The Empowered Educator Show | Building Systems That Create Success for School Principals

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When leaders rush to speak, they often miss what matters most. In this episode of the Empowered Educator, we explore the power of pausing, listening, and learning—especially when you’re uncertain.

Inside this Power Surge, you’ll discover:

• Why listening is one of your most powerful leadership tools
• How silence creates space for insight and trust
• The leadership magic in asking, “Tell me more”

If you’re ready to shift from leading with answers to leading with awareness, this episode is for you.

Power Surge Affirmation:  I don’t have to know everything to lead well. I choose to listen, learn, and grow with purpose. 

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Calling All Educators! 

I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.

• I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.
• I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.

Join here: Empowered Educator Community

Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Success

email: [email protected]

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Chuck Moss is back talking about community Engagement practices that breed a great school culture. Join me as I talk with Chuck about everything from Community Engagement and Social Media to Shredded Lettuce and Saturday Selfies. 

Connect with Chuck:

X, FB, IG, Trends - @ChuckMossEDU

This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase.

Support the show

Loaded Tea Shop

Million Podcasts List

Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!

Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.

Calling All Educators! 

I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.

• I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.
• I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.

Join here: Empowered Educator Community

Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Success

email: [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

Every interaction you have as a leader tells a story about your school. In this Power Surge, we dig into what it means to lead like an ambassador—not just inside your building, but in your community, online, and everywhere your leadership reaches.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

• Build trust through consistent leadership presence
• Represent your school’s values and vision with integrity
• Shift from managing a building to embodying a mission

Your leadership voice is powerful—make sure it reflects the message you want to send.

Power Surge Affirmation: You don’t just lead your building. You represent your school’s identity.”

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Loaded Tea Shop

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Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!

Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.

Calling All Educators! 

I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.

• I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.
• I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.

Join here: Empowered Educator Community

Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Success

email: [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

In this Power Surge episode of The Empowered Educator podcast, we’re kicking off the new school year with a challenge: lead with clarity, not comfort.

With great opportunity comes great responsibility—and part of that responsibility is evaluating what you’re bringing into the new year. From outdated routines to legacy systems that no longer serve your mission, now is the time to pause and recalibrate.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• Why comfort can quietly stall leadership growth
• How to recognize when familiar practices are no longer effective
• A practical framework to help you lead with clarity and intention
• A mindset shift to help you embrace courageous leadership in real time

This isn’t about reinventing everything—it’s about being bold enough to reflect, refine, and release what’s no longer aligned.

🎯 Power Surge Affirmation: “Comfort is safe—but clarity is what drives meaningful progress.”

Support the show

Loaded Tea Shop

Million Podcasts List

Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!

Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.

Calling All Educators! 

I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.

• I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.
• I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.

Join here: Empowered Educator Community

Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Success

email: [email protected]

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• In this Power Surge, Dr. Mel reflects on the deeper meaning of independence for educators.
• You’ll be challenged to name and claim the freedom you already have—freedom to lead, freedom to pivot, and freedom to follow God’s purpose for your career.
• Whether you’re heading into leadership or out of the classroom altogether, this episode will reignite your fire.

Power Surge Affirmation: I am free to grow, lead, and build a life and career that honors my calling and purpose.

Free Spiritual Gifts Test

Support the show

Loaded Tea Shop

Million Podcasts List

Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!

Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.

Calling All Educators! 

I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.

• I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.
• I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.

Join here: Empowered Educator Community

Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Success

email: [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

Burnout doesn’t serve your calling. If you’ve been running on empty or trying to balance all the things without leaving space for yourself, this is your nudge to pause, protect your peace, and lead from a place of wholeness.

You’ll walk away with:

• A fresh mindset around rest and sustainability
• Permission to protect your work-life balance
• A bold I Will statement to anchor your week

Rest isn’t a reward—it’s a requirement. Let's reset and lead on purpose.

Work Life Balance Summit Registration

Support the show

Loaded Tea Shop

Million Podcasts List

Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!

Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.

Calling All Educators! 

I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.

• I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.
• I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.

