Change Starts Here

Ever feel like your day is running you instead of the other way around? In this episode of Change Starts Here, host Dustin Odham explores one of the most powerful tools for effective leadership: the Time Management Matrix. Learn how shifting from spending time to investing time can unlock long-term success—for your team, your students, and yourself.

Dustin unpacks why quadrant two (important but not urgent) is where the most impactful leaders thrive—focusing on reflection, planning, and relationships. He shares practical, high-leverage ways to invest time in teacher development, school culture, and personal well-being to create a ripple effect of positive change. If you're ready to stop reacting and start leading with purpose, this episode is for you.

Be sure to like, subscribe, and turn on bell notifications to ensure you don't miss our next episode.

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Host: Dustin Odham, Managing Director at FranklinCovey Education

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 01:16) Introduction

(01:17 - 04:53) Time Management Matrix

(04:54 - 08:04) Spending Time Vs Investing Time

(08:05 - 09:19) Making the Most of Your Time

(09:20 - 09:45) Closing

Language is more than just communication—it’s a powerful tool that shapes how we think, feel, and experience the world. In this episode of Change Starts Here: Research Conversations, Kim Yaris, M.Ed., Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education, and Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education, dive into the deep connection between language and learning. They explore how small shifts in the way educators and students speak can impact confidence, motivation, and resilience in the classroom.

From the influence of strength-based language to the power of the word “yet” in fostering a growth mindset, this discussion highlights the science behind how words shape student potential. Kim and Jennifer also provide practical strategies for educators to reframe language, reinforce positive self-talk, and empower students to develop a mindset that leads to lifelong learning and success. Tune in to discover how changing the way we speak can change the way we learn!

Don’t forget to like and subscribe, and turn on those bell notifications so you don’t miss our next episode!

Download the Staff Booster for Developing Student Self-Efficacy!

https://resources.franklincovey.com/c/csh_ral_k12?x=uMEpy3

Starring: Kim Yaris, M.Ed, Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education

Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 00:59) Introduction

(01:00 - 06:44) The Deeper Power of Words

(06:45 - 11:27) How Language Impacts Teaching and Learning

(11:28 - 18:26) Reinforcing Feelings with Language

(18:27 - 20:06) Motivating Students to use Strength-Based Language

(20:07 - 21:17) “Yet” is a Mindset

(21:18 - 23:47) Gradually Reframing Language

(23:48 - 26:32) Responding to Student Resistance

(26:33 - 27:31) Closing

Language is more than just communication—it’s a powerful tool that shapes how we think, feel, and experience the world. In this episode of Change Starts Here: Research Conversations, Kim Yaris, M.Ed., Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education, and Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education, dive into the deep connection between language and learning. They explore how small shifts in the way educators and students speak can impact confidence, motivation, and resilience in the classroom.

From the influence of strength-based language to the power of the word “yet” in fostering a growth mindset, this discussion highlights the science behind how words shape student potential. Kim and Jennifer also provide practical strategies for educators to reframe language, reinforce positive self-talk, and empower students to develop a mindset that leads to lifelong learning and success. Tune in to discover how changing the way we speak can change the way we learn!

Don’t forget to like and subscribe, and turn on those bell notifications so you don’t miss our next episode!

Download the Staff Booster for Developing Student Self-Efficacy!

https://resources.franklincovey.com/c/csh_ral_k12?x=uMEpy3

Starring: Kim Yaris, M.Ed, Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education

Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 00:59) Introduction

(01:00 - 06:44) The Deeper Power of Words

(06:45 - 11:27) How Language Impacts Teaching and Learning

(11:28 - 18:26) Reinforcing Feelings with Language

(18:27 - 20:06) Motivating Students to use Strength-Based Language

(20:07 - 21:17) “Yet” is a Mindset

(21:18 - 23:47) Gradually Reframing Language

(23:48 - 26:32) Responding to Student Resistance

(26:33 - 27:31) Closing

Language is more than just communication—it’s a powerful tool that shapes how we think, feel, and experience the world. In this episode of Change Starts Here: Research Conversations, Kim Yaris, M.Ed., Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education, and Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education, dive into the deep connection between language and learning. They explore how small shifts in the way educators and students speak can impact confidence, motivation, and resilience in the classroom.

