Check out "Forward, Together" here on Amazon: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

In this episode, we explore one of the most powerful shifts in leadership and education today: how to move from conflict to connection. Inspired by ideas from Forward, Together, this conversation focuses on what it truly takes to turn disagreement into progress and transform adversaries into advocates.

Rather than trying to “win” conversations, the key is learning to listen with the intention to understand, not respond. When people feel heard and see their perspectives reflected in the direction of a community, they are far more likely to move from resistance to ownership. As highlighted in Forward, Together, meaningful change starts when we are open to the possibility that our own thinking might evolve.

This episode unpacks practical strategies for educators and leaders who want to build trust, foster collaboration, and create environments where diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes, not deeper divides.

If you want to dive deeper into these ideas and explore actionable ways to shift from opposition to partnership, read more here:

Whether you are leading a school, a team, or a community, this conversation will challenge you to rethink how you engage with disagreement and how you build something better, together.

___________

👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset

🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com

🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

Follow George Couros:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519

📚 Books by George Couros:

Forward, Together:

https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/

In this conversation, I sit down with Christine Dyer to explore the often overlooked role of time and patience in meaningful learning and leadership. We discuss how creating intentional space for reflection supports both student growth and adult development, and why slowing down can actually accelerate progress in education.

Christine also shares her family’s journey from Guatemala to Alaska, highlighting how shifts in environment, light, and culture can deepen our understanding of time, ecology, and relevance in learning. Her perspective challenges us to rethink how we structure time in schools, not as something to manage, but as something to design with purpose.

If you are an educator, leader, or lifelong learner, this episode offers practical and reflective insights on creating the conditions for growth, for yourself and for those you serve.

Check out Christine's site here: https://www.msdyer.com/

3 Questions for Conversation:

___________

👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset

🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com

🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

Follow George Couros:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519

📚 Books by George Couros:

Forward, Together:

https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Get your copy of “Forward, Together” here on Amazon! https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

____

What if the way forward in education is not about winning arguments, but about starting from what we already agree on?

In this episode, I explore a simple but powerful mindset shift: when we disagree, we should first identify common ground, then build forward together. Too often in education, conversations get stuck in debate, when in reality, there is far more alignment than we acknowledge.

Using the ongoing discussion around class size as a starting point, I unpack a deeper idea. Across educators, leaders, and communities, there is strong agreement that schools should help students develop skills like grit, communication, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. That belief is reflected in this post from Francis Suarez during a visit to Alpha School:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DV8gjQKDnLV/?hl=en

So if we agree on where we want to go, the real question becomes: are our current structures aligned to help us get there?

This episode challenges the disconnect between vision and reality in education. It is not just about whether class size matters, it is about whether our systems support the future we say we want to build. When we begin with shared beliefs, we create a clearer path toward meaningful, lasting change.

3 Questions to Consider:

👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset

🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com

🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

Follow George Couros:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519

📚 Books by George Couros:

Forward, Together:

https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/

In this episode, I sit down with Alise Pulliam, Executive Director of Innovation and Technology at Comax Schools, to explore what it truly means to lead with a mindset of possibility rather than limitation.

Alise shares her journey from English teacher to a leadership role in innovation and technology, and how that experience shaped her belief that learning must always come before technology, not the other way around. We dive into the importance of moving away from a “culture of no” and instead creating environments where educators feel empowered to make thoughtful, positive decisions.

She discusses bridging instructional and IT teams, hands-on STEM and robotics for young learners, adapting to continuous change, and approaching AI and new tools from curiosity rather than automatic rejection.

A powerful part of our conversation centers on self-leadership, inspired by her favorite chapter, “Clap for Yourself,” from Forward, Together. Alise reflects on a question that continues to guide her thinking: What advice would you give to a friend, and are you willing to give that same grace to yourself?

This episode is a reminder that innovation is not just about new tools, it is about mindset, trust, and the courage to support both others and yourself.