Join here: Empowered Educator Community

Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Success

email: [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

As a new school year approaches, school leaders are faced with endless decisions, data, and demands—but clinging to what’s familiar can quietly stall progress. In this Power Surge episode, we’re naming the real culprit: analysis paralysis.

Whether it’s outdated systems, overcomplicated routines, or fear of making the wrong move, the pressure to “get it right” can keep you stuck. But clarity is your superpower.

Tune in as we unpack how to:

• Recognize habits that no longer serve your mission
• Simplify decision-making to regain momentum
• Let go of “what we’ve always done” in favor of purposeful leadership
• Reframe this season as one of bold reassessment

Support the show

Loaded Tea Shop

Million Podcasts List

Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!

Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.

Calling All Educators! 

I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.

• I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.
• I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.

Join here: Empowered Educator Community

Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Success

email: [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

Empowered Educator Community

The Confident Classroom

In this enlightening episode of the Empowered Educator series, we tackle the pressing issues surrounding teacher struggles in today’s educational landscape. Despite their passion and commitment, many educators find themselves feeling overwhelmed and unsupported, leading to alarming rates of attrition and vacancies in our schools.

By the end of the episode, listeners will have a deeper understanding of the systemic changes needed to support educators, improve teacher retention, and ultimately enhance the educational experience for students. Whether you’re an educator, school leader, or community member, this episode will inspire you to reflect on your role in fostering a supportive environment for our teachers.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the root causes of teacher struggles
• Insights into current trends in teacher attrition and vacancies
• The importance of empowering teachers through support and mentorship
• Practical steps for school leaders to create a nurturing environment

Resources Mentioned:

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports
• Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education data

The Confident Classroom

Support the show

Loaded Tea Shop

Million Podcasts List

Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!

Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.

Calling All Educators! 

I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.

• I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.
• I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.

Join here: Empowered Educator Community

Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Success

email: [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

You’ve landed the leadership role—now what? In this week’s Power Surge, Dr. Mel breaks down the real mindset shifts new administrators must make after stepping out of the classroom and into leadership. If you’re still thinking like a teacher but expected to lead like a visionary, this 5-minute episode is the clarity check you need. Learn the top three shifts that will help you delegate with confidence, lead people instead of tasks, and build trust over popularity.

Whether you’re a first-year AP or just got the principal keys, this one’s for you.

Support the show

Loaded Tea Shop

Million Podcasts List

Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!

Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.

Calling All Educators! 

I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.

• I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.
• I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.

Join here: Empowered Educator Community

Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Success

email: [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Mel Vandevort dives into a captivating discussion with Katie Kinder and Dr. Darrin Peppard about their book "Culture First Classrooms" and their extensive experience as education consultants and speakers. The book, originally conceived as a guide to classroom management, evolved into a comprehensive exploration of fostering positive classroom cultures. With insights from 24 educators, Katie and Darrin explore essential topics such as leadership, relationship-building, and effective teaching practices that enhance student engagement and trust. They also share practical strategies for new teachers and insights into transitioning from classroom roles to successful educational consulting careers. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation that promises to empower educators at all career stages!

Key Takeaways:

• Strategies for building a positive classroom culture
• Importance of student engagement and trust-building
• Practical tips for new teachers and those transitioning into consulting roles

Topics Covered:

• Evolution of the book from classroom management to culture-focused
• Insights into effective leadership and inclusive environments
• Strategies for enhancing student engagement and supporting new teachers

Culture First Classrooms: Leadership, Relationships, and Practices that Transform Schools

Katie Kinder

Katie Kinder Website

LinkedIn

Dr. Darrin Peppard

Road to Awesome

LinkedIn

Innovative Schools Summit

This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase.

Support the show

Loaded Tea Shop

Million Podcasts List

Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase!

Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points.

Calling All Educators! 

I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.

• I am looking for members to help me build it with the most valuable resources.
• I would really appreciate your input as a teacher, leader, administrator, or consultant.

Join here: Empowered Educator Community

Book: Educator to Entrepreneur: IGNITE Your Path to Freelance Success

email: [email protected]