George Couros starts off the podcast sharing the importance of ownership over the learning process, and how "Authorship" can lead to people being more excited about their own work and learning. He also reminds us that it is imperative to take care of ourselves before we can take care of others.

You can also check out some of the amazing guests from the last month.

The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast with John Kennedy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2toUOMHiB3o 

John Kennedy reflects on the future of AI and shares some of his predictions about how AI will be viewed in the future. Kennedy, who is incredibly well versed as the founder of Mesa and who is now at Panorama, shares some great insights about what AI may be in the future. In this clip from the full episode, Three Questions with John Kennedy, Not All AI is Created Equally, Kennedy considers the variety of AI options and the features it includes while reflecting on how to balance human intelligence with the artificial. Be sure to listen or watch to better understand why AI is average and what Kennedy means when he says that we may see a backlash to AI. If you are considering ways to balance AI in your classroom or in your life, be sure to listen to this clip! Also, check out the full Three Questions episode with John Kennedy for even more great ideas! 

Dr. JoAnna Roberto - Empowering Students: Inside the Grand Erie Innovation Hub

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAdIJbbGSU0 

Dr. JoAnna Roberto shares how she and her team have created an Innovation Hub and how that serves their learners. Hear how Dr. Roberto had a deep dive into conversations with her students and staff about how to progress as a district no matter where they are in education. The center of their conversations focused on empowering learners and elevating the work they are doing with STEAM education. 

Dr. Roberto goes into detail about how a new learning space has both created opportunities for students to learn and for the community to come in and learn as well.

Be sure to also watch or listen to the complete episode with Dr. JoAnna Roberto - Empowering Students: Inside the Grand Erie Innovation Hub for even more great ideas and resources! 

Embracing Change: Middle School Education & Leadership with Derek McCoy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lh4bpbsFW9E 

In this clip from the full episode, Derek McCoy and George Cours talk about education and leadership in middle school as compared to elementary schools. McCoy brings up the phrase, “one screen amongst many,” and the two talk about the evolution of the principalship. Couros comments on this thought and shares details about why it is important to have the in-person relationship away from a screen. McCoy reflects on how adults and students are adjusting to having strong, meaningful relationships. During this conversation, McCoy shares what he means when he says a “heart school” and how they are coaching teachers who want to be good teachers to be great. Couros also reflects on the negative impact of “being chronically online.” Be sure to watch or listen to the full episode for even more great thoughts and ideas from McCoy and Couros. 

AI-Driven Leader Book Review

In this clip from the full episode, The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast Epic Book Review: AI-Driven Leader, George Couros reflects on a recent blog post that he shared where he reflects on his reading of the book, AI-Driven Leader by Geoff Woods. 

Couros draws a connection between these two ideas: 

“Focusing too much on the aspiration, without clearly articulating the importance of the foundation”. - George Couros, One Thing Blog Post

“As a leader, you must ensure your people are focused on the most important actions they can take in the short term to fortify your competitive edge in the long term.” - Geoff Woods, AI-Driven Leader

Both quotes emphasize the critical balance between long-term vision and immediate action in leadership. Couros highlights the risk of neglecting foundational elements while chasing goals. Couros recognizes the need for clarity and prioritization. Woods’ quote reflects on the leader's role in directing focus towards actions that strengthen competitiveness over time, aligning short-term efforts with long-term strategic goals for sustained success.

Be sure to listen or watch the full episode of The Epic Book Review on AI-Driven Leader for even more insights from Couros’ reading!