Educators Among Us

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/

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

https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

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:

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

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

https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

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

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:

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

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

https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

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

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/

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

https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

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/

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

https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

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

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

—-----------------------------

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

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

—-----------------------------

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