CheckBox Pro Series

In this quarterly solo episode of the CheckBox Pro Series, Missy shares her What's Saving My Life list for Fall 2025—a season she defines as October through December, otherwise known as the sprint to the end of the year. This episode is equal parts reflection, survival guide, and joy inventory, capturing the small habits, simple tools, and intentional choices that helped her stay grounded during one of the busiest seasons of the year. From tiny logistics like a USB port adapter and Aquaphor, to bigger mindset shifts like not overplanning a family trip abroad, Missy walks through ten very real things that made life feel more manageable and more joyful. Along the way, she reflects on slowing down enough to notice what's working, creating margin where possible, and giving herself permission to lean into ease—even when the calendar is full. If you've ever felt like fall moved faster than you did, this episode is an invitation to pause, take stock, and name the things—big or small—that are helping you show up well for your people and yourself.

In this episode, Missy shares:

• The tiny tools that removed daily friction (and why they mattered more than expected).
• How Halloween became a joyful on-ramp to a hectic season.
• A mindset shift that made international travel with young kids actually enjoyable.
• Why rewatching familiar shows can be the perfect form of rest.
• Simple systems that reduced decision fatigue at home.
• How naming what's working can bring more calm, clarity, and gratitude.

Listener Invitation: If you've never made your own What's Saving My Life list, this episode is your sign. Write it down, voice note it, or just name it quietly to yourself. And if something from Missy's list resonated with you, she'd love to hear about it—because noticing what's working is always better together.

About CheckBox Pro: CheckBox Pro helps school leaders create sustainability through added capacity—taking repetitive tasks off their plates so they can focus on what matters most. https://www.checkboxpro.com/

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In this episode of the CheckBox Pro Series, Missy sits down with Dr. Josh Pinto Taylor, Co-Founder and Executive Director of The Anchor School in Atlanta, Georgia. Josh shares his journey from studying architecture to founding a charter school that blends academic excellence, student voice, and community impact. He reflects on the challenges of leading a growing school—running a thriving middle school while preparing to launch a high school—and what it means to lead with vision and shared ownership. Josh also unpacks The Anchor School's approach to place-based and project-based learning, where students identify problems within their own community and design solutions that make their school—and city—better. From hygiene cabinets and community gardens to student-designed duffel bags, Josh shares how giving students real agency transforms learning and builds lasting confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• How The Anchor School blends architecture, education, and community design to shape learning.
• The difference between place-based and project-based learning—and why both matter.
• Practical examples of student-led projects that improve their school community.
• How to implement project-based learning whether you're a classroom teacher or school leader.
• The power of centering students' voices through structures like "micro village meetings."

Connect with Josh:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-pinto-taylor-ed-d-77913035/
• Learn more about The Anchor School: https://www.theanchorschool.org

About CheckBox Pro: CheckBox Pro helps school leaders create sustainability through added capacity—taking repetitive tasks off their plates so they can focus on what matters most. https://www.checkboxpro.com/

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In this powerful episode of the CheckBox Pro Series, Missy sits down with Jasmin Dean, Founder and Executive Director of Celebrate Dyslexia and Celebrate Dyslexia Schools in San Antonio, Texas. What began as a mom's determination to help her son learn to read has grown into a movement reshaping how families, educators, and medical professionals understand and support dyslexia. Jasmin shares her journey from managing her husband's medical practice to founding a nonprofit—and eventually launching a public charter school designed as a model for how every campus can serve students with dyslexia effectively. She explains how Celebrate Dyslexia's three initiatives—high-profile community events, medical collaboration, and education innovation—work together to bridge the gap between advocacy and action. With warmth and conviction, Jasmin invites listeners to rethink how we define literacy success and why reading is the foundation of equity.

Key Takeaways:

• How a personal journey led to founding both a nonprofit and a public charter school for students with dyslexia.
• The power of aligning education and medicine to improve diagnosis and access to services.
• Why every teacher at Celebrate Dyslexia Schools is trained in academic language therapy.
• How the organization uses its "lab school" model to pilot and share best practices statewide.
• Jasmin's vision for an open-source dyslexia curriculum to make effective instruction accessible to all.

Connect with Jasmin:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasmin-dean-b95270192/
• Website: https://www.celebratedyslexia.org

About CheckBox Pro: CheckBox Pro helps school leaders create sustainability through added capacity—taking repetitive tasks off their plates so they can focus on what matters most. https://www.checkboxpro.com/

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In this episode of the CheckBox Pro Series, Missy sits down with Aaron Wallace, Associate Education Director at Dynamic Minds Academy in Indiana—a public charter school serving students across the autism spectrum. Aaron shares how his untraditional path from college hockey player to educator led him to a school that blends academics and therapy in powerful ways. He talks about the importance of "being the solid object"—a grounding presence for students and staff alike—and how that mindset shapes his leadership, especially in challenging moments. From advocating fiercely for his students to sustaining himself as both a leader and a dad, Aaron's story is an honest reminder of what it means to stay steady in the storm.

Key Takeaways:

• How Dynamic Minds Academy blends education and therapy for students on the autism spectrum.
• What it means to "be the solid object" for students—and why tone, patience, and presence matter.
• The role of humor and humanity in leadership and de-escalation.
• The importance of onboarding, mentorship, and protecting teachers from burnout.
• How Aaron sustains himself through intentional boundaries, family time, and perspective.

Connect with Aaron:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-wallace-56b750374/
• Learn more about Dynamic Minds Academy: https://www.dynamicmindsacademy.org

About CheckBox Pro: CheckBox Pro helps school leaders create sustainability through added capacity—taking repetitive tasks off their plates so they can focus on what matters most. https://www.checkboxpro.com/

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In this inspiring episode of the CheckBox Pro Series, Missy talks with Dr. Leticia Archuleta, Executive Director of Health Leadership High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico. With a background that bridges social work, education, and leadership, Dr. Archuleta shares how her school is redefining access and equity for students through a powerful blend of health education, community partnerships, and social-emotional learning. From paying students for internships to providing free healthcare and mental health services on campus, Health Leadership High School is a model for what it looks like to truly meet students where they are. Dr. Archuleta also opens up about her journey—from learning American Sign Language to becoming a school leader—and how her superpower of social-emotional leadership fuels a culture of restorative justice and student growth.

Key Takeaways:

• How Health Leadership High School "breaks down barriers" for students and families.
• The impact of integrating paid internships and on-site health and healing centers.
• Why social-emotional learning and restorative practices are central to student success.
• Dr. Archuleta's innovative Student Success Report Card and her focus on emotional intelligence.
• How leaders can balance high-impact work with home life while staying connected to their "why."

Connect with Dr. Archuleta:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/health-leadership-high-school/
• Learn more about Health Leadership High School: https://healthleadershiphighschool.org

About CheckBox Pro:

CheckBox Pro helps school leaders create sustainability through added capacity—taking repetitive tasks off their plates so they can focus on what matters most. https://www.checkboxpro.com/

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In this episode of the CheckBox Pro Series, Missy sits down with Danielle Mack, Chief Executive Officer of Ethos Classical in Atlanta. Danielle shares her journey from teaching seventh grade math to founding and leading a thriving K–8 school community, one she trusted enough to enroll her own children in. She opens up about the challenges of leading through growth and transition, the importance of balancing motherhood with leadership, and how she sustains herself in a demanding role. At the heart of her leadership is a superpower: creating joyful, connected communities where families, scholars, and staff are active participants rather than passive consumers.

Key Takeaways:

• Danielle's path from teaching and college access work to founding Ethos Classical.
• Why joy, community, and transparency are core values at Ethos.
• How Danielle balances being a school leader and mom of four—and why modeling whole-person care matters.
• The role of active listening and seeing children as "whole people" in building trust.
• Practical resources Danielle leans on: Yardsticks and The Whole-Brain Child.

Connect with Danielle:

• LinkedIn: Danielle Mack https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mack-09627a173/
• Learn more about Ethos Classical: https://www.ethosclassical.org

About CheckBox Pro: CheckBox Pro helps school leaders create sustainability through added capacity—taking repetitive tasks off their plates so they can focus on what matters most. https://www.checkboxpro.com/

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In this lighthearted solo episode, Missy shares her seasonal reflection on the small (and not-so-small) things that made her summer more joyful, manageable, and sustainable. From rediscovering lightning bugs to painting late-night walls, this list is equal parts nostalgic, practical, and honest. Think of it as her online diary—a moment to pause and name what's helping her show up well in work, life, and everything in between. Bonus: her mother-in-law (the #1 fan of these episodes) will be listening—and texting her approval.

Key Takeaways:

• A reminder that simple joys—like lightning bugs or bird feeders—can be life-giving.
• How "grandparent camps" saved the summer (and the budget).
• Why a weighted walking vest, Costco Instacart runs, and salad prep make everyday rhythms easier.
• Embracing tools and trends you didn't expect to love (looking at you, Stanley cup and Stitch Fix).
• The value of pausing to notice what's sustaining you each season.

Try it Yourself: Make your own "What's Saving My Life" list! Jot down the small practices, habits, or delights that are making your current season more joyful or sustainable. Share them with a friend—or send them to Missy to be featured in a future episode.

LINKS:

• Bird Feeder: https://www.amazon.com/Hanizi-Hanging-Feeder-Premium-Plastic/dp/B08F47C5F2?th=1
• Weighted Vest: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AJ12ML4?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_2&th=1

About CheckBox Pro: CheckBox Pro helps school leaders create sustainability through added capacity—taking repetitive tasks off their plates so they can focus on what matters most. https://www.checkboxpro.com/

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In this episode of the CheckBox Pro Series, Missy sits down with Matt Cowan, Executive Director of Believe Memphis Academy, to talk about his journey from classroom teacher to school leader and the lessons he's learned along the way. Matt shares how adaptability has been his superpower—helping him thrive in chaotic seasons, lead through challenges like founding a school during COVID, and now navigate the shift from principal to executive director. He opens up about the joys of watching students grow, the struggles of balancing leadership with family life, and the practical habits that keep him grounded. This candid conversation offers encouragement and real strategies for school leaders working to sustain themselves in this demanding work.

Key Takeaways:

• Matt's path from teacher to Executive Director and the challenges of each transition.
• Why adaptability and flexibility are essential superpowers for school leaders.
• The importance of clarity and alignment in building productive, empowered teams.
• Practical ways Matt and his wife (also a principal) balance leadership with parenting.
• Why celebrating small wins and student stories helps sustain leaders through hard seasons.

Connect with Matt Cowan:

• Learn more about Believe Memphis Academy https://believememphisacademy.org

Nominate a Guest: If you or someone you know is leading with sustainability in mind and has tips, tools, or stories worth sharing, fill out this nomination form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe7yAPDmx7Mnh-Za6yKw0otmtFGND9e-mMdYW_QGAFnbNly_A/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=102956796630725968003

About CheckBox Pro: CheckBox Pro helps school leaders create sustainability through added capacity—taking repetitive tasks off their plates so they can focus on what matters most. https://www.checkboxpro.com/

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In this episode, I sit down with Dana Stuart Browning, founder of The Texas Girls School, just five days after she opened the doors to her brand-new campus. Inspired by her daughter's experience in STEM, Dana shares her journey from classroom teacher to charter school founder and the vision behind creating a single-gender, STEM-focused, project-based learning environment for middle school girls in Austin. We talk about the challenges of launching a school, the importance of keeping both students and teachers in love with learning, and how strong boundaries and intentional communication systems help her lead with balance and clarity.

Key Takeaways:

• Founding a school requires nimbleness—hiring a mission-aligned team with a "founder's mindset" is critical.
• Research shows that girls in single-gender schools are more likely to pursue STEM fields, perform higher in math and science, and build stronger peer relationships.
• Texas Girls School emphasizes project-based learning, including weekly "Flex Fridays" for design challenges and field explorations.
• School leaders can sustain themselves by setting boundaries around technology—no email alerts, no late-night emails, and prioritizing in-person connection over constant digital communication.
• Dana's superpower as a leader is her ability to cast and realign with vision, helping her and her team stay grounded even when challenges arise.

Connect with Dana Stuart Browning:

• Follow Dana on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabrowning1976/
• Follow The Texas Girls School on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/texasgirlsschool/
• Learn more or schedule a tour: https://www.texasgirlsschool.org/

Nominate a Guest:

If you or someone you know is leading with sustainability in mind and has tips, tools, or stories worth sharing, fill out this nomination form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe7yAPDmx7Mnh-Za6yKw0otmtFGND9e-mMdYW_QGAFnbNly_A/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=102956796630725968003

About CheckBox Pro:

CheckBox Pro helps school leaders create sustainability through added capacity—taking repetitive tasks off their plates so they can focus on what matters most. https://www.checkboxpro.com/

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In this special solo episode, host Missy Couch shares an exciting shift in the CheckBox Pro Series focus. While past episodes have featured subject-matter experts in education, Missy is pivoting to spotlight the real pros—school leaders who are in the trenches every day. She reflects on trends she's seeing in the field, from the loneliness many leaders feel to the hunger for connection and sustainability, and explains why creating a space for leaders to share their stories, strategies, and "why" matters now more than ever. This is the beginning of a new season of conversations designed to inspire, connect, and remind leaders that this challenging work can be both doable and joyful.

Key Takeaways:

• The podcast will shift from expert interviews to conversations with school leaders currently doing the work.
• Sustainability in education is about more than efficiency—it's also about mindset, community, and support.
• Many leaders struggle with isolation and burnout; sharing stories can help create connection.
• Listeners are invited to nominate themselves or others for future episodes.

Nominate a Guest: If you or someone you know is leading with sustainability in mind and has tips, tools, or stories worth sharing, fill out this nomination form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe7yAPDmx7Mnh-Za6yKw0otmtFGND9e-mMdYW_QGAFnbNly_A/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=102956796630725968003

About CheckBox Pro: CheckBox Pro helps school leaders create sustainability through added capacity—taking repetitive tasks off their plates so they can focus on what matters most. https://www.checkboxpro.com/

Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