… Read more

Nurturing Trust and Building Connections In Education With over two decades of experience as an educator in various school settings, I have cultivated a profound philosophy of education known as Two Rules. This philosophy serves as a foundation for fostering building-wide support for the social-emotional learning and… Read more

Attracting Top Talent / Scorecard Show Highlights & Resources School leadership scorecard with seven categories to assess effectiveness. A tool to set your school apart when competing for teachers with other similar schools. Set "now" and "next" goals for improvement. This summer you're invited to attend the ONLY… Read more

Show Highlights & Resources Play it safe principals fear, risks and potential failure. Embrace the unknown, pivot, and adapt This summer you're invited to attend the ONLY event in education available to Ruckus Makers. Join us in Nashville this July 12-14 for The Sustainable School Leadership Summit. Learn more here:… Read more

Show Highlights & Resources This summer you're invited to attend the ONLY event in education available to Ruckus Makers … Teach about the friction versus flow continuum in school leadership. Discuss the concept of ruckus makers investing in runways for sustainability. Encourage firing oneself to build team capacity… Read more

Show Highlights & Resources This summer you're invited to attend the ONLY event in education available to Ruckus Makers … Avoid a square peg in a round hole feeling in education. Emphasis on sustainability in school leadership Delve into the question of what education is for and the need for innovative shifts in the… Read more

Show Highlights & Resources This summer you're invited to attend the ONLY event in education available to Ruckus Makers … Friction versus flow continuum in school leadership. The concept of Ruckus Makers investing in runways for sustainability. Firing oneself to build team capacity and open new opportunities. Join us… Read more

Husband and father who teaches high school in Cedar Springs, MI. His blog, DaveStuartJr.com, is read by over 50,000 educators each month, and his bestselling These 6 Things: How to Focus Your Teaching on What Matters Most has been cherished by teachers and leaders around the world. Accomplished creator of professional… Read more

Stephanie Pierotti is the Director of Arizona State University's ShapingEDU Community. She leads this transdisciplinary network of over 4,000 "K to grey" education changemakers. Stephanie recently created a partnership with Learning Planet Alliance (powered by Learning Planet Institute in Paris and UNESCO), and forges… Read more

Daniel Pascoe Aguilar, PhD, MDiv, is passionate about problem solving and collaborating with students, alums, the university community, and community organizations on meaningful partnerships and innovative strategies for the development of a diverse, purpose-driven, interculturally sensitive, and… Read more

Eric Potterat, Ph.D. is a Clinical, Performance and Sport Psychologist who is considered one of the leading experts in high performance psychology, performance optimization, decision-making and teamwork under pressure, mental skills training, and individual and organizational resilience. He retired as a Commander in… Read more

Zaretta Hammond is an educator focused on literacy and equity. She is a former classroom writing teacher. And is a lover of all things Marvel. She'll quote the Lord of the Rings at any opportunity she gets. In her spare time, you'll find her reading up on cognitive neuroscience or out in nature and can be seen… Read more

GLENN ROBBINS is the proud Superintendent of the Brigantine Public School District in Brigantine, New Jersey. He has served as a public school superintendent in New Jersey since 2016. Prior to becoming a superintendent, he was a middle school principal, a high school assistant principal, a high school social studies… Read more

Professor Netzer is the Vice Dean of Research and the Arthur J. Samberg Professor of Business at Columbia Business School, an affiliate of the Columbia Data Science Institute, and the author of Decisions over Decimals . Professor Netzer is a world-renowned expert in data-driven decision-making and extracting… Read more

Justin Breen is the Founder/CEO of the exclusive connectivity platform BrEpic Network and global PR firm BrEpic Communications. His newest book, Epic Life, features a foreword from Dr. Peter Diamandis and has been the No. 1 overall book for sales on Amazon Kindle. It also recently made the Wall Street Journal and USA… Read more

Dr. Leena Bakshi McLean is the founder of STEM4Real, a nonprofit professional learning organization committed to combining STEM and standards-based content learning and leadership with principles of justice-centered pedagogy. She currently serves as the Director of Multicultural Education and Equity for the National… Read more

Jason Ablin, the author of The Gender Equation in Schools: How To Create Equity and Fairness For All Students, consults with schools across the country regarding gender and creating positive school cultures. At American Jewish University's Graduate School for Education, he trains teachers to create gender aware… Read more

Show Highlights After Action Review and the Ruckus Maker Eight Step Goal Setting Tool are two tools you need in your leadership toolbox. Resources and game changing ideas to equip and empower you to have an incredible 2024. Create talent incubators to avoid the turnover in education. Tap into your inner Ruckus Maker… Read more

