The Commons: Real Talk for Educators

The Commons: Real Talk for Educators

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The Commons: Real Talk for Educators episodes

  • From 3% Odds to Global Impact Chris Norton on Radical Responsibility
    "If you don't like where you are, do something about it."In this episode of Your Booster Shot, host Adam Busch sits down with former student-athlete turned motivational powerhouse, Chris Norton. After a life-altering football injury left him with a 3% chance of ever moving again, Chris didn't just survive—he redefined what it means to take "Radical Responsibility" for one's life.As school leaders and educators, we often face "3% moments" where the odds are stacked against our students or our systems. Chris shares how the qualities of resilience, the courage to ask for help, and the power of community are the ultimate tools for navigating change in K–12 education.In this episode, we discuss:
    1. The 3% Mindset: How to move forward when the outcome seems impossible.
    2. Radical Responsibility: Why your response to adversity is your greatest leadership tool.
    3. The "Rescue" Trap: How over-helping students can accidentally rob them of their self-esteem.
    4. Strength in Vulnerability: Why the best leaders are the ones who know how to ask for help.

    Connect with Chris Norton: Website: https://chrisnorton.org
    About ForwardEd Network: We provide professional education and leadership resources to help school leaders and educators thrive.
    #ForwardEdNetwork #SchoolLeadership #Resilience #K12Education #ChrisNorton #RadicalResponsibility
    Thank You for Listening! This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.
    Want to keep the conversation going?
    1. Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
    2. Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
    3. Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.
    4. Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.

    Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

    This episode includes AI-generated content.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-commons-real-talk-for-educators--7112574/support.
    27 min
  • YOU MIGHT LIKE - Control+Shift+Lead: Be Where Your Feet Are!

    In the mid-winter stretch of the school year, it’s easy for leaders to feel the weight of "the woes"—that heavy, gray season where the list of tasks grows faster than the daylight.

    In this episode, 32-year veteran educator Bob Long joins us to discuss a simple but transformative leadership standard: being exactly where your feet are.Designed for school administrators and lead learners, this conversation explores how to balance the "business" of education with the human needs of our students and staff. We dive into the reality of "precipitating factors"—the invisible burdens our community carries—and why the most effective leadership move you can make today is simply catching someone doing something right. You'll walk away with a renewed perspective on presence and a reminder that you don't have to be a hero; you just have to be present.


    Subscribe for your weekly dose of leadership perspective and share this with a colleague who needs a mid-winter boost.


    Thank You for Listening! This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.


    Want to keep the conversation going?

    1. Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
    2. Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
    3. Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.
    4. Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.

    Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.



    This episode includes AI-generated content.

    51 min
  • Standing Out in the Hiring Season - A ForwardED Booster Shot with Chris Whetzel
    The hiring season in education is a crowded field—how do you ensure your application rises to the top of the pile? In this "Booster Shot" episode of The ForwardED Network, we sit down with Chris Whetzel to deconstruct the competitive landscape of educational hiring.Whether you are a first-year teacher or a veteran moving into administration, Chris shares high-impact strategies to refine your professional brand, master the interview, and position yourself as the "must-hire" candidate in any pool.

    About the Guest: Chris Whetzel is a seasoned voice in the education space, dedicated to helping professionals navigate their careers with clarity and purpose.

    Join the Conversation: Advancing Voices, Shaping Education.

    Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.

    Want to keep the conversation going?
    • Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
    • Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
    • Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.
    • Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.

    Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.


    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-commons-real-talk-for-educators--7112574/support.
    22 min
  • YOU MIGHT LIKE - Control+Shift+Lead: Shifting the Grading Paradigm

    Welcome to the first show of 2026! We are kicking off the New Year with a "heavy hitter" in the world of education. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Matt Townsley, an Associate Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of Northern Iowa and the acclaimed author of Making Grades Matter.If you have ever felt that traditional grading systems—driven by points, percentages, and "extra credit Kleenex boxes"—don’t accurately reflect what your students actually know, this conversation is for you. Dr. Townsley challenges us to move from a culture of "earning" to a culture of "learning."

