As educators, we have learned that appreciation for our efforts is not always instant, and it’s not always visible.  Our students, our parents, even our leaders may never know the hard work we put in, the sacrifices we make, and the love we pour into our profession and our people.  But we know, and we know that our sacrifice is our own reward.  

In this episode of the Educators  Among Us Podcast, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, Scott Barron, host of Educators Among Us, shares a message that is especially timely for the back-to-school season. This is a reminder that the most important efforts are often unseen, and that real impact doesn’t require applause.  Nor do we, as educators, rely on that acknowledgement.

Scott speaks directly to educators’ souls, honoring their commitment, compassion, and perseverance. Whether it’s the classroom decorations prepared late at night, the emotional strength summoned in the middle of personal challenges, or the silent prayers and sacrifices made daily, he reminds listeners that love is the foundation of it all.

• Educators often make sacrifices that go unnoticed, but those efforts still matter.

• Burnout can be reframed through purpose, perspective, and intentional love.

• Personal struggles don’t disqualify us—they shape our leadership.

• Classroom energy, kindness, and presence all create lasting, even if unseen, impact.

• The most effective educators model grace, self-discipline, and quiet strength.

• Showing up every day is a powerful act of faith and love.

• Your work matters, even if no one ever tells you so.

Chapters

00:43 Introduction

02:04 Why We, as Educators, Do What We Do

04:05 Unknown Effort and Acts

07:12 The Sacrificial Pathway of Educators

09:54 A Coaching Question

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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/

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Expectations shape everything, from how we see the day ahead to how we lead and build trust. We all carry expectations into our work, our relationships, and our daily routines, but too often they’re unspoken, unrealistic, or undefined. When that happens, conflict thrives and trust erodes. This episode explores why clear expectations are essential for healthy school culture and meaningful relationships, and why practicing presence is the key to making them real.

In this episode of Educators Among Us, Scott Barron reflects on expectations, conflict, trust, and presence in school life. He encourages listeners to consider the expectations they set for themselves, their teams, and their students, reminding us of the responsibility and privilege of shaping culture with clarity and authenticity.

Scott explains how unexpressed expectations lead to distrust and conflict, while also warning that schools are naturally full of conflict that must be addressed, not avoided. His message emphasizes resolving issues through trust, clarity, and the discipline of being fully present.

Educators Among Us is your invitation to think more deeply about the work of teaching and leading, to find practical wisdom you can use right away, and to connect with others who share your passion for shaping lives. Listen in to grow as an educator and strengthen the culture around you.

Takeaways

-Unspoken, unrealistic, and undefined expectations are habits of distrust that undermine school culture.

-Trust is essential in education, and low trust contaminates culture, curriculum, and capabilities. -Schools are “conflict factories” because they bring together people with diverse needs and perspectives.

-Avoiding conflict is not the same as resolving conflict; clarity in expectations is crucial. -Dwelling on the past or obsessing about the future distracts us from being effective in the present.

-Being fully present—mind, body, and spirit—is one of the most powerful gifts educators can give.

-Clear expectations don’t guarantee success, but they provide essential direction and reduce confusion.

-“Lower your expectations of Earth. This isn’t heaven,” reminds us to expect challenges and show grace.

-A Coaching Question: “Did I do my best to be present with expectations today?”

Chapters

00:43Introduction

02:59 Expectations for Today

04:45 Expectations Mattetr

06:59 Calibrating our Expectations

08:43 The Discipline of Presence

09:48 Owning our Failure

12:14 Conscious Clarity

14:37 A Coaching Question

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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

We, as teachers, are expected to know everything.  Of course, that is impossible and unrealistic.  Try as we might, the best we can do is to ask better questions.  Asking better questions of ourselves is the only way we can get the answers we need to continue to improve.  Perhaps we are truly at our best when we realize we don’t know it all.  

In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer, talks about the importance of self-reflection and growth in pursuit of excellence as an educator. 

He discusses the necessity of understanding oneself, sustaining curiosity, and embracing feedback to enhance teaching effectiveness. Along the way, he touches on the significance of humility, respect, and mindfulness in education, encouraging educators to ask better questions and continuously strive for personal and professional development.

It’s time to rise up, and realize that when we don’t have all of the answers, we simply need to ask better questions.

Takeaways

-Self-intelligence is crucial for effective teaching.

-Curiosity drives personal and professional growth.

-Feedback loops are essential for improvement.

-Planning for the future requires self-awareness.

-Asking better questions leads to deeper understanding.

-Humility and respect are key to educational excellence.

-Continuous reflection is necessary for growth.

-Collaboration with trusted peers enhances development.

Chapters

00:43 Introduction

02:00 Curiosity and Development

04:35 Staying Sharp 

6:45 Asking Better Questions

8:57 Rising Up Past Limited Perspectives

11:38 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/

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

https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

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

Timing is the secret sauce of nearly every story of success, and we can improve ours. Do you ever feel like you’re out of sync—rushing through lessons, reacting instead of responding, or missing the moments that matter most? Knowing when to act is just as important as what to do. But how do you master that sense of timing when every day feels unpredictable?

