In April 2025, host George Couros turned 50 and saw it as an opportunity to continue learning and improving. 

In this intro to the month-end highlights, Couros reflects on how this podcast began 5 years ago. By trying something new, Couros got this podcast going. 

One of Couros' reflections from one of his Something Personal, Something Professional, and Something Profound blog posts: “The things you regret not learning when you were younger, you can still learn today. If you are alive, you can learn.”

Be sure to watch this intro to hear how Couros connects this quote to learning a new instrument and a new workout routine. While there are things we wish we had done younger, it's essential to start now - this is how we learn and grow. By watching this highlight episode or by listening to podcasts, there are so many opportunities to learn! 

Links:

Blog Post - https://mailchi.mp/b293bb992e13/something-personal-professional-and-profound-email-15554817

100th Birthday, 5 Minute Plank Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sOLhFLfjuc&ab_channel=11Alive 

Description & Time Codes: 

0:00 Intro with George Couros 

4:14 Intro Music

4:22 Starr Sackstein and Alexandra Laing

8:41 Erika Bare and Tiffany Burns

16:12 AJ Juliani

The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast with Starr Sackstein and Alexandra Laing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_lM8Dxls4A 

Starr Sackstein and Alexandra Laing share a few details from their new book, Solving School Challenges: The Everything Guide to Transformative Change! Laing shares some powerful thoughts about why everyone in education is a leader, and this, of course, includes the students! Sackstein and Laing have some great insights into how to implement successful practices that will lead to transformative change. In this book, which reviews over 50 problems in education, the two amazing authors set out to create a guide that will support any educator, regardless of their level or years in the profession. Be sure to check out the complete episode with Starr Sackstein and Alexandra Laing for even more great ideas! If you want to hear even more than what is already in this episode, check the links below to get a copy of the new book, Solving School Challenges! 

The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast with Erika Bare and Tiffany Burns: Connecting Through Conversation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjqZL0mlsaY 

In this clip from the full episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, Connecting Through Conversation: Tiffany Burns and Erika Bare, Burns and Bare share some of the highlights in their book. The conversation between Bare, Burns, and Couros emphasizes the importance of clear and thoughtful communication among educators, highlighting the need for both directness and empathy when addressing concerns. Their discussion in this clip also includes various strategies for building trust and creating a mutual understanding, not only with students but also among colleagues. By promoting open and respectful dialogue, educators can create a supportive and collaborative environment that benefits everyone involved. Be sure to check out the full episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast with Tiffany Burns and Erika Bare for even more great ideas and conversational tips.

The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast with AJ Juliani: Meaningful & Relevant Strategies for Today's Educators 

https://youtu.be/h_gh_RVZBIw?si=X0j6XlBGD-mMpm7o 

A.J. Juliani and George Couros reflect on Juliani’s new book, Meaningful and Relevant. Juliani shares why he addressed the ideas shared in the book, The Anxious Generation. After digging into the research, Juliani shares some of the main takeaways on the ideas shared, including why we cannot blame the kids for something we are giving them access to. Couros and Juliani talk about the importance of balance, modeling the advice you are giving, and more. Couros asks the question, “How are we, as adults, modeling for our kids?”Be sure to listen or watch the full episode for even more information from Juliani!

In this episode of the Innovators Mindset Podcast, George Couros explores the impact of how rejection is communicated, emphasizing the importance of leading with respect and grace. Broadcasting from the serene outdoors, George discusses a personal experience that inspired him to ponder the often harsh and impersonal way job rejections are conveyed in education and business.

George shares insights from his time as an administrator, revealing the practices he implemented to ensure that every candidate, successful or not, was communicated with directly and respectfully. By offering constructive feedback and support, George demonstrates how these small acts of kindness can significantly influence an individual's career path and enhance an organization's reputation.

The episode highlights a poignant story of a candidate who benefited from this approach and, years later, extended appreciation in an unexpected way. Tune in to discover how treating others with dignity, even in moments of disappointment, can lead to uplifting outcomes for all involved.

__________________________________________

Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.

More at georgecouros.com

George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

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

For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

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?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin

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&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X

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

Check out Jaime's new book here: https://www.amazon.com/Grow-Grow-Right-Right-Now/dp/B0DPR914HN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=20895LHSV1Q5X&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.bND78RSNbKOn_HTZCU0H5DCJRQ4aTOCrXbDcxaHzVtCwyjCzQqGwqE4AQYexRA7OT4-YAeE5yiZdNJAQ43YOc856oXNi6J2FDDpUqgGwHfA.awV-l4_Qapod4dMRMridyfr9eg6d5sqc1XIGEDlm534&dib_tag=se&keywords=grow+right+jaime&qid=1743268336&s=books&sprefix=grow+right+jaime%2Cstripbooks%2C137&sr=1-1

Welcome to the Innovators Mindset with George Couros, where we embark on an inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Humboldt, Saskatchewan to successful ventures across continents. In this episode, George reconnects with his high school friend, Jamie Hepp, now an accomplished author and business leader. Jamie shares his personal evolution and the insights that have shaped his book, "Grow, Grow Right, Grow Right Now."

The conversation delves into the essence of perseverance, the significance of defining and living by one's values, and the wisdom of learning from both successes and failures. Jamie and George discuss how mentorship and self-reflection can drive personal and professional growth, making this episode a thought-provoking exploration for educators and leaders alike. Don't miss this heartfelt catch-up as Jamie reflects on his life lessons and offers valuable advice for embracing challenges, nurturing resilience, and shaping a fulfilling life journey.

__________________________________________

Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.

