We’ve all been there—cruising along and suddenly hitting a dip in the road we didn’t see coming. It rattles everything. The truth is, life usually gives us warning signs if we’re paying attention. Ignore them, and the ride gets a whole lot rougher than it has to be.

In this episode of Educators Among Us, Scott Barron, Chef Reinvention Officer with School Growth, shares why those signs matter so much, especially for teachers and school leaders. He talks about the small details that can tip us off, the unexpected “dips” that slow us down, and how being alert helps us avoid the bigger messes. Sometimes the challenge is structural, sometimes it’s about people, and sometimes it’s just part of the system we work in.

Scott doesn’t just leave it at the problems. He dives into how to handle them. From setting healthy boundaries and planning ahead, to listening for feedback and noticing blind spots, he shows how to turn bumps in the road into chances to adjust and keep moving. It’s about learning when to press forward and when to ease off the gas.

-Warning signs are there for a reason—don’t ignore them

-Educators succeed by spotting small details before they become big problems

-Dips can come from conflicts, systems, or people

-Rest and boundaries keep us steady when the road gets rough

-Trusted voices help us see what we’d otherwise miss

-Planning ahead is better than reacting in panic

-Flexibility and courage go hand in hand

-How we respond to dips shapes trust with others

-Sometimes slowing down is the smartest move forward

-Every challenge can be a chance to reset and refocus

Chapters

00:42 Introduction

01:43 Sleuthing the Signs

03:27 Warning Signs

05:44 Navigating the Dips

09:57 Preparing our Response

13:33 Coaching Question

—-----------------------------

Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith. 

www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

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https://www.edfellowship.org/

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The world often applauds being busy, but underneath the constant motion is a quiet cost. Busyness can crowd out clarity, overshadow joy, and leave little room for our souls to breathe. What if, instead of letting busyness run our lives, we could reclaim the rhythm of purpose and the peace of living out our true priorities?

In this episode of Educators Among Us, Scott Barron, Chef Reinvention Officer with School Growth takes on this very tension, speaking to the lives of educators and leaders who often feel the relentless pace of bell-to-bell demands. He reflects on the dangers of treating busyness as a “badge of honor” and how misplaced priorities can masquerade as productivity.

Through scripture, practical wisdom, and daily habits, Scott points to a better way: starting each day with prayer, practicing gratitude, and setting priorities with intention. He highlights how small, consistent choices can reduce burnout, strengthen relationships, and restore energy for the things that matter most.

Takeaways:

-Busyness often masquerades as productivity but can actually drain joy and clarity.

-The demands of leadership and education don’t have to dictate our choices.

-Starting the day with prayer resets the heart and mind for what’s ahead.

-Practicing gratitude fuels energy and strengthens perspective.

-Intentional planning helps align time with true priorities.

-Boundaries with schedules protect well-being and effectiveness.

-Small, consistent habits reduce burnout and elevate relationships.

-Finding your “zone” means aligning passion and unique talent with purpose.

-Choosing purpose over busyness transforms how we lead and serve.

Chapters

00:43 Introduction

01:38 A Busy Life

03:36 Why So Busy?

06:12 Better Habits

07:15 Find Your Zone

08:03 A Coaching Question

—-----------------------------

Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith. 

www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

www.educatorsamongus.com

https://www.edfellowship.org/

Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:  

Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:  

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The start of any school year often brings both joy and challenge. The excitement of fresh beginnings can quickly collide with the pressures of conflict, fatigue, and unmet expectations. For educators, the difference between simply showing up and truly committing makes all the difference—not just in their own outlook, but in the culture of an entire school community.

In this episode of Educators Among Us, Scott Barron, Chef Reinvention Officer with School Growth unpacks what it means to be “all in” as an educator. He explores the gap between involvement and commitment, drawing on wisdom from voices like Martina Navratilova, Maya Angelou, and even the Apostle Paul to encourage educators to endure with purpose. 

Along the way, he sheds light on the “disses” that drain motivation—disrespect, discomfort, disconnect, dismay, and disengagement—and how to guard against them.

For anyone who has ever wondered if they can keep giving their best, Scott’s reminder is clear: consistency matters, and your daily presence makes a life-changing impact.

Takeaways:

-Commitment is more powerful than mere involvement. -Guard against the “disses”: disrespect, discomfort, disconnect, dismay, disengagement.

-Galatians 6:9 offers hope for educators to not grow weary in doing good.

-Habits of reflection, recovery, resetting, and renewal sustain long-term resilience.

-Self-awareness is a key marker of high-performing educators.

-Consistency and reliability shape culture more than perfection.