In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer, unpacks the often-overlooked skill that separates good educators from great ones: timing. From classroom management to leadership decisions, Scott explains how reading the room, adjusting to change, and trusting the moment can make all the difference.

You’ll hear practical insights on how preparation, reflection, and rest help sharpen your timing—and why learning to trust divine timing brings peace in the chaos. Whether you’re navigating tough conversations, trying to build stronger relationships, or simply trying to stay grounded, this episode will help you find your rhythm and lead with greater purpose.

Doing what’s right, when it’s right happens when you master the art of timing, and it can make the most out of every moment.

Takeaways

-Timing is vital for effective teaching and relationships.

-Preparation and practice improve our timing.

-We often underestimate the time we have.

-Mastering timing is key to leadership.

-Divine timing is beyond our control.

-School life is unpredictable; we must adapt.

-Meeting the needs of others is a powerful responsibility.

-Reflect on whether you mastered timing today.

-Interludes are essential for recovery and growth.

Chapters

00:44 Introduction 

1:36 What Time is It

3:22 The Key to Timing

6:23 Mastering Time

8:41 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

What is the future of education?  Certainly,  it includes Artificial Intelligence, and that is a new phenomenon to be sure.  But the future still includes parents, motivation, kids who need support and encouragement and motivation, leaders who aspire to higher levels of organizational success, and clear communication across all facets.  All of these things matter, perhaps now more than ever.

In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, welcomes old friend, Zipcast CEO and the host of the BaseCamp Live podcast, Davies Owens. They discuss the profound impact educators have on students' lives, sharing personal stories that highlight the importance of mentorship and support in education.  Davies reflects on his journey from struggling student to educator, emphasizing the significance of formative years in shaping character and knowledge. Be sure to listen for a classic story of a rocket-propelled go-kart and the teacher who inspired Davies’s love of science. They also talk about the need for collaboration with families and communities to foster a supportive learning environment, the transformative potential of AI in schools, and innovative communication strategies to engage parents and students. 

The show concludes with a preview of what’s new at Zipcast, as the next generation of AI-driven educational training materials may be the future of interactive learning.

Takeaways

-The authenticity of a school is tied to its educators.

-Teachers can ignite a passion for learning.

-Collaboration with families is essential for student success.

-Modern challenges require innovative solutions in education.

-Educators must navigate external influences on students.

-The role of educators extends beyond academics. 

-AI can help schools operate more efficiently.

-Attention spans are decreasing, affecting learning.

-Schools are using outdated communication methods.

-Parents are overwhelmed with school communications.

-Innovative communication can increase engagement.

-Investing in foundational skills is crucial for innovation.

-Educators play a vital role in shaping the next generation.

Chapters 

00:47 Introduction

03:15 Meet Davies Owens

04:42 An Impactful Teacher and The Rocket Powered Go Cart

09:57 Starting in Education

13:26  Impact of an Educator

15:48 Parents Role in Education

20:00 A New Era in Education

23:18 Artificial Intelligence Beyond the Classroom

26:00 Zipcast

34:11 Leveraging AI as Educators

36:26 Conclusion

37:03 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

Challenges help us to grow.  As in baseball, we have to keep “getting in the box” and taking that swing.  Let’s ensure that when we do, we “swing like we mean it”.  Purposefully, with focus, intention, hope, confidence, and resolute commitment.  There’s nothing wrong with a swing and a miss, as long as you keep swinging.

In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, talks baseball as he discusses the evolving landscape of education and the importance of commitment, focus, and trust in building a positive school culture. Using baseball as a metaphor, he emphasizes the need for educators to “swing like they mean it”, fully committing to their roles and responsibilities. The conversation highlights the significance of reflection and personal growth in the educational journey.

Takeaways

-Baseball people see life through the lens of baseball

-Baseball lessons can also be lessons for life and for educators

-Keep your eye on the ball, with focus on the important task at hand

-You have to swing the bat with certainty and purpose

-Swing like you mean it to make the most of every attempt to overcome a challenge

-Resolute commitment galvanizes the will and activates abilities

-Building a vibrant school culture is the ultimate strategy

-Be sure to “step into the batter's box” to help your team win the important game at hand

Chapters

00:42 Introduction

03:17 The Cleanup Hitter

04:58 Seeing Life Through a Baseball Lens

06:36 Baseball Advice for Life

10:37 Swing like you mean it

16:25 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

Schools are a culture and a community.  Families are coming together in pursuit of excellence in education.  The buildings are a function of that work.  How can we create buildings that inspire each other?  How can we make our buildings more a part of our plan, and less about walls and square footage and classrooms?

In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, engages in a deep conversation with architect Alan Metcalfe, founder of Metcalfe Architecture and Design in Philadelphia, about the intersection of education and building design.  They explore the impact educators have on students, the importance of creating joyful and functional learning environments, and the challenges facing education today, particularly in fostering community and well-being. Alan shares insights from his architectural practice, emphasizing the need for spaces that reflect the ethos of the schools they serve. They also touch on the role of music in fostering collaboration and creativity in design, and the importance of asking the right questions to truly understand community needs.