Dr. Rachel Roberts has served in various leadership roles in education for over 20 years as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, principal, and principal supervisor. Rachel is passionate about women in leadership and believes that relational leadership is key to high-performing schools. Rachel lives… Read more

Michael (Mike) Nelson began his career as an elementary school teacher before becoming an elementary school principal. As a district leader, he led learning initiatives in two Washington state school districts. As the superintendent for Washington's (EEE)Enumclaw school district, he led several initiatives to improve… Read more

Heidi DeCoux is a serial entrepreneur who's built four businesses with 50%+ profit margins, sold 3 of them, including a 7-figure exit, and has appeared in magazines and websites like Forbes . She's become known as "The Optimizer" because she's passionate about helping entrepreneurs optimize their businesses and life.… Read more

Lynn Hardin is a retired elementary school principal and certified life coach with over 20 years of experience working with school leaders at all levels. She is passionate about staying current with the latest research and trends in education leadership. But most importantly, she is committed to helping her clients… Read more

The School Leadership Series promises to provide motivation on your way into school every Monday-Friday in five minutes or less. Co-hosted by Karine Veldhoen (founder of Learn Forward) and Danny Bauer (founder of Better Leaders Better Schools) we'll offer you a challenging idea and a clear action step each day. Make… Read more

The School Leadership Series promises to provide motivation on your way into school every Monday-Friday in five minutes or less. Co-hosted by Karine Veldhoen (founder of Learn Forward) and Danny Bauer (founder of Better Leaders Better Schools) we'll offer you a challenging idea and a clear action step each day. Make… Read more

Lisa is a high school writing teacher & PK-12 principal of a rural South Dakota school district. She leads a 2020 ESEA Distinguished Elementary School and a 2021 National Blue Ribbon Elementary School. She is a co-developer and facilitator of the South Dakota Department of Education's "Good to Great" Teacher… Read more

The School Leadership Series promises to provide motivation on your way into school every Monday-Friday in five minutes or less. Co-hosted by Karine Veldhoen (founder of Learn Forward) and Danny Bauer (founder of Better Leaders Better Schools) we'll offer you a challenging idea and a clear action step each day. Make… Read more

The School Leadership Series promises to provide motivation on your way into school every Monday-Friday in five minutes or less. Co-hosted by Karine Veldhoen (founder of Learn Forward) and Danny Bauer (founder of Better Leaders Better Schools) we'll offer you a challenging idea and a clear action step each day. Make… Read more

The School Leadership Series promises to provide motivation on your way into school every Monday-Friday in five minutes or less. Co-hosted by Karine Veldhoen (founder of Learn Forward) and Danny Bauer (founder of Better Leaders Better Schools) we'll offer you a challenging idea and a clear action step each day. Make… Read more

Carlon is the Chief Impact Officer and Co-Founder of Equity Institute. In his role, he oversees organizational strategy, internal operations, and implementation of Equity Institute's educator pathway program. Carlon is an avid reader and lifelong learner who spends much of his time exploring topics related to social… Read more

Dr. Danya Tiara Woods is a self-motivated enthusiast who seeks opportunities to enhance the lives of today's youth through education, mentorship and cultural exposures. Currently serving as an Assistant Principal of the Dr. Joseph E. Johnson Elementary School in Red Clay Consolidated School District her education… Read more

Jon Campopiano is in his fifth year as the Executive Director of Secondary Education for the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. In his duties as Executive Director, Jon supervises all SRVUSD Middle and High Schools, leads the district Local Control Accountability Plan and strives to institutionalize equity for… Read more

Adam H. Frank, PhD, principal at Palmer Ridge High School in Monument, Colorado, provides consulting, speaking, and professional development services specializing in school discipline, legal practices, student-centered engagement, leadership development, and change theory. Show Highlights Reading the signs when your… Read more

Namita Prasad is a Confidence Educator and the author of The Power of Why Not. Her revolutionary approach to confidence development redefines confidence as a mindset. She believes anyone can become confident and developed the framework of A Confident Mindset ™ school program for K-8 students to create a schoolwide… Read more

April Gaydosh is an Administrator of Schools for Jordan School District in West Jordan, Utah. She has previously held positions as a building level principal, assistant principal, high school teacher, and an adjunct college faculty member in both North Carolina and Alabama. She is always looking for new challenges and… Read more

Nathaniel Provencio is a career educator who has worked in public education for over 20+ years. Nathaniel has served as a teacher, school principal, and associate superintendent. Nathaniel is an award-winning leader, author, and speaker on regional, state, and national levels, and currently serves as a national school… Read more

Jacqueline M. Baker is a speaker, author, leadership consultant and advisor known for her unique approach to modern etiquette and leadership. As the author of The Unexpected Leader: Discovering the Leader Within You and Leader by Mistake: Becoming A Leader One Mistake At A Time, she frequently speaks and writes on the… Read more

Dr. Lisa Stanley is the Superintendent of North Texas Collegiate Academy, a public charter school district in Denton County, Texas. Dr. Stanley received her Certificate in School Management and Leadership from Harvard Graduate School of Education, was among the first 100 superintendents in the US to earn National… Read more

Dr. Amy Platt is delighted to be the Head of School at the Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School. Amy is passionate about excellent instruction and working with teachers to be the talented professionals they are destined to be. Amy holds a PhD and an MA from the University of Toronto. When Amy is not at work she can… Read more

Bonnie Low-Kramen is a highly sought-after TEDx speaker, teacher, and founder and CEO of "Be the Ultimate Assistant," a curated training solution for corporate leaders and assistants creating synchronous and thriving work environments. She is also the author of the forthcoming book, Staff Matters (out in 2023). Show… Read more

Dr. Chris Jones has been an educator in Massachusetts for 22 years. His experience in the classroom ranged from 8th - 11th grade working in an urban setting. A portion of this was spent opening a high school division for an expanding charter school. He has just finished his 14th year as a building administrator.… Read more

Irreplaceable Leadership Dr. Chris Jones has been an educator in Massachusetts for 22 years. His experience in the classroom ranged from 8th - 11th grade working in an urban setting. A portion of this was spent opening a high school division for an expanding charter school. He has just finished his 14th year as a… Read more

Amanda Conley is currently the Principal at Middletown High School, in Middletown, DE. She is a former Social Studies teacher, with experience in teaching at alternative and turnaround schools. Currently, she is focused on leading an innovative, community-connected school and she is passionate about creating… Read more

Leading as a Fearless Disrupter Dr. Towanna Burrous, President CoachDiversity Institute, is a best-selling author, trainer, and certified professional coach based in Washington, DC. As a much sought-after executive coach, Towanna and the Coach Diversity team deliver training, curriculum, and customized diversity and… Read more

Martín Blank is a visionary educator, breathwork instructor, and educational consultant specializing in whole-school wellbeing and teacher and staff retention. He's worked with over 15,000 students, and 14,000 educators over the last 10 years in hundreds of schools across districts nationally. He uses positive… Read more

Formerly a high school English teacher and a new teacher coach in Palo Alto Unified School District (Palo Alto, CA), Jennifer Abrams is currently a communications consultant and author who works with educators and others on new teacher and employee support, being generationally savvy, effective collaboration skills,… Read more

Dr. Chad Dumas is a Solution Tree associate and international consultant, presenter and award-winning researcher whose primary focus is collaborating to develop capacity for continuous improvement. Having been a successful teacher, principal, central office administrator, professional developer and consultant in a… Read more

Jason P. Dropik (Babaamii-Bines / Eagle Clan) is the School Administrator for the Indian Community School (ics-edu.org), in Franklin, WI, which serves Native students in the metro Milwaukee area. A member of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians (BadRiver-nsn.gov), Jason is committed to supporting… Read more

Brantley Turner is the East Asia Education Director for Dwight Schools with campuses in New York, London, Seoul, Shanghai, Dubai, Online and is currently launching Dwight School Hanoi. Ten years ago Brantley co-founded the only Sino-US cooperative high school in China, Shanghai Qibao Dwight High School. Serving as the… Read more

Jessica Gamble graduated from Howard University, which is located in Washington DC. Mrs. Gamble is a huge supporter of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Mrs. Gamble is married with two children, Kevin and Kai. Mrs. Gamble's favorite place to visit is Jamaica. She loves it so much that she has been there… Read more

Jessica Gamble graduated from Howard University, which is located in Washington DC. Mrs. Gamble is a huge supporter of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Mrs. Gamble is married with two children, Kevin and Kai. Mrs. Gamble's favorite place to visit is Jamaica. She loves it so much that she has been there… Read more

Loren Brody is an elementary school principal in Northern Virginia. He is also a husband, father of two teenagers, amateur violinist, dedicated swimmer, new vegetarian cook and mindfulness devotee, and Washington Wizards and Nationals sports fan -- still holding onto his New York roots with allegiance to the New York… Read more

Demetrius Ball is a dynamic leader focused on serving his family and community. As a current high school principal Demetrius is committed to creating a climate and school culture that is welcoming and inclusive for all students and staff members and sees strong relationships as the key to helping students and staff… Read more

Dr. David Franklin is an award winning school administrator, education professor, curriculum designer, author, and presenter. He earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from California State University, East Bay, a Master's Degree in Education Technology from National University, and holds a B.A. in Music from… Read more

Jason P. Dropik (Babaamii-Bines / Eagle Clan) is the School Administrator for the Indian Community School (ics-edu.org), in Franklin, WI, which serves Native students in the metro Milwaukee area. A member of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians (BadRiver-nsn.gov), Jason is committed to supporting… Read more

Erika has been an educator for over 20 years, currently serving as the Assistant Superintendent in the Ashland School District. A special educator at heart, she is passionate about supporting all students through individual support to reach their limitless potential. She is excited about her new book, co-authored with… Read more

Dr. Christopher Thurber is an award-winning writer and thought leader who has dedicated his professional life to improving how adults care for kids and to enhancing the experience of adventurous young people who are spending time away from home. A graduate of Harvard and UCLA, Dr. Thurber has served as a psychologist… Read more

Michael Lehan competed for six years in the NFL with the Miami Dolphins and Cleveland Browns before getting tapped to become a dean of students and assistant principal for the Osseo Area Schools, and then principal of Osseo Senior High School, which he guided to its first ranking as one of "The Best High Schools" in… Read more

Ruckus Makers, Did you enjoy this guided meditation? Would you benefit from more content like this? Tell Danny what you think! Email: danny@betterleadersbetterschools.com Or call/text to tell him yourself: +1-312-788-7595

Merel Kriegsman , Women's Wealth Advocate, is dedicated to helping you become the wealthiest woman in your lineage. A former cleaning lady turned self-made Millionaire Matriarch, she believes that the most powerful thing we can do for our children is become unapologetic female leaders who fearlessly demand what… Read more

Connie Hamilton has served many roles in over two decades as an educator. She has been an elementary and middle school teacher and instructional coach. As an administrator, Connie held positions as a principal at both the elementary and secondary levels and a central office curriculum leader. Her experience in these… Read more

Dr. Glover is a servant leader committed to equity and inclusion. She is a former educator, administrator, Human Resource manager, and Diversity, equity and inclusion professional. In 2017, Dr. Glover earned her doctorate degree in Urban Education, from Cleveland State University. With an emphasis on policy and… Read more

Ben Jones knew he was going to be a principal when he was in 3rd grade. His entire school career, while a bit tumultuous at times, gave him experiences that helped him become an impassioned educator. After graduating from the University of Georgia in December of 2002, he began teaching at Carson Middle School in… Read more

Ben Jones knew he was going to be a principal when he was in 3rd grade. His entire school career, while a bit tumultuous at times, gave him experiences that helped him become an impassioned educator. After graduating from the University of Georgia in December of 2002, he began teaching at Carson Middle School in… Read more

Stacey Green began her tenure at Stockton Grade School (SGS) as a new principal with an ambitious goal: transform the school's culture from an isolated, individual classroom focus to an integrated, responsive, and collaborative environment where teachers lead with the whole child and the whole school in mind. In just… Read more

Stacey Green began her tenure at Stockton Grade School (SGS) as a new principal with an ambitious goal: transform the school's culture from an isolated, individual classroom focus to an integrated, responsive, and collaborative environment where teachers lead with the whole child and the whole school in mind. In just… Read more

Do You Have A Safe Space to Unpack Tough Career Decisions? Dr. Charles Warfield has served the Haddon Township School District since 2002, where he has simultaneously been the principal of Stoy Elementary School and Jennings Elementary School. Prior to his tenure in Haddon Twp., Chuck spent three years in the Cherry… Read more

Dr. Charles Warfield has served the Haddon Township School District since 2002, where he has simultaneously been the principal of Stoy Elementary School and Jennings Elementary School. Prior to his tenure in Haddon Twp., Chuck spent three years in the Cherry Hill School District as an Assistant Principal at Carusi… Read more

Lauren Cikara is the Director of K-12 Initiatives at Active Minds. Prior to that, she worked for the Colorado School of Public Health School recruiting schools to participate in the Healthy Kids Colorado Survey (HKCS), Colorado's Youth Risk Behaviour Survey (YRBS), and Smart Source. She is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+… Read more

Hailing from Canada's Capital region, Loop pedal violist, composer, and educator Kathryn Patricia Cobbler has crafted a singular niche in improvisation and classical performance. Bringing creativity to concert halls, schools, and community venues, her work as a performing artist, composer, educator, and speaker… Read more

Show Highlights Tips to boost your confidence to avoid imposter syndrome. Every leader needs a "Jar of Awesome" to capture the results you create. Learn your default response when it comes to facing obstacles, challenges, and failures. No Wasted Experience, you need to invest in yourself. Accomplishing anything of… Read more

How to solve the crisis in education Stanley Litow is a Professor at Duke, Trustee of the State University of NY and columnist at Barron's. He previously served as President of the IBM Foundation, Deputy Schools Chancellor for New York City, Founder and head of Interface and Executive Director the Urban Corps. He… Read more

Road To Awesome Darrin Peppard is a leadership expert focused on organizational culture and climate, and coaching growing emerging leaders. Darrin is the author of the book Road to Awesome: Empower, Lead, Change the Game. He is also the host of the Leaning into Leadership podcast. As a 'recovering high school… Read more

The Leadership Optimization Compass Show Highlights Operating at your personal best consistently every day next year for your campus with this tool. Learn the four parts to T he Leadership Optimization Compass framework. Unplug in Denver with a stripped down personalized approach to achieving your leadership goals. If… Read more

Bryan Miltenberg is the proud principal of Aquebogue Elementary School in Riverhead, New York. He's been a teacher, dean, and middle school assistant principal, and has presented and published on topics including school climate and culture, instructional technology, self-aware leadership, inclusivity, time management,… Read more

Show Highlights The one decision that's going to change everything for you with this simple strategy regarding culture. Stop blaming students for failures and get organized as a professional learning community. The survey you need to overcome your blind spots to ensure you are celebrating your entire learning… Read more

Culture to the Max Dr. Shontoria Walker is a graduate from the University of Houston in Houston, Texas with a degree in Professional Leadership with an emphasis in Literacy. Her research focuses on using culturally relevant pedagogy to influence literacy achievement for middle school Black Male Students based on her… Read more

Born in Scotland and raised around the world, Kirsten is a truly global thinker. Her educational training spans Scotland, USA, Australia and more. After 27 years of international education experience across 7 countries and leadership positions in 5 schools, she now works as an independent consultant, creating… Read more

Dr. Steven Weber is the Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning. He brings more than 20 years of experience to the district having previously served as the Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (NC). During his career, he has served as a teacher, assistant… Read more

Ryan Steuer is the founder of Magnify Learning, a Project Based Learning professional development organization. Prior to founding Magnify Learning, Ryan was an engineer for a Fortune 50 company, an eighth-grade English teacher, and a missionary. He shares his educational leadership insights on YouTube and on the PBL… Read more

Mitch doesn't teach teachers how to teach. He teaches teachers how to set students up for success. He can teach teachers how to deliver content - He is good at it, but that's not where he adds value for your school or district. As you know, unless students develop a solid foundation for learning it does not matter how… Read more

Show Highlights School transformation and really leveraging curiosity and intentional design. Turn critics into cheerleaders with the "Can If mental model" Use the nine propelling questions to leverage the constraints and do something powerful within your school. Use your leadership superpowers and tools and follow… Read more

In this special episode, Chief Ruckus Maker, Danny Bauer teaches the Principal Success Formula™. This episode is in-depth. Much deeper than a usual show. We recommend you listen to this one with a notebook, so you can follow along and do the work Danny had leaders do when he taught this live. The four parts of the… Read more

Dr. Decoteau J. Irby's life work focuses on creating and sustaining organizations that contribute to Black people's self-determined well-being, development, and positive life outcomes. He is an Associate Professor at University of Illinois at Chicago in the Department of Educational Policy Studies. He is the author… Read more

Shannon Buerk is the Founder and CEO of engage2learn, a leading provider of Education Intelligence through smart professional learning, job-embedded coaching, and related technology solutions since 2011. Educator turned entrepreneur, she has emerged as a thought leader on educational leadership, organizational… Read more

Will Jawando is an attorney, an activist, a community leader, and a councilmember in Montgomery County, Maryland, a diverse community of more than one million residents. Called "the progressive leader we need" by the late congressman John Lewis, Jawando has worked with Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senator Sherrod Brown, and… Read more

Dr. CJ Lowery, is the Assistant Superintendent in Rockport-Fulton Texas. He has a background with inner-city and rural Title 1 schools as a teacher and principal. CJ believes that education is not a job, it's a mission field. This mission field requires strong relationships, data, and collaboration for success. "It's… Read more

Show Highlights Today we are talking about a topic I love -- MARGIN So many of my peers in the education space think that there isn't enough time. That's simply not true. The problem is that not everyone -- including me -- utilizes time effectively 100% of the time. I pride myself on telling you how it is. When I do… Read more

Show Highlights It's not about outcomes, it's about good judgment. Immediately results in building consistency and trust with your team. Batching tasks will maximize your time and focus. Stop switching and multitasking your to-do list. A system and a process for principals to lean into your genius. Alignment is key.… Read more

Crafting The Culture Jeff Zoul, is a lifelong teacher, learner, and leader. During Jeff's distinguished career in education he has served in a variety of roles, including Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning in Illinois. Jeff also served as a teacher and coach in the State of Georgia for many years… Read more

3 Ways To Build An Even Better Culture Show Highlights Create the right energy for your school with tips on relationship building and culture. You may be what's getting in the way of the culture you want to create. Separating emergencies vs distractions with the demands on your time. Moments that erode culture in your… Read more

Rebecca Rolland is the author of The Art of Talking with Children (HarperOne, March 2022). She is a national certified speech-language pathologist and adjunct lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She is also on the faculty at Harvard Medical School. She lives in Boston with her family. Show Highlights… Read more

MARK C. CROWLEY is a recognized visionary in workplace management, engagement, and culture. When the first edition of his book, Lead From The Heart: Transformational Leadership For The 21st Century , was published over a decade ago, many business leaders were slow to embrace it and misinterpreted its title as being… Read more

Show Highlights Improve the most underdeveloped area of your leadership. Understanding how you measure mindset growth and effectiveness. One of the problems with this though is that do you understand? 5 ways you can improve your mindset. Catch the inner critic and stop allowing yourself to beat yourself up. Sign up… Read more

Dr. Nathan D. Lang-Raad is an educator, speaker, and author. He is the Vice President of Strategy at Savvas Learning Company. Throughout his career, he has served as a teacher, elementary administrator, high school administrator, and university adjunct professor. He was the Director of Elementary Curriculum and… Read more

Linc Kroeger is the President of Knight Moves, a limited profit company creating the next generation of elite technology professionals through extensive training in technology disciplines, with an intentional focus on including Native American, rural, and urban underserved communities. Show Highlights Organizations… Read more

Show Highlights Bolster up your weakest leadership area with a new four part framework, Leadership Optimization Compass. Top three benefits of using the Leadership Optimization Compass. Add more than a hammer to your leadership toolbelt. Mental models you need at your disposal to become a more effective leader. Tools… Read more

Pete Hall i s a capacity-builder. Driven to impact others' lives in a profoundly positive way, he channels his experiences as a school principal, life coach, and small-business owner into manageable lessons for continuous growth, personal improvement, and positive mindset. Tenacious, courageous, and incorruptible,… Read more

Dr Shira Lewibowitz is a dynamic educator, author and entrepreneur, Shira is CEO and founder of both Revabilities and Discovery Village. Rev Abilities is a Professional Learning Academy helping educational business owners and directors bring their vision for learning to life so they can increase their income and… Read more

Al Kingsley is the CEO of NetSupport and Chair of a Multi-Academy Trust As well as his CEO and Chair roles, Al is an FED Co-chair of two groups, Chair of the BESA EdTech Group, member of Forbes Technology Council, and chairs his regional Employment and Skills Board. He's a well-known face in EdTech speaking… Read more

Bonus: Best Seller Show Notes Show Highlights Creating reality from your dreams comes from feeling it in the moment to unlock success. Five things Danny's learned from achieving bestseller status!! Positive visualization is essential to guide the steps you take towards manifesting your goals to the world. Don't hide… Read more

Christina Hidek is a recovering attorney, and current Professional Organizer and certified PTO volunteer nerd. She founded PTO Answers 5 years ago to help empower parents to improve their child's educational experience and school community through PTA/PTO involvement. She's been an active PTO leader for the past 12… Read more

Sarah Saint, advises and litigates on behalf of public and private educational institutions and school boards on an array of education law issues, including special education and disability issues, civil rights laws and tort claims. She has a particular focus on diversity and civil rights issues, including issues… Read more

LaTonya Wilkins , Founder of The Change Coaches, Latonya, and her team, build cultures of belonging through customized coaching and consulting services. A sought-after keynote speaker, she has inspired audiences all over the world, and was featured on a list of most inclusive HR influences in 2019. Her book, Leading… Read more

Dr. Amy Platt is delighted to be the Head of School at the Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School. Amy is passionate about excellent instruction and working with teachers to be the talented professionals they are destined to be. Amy holds a PhD and an MA from the University of Toronto. When Amy is not at work she can… Read more

Jennifer Cantor i s a proud graduate of the University of North Georgia, where she received a degree in English with a concentration in Writing and Publication. She went on from college to become an English teacher at Rivers Academy (formerly known as Chalk to Champions) in the Fall of 2008. Jennifer quickly became… Read more

Everett Hendrixon, with Eco Supply LLC, has been in agriculture for 20+ years. With an early career in law, and then business management, Everett believes he found what he wants to be when he grows up – someone who feeds people. Whether that means giving fresh produce from his micro-farm or educating others on the… Read more

Madeleine Mortimore is the Global Education Innovation and Research Lead for Logitech, where she leads research on EdTech hardware. With years of experience as a classroom teacher, Madeleine has developed a curriculum for grades 4-12. Her research experience includes positions at the MIT Teaching and Learning Lab.… Read more

Mark's passion is to release untapped leadership potential in people. So much leadership is wasted when the world defines leadership too narrowly. Mark's work helps people to better understand themselves and grow to be comfortable leading out of who they are. Mark has worked as a High School Teacher, Chairman of a… Read more

Afrika Afeni Mills is an Education Consultant and the author of Open Windows, Open Minds: Developing Antiracist, Pro-Human Students , available for pre-order through Corwin Press. She works with colleagues, teachers, coaches, and administrators to develop and sustain student-centered learning experiences that are… Read more

Leading Equity In Your Schools Sheldon L. Eakins, Ph.D. is the Founder of the Leading Equity Center and host of the Leading Equity Podcast. He is also the author of Leading Equity: Becoming an Advocate for All Students. With over 11 years in education, he has served as a teacher, principal, and Director of Special… Read more

Title: Your Mess Your Message Dr. Donna Marie Cozine helps overworked and exhausted Educational Leaders on the verge of burnout increase their work-life balance, so they can lead their organizations AND live the life they DESERVE! She is a leader, author, speaker, podcast host, and executive coach. Dr Cozine has been… Read more

As a chronically late student, Daniel Bauer once told his Chemistry teacher a fib about saving an entire girl scout troop from a burning building to get out of a tardy. Daniel is not sure if it was the very made up story, the very real cookie he offered his teacher, or a combination of both that got him out of a… Read more

Title: Improve Your Culture With Belonging Dr. Susie Wise is a design leader with experience in the education, tech, and the social sectors. She coaches leaders in equity design and innovation practices. She teaches at the d.school at Stanford and coaches with the Mira Fellowship . Previously she founded and directed… Read more

Title: How to Use Storytelling To Address the (In)Equity in Education Max Freedman is a reporter, producer, and co-host of School Colors . He created School Colors with Mark Winston Griffith, a veteran community organizer and the editor of Brooklyn Deep . After four years of research and reporting, the first season… Read more

The Perfect Rejection Resume Dr. Eli Joseph is an author, educator, and public speaker who currently serves as a faculty member at the Columbia University School of Professional Studies and as a business partner and medical examiner at ExamOne, a Quest Diagnostics company. His new book is The Perfect Rejection Resume:… Read more

Jean Burk is the author of the award-winning College Prep Genius program and has written numerous articles about the SAT and PSAT tests, high school prep, college prep, and how to get free college. She is a Fox News contributor on radio interviews and has been featured as an SAT expert on ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, TXA21,… Read more

Title: Improve Your Culture With Belonging Dr. Susie Wise is a design leader with experience in the education, tech, and the social sectors. She coaches leaders in equity design and innovation practices. She teaches at the d.school at Stanford and coaches with the Mira Fellowship . Previously she founded and directed… Read more

Resilience expert Deborah Gilboa, MD, aka "Dr. G" works with families, organizations, and businesses to identify the mindset and strategies to turn stress to an advantage. Renowned for her contagious humor, Dr. G works with groups across multiple generations, to rewire their attitudes and beliefs, and create… Read more

Join the "Back to School Boot Camp" The one thing you need to start next year off with energy momentum is a solid 90-day plan. In the "Back to School Bootcamp" I will teach you how to create your 90-day plan in just 5-days. Join the challenge today! Copyright © 2022 Twelve Practices LLC

Erika Horsley is a teacher, coach, consultant, mom, and founder of Love, Morty. With 16 years of experience teaching, she now offers coaching and consulting services supporting teachers holistically so that they can show up regulated to co-create caring classroom communities with ease. Show Highlights Build classroom… Read more

Resilience expert Deborah Gilboa, MD, aka "Dr. G" works with families, organizations, and businesses to identify the mindset and strategies to turn stress to an advantage. Renowned for her contagious humor, Dr. G works with groups across multiple generations, to rewire their attitudes and beliefs, and create… Read more

Julie Stern is a global consultant and author: Julie has nearly two decades experience facilitating adult learning, and feels lucky to partner with educators to take their practice to the next level. She is a four-time, best-selling author of Learning That Transfers, Visible Learning for Social Studies, The… Read more

Andrea Caprio is a Master Certified Transformational Nutrition Coach who helps busy professionals take back their power from yoyo dieting and overeating with proven tools and simple lifestyle hacks! It is Andrea's mission to help others free themselves from self-sabotage and unhealthy habits so they can live a… Read more

Cory L. Cain was raised amongst the vast palm trees of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He has served as a teacher, lead teacher, dean, department chair, assistant principal, and principal. In these positions, he has focused on communicative approaches to teacher-led professional development, cooperative learning, and… Read more

Eric Barker is the author of The Wall Street Journal bestseller "Barking Up the Wrong Tree," which has sold over half a million copies and been translated into 19 languages. It was even the subject of a question on "Jeopardy!" Over 500,000 people have subscribed to his weekly newsletter. His work has been covered by… Read more