-Preparation and presence reveal true loyalty to the calling. -Educators who remain steadfast become the constant students need most.

Chapters

00:42 Introduction

01:54 To Be All In

03:28 The School Year Honeymoon

04:22  The Diss’es

06:26 Committed Educators

07:47Steadfast Character

11:06 A Coaching Question

—-----------------------------

Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith. 

www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

www.educatorsamongus.com

https://www.edfellowship.org/

Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:  

Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:  

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

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Some people walk into a room and light it up. Their energy is contagious, their focus inspiring, and their presence a reminder that intensity and passion are powerful forces for change. In education, those qualities aren’t optional—they are essential. When educators bring their best to the classroom, the office, or the bus route, students see that learning matters and that they matter.

In this episode of Educators Among Us, Scott Barron, Chef Reinvention Officer with School Growth introduces the concept of “contagious intensity” and how it shapes the lives of teachers, coaches, administrators, and staff across the school community. He draws parallels from sports legends like Tiger Woods, by retelling a story from Scottie Scheffler about how Tiger’s intensity changed his life.

This podcast is about what it means to bring your A-game daily, how intensity communicates significance, and why breakthroughs in education require undistracted effort. 

Contagious intensity may be the key to building momentum, sparking innovation, and reminding ourselves why the calling to education is one of the most important vocations we can pursue.

Takeaways:

-Intensity in education is contagious, influencing both colleagues and students. -Inspiration often comes from modeling. Seeing others fully engaged can change our approach. -Tiger Woods’ relentless focus served as a lesson for Scottie Scheffler, and a metaphor for educators. -During COVID, collective resilience showed the power of united intensity and purpose. -Breakthroughs in education won’t happen with partial or distracted effort. -Focused presence communicates both that learning matters and that people matter. -Intensity is transformational—it creates momentum and sparks innovation. -Educators must remember their noble calling and not lose perspective amid fatigue or pressure.

Chapters

00:42 Introduction

01:43 Contagious Intensity

02:59 Intensity and Tiger Woods

05:36 Collective Resilience

08:28 Passionate Intensity

12:05 Coaching Question 

—-----------------------------

Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith. 

www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

www.educatorsamongus.com

https://www.edfellowship.org/

Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:  

Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:  

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth

When life in schools feels messy, unpredictable, or even overwhelming, educators are the ones who hold steady and bring direction. Chaos is inevitable in the classroom, in leadership, and in our personal lives.  What matters is how we respond. Every educator is a leader, and every leader is an educator.  So, we must respond well.

In this episode of Educators Among Us, Scott Barron, Chef Reinvention Officer with School Growth explores the idea of “mastery in chaos” and what it really means for those serving in education. Scott makes a case for seeing chaos not as a threat but as an opportunity for deeper leadership.

Listeners will hear about the different “types” of chaos—creative, organized, adaptive, and transitional, and how each offers a chance to cultivate stronger schools and stronger people. 

By the end, you’ll be encouraged to step into your role as an educator with courage and intentionality. Chaos may not disappear, but you can choose to transform it into something that strengthens your students, your colleagues, and your own leadership journey

Takeaways:

-Chaos is a reality in schools, but it can be harnessed for growth

-Four types of chaos: creative, organized, adaptive, transitional

-Leadership often happens most powerfully during transitions

-Every educator is a leader, and every leader is an educator

-Educators shape culture through behavior and words

-Chaos can be reframed as a canvas for innovation and resilience

-Effective leaders discipline emotions and model integrity

Chapters

00:44 Introduction

02:00 Defining Shambolic

04:10 Categories of Chaos

6:40 Educators are Leaders, Leaders are Educators

9:25 Thriving in Chaos

10:40 Coaching Question

—-----------------------------

Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith. 

www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

www.educatorsamongus.com

https://www.edfellowship.org/

Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:  

Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:  

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth

Every student deserves a chance to discover purpose and hope, even when life has stacked the odds against them. For those in foster care, incarceration, addiction recovery, or living on the margins of the education system, school can feel disconnected from reality. But with the right culture, teachers, and leadership, education can become the bridge to a new future.

In this episode, Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, talks with Jennifer Rower, Chief Executive Officer with BrainNation, who shares her journey from a career in business to leading BrainNation’s impact schools. These schools serve 100% at-risk students, focusing on relationship-driven learning models that restore trust and create belonging. Jennifer explains how her own mentors shaped her path, and how she now leads teams that give students the chance to write new stories for their lives.

Jennifer reveals the principles that guide Brain Nation’s success, from building a culture that retains great teachers to ensuring hiring decisions reflect mission and conviction rather than just credentials. She also highlights how her background in human resources gave her the tools to strengthen leadership pipelines, support educators, and align vision across multiple campuses.

