"One of the rules that I have when I work with folks - I call it the ‘research says’ rule. I'll put a little bell on the table, and sometimes we pass it around. And anytime someone says research says, we ring the bell and we stop. We say ‘whose research says that? In what context do do that research say that?’ And we hold ourselves accountable to being as specific and transparent as possible.

But how can school leaders effectively empower educators to make evidence-based decisions?

On this episode, we’ll speak with Matthew Courtney, a specialist in evidence-based decision making in school improvement settings. Today, Matthew shares his unique insights on the crucial role of knowledge brokering in helping educators apply research to solve deep-rooted problems.

Matthew also discusses:

• The importance of deep root cause analysis using local data
• The essential steps for creating a sustainable system for evidence-based decision-making
• And the secrets to empowering educators through transparent communication

Guest Bio - Dr. Matthew B. Courtney is a passionate advocate for education and a specialist in evidence-informed school improvement. He began his career as a music educator before moving on to leadership roles within the nonprofit, higher education, and state government sectors. Dr. Courtney is a published researcher whose work focuses on school improvement.

As the founder of Courtney Consulting LLC, he’s advised schools on leveraging evidence-based decision-making to accelerate student achievement. His impact extends beyond students and schools, influencing state-wide educational policies. Dr. Courtney's expertise and dedication continue to bridge gaps in education, fostering progress and development in diverse communities.

Links to additional resources:

• https://www.matthewbcourtney.com/
• https://twitter.com/mbcourtneyedd
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbcourtneyedd/
• https://www.youtube.com/@mbcourtneyedd
• https://www.facebook.com/mbcourtneyedd
• https://www.instagram.com/mbcourtneyedd/

“AI can support personalized learning for teachers by providing resources tailored to their learning styles and goals.”

But how can educators access the necessary professional development to utilize AI effectively in the classroom?

On this episode, we'll speak with Nneka McGee about AI in education and personalized professional development. Nneka shares her insights on the

• challenges and opportunities of implementing AI
• tailoring professional development to teachers' needs
• and the impact of AI on the overall teacher experience.

Guest Bio - Nneka McGee has served in public schools for over 15 years. She taught middle school mathematics for six years and was recognized as a district finalist for teacher of the year. Nneka has also served as District Gifted and Talented Coordinator, Director of GT and Advanced Academics, Executive Director for Learning and Innovation, and currently, as Chief Academic Officer for San Benito Consolidated Independent School District. As part of her doctoral studies, Nneka completed research on the impact of artificial intelligence in K-12 learning environments. She serves on the Board of Directors of HAKing Innovation, a non-profit organization providing students STEM access and opportunities.

Episode links:

• Nneka's Linkedin profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nnekamcgee/
• https://day29.ai

"The idea of earning and learning at the same time, which is what the apprenticeship program can provide. That might open up more opportunities for people with more diverse backgrounds.”

In a rapidly changing educational landscape, how can schools effectively prioritize essential tools for student and adult success amidst the influx of possibilities?

On this episode, we speak with Graham Forman, an experienced EdTech investor with a passion for the impact of technology in education. Today, Graham shares his unique insights on the challenges and opportunities in education today, including:

• The 4 areas in education that need continued innovation and investment
• Why student personalization is essential in the learning experience
• And the ever-evolving landscape of education technology

Guest Bio - Graham is founder and managing director of Edovate Capital. He’s spent his career in education, entrepreneurship, and investing. He spent 15 years leading sales, marketing, business development, and customer success in startup SaaS education companies. In his last operating role, he led sales and business development for Netchemia where he grew the company to serve more than 2,400 districts and 20,000 schools. Netchemia was acquired by Vista Equity Partners in 2015. With Edovate, Graham backs impact-focused K12 companies with investment and advisory support, including companies like Pear Deck (acquired by GoGuardian), LearnPlatform (acquired by Instructure), ClassWallet, Paper, and more.

Episode links:

• Email Graham - [email protected]
• Graham's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahamforman/
• Follow Graham on Medium - https://grahamforman.medium.com/

“Teachers value relationships and agency as important factors in their job satisfaction.”

We talk all the time about the need to increase teacher retention, yet despite our efforts teachers continue to leave the classroom at alarming rates. 

But how can district leaders ensure teachers have high job satisfaction while feeling empowered in their roles?

On this episode, we’ll speak with doctoral candidate and former educator Nicole Endsley. Today, Nicole shares her unique insights and research on how school and district leaders can improve teacher satisfaction and combat teacher turnover. Nicole also discusses:

• How Frederick Herzberg’s two-Factor Theory of Motivation applies to education

Guest Bio - Nicole Endsley is a doctoral candidate at the University of West Florida. Her research interests include national teacher turnover trends and teacher turnover trends in the wake of COVID-19. Nicole has over 10 years of classroom experience and 5 years of experience working in state government. Nicole is passionate about furthering her research on teacher turnover and bringing reform to the profession.

• Nicole\'s LinkedIn page

“Classroom management is a term I really don’t like to use. Because I really want my teachers to be classroom leaders.”

Many teachers struggle with classroom management. And most administrators struggle to fully support their teachers with strategies that work in the classroom.

On this episode, we speak with author, founder, and speaker Larry Davis. Larry shares his unique insights on the need to transition from classroom management to classroom leadership. Larry also shares:

• The connection between data and culture

Guest Bio - Davis’s passion for education and social betterment is fourth only to his love of God, his blessed children, and family. Davis spent 12 years in corporate America, and 24 years in education. Davis has published seven books and received his Associate degree from Weatherford College, his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, and his master’s degree from Texas Woman’s University. Education Needs A Champion and Our Children Deserve One!