From the influence of strength-based language to the power of the word “yet” in fostering a growth mindset, this discussion highlights the science behind how words shape student potential. Kim and Jennifer also provide practical strategies for educators to reframe language, reinforce positive self-talk, and empower students to develop a mindset that leads to lifelong learning and success. Tune in to discover how changing the way we speak can change the way we learn!

Don’t forget to like and subscribe, and turn on those bell notifications so you don’t miss our next episode!

Download the Staff Booster for Developing Student Self-Efficacy!

https://resources.franklincovey.com/c/csh_ral_k12?x=uMEpy3

Starring: Kim Yaris, M.Ed, Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education

Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 00:59) Introduction

(01:00 - 06:44) The Deeper Power of Words

(06:45 - 11:27) How Language Impacts Teaching and Learning

(11:28 - 18:26) Reinforcing Feelings with Language

(18:27 - 20:06) Motivating Students to use Strength-Based Language

(20:07 - 21:17) “Yet” is a Mindset

(21:18 - 23:47) Gradually Reframing Language

(23:48 - 26:32) Responding to Student Resistance

(26:33 - 27:31) Closing

Leadership in education isn’t just about policies and procedures—it’s about putting students first. When school leaders shift their mindset to serve students and staff rather than simply oversee them, they create an environment where everyone can thrive.

Welcome to Change Starts Here. Join host Dustin Odham as he sits down with Dr. Toriano Holloway, Superintendent of Vicksburg Warren School District, to discuss his student-first leadership philosophy. Dr. Holloway shares the lessons he’s learned throughout his journey in education, the values that drive his district, and how he helps students recognize their unique strengths. From Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs to fostering community partnerships, he offers insights into how Vicksburg Warren School District is preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, mentorship, and shaping the future of education in Mississippi. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes!

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Host: Dustin Odham, Managing Director at FranklinCovey Education

Guest: Dr. Toriano Holloway, Superintendent of Vicksburg Warren School District

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 02:32) Introduction

(02:33 - 04:03) The Best “Worst” Decision

(04:04 - 05:33) Dr. Holloway’s Calling to Education

(05:34 - 06:41) Vicksburg Values

(06:42 - 08:57) Lessons Learned Along the Way

(08:58 - 11:23) Growing as a Leader

(11:24 - 14:31) Helping Students Find Their Voice

(14:32 - 17:47) Resources to Help Students Be Great

(17:48 - 22:09) CTE in Vicksburg Warren School District

(22:10 - 24:56) Comparing CTE and College

(24:57 - 26:52) Upcoming Priorities for Vicksburg Warren School District

(26:53 - 29:45) The Progress Happening in Vicksburg Warren School District

(29:46 - 31:40) Shaping Education in Mississippi

(31:41 - 38:23) Advice and Encouragement for Superintendents

(38:24 - 42:27) Building Community Partnerships and Special Shoutouts

(42:28 - 43:57) Hope for Legacy

(43:58 - 49:19) Rapid Fire Questions

(49:20 - 50:31) Learn More About the Vicksburg Warren School District

(50:32 - 52:41) Closing

Hashtags:

#EducationLeadership #FutureLeaders #BuildingLeaders #StudentSuccess #LeadershipDevelopment #TrustAndGrowth #EducationMatters #Mentorship #SchoolLeadership #SuperintendentInsights

Leadership in education isn’t just about policies and procedures—it’s about putting students first. When school leaders shift their mindset to serve students and staff rather than simply oversee them, they create an environment where everyone can thrive.

Welcome to Change Starts Here. Join host Dustin Odham as he sits down with Dr. Toriano Holloway, Superintendent of Vicksburg Warren School District, to discuss his student-first leadership philosophy. Dr. Holloway shares the lessons he’s learned throughout his journey in education, the values that drive his district, and how he helps students recognize their unique strengths. From Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs to fostering community partnerships, he offers insights into how Vicksburg Warren School District is preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, mentorship, and shaping the future of education in Mississippi. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes!