The conversation closes with a candid look at the challenges schools face today: disconnection, rapid change, and the need to leverage technology wisely. Jennifer’s perspective shows that the way forward is not about more systems or programs.  It’s about authentic relationships, courageous leadership, and creating environments where both students and teachers thrive.

Takeaways

-At-risk students need connection, trust, and belonging before learning can flourish.

-Impact schools focus on students in foster care, incarceration, sobriety programs, and other vulnerable situations

-Relationships—not programs—are the foundation of meaningful education.

-Hiring for mission and shared conviction matters more than credentials alone.

-Teacher retention is built on culture, trust, and strong leadership at every level

-Business principles like talent strategy can strengthen schools when paired with compassion.

-Educators must plan carefully while staying present and adaptable in the moment.

-Failure and vulnerability are essential parts of innovation in education.

-Schools must partner with parents and communities to reconnect students

-Technology should be used strategically to save time, support self-care, and deepen learning.

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction

03:29 An Impactful Educator

07:53 Jennifer’s Journey

14:41 Lessons Learned About Education

18:23 The Inquiry Model

20:43 Biggest Challenge in Schools

27:16 Increasing Employee Retention

31:22 Advice for Education Leaders

34:36 Seeking Improvement

_______

Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith. 

www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

www.educatorsamongus.com

https://www.edfellowship.org/

Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:  

Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:  

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Some people seem to carry joy like a light inside them, through conflict, through stress, even through burnout. Where does that kind of joy come from, and how do we hold on to it when life pulls at every thread? The truth is, educators are often among the most joy-filled and the most joy-drained people we know, all in the same week. But there’s a way to stay anchored.

In this episode of Educators Among Us, Scott Barron, Chef Reinvention Officer with School Growth invites us into a conversation about sustaining joy as an educator and as a person. Scott explores the emotional, spiritual, and practical roots of joy that keep us strong, connected, and resilient. From gratitude to harmony, habits to happy memories, we are reminded that joy isn’t found in things. It’s something we cultivate inside.

Throughout the episode, Scott reflects on joy not just as an emotion, but as a rhythm of life…one that shows up in our faces, in our responses, in our decisions, and in our resilience. Whether it’s a smile in a tough moment, a quiet anchor in the chaos, or a memory that reignites purpose, joy makes a real, tangible difference in the life of an educator and everyone they influence.

Let this be your reminder not to lose your happy thought this week. That joy might be what keeps someone else going. 

Takeaways:

-Joy is a steady internal anchor, not a fleeting external thing.

-Educators who sustain joy tend to navigate conflict and stress more effectively.

-Happy thoughts can be powerful tools for resilience.

-Joy often stems from rhythm, harmony, and shared purpose.

-Expressing joy through smiles and gratitude lifts others too.

-Intentional habits of character help maintain joy even in difficulty.

-Sustained joy improves health, intelligence, and emotional strength.

-Joy protects against burnout and rekindles calling.

-Anchoring in truth, love, and purpose keeps joy alive.

Chapters

00:41 Introduction

01:33 Finding Joy

02:46 Happy Monday!  Is it?

04:55 Joy Stealers

06:29 Evidence and Habits of Joy 

09:56 The Benefits of Joy

13:19  Coaching Question

—-----------------------------

Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith. 

www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

www.educatorsamongus.com

https://www.edfellowship.org/

Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:  

Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:  

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There’s no avoiding the chaos some days bring. Conflicts flare, emotions run high, and the weight of the world settles on your shoulders like a storm cloud that refuses to move. But in the middle of it all, how we respond can make all the difference. Not just for ourselves, but for those around us. The question isn’t whether the waters will rise, but whether we’ll be the ones who build a bridge.

In this episode of Educators Among Us, Scott Barron of School Growth shares reflections on navigating life’s inevitable hardships, both personally and professionally. Drawing inspiration from a child’s peace amid airport panic and the timeless lyrics of “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” Scott challenges us to look beyond the momentary overwhelm and remember that we do, in fact, have choices. He invites us to be that bridge for others when the tides of trouble roll in.

From worry’s physical toll to the pain of betrayal, embarrassment, or loss, the pressures educators face are real and relentless. But rather than default to despair, Scott reminds us to pause for perspective and trust in a greater purpose. Whether we lead a classroom or support others behind the scenes, our calling remains the same: to love, to teach, and to stand in the gap.

By choosing kindness over criticism and service over self-preservation, we begin to shift our posture. 

Key Takeaways:

-Troubled waters are inevitable, but how we respond is a choice.

-Worry compounds our stress and limits our ability to lead well.

-True contentment often comes from letting go of control and trusting in purpose.