More at georgecouros.com

George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

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

For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

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?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin

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&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X

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

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

Join George Couros in the final episode of his enlightening podcast series, "Stories," where he shares deeply personal experiences from his career. In this installment, George opens up about a critical period in his life when he had to take a stress leave, a decision that ultimately transformed his career and personal well-being.

Discover how George navigated the challenges of mental health in the workplace, the invaluable support from his mentor Kelly Wilkins, and the surprising career opportunity that arose from this difficult time. Through candid storytelling, George highlights the importance of acknowledging personal limits, asking for help, and the power of stepping back to move forward.

You can read the shortened version at the newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/808839286524/something-personal-professional-and-profound-email-15554750

__________________________________________

Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.

More at georgecouros.com

George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

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

For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

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?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin

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&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X

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

In this eye-opening episode, host George invites his friend and seasoned educator AJ Juliani, who has just released a thought-provoking book titled "Meaningful and Relevant: Engaging Learners in an Era of Distraction." The conversation dives deep into the challenges educators face in keeping learners engaged amidst the continuous partial attention brought on by modern technology.

AJ shares his insights from over two decades of experience in education, discussing the importance of meaningful and relevant teaching practices. He highlights the critical role of educators in modeling effective technology use for students, emphasizing how engagement goes beyond mere compliance.

Together, they explore the nuances of teaching in today's digital age and the necessity of balancing foundational learning with aspirational goals. They discuss the impactful integration of artificial intelligence and the importance of self-reflection and independent thought for both students and educators.

__________________________________________

Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.

More at georgecouros.com

George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

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

For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

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?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin

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&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X

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

Read the entire newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/b293bb992e13/something-personal-professional-and-profound-email-15554817

Join George Couros on this special edition of the Innovator's Mindset podcast as he reflects on turning 50 and shares profound life lessons he's learned over the years. Emphasizing the importance of elevating others to find success, George offers heartfelt advice on focusing your energy on positive relationships and seeking personal growth.

Listen as George discusses the value of embracing youthfulness and appreciating life experiences, while navigating challenges and criticism. Discover how turning jealousy into learning opportunities can open new doors and foster a mindset of creation over criticism. This episode is a treasure trove of guidance on living a fulfilling life by helping others and reflecting on the past to enrich the future.

Check out Lainie's Book, Evolving Gratitude here: https://www.amazon.com/Evolving-Gratitude-Practices-Communities-Difference/dp/1948334542/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

In this episode of the Innovator's Mindset with George Couros, discover the transformative power of gratitude in education as Lainie Rowell delves into the art of cultivating gratitude within learning communities.

As an author and expert on gratitude, Lainie shares her insights on how small gratitude practices can lead to big changes in personal well-being and community dynamics. Listen in as she discusses strategies for implementing gratitude in schools, the psychological benefits it offers, and how it can enhance both teacher and student experiences.

Whether you're an educator, parent, or just someone interested in personal growth, this episode offers valuable tips on fostering a grateful disposition in your daily life.

__________________________________________

Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.

More at georgecouros.com

George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

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

For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

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?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin

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&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X

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, George Couros shares insightful stories from his personal and professional life, highlighting the value of sometimes declining opportunities to achieve greater personal fulfillment. Through anecdotes, he discusses how not getting his desired kindergarten teaching position led to a fulfilling career in high school technology, and the unexpected consequences of saying no to a principal position opportunity.

Through his experiences, George emphasizes the importance of making career decisions that align with long-term personal happiness and success rather than simply chasing titles or roles. He reflects on the pivotal moments where saying no to an opportunity ultimately meant saying yes to personal growth and happiness. This episode serves as a reminder to carefully consider how career choices can impact both professional success and personal well-being.

Check out the newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/808839286524/something-personal-professional-and-profound-email-15554750

__________________________________________

Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.

More at georgecouros.com

George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

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

For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

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?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin

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&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X

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

Join Starr Sackstein and Alexandra Laing on The Innovator's Mindset" podcast as they delve into their new book, "Solving School Challenges: The Everything Guide to Transformative Change." This episode explores innovative solutions to 53 pressing issues in education, categorized into 10 main challenges, as identified and solved by over 100 contributors including educators and leaders from diverse backgrounds. The discussion highlights strategies in addressing challenges like retention, diversity in hiring practices, and innovative teaching approaches, emphasizing the role of leadership at all levels.

Discover actionable solutions and the inspiring stories behind them, aimed at transforming schools into thriving educational environments. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or educational leader, this episode empowers you to become a changemaker in your community.

Tap into the collective wisdom shared, and find out how these transformative solutions can be implemented in your school setting, encouraging a reimagining of what education can be.

__________________________________________

Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.

More at georgecouros.com

George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

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

For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

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?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin

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&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X

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

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

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Innovator's Mindset podcast with George Couros.

Drawing inspiration from a poignant personal experience on a pig farm, George delves into the importance of recognizing when it's time to move on from situations where you don’t feel valued. In a candid reflection, he shares how an unexpected job rejection in education led to unforeseen opportunities that significantly altered his career trajectory.

This episode is a thoughtful exploration of how perceived failures can sometimes be the stepping stones to success, encouraging listeners to remain open to new possibilities and to take initiative in pursuing personal growth. Join George as he shares insights on learning from setbacks and the value of feedback in achieving success.

This podcast was inspired by this blog post: https://georgecouros.com/dont-get-used-to-the-smell/

You can also read a shortened version of the story at George's Newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/808839286524/something-personal-professional-and-profound-email-15554750

__________________________________________

Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.

More at georgecouros.com

George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros

George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros

George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/

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

For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

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?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin

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&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X

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