In this episode, we discuss:

Questions for Consideration:

👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset

🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com

🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

Follow George Couros:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519

📚 Books by George Couros:

Forward, Together:

https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Get your copy of “Forward, Together” here on Amazon! https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

______

What happens when a student thrives academically in your class, but struggles to connect with you personally?

In this episode, I share a humbling story from my time as a teacher, when I penalized a high-achieving student not for her learning, but for her attitude toward me. What I later discovered changed my perspective completely: I was the only teacher she didn’t connect with.

This experience led to a powerful realization about education and leadership. It is not about forcing every connection; it is about ensuring every student has someone who connects with them.

We explore how great schools and organizations embrace diverse personalities, teaching styles, and leadership approaches, not as a weakness, but as a strength. When we build teams with different strengths and perspectives, we create more opportunities for every student to feel seen, supported, and successful.

This idea connects deeply to my book Forward Together, where I share how reflecting on our missteps can help others move forward with greater clarity. Sometimes, your hindsight becomes someone else’s foresight.

Key Questions Explored in This Episode:

Why This Matters:

Learn More:

A guide to reflecting, growing, and creating better opportunities for those we serve.

If this message resonates, share it with an educator or leader who is committed to helping every student succeed, even if that success comes through someone else.

___________

👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset

🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com

🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

Follow George Couros:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519

📚 Books by George Couros:

Forward, Together:

https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

In this episode, I sit down with Kim Gameroz, author of Becoming the Bison, to explore how educators can better navigate classroom challenges by focusing on themselves first.

We dive into the powerful idea that student behavior is not something to “fix,” but something to understand. As Kim shares, behavior is communication, and when educators shift their mindset, they move from reacting to leading with clarity and intention.

This conversation highlights how social-emotional learning is not just another initiative, but a practical, sustainable approach that helps educators build stronger relationships, reduce stress, and create meaningful change in classrooms and schools.

We also talk about Kim’s Vibe EDU conference, a unique experience designed to celebrate educators, build community, and remind teachers they are not alone in this work. Through connection, collaboration, and shared purpose, educators, families, and students can come together to create better outcomes for everyone.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, inspired, or somewhere in between, this episode is a reminder that the work starts within, and that real change happens when we lead with intention.

🔗 Connect & Learn More:

📘 Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-BISON-Emotional-Solution-Educators/dp/1968898131/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

🌐 Vibe EDU Conference: https://www.teachinginsideout.com/vibe-edu

📸 Follow Kim on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selebrategoodtimes

Questions for Consideration:

How can educators use social-emotional learning to improve student behavior and classroom culture?

What does “Becoming the Bison” mean for teacher resilience and leadership?

How can schools bring educators, students, and families together to create better outcomes?

___________

👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset

🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com

🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

Follow George Couros:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519

📚 Books by George Couros:

Forward, Together:

https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Get your copy of “Forward, Together” here on Amazon!  https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

What if the stories we choose to share in education shape the future of learning?

In this powerful conversation, George Couros sits down with Jesse Fawess, whose tweet helped inspire the writing of Forward Together, to explore why sharing the great things happening in schools is more important than ever. Too often, education is defined by what is broken, but real change happens when we amplify what is working.

Jesse reflects on his key takeaways from Forward Together and how a single moment, idea, or story can spark something much bigger than we ever imagined. This discussion highlights a critical truth: you never know who you are inspiring when you share your work.

The conversation also challenges a common misconception about innovation in education. Innovation is not just about technology; it is about how we rethink time, prioritize what matters most, and create better opportunities for students and educators. When we use time differently, we unlock some of the most meaningful innovation possible in schools.

🎥 Watch the video that helped inspire Forward Together:

🔑 In this episode, you will learn:

📘 Learn more about Forward Together and George Couros’ work:

https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

If you believe in celebrating the incredible work happening in education and want to inspire others through your story, this episode is for you.

___________

👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset

🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com

🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

Follow George Couros:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519

📚 Books by George Couros:

Forward, Together:

https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/

How do educators keep students engaged in a world full of digital distractions, while also using artificial intelligence to deepen thinking rather than replace it?