-Educators carry powerful influence through their words, actions, and presence.

-Support, kindness, and professionalism can be bridges for others in times of crisis.

-Being a bridge for others helps us find joy and meaning in our work.

-Faith and trusted relationships make the hard days more manageable.

-Daily reflection can help us realign with our greater calling.

Chapters

00:44 Introduction

01:45 Running Into Trouble

03:26 Enjoying the Ride

05:50 Choices in Times of Trouble

09:29 Life Is Hard 10:59 Keep Pressing On

12:28 A Coaching Question

—-----------------------------

Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith. 

www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

www.educatorsamongus.com

https://www.edfellowship.org/

Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:  

Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:  

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth

Being an educator can feel like navigating a storm at sea. There are days when the pressure is relentless, the challenges stack up, and the expectations never seem to ease. But even in the chaos, there is a path to peace. It’s called the Serenity Prayer

In this episode of Educators Among Us, School Growth’s Scott and Tammy Barron talk about how the Serenity Prayer can be a steady guide for educators. Together, they unpack what it really means to accept what we can't change, have the courage to change what we can, and find the wisdom to know the difference. It’s a down-to-earth, honest look at how to lead and grow in the middle of challenges.

They walk through three areas every educator can control: yourself, your relationships, and your progress. You’ll hear about the value of owning your attitude, choosing the people you surround yourself with, and being intentional about your own direction. The episode is full of reminders that even in hard seasons, there are choices you can make that will help you stay grounded and keep moving forward.

This conversation isn’t about quick fixes or big ideas. It’s about finding stability in the everyday work of education. If you’re looking for a way to stay steady, lead well, and show up with purpose, you’ll find encouragement and practical insight here.

Key Takeaways:

-The Serenity Prayer offers a practical way to navigate challenges in school life

-There’s peace in learning to accept what you can’t control

-Change yourself: attitude, habits, mindset, and personal growth

-Change who you spend time with: your people shape your perspective

-Change your progress: set direction and keep going, even if the path isn’t clear

-Culture is shaped by relationships and daily choices

-Personal growth plans help you stay accountable and focused -Being present and self-aware makes a lasting impact on students and teams

-Educators don’t need to isolate—connection creates strength

-Working from joy instead of just for the job makes all the difference

-Let me know if you'd like the meta description, chapters, or keyword tags next.

Chapters

00:45 - Introduction

03:16 - Finding Serenity

06:47 Loving and Leading Educators

08:30 The Serenity Prayer

14:58 Three Things We Can Change - Us

23:19 Three Things We Can Change - Our People

26:49 Three Things We Can Change - Our Progress

31:29 Finding Joy

33:49 A Coaching Question

—-----------------------------

Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith. 

www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

www.educatorsamongus.com

https://www.edfellowship.org/

Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:  

Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:  

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth

What if life had rumble strips—those loud, vibrating warnings that jolt you back on course when you’re drifting? In many ways, it does. Feedback comes in all forms, from a gut feeling to a colleague’s tough words. The key question is: Are you paying attention?

In this episode of the Educators  Among Us Podcast, Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, shares how educators, and anyone in leadership, can learn to hear and respect life’s warnings before real damage is done. Drawing from real-life experiences, Proverbs, and classic quotes, Scott challenges us to stay alert and willing to self-correct.

He reminds us that feedback isn’t always comfortable, but it’s necessary. Growth requires humility, good habits, and a willingness to listen, especially when the signs are subtle. Ignoring them leads to consequences; respecting them leads to wisdom.

This episode offers a clear, practical message for anyone committed to growth, leadership, and making a lasting difference. Remember, staying on course isn’t about perfection, it’s about paying attention and adjusting when needed.

Key Takeaways:

-Rumble strips are life’s metaphor for feedback that wakes us up. -Feedback can come from data, colleagues, your own spirit, or even discomfort. -Listening to hard truths is a habit that requires humility and wisdom. -Self-confidence without self-awareness leads to pride and poor decisions. -The right people in your life can help you stay on track—if they have permission to speak truth. -Not all feedback is negative; some is meant to redirect, not derail. -Respecting the rumbles means being honest about where you’re headed and willing to adjust. -This week’s coaching question: “Did I do my best to respect the rumbles today?”

Chapters

00:41 Introduction

02:35 Feedback from the  Road Trips

03:39 Rumble Strips for Life

06:03 Heading the Feedback

08:38 Habits of Feedback

11:34 Coaching Question

—-----------------------------

Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith. 

www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

www.educatorsamongus.com

https://www.edfellowship.org/

Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:  

Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:  

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

https://www.facebook.com/SchoolGrowth/

https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth