Disability rights activist Tim Shriver, Chairman of Special Olympics, editor of The Call to Unite and author of Fully Alive, delves into the profound impact of unity and dignity in education and beyond. Shriver eloquently discusses the transformative power of inclusion, recounting personal anecdotes and professional experiences that highlight how bringing people together fosters empathy, resilience, and a sense of belonging. He emphasizes the critical role of educators in nurturing these values, advocating for the integration of programs like unified sports and Best Buddies in schools to bridge divides and promote mutual respect. Shriver also introduces the Dignity Index, a tool designed to measure and encourage respectful dialogue, which he believes is essential in combating the pervasive culture of contempt. His insights are not only a call to action for educational leaders but also a beacon of hope, underscoring the potential for societal change through compassionate leadership and community engagement. This interview is a must-listen for those committed to fostering inclusive environments and driving positive change in their communities.

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Zaretta Hammond draws on her book Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain, her upcoming new title Teaching for Instructional Equity and Cognitive Justice, and her decades of experience to discuss what impacts equity, from challenges to supports. In this eye-opening conversation, she encourages school leaders to find new framings and perspectives that create conscious intentions around equity and inclusion and take concrete action steps toward these goals. One constant throughout her message: put the student first.

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Co-hosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson delve into the transformative power of collective leader efficacy for this premiere episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders podcast’s 9th season. Sharing insights from their extensive collaboration with New Brunswick schools, they discuss the critical role of trust, clarity, and coherence in developing shared understanding among leaders, and how these elements foster effective joint work, emphasizing the importance of long-term partnerships and reciprocal learning. Through engaging anecdotes, such as a puzzle activity that underscored the necessity of collaboration, our co-hosts demonstrate how collective leader efficacy can break down silos and enhance both teacher and student outcomes. This interview is a must-listen for educational leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of collective efficacy and its practical applications in fostering a supportive and high-performing school culture.

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Dive into the heart of educational leadership with this dynamic podcast compilation featuring Peter DeWitt, Michael Nelson, Tiffany Anderson, Sonja Hollins-Alexander, Nicole Law, and Thomas Guskey. Tiffany Anderson shares a poignant story about a student that underscores the critical role of community in education. Sonja Hollins-Alexander and Nicole Law discuss the essence of equity, emphasizing the need for tailored support to help every student thrive. Thomas Guskey delves into the nuances of grading and assessment, drawing on his extensive research and insights from educational pioneers. This episode is packed with powerful anecdotes, expert advice, and actionable strategies, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about transforming education. Join the conversation and be inspired by these leaders who are making a real difference in schools and communities.

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The bonus podcast of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast features a compilation of insightful excerpts from previous interviews with educational leaders John Hattie, Viviane Robinson, and Marc Brackett. John Hattie emphasizes the importance of educators developing a theory of learning that aligns with their teaching methods, highlighting the need for teachers to focus on learning strategies. Viviane Robinson discusses the concept of leadership as an influence process accessible to everyone, stressing the importance of teachers exercising leadership in their roles. Marc Brackett offers insights and advocates for using emotions wisely to achieve goals and improve relationships. The hosts, Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson, reflect on these themes, sharing personal anecdotes and emphasizing the practical application of these insights in professional learning and workshops. The compilation underscores the value of continuous learning, leadership, and emotional intelligence, and, of course, leading with intention in education.

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In a fascinating interview on the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, Marc Brackett, the founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and author of the bestselling book Permission to Feel, delves into the profound importance of emotional intelligence and self-regulation in both personal and professional realms. In this conversation with co-hosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson, Brackett emphasizes the necessity of understanding and managing emotions to achieve goals and maintain well-being and discusses the challenges posed by political polarization and the misconceptions surrounding social-emotional learning, advocating for clear definitions and practical applications. Brackett’s insights are particularly relevant for leaders, highlighting the critical role of emotional intelligence in creating a positive school culture and climate. He shares compelling research findings, including the significant impact of emotionally intelligent leadership on teacher satisfaction and retention. Through engaging anecdotes and evidence-based strategies, Brackett provides actionable advice for educators and leaders to foster emotional intelligence, enhance communication, and build supportive environments. This interview is a must-listen for professionals seeking to understand the transformative power of emotions in education and leadership.

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In this compelling interview on the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, David Sousa, a respected educational neuroscience consultant and author, delves into the profound impact of technology on the developing brain. Sousa, known for his groundbreaking work on brain plasticity and the rewired brain, highlights the alarming increase in technology use among preteens and teenagers over the past decade. He underscores the critical role of nurture in shaping the brain, challenging the theory that genetics predominantly determine brain development. Sousa articulates concerns about how excessive screen time affects memory, thinking skills, attention, and social skills, emphasizing that the brain’s plasticity makes it highly susceptible to environmental influences. He discusses the importance of educators and parents understanding these changes to better support children’s cognitive and social development. Sousa also addresses the potential dangers of artificial intelligence, stressing the need for discernment between real and fake information, especially for the young. His insights are a call to action for educators and administrators to balance technology use with activities that promote higher-order thinking and interpersonal skills. The interview is a thought-provoking exploration of how modern technology is reshaping the educational landscape and the urgent need for informed strategies to mitigate its negative effects while harnessing its benefits.

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Join hosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson on the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast as they engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Kate Anderson Foley about her latest book, Radically Excellent School Improvement. In this episode, Dr. Foley draws from her extensive background in educational leadership to highlight the critical importance of strategic planning and maintaining a student-centered focus in decision-making. She emphasizes the interconnected nature of school departments and advocates for a strength-based approach to support all students effectively. The conversation delves into current challenges such as teacher shortages, the crucial role of professional development, dual certification for teachers, and the significant impact of coaching for both educators and principals. Dr. Foley also sheds new light on the role of the business office in supporting educational objectives and the importance of equity audits. This episode offers valuable insights for professionals dedicated to advancing educational excellence.

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In this interview, Keziah Featherstone, an executive head teacher in the West Midlands of England, discusses her leadership philosophy and experiences. She emphasizes the importance of authentic leadership, challenging the homogenized model of leadership that often excludes women and people of color. Featherstone advocates for “punk leadership,” which encourages leaders to stay true to their values and be adaptable. She highlights the significance of relationships and impact over rigid adherence to traditional leadership models. Featherstone also touches on the challenges of recruitment and retention in education, stressing the need for leaders to find joy and fulfillment in their roles. She shares insights on creating inclusive environments and the importance of being intentional in supporting diverse leadership. The conversation also explores the role of men in championing women in leadership and the universal challenges faced by educators worldwide.
Check out her book, Punk Leadership: Leading Schools Differently at Corwin.com.

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In this episode of Leaders Coaching Leaders, Principal of the Year honoree Washington Collado shares his personal and professional leadership journey. He underscores the significance of leading with intention and creating a safe environment for open communication among students, staff, and families, discussing how to achieve the respect and trust that are foundational to effective leadership. Reflecting on his upbringing in the Dominican Republic and the loss of his mother at a young age, Collado shares how these experiences shaped his commitment to education and advocacy for underrepresented groups. He highlights the importance of integrating diverse histories into curricula, explaining how this is essential for equity in education. Additionally, he previews his upcoming book, The Four Pillars to Guide Visionary Educators, which focuses on strategies for supporting students in high-poverty schools through collaborative leadership and community engagement. Collado's insights underscore the transformative power of education and the necessity of intentional leadership in fostering inclusive learning environments.

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