    Key Highlights:

    1. The Power of Redos and Retakes: Why honoring different learning paces is essential for student success and how to implement a plan that avoids the "end-of-semester dump."
    2. The 21-Point Inspection: A brilliant analogy for shifting grading from vague percentages to detailed, standard-based feedback.
    3. Communication Over Compliance: How to move away from using grades as "carrots and sticks" and start using them as a clear map for student growth.
    4. Practical Leadership: Tips for principals on how to affirm teachers who are already innovating in their assessment practices.

    Stop chasing points and start focusing on evidence of learning. Tune in to learn how to diagnose the "holes in the bucket" and provide meaningful interventions that truly help students master their goals.


    Connect with Dr. Matt Townsley:

    1. University Profile: University of Northern Iowa Faculty
    2. Book: Making Grades Matter



    Thank You for Listening! This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.


    Want to keep the conversation going?

    1. Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
    2. Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
    3. Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.
    4. Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.

    Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.



    This episode includes AI-generated content.

    49 min
  • The Road to Awesome: Transforming School Leadership with Dr. Darren Pepperd
    Prepare to expand your thinking and challenge your assumptions with this special "Booster Shot" episode, which offers a deeper dive into pressing issues in education!We welcome Dr. Darren Pepperd, the visionary behind "The Road to Awesome," for an insightful conversation. Discover the inspiring transformation in school leadership that stemmed from Dr. Pepperd's own experiences as a high school principal, shifting the focus to positivity, empowerment, and impactful change.In this episode, Dr. Pepperd shares his journey of moving away from traditional disciplinary practices to intentionally recognizing and nurturing the strengths of both students and staff.Listeners will learn about:
    • The Principal Academy: Dr. Pepperd's innovative program designed to support school leaders at various stages of their careers with coaching and mentorship.
    • Resources from Road to Awesome: Focusing on cultivating leadership that emphasizes clarity, intentionality, and purpose.
    • Building a Thriving School Culture: Gaining a fresh perspective on the vital role of empowered leaders in fostering positive educational environments.
    • Success Stories: Hearing real-world examples that underscore the profound impact of this leadership philosophy.
    • Sneak Peek: Dr. Pepperd gives a look into his upcoming book, Culture First Classrooms, co-authored with Katie Kinder, which focuses on creating empowering learning environments from the ground up.


    Check out Dr. Pepperd's work at:
    • https://roadtoawesome.net/



    Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.

    Want to keep the conversation going?
    • Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
    • Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
    • Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.
    • Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.

    Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.


    This episode includes AI-generated content.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-commons-real-talk-for-educators--7112574/support.
    28 min
  • Bonus Episode: Navigating the Nest: From K-Success
    This bonus episode celebrates the launch of the new educational podcast - Navigating the Nest: From K to Success. This new podcast is the collaboration between a few fellow podcasters from Ctrl+Shift+Lead and From Carpool to College, and Vice Principal UnOfficed. Together, the podcast hosts will bring perspectives from school leadership and college guidance, enriched with unforgettable real-life tales from the hallways with their first episode titled: Charting the Course: GPS Insights for K-12 to Postsecondary Success Whether you're a parent, an educator, or a student, this new podcast is designed to provide valuable insights, hearty laughs, and the confidence you need to navigate the nest successfully.Vice Principal UnOfficed website has moved! Boomark my new site: https://viceprincipalunofficed.com/ Email me: [email protected] Check out photos from each Vice Principal UnOfficed episode at:
    1. Instagram
    2. Facebook

    Resources used for Vice Principal UnOfficed can be found here. Thanks for listening! #KeepLaughing&LearningThank You for Listening! This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.
    Want to keep the conversation going?
    1. Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
    2. Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
    3. Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.
    4. Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.

    Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-commons-real-talk-for-educators--7112574/support.
    44 min
  • Leadership Insights with Dr. Albert Bramante
    In this special episode, we're joined by Dr. Albert Bramante for a deep dive into the core principles of effective leadership. Dr. Bramante shares his expertise on a variety of topics, including the power of networking, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections built on curiosity and a willingness to help others. He also discusses the critical need to monitor your social circle to ensure you are surrounded by positive influences that foster growth. Dr. Bramante then explores the often-overlooked fear of success and how self-sabotage can hold leaders back, providing strategies to recognize and overcome these tendencies. The conversation also covers the foundational qualities of resilience and grit, highlighting how bouncing back from setbacks is essential for both individual and team success. Finally, Dr. Bramante wraps up with insights on embracing change, sharing how adaptability and a growth mindset are crucial for true leadership and reaching new heights. You can learn more about our sponsors at awbeducation.org and grundmeyerleadersearch.com. Learn more about our work at awbeducation.org and grundmeyerleadersearch.com. Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at [email protected]

    Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.

    Want to keep the conversation going?
    • Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
    • Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
    • Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.
    • Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.

    Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.


    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-commons-real-talk-for-educators--7112574/support.
    35 min
  • The Boost Bundle: Beyond the Bare Minimum
    Get ready to start the school year right with this week's collection of 'Your Morning Boost' episodes! We're talking about everything from the power of going above and beyond, to transforming boring preservice meetings into engaging sessions. Plus, we've got great tips on how to genuinely welcome new staff and students, and a crucial reminder to take a moment for yourself before the school year kicks into high gear. It's a full week of inspiration and practical advice to help you lead with purpose and passion! Sponsors: This episode is brought to you by AWB Education and Grundmeyer Leader Search.Find out more about how they can help you: awbeducation.org grundmeyerleadersearch.com Learn more about our work at awbeducation.org and grundmeyerleadersearch.com. Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at [email protected]

    Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.

    Want to keep the conversation going?
    • Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
    • Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
    • Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.
    • Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.

    Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.


    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-commons-real-talk-for-educators--7112574/support.
    28 min
  • Boost Bundle - 8-2 thru 8-8
    In this special recap episode, we dive into the Fitting Five, a collection of valuable articles designed for modern school leaders. We'll explore four key topics: the growing influence of AI on student connection and the need to prioritize authentic relationships; how to be a proactive, purpose-driven leader by taking control of your day; shifting student motivation through a policy of reassessment over simple redos; and why Contextual Intelligence (CQ) is the most valuable skill for leaders in the age of AI, surpassing traditional IQ and EQ.This episode is packed with inspiration to help you lead with purpose, clarity, and genuine human connection in a rapidly changing world. Learn more about our sponsors at awbeducation.org and grundmeyerleadersearch.com. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/your-morning-boost--6612702/support.  Learn more about our sponsors at awbeducation.org and grundmeyerleadersearch.com. Learn more about our work at awbeducation.org and grundmeyerleadersearch.com. Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at [email protected]

    Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.

    Want to keep the conversation going?
    • Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
    • Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
    • Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.
    • Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.

    Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.
    23 min
  • AWBs Boost Bundle_ Essential Leadership Strategies for the Modern School Leader
    This "Boost Bundle" provides a week's worth of crucial insights for school leaders. This comprehensive episode covers: supporting English Learners in math by addressing linguistic challenges; empathetically assisting students from challenging home environments while maintaining academic rigor; fostering unity between fine arts and athletics to celebrate all student talents; strategies for becoming a recognized thought leader and sharing your expertise; and guiding assistant principals and other rising leaders for their next career move through intentional development. A vital resource for holistic leadership growth and cultivating the next generation of educators.This episode is brought to you by awbeducation.org and grundmeyerleadersearch.com. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/your-morning-boost--6612702/support.  Learn more about our sponsors at awbeducation.org and grundmeyerleadersearch.com. Learn more about our work at awbeducation.org and grundmeyerleadersearch.com. Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at [email protected]

    Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.

    Want to keep the conversation going?
    • Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.
    • Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.
    • Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.
    • Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.

    Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.
    29 min

About The Commons: Real Talk for Educators

From the publisher's feed

The Commons is where real conversations about education happen. This podcast brings together teachers, school leaders, and education voices from around the world to talk honestly about what’s…