Takeaways

-Designing schools should reflect the community's ethos and pedagogy.

-Outdoor spaces enhance the learning experience and promote physical activity.

-Community well-being is crucial for a successful educational environment.

-Listening to the needs of staff and students is essential in school design.

-Beauty in school design can create memorable experiences for students.

-Music can teach valuable lessons about cooperation and listening.

-Schools should be designed as containers for human experiences, not just curriculum delivery.

-Asking the right questions is key to understanding community needs.

-Creating joyful learning environments requires thoughtful design and planning.

Chapters 

00:41 Introduction

03:12 An Impactful Teacher

06:20 Favorite Projects

10:50 Building a Sense of Community and Well Being

14:20 Musicianship and the Art of Design

20:06 School Buildings and Culture

24:04 Understanding Your Community

_______

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

If you’ve ever found yourself lost, then you know how it feels to be found.  To realize that you are loved and welcome to come inside.  That’s the power of an unlocked door.  It helps others to know that you care about them and want to welcome them in.  Often, especially as educators, we are mandated to lock our doors.  But leaving them unlocked can give hope, especially to the lost.  

In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, emphasizes the vital role educators play in providing hope and guidance to those who may feel lost. 

He recounts a recent story of survival and the importance of being “found”, drawing parallels to the educational journey that students, as well as educators, often find. The conversation highlights the dual responsibility of educators to both lock doors for safety and to unlock doors for opportunity, encouraging listeners to serve others with compassion and intentionality.

Takeaways

-Educators provide hope and pathways for those who are lost.

-Being lost can be a lonely and scary experience.

-The purpose of life is to be useful and compassionate.

-Unlocking doors in education allows for new opportunities.

-Generosity in education can lead to profound impacts.

-Anticipating the needs of others is crucial in education.

-Leaving doors unlocked symbolizes openness and support.

-Emotional exhaustion is common, but renewal is a choice.

-Serving others is a privilege and a calling for educators.

-Daily reflection on our impact can guide our actions. 

Chapters

00:41 Introduction

01:34 Being Lost

02:56 The Search for Tiffany Slaton

04:26 Unlocking Locked Doors

05:50 Handfuls of Purpose 

08:43 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

Almost by definition, doing the hard things is not easy.  It’s a choice.  When you do hard things, you make yourself better. You show others what you’re willing to do in pursuit of excellence.  And you make a difference that needs to be made, even when others are not as willing to try.  All of these things are key in the role of educators, and for the educational leaders who blaze the path toward excellence.  

In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, speaks with Rob Bridges, President at Cathedral High School in Indianapolis, who has done the hard things with excellence across a long educational career. Scott asks Rob about the importance of educators in shaping lives, including his.  They also discuss Rob’s journey in various educational settings and the leadership lessons he learned from his time in the Peace Corps. 

The conversation emphasizes the calling of educators, the need for joy and kindness in schools, the significance of listening and follow-up, and the importance of work-life balance for educators.

 Rob shares insights on building a positive school culture and the impact of dedicated educators on students' lives.  This episode of the Educators Among Us podcast is inspiring to all educators and leaders who want to be the best that they can be and to bring out the best in the people they love and lead.

Takeaways

-Education is a calling, not just a job.

-The impact of a single educator can last a lifetime.

-Leadership requires courage and perseverance.

-Building relationships with students is essential.

-Joy and kindness should be at the core of education.

-Listening to educators is crucial for effective leadership.

-Work-life balance is important for sustainability in education.

-Creating a positive school culture enhances learning.

-Follow-up and personal connections matter in leadership.

-Great educators inspire and uplift their colleagues.

Chapters

00:48 Introduction

002:35 An Impactful Teacher

05:21 The Road to Becoming an Educator

11:29 Peace Corps to Education

14:05 Authentic Excellence in Education

17:02 Joy and Calling

19:52 Lessons from Today

27:50 An Era of Change/Conclusion

_______

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

Mixing families into the emotional ecosystem of a school yields predictable struggle.  Schools, like families, are places where learning, growth, failure, creativity, and maturity occur.  Schools are difficult by design!  They contain all of the ideal ingredients needed for adversity, rumbling, and strife. It’s no wonder they, like family, are messy at best.  

In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth talks about the complexities of school environments that resemble family dynamics. 

He highlights the importance of love and resilience in navigating conflicts within educational settings, encouraging educators to embrace the messiness of growth and learning. The conversation serves as a reminder of the vital role educators play in fostering a supportive community amidst all of the challenges, similar to those found in the typical culture of a family.

Takeaways

-Schools are complex environments formed by diverse family backgrounds.

-Conflict is a natural part of school life and should be addressed, not avoided.

-Love is essential in overcoming challenges within educational settings.

-Schools are places of growth, learning, and resilience.

-Understanding each other's backgrounds can help shift expectations in schools.

-Marketing messages should reflect the messy reality of school life.

-Educators are encouraged to be the glue that holds the school community together.

Chapters

00:42 Introduction

02:34 Recipe for a School

03:47 We Are Family

05:00 Family TV Shows

08:15 Difficult By Design

11:09 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