The Elemental Educator Podcast

The Elemental Educator Podcast

By Tyler ComeauBusinessEducationSelf-Improvement
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The Elemental Educator Podcast episodes

  • The Mindset That Changes How School Leaders Make Decisions | William Parker

    What does it really mean when someone says, “What you do matters”? William D. Parker shares the truth behind legacy, leadership, and the moments that shape school culture forever. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@ElementalEducator?sub_confirmation=1 đź“Ž Connect with William D. Parker: Website – https://www.williamdparker.com Books – https://www.williamdparker.com/books Podcast (Principal Matters) – https://www.williamdparker.com/podcast đź‘Ť Like, comment, and subscribe if you believe leadership is about influence, not control. đź“© Send this to an aspiring leader who needs a reminder: what they do truly matters. In this masterclass-style conversation, Elemental Educator host Tyler Comeau interviews William D. Parker, founder of Principal Matters, author of four leadership books, and host of the Principal Matters Podcast (400+ episodes!). Together, they explore: 🔥 The deeper meaning behind “What You Do Matters” 🌍 Why shared culture beats personal credit 🎯 How to lead with love, faith, and practical values 🧠 What it takes to switch your focus during adversity ⚡ From principal to full-time consultant—what it took to make the leap đź’ˇ Summer-themed leadership games + coaching moments Whether you're new to leadership or a seasoned admin, this episode offers soul-deep reminders and strategy-packed takeaways for leading with courage and connection. đź’Ľ Ways to Work with Tyler Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses đź”— Connect with Tyler Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@ElementalEducator Email – [email protected] đź’¬ Question for You: What’s one leadership value you want to model this year? Drop it below 👇 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Education Leadership 01:29 Journey to Education and Leadership 05:10 Grounded Moments: Core Values in Education 17:31 The Importance of Influence 18:57 Adversity in Leadership 23:59 Navigating School Dynamics and Fairness 25:14 Investigating Accountability and Restoration 27:35 Navigating Adversity with Patience 28:37 The Power of Focus in Leadership 35:16 Embracing Change in Leadership 41:30 Building a Shared Culture in Organizations 47:13 Making Bold Leadership Decisions 53:48 Advice for New Leaders Affiliate Links Riverside – https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal – https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron – https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl – https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean Unlimited Hosting – https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Podbean Business Plan – https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator

    58 min
  • Is Education Actually Ready for Change? (Or Are We Stuck?) | Brandon Jenkins

    What happens when a teacher refuses to stay silent and starts creating change—online and in real life? Brandon Jenkins shares how humor, authenticity, and servant leadership transform classrooms and communities. In this episode of The Elemental Educator, host Tyler Comeau talks with Brandon Jenkins—educator, content creator, and host of Teaching in Color. They explore: Servant leadership vs. transactional leadership Why representation changes the trajectory of every classroom Overcoming resistance as a new teacher with bold ideas Using social media skits to build community and fight burnout Four elemental mini-games: Principle or Preference, Make It Worse, Here’s the Trick, and Final Answer Whether you’re a new teacher, a school leader, or just passionate about authentic change, Brandon’s story will spark ideas—and maybe challenge the way you see education. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@ElementalEducator?sub_confirmation=1 đź“Ž Connect with Brandon Jenkins TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@allaboutbrandon Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/allaboutbrandon đź‘Ť Like, comment, and subscribe if you believe leadership starts with authenticity. đź“© Send this to a teacher or content creator who leads with humor and heart. đź’Ľ Ways to Work with Tyler Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses đź”— Connect with Tyler Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@ElementalEducator Email – [email protected] đź’¬ Question for You: What’s one leadership moment that made you laugh and grow? Drop it below 👇 Affiliate Links Riverside – https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal – https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron – https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl – https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean Unlimited Hosting – https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Podbean Business Plan – https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator

    45 min
  • Why Teaching Needs to Be Unapologetically Honest (Even When It’s Uncomfortable) | Steven Saad

    In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, Steven Saad—host of The Mr. Saad Show—shares his journey from classroom chaos to content creation with purpose. Steven dives into how he connects with students, why education must evolve, and how humor, storytelling, and unapologetic truth-telling are reshaping how we lead and teach. If you’re a leader who values connection over perfection—this one’s for you. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1 đź“Ž Connect with Steven Saad: YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeWyf8KIewfELO03GmyiQlw TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@themrsaadshow?lang=en Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/themrsaadshow/ đź‘Ť Like, comment, and subscribe if you believe leadership starts with authenticity. đź“© Send this to a teacher or content creator who leads with humor and heart. đź’Ľ Ways to Work with Tyler: Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses đź”— Connect with Tyler: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator Email – [email protected] đź’¬ Question for You: What’s one leadership moment that made you laugh and grow? Drop it below 👇 Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator #leadwithhumor #teacherleaders #boldeducators #educationleadership #elementaleducator