In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros sits down with educator, assistant principal, and speaker Marc Isseks, author of Captivate: Engaging and Empowering Students in a World of Digital Distractions. Together they explore practical strategies for designing learning experiences that truly capture student attention while helping them develop creativity, critical thinking, and ownership of their learning.

Marc shares insights from his work as a Long Island school leader and how staying connected to daily school life shapes his ideas about teaching, engagement, and leadership. The conversation highlights why educators who actively work in schools often become stronger speakers and thought leaders, and how presenting at conferences can also bring new ideas back into classrooms.

The discussion also explores how artificial intelligence can support deeper learning when used intentionally. Instead of replacing thinking, AI can help educators design better questions, spark reflection, and create learning environments that challenge students to go beyond surface level answers.

Additional topics include:

• Strategies to engage students in a world of constant digital distraction

Whether you are a teacher, school leader, or someone interested in the future of education, this conversation offers practical ideas for helping students stay engaged and empowered in today’s technology-rich world.

📘 Marc Isseks’ Book:

Subscribe for more conversations about innovation, leadership, and learning in education.

Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset

🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com

🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

Follow George Couros:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519

📚 Books by George Couros:

Forward, Together:

https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/

Get your copy of “Forward, Together” here on Amazon! https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

_______________

In this episode of "The Innovator's Mindset," we explore a powerful shift in how we talk about public education: choosing discussion over debate.

Too often, we hear phrases like “we need to fight for public education.” While well-intentioned, that language can unintentionally create division by implying the existence of an enemy.

But when education improves, everyone benefits: students, families, educators, and communities alike.

Inspired by Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams, Superintendent in Minneapolis Public Schools, this conversation focuses on the importance of bringing people together, especially those who may disagree with us. Real progress happens not when we try to win arguments, but when we create space for understanding.

Drawing from Forward, Together, this episode highlights a key idea: when we take the time to truly understand someone’s perspective before sharing our own, we open the door to meaningful dialogue. People are more willing to listen, not because we “won,” but because they feel respected and heard.

As Dale Carnegie famously said, “You can’t win an argument. If you lose it, you lose it; and if you win it, you lose it.” Debate may create winners and losers, but discussion builds connection, trust, and forward momentum.

If we want to strengthen public education, the path forward is not through fighting, but through advocacy, storytelling, and genuine conversation. By sharing the great work already happening in our schools and listening deeply to others, we move forward together.

___________

👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset

🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com

🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

Follow George Couros:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519

📚 Books by George Couros:

Forward, Together:

https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/

What happens when education helps students discover who they are and why they matter?

In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros speaks with Steve Ward, founder of Dream Catcher, about the power of purpose-driven education and how helping students discover their value can transform learning, engagement, and future career paths.

Steve shares his journey from Compton to building the Dream Catcher program, a platform designed to help students explore identity, develop self-awareness, and connect their passions with meaningful career opportunities. At the center of his work is a powerful message:

“I have a purpose. You have a purpose. We have a purpose.”

Through Dream Catcher’s eight-lesson curriculum, students engage in deep self-exploration, create actionable life plans, and generate what Steve calls “aspirational data,” helping educators better understand and support each learner.

The conversation explores how schools can move beyond traditional metrics and help students develop purpose, belonging, and a vision for their future.

If education is meant to prepare students for life, helping them discover purpose may be one of the most important starting points.

Questions for this podcast

What is purpose-driven education and why does it matter for students?

How does the Dream Catcher program help students discover their purpose?

Who is Steve Ward and what inspired him to create Dream Catcher?

How can schools help students align passion, purpose, and career pathways?

What is “aspirational data” and how can it improve student support?

Why does helping students find purpose increase engagement and motivation?

How can educators create a shared vision of purpose within a school community?

What practical strategies help students reflect on identity, strengths, and future goals?

___________

👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset

🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com

🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

Follow George Couros:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519

📚 Books by George Couros:

Forward, Together:

https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/