Episode links:

• remedyteam.org

\"We are fundamentally focused on making sure that while we move forward with innovation, we\'re doing so in a safe and ethical way”

AI is everywhere, and there is no going back.

But how do we strategically think about and plan for the ethical and responsible use of AI in the classroom for both students and educators?

On this episode, we’ll speak with Eric Nentrup, writer, filmmaker, and strategic education consultant. Today, Eric shares the role of AI in education, including the opportunities and challenges it presents. Eric also shares:

• Paradigm shifts that are already underway

Guest Bio - Eric Nentrup is an avid writer, filmmaker, and strategic education consultant. With experience in working across media, edtech, marketing, and having served as a classroom teacher and administrator, he shares a unique cross-section of interests and understanding of the factors empowering the an equitable evolution of teaching and learning.

Links:

• Eric\'s LinkedIn Page

“We have taken the approach at Gwinnett to really lean into providing career opportunities internally for our teachers to provide the opportunity for promotion without having to leave the classroom.”

About a year ago, Cathy Hardin left a successful HR career in healthcare to become the CHRO at the nation’s 13th largest school district, Gwinnett County Public Schools. While the two industries are very different, there are remarkable similarities - including the need to create a space that’s safe and where people feel respected and valued.

But how can an organization of 11,000 teachers and 177,000 students stay nimble and agile to best support everybody throughout the organization?

On this episode, we’ll speak with Cathy Hardin, Chief Human Resource Officer at Gwinnett County Public Schools. Today, Cathy shares impactful strategies employed by Gwinnett to attract and retain top talent, such as:

• the importance of promoting creativity in education

Guest Bio - Cathy Hardin is the CHRO of Gwinnett County Public Schools, the nation’s 13th largest school district. Cathy brings nearly 30 years experience leading and building HR teams in Healthcare, Higher Ed and now K-12 education. Specializing in supporting high functioning teams and leading strategies that result in great business outcomes, Cathy brings an intentional balance of work and personal life to the educators at GCPS.

Links:

• linkedin.com/in/cathyhardin

“The impact that makes is insane. The average amount of student loan debt forgiven through the program is north of 90,000 American dollars...”

Peter Dunn (Pete the Planner®) is a financial expert, USA TODAY columnist, the author of ten books, the host of the popular radio show and podcast The Pete the Planner Show, and has appeared regularly on CNN Headline News, Fox News, Fox Business as well as numerous nationally syndicated radio programs.

But why is he on an education-focused podcast?

On this episode, Peter shares what you can do to create a financially supportive culture in your school/district. Peter also shares:

• The impact of finances on educator stress and retention

Guest Bio - Peter Dunn a.k.a. Pete the Planner® is a USA TODAY columnist and the author of ten books, six of which were featured in a nationwide launch at Barnes & Nobles stores in January of 2015. He is the host of the popular radio show and podcast The Pete the Planner Show. Pete has appeared regularly on CNN Headline News, Fox News, Fox Business as well as numerous nationally syndicated radio programs. In addition to his work educating the public, Pete is also the CEO and Founder of Your Money Line, which is a corporate financial wellness solution connecting employees to confidential, unbiased financial guidance. Pete lives in Carmel, Indiana with his wife and two young children.

Episode Links

• Your Money Line

“In October, the US surgeon General, America\'s top medical doctor, named mattering at work a key priority for improving the nation\'s mental health.”

Zach Mercurio is a researcher, writer and speaker who is passionate about cultivating meaningfulness in life and work. He believes that well-being is a community effort and that leaders hold great power in creating environments that support and encourage this. Having experienced purposelessness early on in his career, Zach now focuses on researching and teaching about how people can find meaning in their work and personal lives.

But what exactly is mattering, and what should leaders be doing about it?

On this episode, Zach shares his work around mattering and its profound impact in the workplace. Zach also shares.

• His notice, affirm, and need framework to help people feel like they matter

Guest Bio:

Zach is an author, researcher, and consultant specializing in purposeful leadership, meaningful work, and positive organizational psychology. He wrote \"The Invisible Leader: Transform Your Life, Work, and Organization with the Power of Authentic Purpose” and works with hundreds of companies, schools, and governments around the world to forge purposeful leaders and cultivate positive cultures that enable more meaning, mattering, motivation, well-being, and performance. His writing on purposeful leadership has been featured internationally in outlets such as Forbes, Inc. Magazine, and The Denver Post and his research has been awarded by The Academy of Management, the Association for Talent Development, and The Association for Human Resource Development.

Episode links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/

\"You give time for people to tell their stories, and you really have true empathy and you actually listen. A) you learn a lot, and B) you\'re going to build a culture where people feel safe.”

Dr. Nick Wahl spent 31 years in public schools, working his way up from a classroom teacher to a superintendent. He now works as an education consultant, speaking to school leaders all over the United States about using leadership tools to positively impact student outcomes, teacher recruitment, and teacher retention.

What is he recommending school leaders do today to create a positive employee experience?

On this episode, Nick discusses the importance of building effective teams and creating a collaborative culture in schools. Nick also shares:

• The power and importance of belonging

Guest Bio - Dr. Nicholas D. Wahl, Ed.D. is Vice President for ECRA Group and Founder/Chief Strategist of 1440 Consultants Inc. He is a K-12 education leader who spent over two decades at the helm of prominent school districts in the Midwestern United States. During his time as a Superintendent (16 years), Dr. Wahl served public school systems with over 2,000 employees, 15,000+ students and annual budgets eclipsing $100mm.

Episode links:

• Nick\'s LinkedIn Profile