Cognia Leader Chat

Pearl is an inspirational leader in many respects. She is fearless, strategic, but ultimately empowered by doing what is best for those she serves. She has and continues to resist the trappings of politics and bureaucracy, and her story needs to be shared and heard by principals and district leaders. She and Jeff get real in this conversation, and we encourage all to learn via Pearl's story and success.

If you are interested in learning more and developing yourself as a leader and don’t know Craig Dowden, you must. His work and perspective are incredibly valuable and unique. Many writers, speakers, and consultants in the leadership space focus on systems and structures of productivity. Craig’s focus aligns squarely with the internal and behavioral health of leaders themselves. His research and advice are pragmatic and meaningful. He and Jeff discuss his book, A Time to Lead: Mastering Yourself…So You Can Master Your World. It’s a must-read, and this is a must-listen. Enjoy!

We were drawn to Starr's book, 'From Teacher to Leader: Finding Your Way as a First-Time Leader Without Losing Your Mind'. This challenging transition, described in even the title, is more relevant today than it ever has been. Starr Sackstein offers her very honest and pragmatic reflections and advice in this engaging conversation.

For some leaders and educators, AI is exciting and full of potential. For others, it's scary and intimidating. This being the case, the best strategy is to tap the wisdom of someone like Pat Yongpradit, the Chief Academic Officer for Code.org and leader of TeachAI. Listeners of Leader Chat will appreciate his candor and balanced perspective. AI resources and influence will only continue to grow, so learning from experts like Pat is extremely valuable.

Heath Morrison is the CEO of Teachers of Tomorrow, a very important and vital organization that is fortunate to be led by someone with vast experience who cares deeply about students and teachers. Heath and Jeff delve into the relevant and critical topic of teacher shortages—what is and what is to come. Their discussion analyzed the current status and conditions impacting the problem and delves into brainstorming future solutions. Every educational leader should listen to this!

PJ Caposey is impressive! He is an award winning and working superintendent. His story of overcoming personal challenges is motivating, and he also supports leaders across the country as he coaches and speaks to the themes he has written about in his several published books. He and Jeff delve into 'Cracking the Coaching Code', one of his books and Time Management issues, which he has also written about. PJ and Jeff get along GREAT- enjoy their conversation!

Margaret Wheatley is a deep thinker and clearly has an incredible background working with leaders around the world. She has written extensively on education and leadership, and her work is personal and pushes others to take a close look at themselves. The conversation between Jeff and Margaret was different than other Leader Chats, in a good way. Enjoy this discussion as they talk about her book, Who Do We Choose To Be: Facing Reality, Claiming Leadership, & Restoring Sanity.

David Esmie is not an educator by trade. Rather, guided by his own experiences in the finance industry, he has chosen to dedicate himself to influencing typically underrepresented youth to pursue careers in finance. He and Jeff are friends, and our listeners will appreciate them comparing notes and talking strategy on how David is impacting future financiers.

Imagine an educational leader who has empathy for the challenges faced in the classroom, one who is able to create systems focused on the learner and the teacher. Also, think of a leader who embraces innovation and is able to create a culture that finds a balance of autonomy and fidelity for the organization. This person is Devin Vodicka! In this Leader Chat, he and Jeff engage in a conversation about what ‘Learner-Centered Leadership’ really is and why it’s needed.

AJ Crabill has been on a Leader Chat before, but based on the quality of our last conversation with him, and his new book, we simply had to have him back. AJ’s understanding of school board governance is beyond reproach. His new book, ‘Great on Their Behalf’, is a must read for any school or district leader. School boards have the potential to focus their efforts on students, and if they shed the temptation to focus on adult issues, great things can happen.