Tomorrow's School Psych

Emotional intelligence isn’t just for students - it’s a game-changer for school psychologists, too. 

In this episode, I sit down with Serena Renee, a former school psych turned leadership and trauma coach, to talk about how understanding our emotions can transform how we lead, advocate, and collaborate.

From setting boundaries without guilt to shifting negative self-talk into curiosity, Serena shares practical strategies for building stronger relationships with colleagues, parents, and students. 

Whether you’re brand new to the field or leading a team, you’ll walk away with tools to manage stress, build confidence, and create a healthier, more sustainable way to work.

Here are the highlights:

Emotional intelligence in practice (01:33)

The link between people-pleasing and burnout (04:16)

Shifting from judgment to curiosity (07:40)

Boundaries and self-care for first-year psychs (10:58)

Building trust and collaboration on teams (14:06)

Showing up as human first, psych second (18:39)

Connect with Serena:

The Prepared School Psych series, Wait, am I in Charge?:  

https://jennyponzuric.com/prepared-school-psychologist/ 

Serena's coaching website: https://www.forwardthinking.coach/

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all listeners are required to follow federal and state law, as well as their school district guidelines and policies.

Connect with Jenny:

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Amy Merenda, a licensed educational psychologist, to talk about what it really means to “lead” when you’re not technically the boss. 

We share practical strategies for building trust, improving communication, and growing as a leader in your school - even without formal authority. 

Amy opens up about her early experiences, lessons she wishes she’d known, and how self-reflection and boundaries can change everything. 

Whether you’re brand new to the field or a seasoned school psych ready for a reset, this conversation is packed with insights you can start using right away.

Here are the highlights:

That “Wait, am I in charge?” moment (01:33)

Why leadership is more influence than authority (06:35)

Setting boundaries without burning out (11:38)

The surprising power of self-reflection (17:49)

Using your strengths to tackle growth areas (26:47)

Advice for first-year school psychs (34:20)

The Prepared School Psych series, Wait, am I in Charge?:  https://jennyponzuric.com/prepared-school-psychologist/

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all listeners are required to follow federal and state law, as well as their school district guidelines and policies.

Connect with Jenny:

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WEBSITE

Change in schools can feel painfully slow, but what if the key to progress is patience and influence? 

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Amit Bosmia, a nationally certified school psychologist and respected leader in mental health and special education. 

We talk about the power of relationships, what true advocacy looks like, and how even small shifts can spark real transformation for students and staff.

Amit shares his journey, his research on strengthening teacher-student relationships, and how school psychologists can expand their roles beyond testing to become trusted partners in creating better systems for kids. 

This conversation is practical, inspiring, and a reminder that lasting change starts with connection.

Here are the highlights:

The “Swiss Army Knife” of school psychology (03:19)

Why relationships matter more than titles (05:22)

Building influence without burning out (07:59)

Research that shows simple strategies make big impacts (08:59)

Why patience is the secret weapon for new school psychs (27:23)

Establish Maintain and Restore:  https://characterstrong.com/blog/emr-3-relationship-strategies-for-effective-learning

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all listeners are required to follow federal and state law, as well as their school district guidelines and policies.

Connect with Jenny:

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WEBSITE

In this episode, I’m sitting down with Dr Byron McClure, the creator of School Psych AI and someone who’s making a real impact in our field. 

We talk about what responsible use of AI looks like, how it can ease the pressure of endless report writing, and why protecting student data has to stay front and centre. 

Whether you’re already experimenting with AI or still feeling a bit cautious, this conversation will give you practical insights and plenty to think about.

Highlights:

(00:51) Why Byron built School Psych AI

(19:38) Keeping student data safe with AI

(28:15) Cutting burnout and overload with tech

(31:23) Accountability when using AI in practice

Find out more about Dr Byron McClure

Website

Socials: @schoolpsychai

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all listeners are required to follow federal and state law, as well as their school district guidelines and policies.

Connect with Jenny:

FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

WEBSITE

We all know the “what if” game, but usually it shows up as worry or self-doubt.

In this first episode, I flip it on its head and share how asking better “what if” questions can shift your mindset, spark creativity, and even make everyday goals more achievable.

From adding more movement to focusing on what’s already working, I walk you through examples that helped me rethink my own week. I’ll also give you a simple seven-day challenge you can try right away.

Small questions can spark big change, and your brain is ready for it.

00:58 – Why I stopped playing the negative “what if” game

02:15 – How positive “what if” questions rewired my thinking

05:40 – Real examples I used to change my week

08:20 – A challenge you can try for the next seven days

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all listeners are required to follow federal and state law, as well as their school district guidelines and policies.

Connect with Jenny:

FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

WEBSITE

Hosted by Jenny Ponzuric - school psychologist turned neuropsychologist, former administrator, professor, and lifelong learner - this podcast explores what’s next in the world of school psychology and special education.

Each episode gives you clarity, strategies, and resources to make your work feel a little easier while strengthening how you support students and families. Expect practical tools, career insights, and honest conversations about the evolving role of school psychologists.

From student advocacy and leadership skills to navigating self-talk and professional growth, this is a space for lifelong learners who care deeply about making a difference.

Whether you’re a school psych, an educator, or part of the special education community, join Jenny to learn, grow, and keep moving the profession forward - because tomorrow starts today.

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all listeners are required to follow federal and state law, as well as their school district guidelines and policies.

Connect with Jenny:

FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

WEBSITE