Pete Hall is a capacity-builder. Driven to impact others' lives in a profoundly positive way, he channels his experiences as a school principal, life coach, and small-business owner into manageable lessons for continuous growth, personal improvement, and positive mindset. Tenacious, courageous, and incorruptible, Pete… Read more

TaRael Kee is an Assistant Principal at Collinsville High School and currently serving as President of the Illinois School Counselor Association. He recently became a Site-Based Trainer for the American School Counselor Association. As a former school counselor at Collinsville HighSchool, he utilized data and… Read more

James Anderson is an Australian-based international speaker, author and educator who is passionate about helping fellow educators develop students as better learners. Originally a teacher and school leader, for the past 20 years, James has been working with schools to make classrooms more thoughtful places. He… Read more

Show Highlights Stop spinning plates and drinking from the fire hydrant when implementing your vision and mission. The dangers of the "humblebrag" Adopt the 3 step Zen recipe for success Create the school of your dreams with these execution tips Big mistake school leaders make when leading Adopt the Apple success… Read more

Corey M. Christman is the winemaker at Bravery Wines, LLC.. He's a retired Supervisory Special Agent, USAF and a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He's a Doctoral student at Drexel University studying Educational Leadership. He's a graduate of the Executive Leadership Program, Cornell University, and holds an MBA… Read more

Christine Franklyn is an international speaker, writer and health coach. She is on a mission to help high-performing leaders get out from under the weight of everything that rests on their shoulders and truly shine. She has reverse-engineered the process she used to escape burnout and reclaim her A-Game. This is the… Read more

Jordan Mareno is a Partnerships Manager at Project Invent, a nonprofit that empowers high school and middle school students to invent technology for community impact. Jordan gravitates towards questions about and celebrations of human purpose, and believes that young people should be given chances — often and early —… Read more

Tanya Sheckley is the Founder and President of UP Academy, a progressive elementary lab school in San Mateo, California. UP Academy is reinventing education by customizing learning for each student, integrating project-based learning throughout its curriculum, and supporting students with disabilities to attend… Read more

Dr. Roseann is a mental health trailblazer, founder of The Global Institute of Children's Mental Health and Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LLC, who is, "Changing the way we view and treat children's mental health". FORBES magazine called her, "A thought leader in children's mental health". Her work has helped thousands… Read more

A professional bassist, Gerald J. Leonard offers a unique approach to accomplishing more productivity in the workplace. He is the CEO of Principles of Execution (PofE), a Certified Minority Business Enterprise, Strategic Project Portfolio Management and Culture Change consulting practice with over 20+ years'… Read more

Dr. Efraín Martínez is a father, husband, and the principal of Northwood Middle School in Highland Park, IL. He reflects and interviews luminary figures on his podcast Wisdom & Productivity . His one word is #improvement and he strives to do all he can to make this world better. Show Highlights The #1 productivity… Read more

Genein Letford is an award-winning speaker, best-selling author and corporate trainer on creative thinking and Intercultural Creativity™. She is the founder of CAFFE Strategies, and has inspired and led many to reconnect to their creative abilities in order to produce innovative ideas for an inclusive workspace. Show… Read more

Sasha Lipskaia helps her powerful clients get clarity on who they really are, become magnetic to what they desire, and embody their purpose by getting out of their minds and into the truth of their hearts so that they can feel aligned and worthy in their relationships, and their mission in the world. Over the past 20… Read more

Jason Dropik is an educational leader serving diverse communities with his just cause in creating meaningful and lasting relationships. He has served both Public and Private Schools in and near Milwaukee Wisconsin for over 20 years. Mr. Dropik currently serves as the Head of School at the Indian Community School in… Read more

Stanley S. Litow is Professor of the Practice at Duke University where he also served as Innovator in Residence and also teaches at Columbia University. He previously served as deputy chancellor of schools for New York City and as president of the IBM Foundation and vice president of Corporate Citizenship and… Read more

Robyn Jackson teaches a simple 4 step process that helps you improve teacher will AND skill so that you can achieve your vision for your school with the people you already have. No more waiting for others to get on board before you can reach your goals. No more having your vision be held hostage by the resistant, but… Read more

Randy Weiner has worked in education, ed tech and consulting throughout his career. In 2012, He co- founded and served as the first Chairman of the Board at Urban Montessori Charter School ( UMCS ) in Oakland, CA—the nation's first public Montessori, Arts Integration and Design Thinking school. Randy is also a… Read more

Dan Butler serves as the principal of Epworth Elementary School in the Western Dubuque Community School District. Previously, he was the principal of Epworth and Farley Elementary Schools simultaneously for four years focusing on positive relationships with all members of the learning community, high impact… Read more