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Host: Dustin Odham, Managing Director at FranklinCovey Education

Guest: Dr. Toriano Holloway, Superintendent of Vicksburg Warren School District

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 02:32) Introduction

(02:33 - 04:03) The Best “Worst” Decision

(04:04 - 05:33) Dr. Holloway’s Calling to Education

(05:34 - 06:41) Vicksburg Values

(06:42 - 08:57) Lessons Learned Along the Way

(08:58 - 11:23) Growing as a Leader

(11:24 - 14:31) Helping Students Find Their Voice

(14:32 - 17:47) Resources to Help Students Be Great

(17:48 - 22:09) CTE in Vicksburg Warren School District

(22:10 - 24:56) Comparing CTE and College

(24:57 - 26:52) Upcoming Priorities for Vicksburg Warren School District

(26:53 - 29:45) The Progress Happening in Vicksburg Warren School District

(29:46 - 31:40) Shaping Education in Mississippi

(31:41 - 38:23) Advice and Encouragement for Superintendents

(38:24 - 42:27) Building Community Partnerships and Special Shoutouts

(42:28 - 43:57) Hope for Legacy

(43:58 - 49:19) Rapid Fire Questions

(49:20 - 50:31) Learn More About the Vicksburg Warren School District

(50:32 - 52:41) Closing

Hashtags:

#EducationLeadership #FutureLeaders #BuildingLeaders #StudentSuccess #LeadershipDevelopment #TrustAndGrowth #EducationMatters #Mentorship #SchoolLeadership #SuperintendentInsights

Leadership in education isn’t just about policies and procedures—it’s about putting students first. When school leaders shift their mindset to serve students and staff rather than simply oversee them, they create an environment where everyone can thrive.

Welcome to Change Starts Here. Join host Dustin Odham as he sits down with Dr. Toriano Holloway, Superintendent of Vicksburg Warren School District, to discuss his student-first leadership philosophy. Dr. Holloway shares the lessons he’s learned throughout his journey in education, the values that drive his district, and how he helps students recognize their unique strengths. From Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs to fostering community partnerships, he offers insights into how Vicksburg Warren School District is preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, mentorship, and shaping the future of education in Mississippi. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes!

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Host: Dustin Odham, Managing Director at FranklinCovey Education

Guest: Dr. Toriano Holloway, Superintendent of Vicksburg Warren School District

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 02:32) Introduction

(02:33 - 04:03) The Best “Worst” Decision

(04:04 - 05:33) Dr. Holloway’s Calling to Education

(05:34 - 06:41) Vicksburg Values

(06:42 - 08:57) Lessons Learned Along the Way

(08:58 - 11:23) Growing as a Leader

(11:24 - 14:31) Helping Students Find Their Voice

(14:32 - 17:47) Resources to Help Students Be Great

(17:48 - 22:09) CTE in Vicksburg Warren School District

(22:10 - 24:56) Comparing CTE and College

(24:57 - 26:52) Upcoming Priorities for Vicksburg Warren School District

(26:53 - 29:45) The Progress Happening in Vicksburg Warren School District

(29:46 - 31:40) Shaping Education in Mississippi

(31:41 - 38:23) Advice and Encouragement for Superintendents

(38:24 - 42:27) Building Community Partnerships and Special Shoutouts

(42:28 - 43:57) Hope for Legacy

(43:58 - 49:19) Rapid Fire Questions

(49:20 - 50:31) Learn More About the Vicksburg Warren School District

(50:32 - 52:41) Closing

Hashtags:

#EducationLeadership #FutureLeaders #BuildingLeaders #StudentSuccess #LeadershipDevelopment #TrustAndGrowth #EducationMatters #Mentorship #SchoolLeadership #SuperintendentInsights

Think back to a time when you felt truly empowered to make a decision. Perhaps it was choosing your career path, selecting a home, or even deciding how to tackle a challenging project. That feeling of ownership and control is powerful—it drives motivation, persistence, and ultimately, success. Now imagine if we could cultivate that same sense of empowerment in our students from an early age.

In this episode of Change Starts Here: Research Conversations, Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education, and Kim Yaris, M.Ed., Associate Director of Research, explore the critical concept of student agency. They distinguish agency from efficacy, share powerful stories that demonstrate both the presence and absence of agency in educational settings, and discuss practical strategies educators can implement to foster agency in their classrooms. Learn how small shifts in language, purposeful wait time, and creating space for productive struggle can transform students from passive followers into active, confident learners who take ownership of their education and their lives.

Don't forget to like and subscribe, and turn on those bell notifications so you don't miss our next episode on fostering a sense of belonging in schools!