     

    Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Elemental Educator Podcast 02:11 Steven Saad's Circuitous Journey to Education 05:23 Grounded Moments: Principles vs. Preferences 06:44 The Best is Yet to Come: Embracing Optimism 11:23 Elevator Pitch: Selling the Optimistic Perspective 13:11 Facing Adversity: Lessons from Headwinds and Tailwinds 21:36 Finding Strength in Adversity 25:55 Embracing Change and Growth 27:24 Building Trust and Engagement 31:33 The Challenge of Starting 35:36 Navigating Feedback and Resilience 38:13 The Importance of Emotional Awareness 44:21 Building a Culture of Change 47:46 The Importance of Character Education 51:18 Bold Decisions and Personal Growth 55:44 Betting on Yourself 01:00:36 Navigating Negativity and Finding Happiness 01:05:38 Creative Outlets and Personal Joy

    1 hr 12 min
  • The Pressure to Perform Is Lying to You (And What to Do Instead) | William Fox

    In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, Will opens up about leading while still learning. From navigating uncertainty to balancing pressure and purpose, this conversation is packed with insights for any leader trying to stay grounded during growth. Whether you're building something new, leading for the first time, or figuring it out as you go—this one’s for you. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1 đź“Ž Resources & Links Mentioned: https://anchoredmentalhealth.ca/ đź‘Ť Like, comment, and subscribe if you’ve ever felt like you’re figuring it out mid-flight. đź“© Share this with a leader in transition. đź’Ľ Ways to Work with Tyler: Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses đź”— Connect with Tyler: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator Email – [email protected] đź’¬ Question for You: What’s one leadership lesson you had to learn the hard way? Drop it below 👇 Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator About the Channel Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact. 🌍 Ground Your Leadership | đź’¨ Master Adversity | đź’§ Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions. Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action. Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some product links may be affiliate links.

    56 min
  • When Leadership Breaks You… (And What Comes After) | Rick Robinson

    In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, educational leader Rick shares raw, reflective insight on burnout, leadership culture, and the lessons learned from nearly leaving education altogether. From rediscovering joy to prioritizing what really matters, this episode is a bold and healing conversation for leaders and teachers alike. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1 đź“Ž Resources & Links Mentioned: www.linkedin.com/in/hatrick403 https://www.facebook.com/hatrick403/ https://www.instagram.com/hatrick403/ đź‘Ť Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes with real, grounded conversations on leadership. đź“© Share with a colleague who needs to feel seen and supported. đź’Ľ Ways to Work with Tyler: Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses đź”— Connect with Tyler: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator Email – [email protected] đź’¬ Question for You: What’s one personal boundary you’ve started to honor this year? Tell us in the comments 👇 Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator #educationleadership #burnoutrecovery #principalwellness #eduleadership #elementaleducator

    1 hr 2 min
  • He Quit His Job to Create… Here’s What Happened Next | Tom Buck

    In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, full-time creator Tom Buck shares his incredible journey from high school teacher to YouTube success. From camera gear to creative burnout, and bold life pivots to hilarious teaching moments—this one is packed with real talk and practical insight. If you're a leader, educator, or creator, this is a masterclass in chasing joy, taking risks, and finding your purpose. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1 đź“Ž Resources & Links Mentioned: Tom’s YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@TomBuck The Enthusiasm Project – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-enthusiasm-project/id1450289127 Website – https://www.himynameistom.com Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/sodarntom Twitter/X – https://x.com/sodarntom đź‘Ť Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes with bold creators and inspiring leaders! đź“© Share this with someone ready to make a big leap in life or career. đź’Ľ Ways to Work with Tyler: Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses đź”— Connect with Tyler: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator Email – [email protected] đź’¬ Question for You: What's one big risk you’ve been considering but haven’t taken yet? Tell us in the comments 👇 Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator ⏰ Chapters: 0:00 Intro 5:35 Grounded Moments 16:30 Headwinds and Tailwinds 35:02 Ripples of Change 47:20 Spark or Burn 58:38 Listener Questions #YouTubeForEducators #ContentCreation #LeadershipPodcast #TeacherToCreator #TomBuck

    1 hr 8 min
  • Why Avoiding Conflict Makes You a Worse Leader (And What to Do Instead) | Jessica Iron

    In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, Jess shares her journey from law school to school leadership, uncovering how unexpected turns led her to become a school principal during the height of the COVID pandemic. She opens up about leading through conflict, embracing change, and the bold decision to transition into conflict coaching and podcasting. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1 đź‘Ť Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes with education leaders! đź“© Share with a colleague who needs this. Connect with Jess: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/philanthropyyoga đź’Ľ Ways to Work with Tyler: Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses đź”— Connect with Tyler: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator Email – [email protected] đź’¬ Question for You: What’s one bold decision you’ve been putting off? Drop it in the comments 👇 Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator ⏰ Chapters: 0:00 Intro 6:20 Grounded Moments 12:37 Headwinds and Tailwinds 19:10 Ripples of Change 29:00 Spark or Burn 39:50 Listener Questions #EducationalLeadership #SchoolLeadership #ConflictResolution #PrincipalLeadership #EducationalPodcast #ElementalEducator Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some links are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

    45 min
  • What Burnout Taught Me (And What I’d Do Differently Now) | Phil Januszewski

    In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, Phil Januszewski shares why he's leaving the classroom after 20 years—and how he's helping educators rediscover joy, purpose, and motivation through positive psychology and dynamic keynote coaching. This high-energy chemistry and physics teacher-turned-speaker reveals how bold values, reflection, and reinvention can transform burnout into impact. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1 đź“Ž Resources & Links Mentioned: Website: https://philjanuszewski.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilJanuszewskiSpeaks Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philjanuszewski YouTube: https://youtube.com/@philjanuszewski LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philjanuszewski TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@philjanuszewski X (Twitter): https://x.com/philjanuszewski Join the Positive Growth Lounge: https://mailchi.mp/efbb1914fa7b/join-the-positive-growth-lounge-email-list Email: [email protected] đź‘Ť Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes with education leaders! đź“© Share with a colleague who needs this. đź’Ľ Ways to Work with Tyler: Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses đź”— Connect with Tyler: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator Email – [email protected] đź’¬ Question for You: What bold change are you being called to make right now? Drop it in the comments 👇 Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator ⏰ Chapters: 0:00 Intro 4:50 Grounded Moments 11:52 Headwinds and Tailwinds 22:10 Ripples of Change 32:19 Spark or Burn 37:50 Listener Questions #EducationalLeadership #TeacherBurnout #PositivePsychology #SchoolLeadership #MotivationalSpeaker #ElementalEducator Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some links are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

    48 min
  • How to Inspire Teachers Without Burning Yourself Out | Lauren Kaufman

    In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, district leader Lauren Kaufman shares how to ignite teacher passion and prevent burnout through mentorship, literacy, and bold leadership. With nearly 20 years in education, Lauren discusses how grounded values, mentorship, and reflection can empower teachers to lead.

    ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1 

    đź“Ž Resources & Links Mentioned:

    Lauren’s Book – The Leader Inside

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-kaufman-088576246/ 

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenmkaufman/ 

    X: https://x.com/LaurenMKaufman đź‘Ť

    Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes with education leaders!

    đź“© Share with a colleague who needs this.

    đź’Ľ Ways to Work with Tyler:

    Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com 

    Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses

    đź”— Connect with Tyler:

    Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator 

    YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator 

    Email – [email protected] 

    💬 Question for You: What’s one grounded value that guides your leadership?

    Drop it in the comments

    👇 Affiliate Links:

    Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau 

    SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau 

    Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU 

    Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau

    Podbean:

    Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator 

    Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator 

    ⏰ Chapters:

    0:00 Intro

    7:30 Grounded Moments

    19:11 Headwinds and Tailwinds

    31:07 Ripples of Change

    45:55 Spark or Burn

    53:25 Listener Questions

    #EducationLeadership #TeacherLeader #LiteracyCoach #SchoolLeadership #Podcast

    Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some links are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

    1 hr 4 min
  • How to Empty Your Backpack and Lead with Purpose (with Sam Demma)

    In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau speaks with Sam Demma, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and founder of Elite Speaker Coaching. Sam shares his journey from athlete to educator, his powerful approach to mental health, leadership, and taking small actions that create lasting change.

    Discover how resilience, mentorship, and taking responsibility for your path can unlock opportunities you never imagined.

    Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly leadership insights! Affiliate Links: 

    • Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau
    • SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau
    • Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU
    • Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau
    • Podbean:
      • Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
      • Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator

    Connect with Me: 

    • Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/

    📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: [email protected] Connect with Guest and Resources: 

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sam_demma
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-demma/
    • Website: https://samdemma.com/tour-dates/
    • Email: [email protected]

    Engagement Question: 
    What’s one small action you can take today to create a ripple of change in your life? Share your thoughts in the comments!
     Timecodes: 
    0:00 – Introduction & Meet Sam Demma
    7:15 - Grounded Moments
    13:35 - Headwinds and Tailwinds
    24:10 - Ripples of Change
    37:20 - Spark or Burn
    45:40 - Listener Questions
    #LeadershipDevelopment #Resilience #MentalHealthAwareness #OvercomingAdversity #PublicSpeaking #StudentSuccess #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #SamDemma #Inspiration
     About the Channel 
    Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact.
    🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions
    Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
    Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions.
    Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.
      

    54 min

About The Elemental Educator Podcast

From the publisher's feed

The Elemental Educator Podcast explores the defining moments behind exceptional leadership.

Hosted by Tyler Comeau, school principal, doctoral researcher, author, and speaker,…