Blog: https://resources.franklincovey.com/c/rcbpsa_k12?x=XlTKb-

Staff Booster: https://resources.franklincovey.com/c/sbcsa_k12?x=XlTKb-

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at

https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Starring:

Kim Yaris, M.Ed, Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education

Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 01:29) Introduction and Defining Agency

(01:30 - 03:29) Agency vs. Efficacy and Real-World Examples

(03:30 - 05:59) The Impact of Limited Agency

(06:00 - 08:20) Learned Helplessness and Why Agency Matters

(08:21 - 10:39) Barriers to Developing Agency

(10:40 - 13:49) Teacher Intentions and Productive Struggle

(13:50 - 16:20) Strategies: Language and Wait Time

(16:21 - 18:29) Building Confidence Through Practice

(18:30 - 20:20) Systemic Approach and Closing

Think back to a time when you felt truly empowered to make a decision. Perhaps it was choosing your career path, selecting a home, or even deciding how to tackle a challenging project. That feeling of ownership and control is powerful—it drives motivation, persistence, and ultimately, success. Now imagine if we could cultivate that same sense of empowerment in our students from an early age.

In this episode of Change Starts Here: Research Conversations, Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education, and Kim Yaris, M.Ed., Associate Director of Research, explore the critical concept of student agency. They distinguish agency from efficacy, share powerful stories that demonstrate both the presence and absence of agency in educational settings, and discuss practical strategies educators can implement to foster agency in their classrooms. Learn how small shifts in language, purposeful wait time, and creating space for productive struggle can transform students from passive followers into active, confident learners who take ownership of their education and their lives.

Don't forget to like and subscribe, and turn on those bell notifications so you don't miss our next episode on fostering a sense of belonging in schools!

Blog: https://resources.franklincovey.com/c/rcbpsa_k12?x=XlTKb-

Staff Booster: https://resources.franklincovey.com/c/sbcsa_k12?x=XlTKb-

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at

https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Starring:

Kim Yaris, M.Ed, Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education

Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 01:29) Introduction and Defining Agency

(01:30 - 03:29) Agency vs. Efficacy and Real-World Examples

(03:30 - 05:59) The Impact of Limited Agency

(06:00 - 08:20) Learned Helplessness and Why Agency Matters

(08:21 - 10:39) Barriers to Developing Agency

(10:40 - 13:49) Teacher Intentions and Productive Struggle

(13:50 - 16:20) Strategies: Language and Wait Time

(16:21 - 18:29) Building Confidence Through Practice

(18:30 - 20:20) Systemic Approach and Closing

Think back to a time when you felt truly empowered to make a decision. Perhaps it was choosing your career path, selecting a home, or even deciding how to tackle a challenging project. That feeling of ownership and control is powerful—it drives motivation, persistence, and ultimately, success. Now imagine if we could cultivate that same sense of empowerment in our students from an early age.

In this episode of Change Starts Here: Research Conversations, Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education, and Kim Yaris, M.Ed., Associate Director of Research, explore the critical concept of student agency. They distinguish agency from efficacy, share powerful stories that demonstrate both the presence and absence of agency in educational settings, and discuss practical strategies educators can implement to foster agency in their classrooms. Learn how small shifts in language, purposeful wait time, and creating space for productive struggle can transform students from passive followers into active, confident learners who take ownership of their education and their lives.

Don't forget to like and subscribe, and turn on those bell notifications so you don't miss our next episode on fostering a sense of belonging in schools!

Blog: https://resources.franklincovey.com/c/rcbpsa_k12?x=XlTKb-

Staff Booster: https://resources.franklincovey.com/c/sbcsa_k12?x=XlTKb-

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at

https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Starring:

Kim Yaris, M.Ed, Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education

Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 01:29) Introduction and Defining Agency

(01:30 - 03:29) Agency vs. Efficacy and Real-World Examples

(03:30 - 05:59) The Impact of Limited Agency

(06:00 - 08:20) Learned Helplessness and Why Agency Matters

(08:21 - 10:39) Barriers to Developing Agency

(10:40 - 13:49) Teacher Intentions and Productive Struggle

(13:50 - 16:20) Strategies: Language and Wait Time

(16:21 - 18:29) Building Confidence Through Practice

(18:30 - 20:20) Systemic Approach and Closing