In this episode of “Coaching Conversations,” I had the pleasure of discussing the exciting merger between the Instructional Coaching Group (ICG) and Growth Coaching International (GCI) with John from GCI. We delved into the evolution of instructional coaching and explored the numerous benefits that our partnership can bring.We emphasized the importance of maintaining a student-centric approach, which is at the heart of everything we do. Together, we are developing a comprehensive coaching framework that leverages the strengths of both organizations. Collaboration is a powerful tool, and this merger exemplifies how working together can lead to greater outcomes.Our shared vision is clear: to improve educational outcomes and foster continuous improvement for educators and students worldwide. This episode is a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact in the field of education.We’d love to hear your feedback about my weekly coaching conversations. Please consider leaving a rating or review and subscribing to our channel!Interested in learning how out consultant team can make an impact on your school or district? click here Interested in Joining Bryan Goodwin and Jim Knight in a workshop that combines research-based teaching strategies with effective instructional coaching to enhance instruction in schools? Click here. 

In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Chris Emdin, a transformative figure in education known for his innovative approaches that integrate hip-hop culture into learning. Here are the key points from our conversation:Personal Journey: Chris shared his experiences growing up in New York City and attending Brooklyn Tech, where he often felt pressured to adopt an identity that didn’t reflect his true self. This sense of dehumanization fueled his passion for reshaping educational experiences for marginalized youth.Concept of "Ratchetness": We explored the idea of "ratchetness," which Chris defines as an authentic expression of identity that challenges societal norms. He argues that this concept allows individuals from marginalized backgrounds to reclaim their narratives and showcase their true selves unapologetically.Empowerment through Pedagogy: Chris emphasized that effective pedagogy is a powerful tool for transformation. He believes that teaching should not only impart knowledge but also empower students to embrace their full identities, fostering a sense of belonging and self-actualization in schools.The Role of Authenticity: The conversation highlighted the importance of authenticity in education. Chris argues that students should be encouraged to express their true selves, which can lead to greater engagement and passion for learning.Vision for the Future: Chris's work is driven by a commitment to creating educational spaces where all students feel valued and can thrive. He envisions schools as environments that nurture creativity and individuality, preparing students to inherit the earth with confidence.This episode is a deep dive into the intersection of culture and education, showcasing how embracing diverse identities can lead to a more equitable and inspiring learning environment.Learn how to join us in New Orleans for the Teaching Learning Coaching Conference this October by clicking here. Unable to join our in-person Institute? We offer the same great content virtually and you can learn how to join by clicking here. 

In this episode, Jim Knight engages in a heartfelt conversation with Jennifer Hlavka, who shares her journey in education and her passion for teaching. Jennifer reflects on her early experiences in school, highlighting the profound impact her high school in Richmond, Virginia, had on her love for education. She recalls how her teachers were deeply invested in their students, fostering an environment where she looked forward to learning every day.A pivotal moment for Jennifer was reading Jonathan Kozol's "Savage Inequalities" during her college years. This book opened her eyes to the stark disparities in educational experiences based on geography, igniting her desire to pursue a career in public education. She joined Teach for America and taught in Baltimore City, eventually transitioning into teacher development, where she now supports educators in achieving their career goals.Jennifer expresses her excitement about her upcoming presentations at the Teaching Learning Coaching (TLC) conference. She will lead a pre-conference session on "Better Conversations," emphasizing the importance of effective communication in both personal and professional relationships. She believes that improving conversations can significantly enhance the quality of life and work.At the conference, Jennifer will also conduct a series of sessions focused on coaching for positive classrooms, engagement, and achievement. She hopes to create a collaborative environment where educators can share strategies and insights, ultimately keeping students at the forefront of their efforts.Throughout the discussion, Jennifer's enthusiasm for education and her commitment to fostering meaningful connections shine through. She emphasizes that the quality of conversations in schools directly influences student experiences and outcomes, reinforcing her belief that educators must prioritize student voices in their practices.Learn how the Impact Cycle can make a difference in students lives by clicking here.Are you a Radical Learner interested in taking asynchronous courses to improve the way you teach? click here 

In this episode, Jim Knight and Dr. Jessica Wise – fellow hosts of the Coaching Questions podcast, had the opportunity to chat about gearing up for a new school year. As we dive into our discussion, we share our own experiences and thoughts on how coaches can effectively invest in their professional development over the summer while also taking time to recharge. Key topics include: Setting Expectations: We highlight the importance of establishing clear expectations for behavior in the classroom early in the school year to prevent disruptions. Summer Professional Development: Coaches should consider taking time off to rejuvenate, arguing that breaks can enhance productivity. We encourage listeners to clarify their coaching roles and develop necessary tools, such as playbooks and data-gathering methods. Recommended Readings: Jim shares several book recommendations for professional growth, including Coaching A to Z by Hasan Moon and You're Just Not Listening by Kate Murphy, emphasizing the value of effective communication and listening skills. Engaging with Content: We discuss techniques for processing information from readings, such as creating mind maps or summaries, to ensure that learning is retained and applied effectively. The episode wraps up with an invitation to the 2024 Teaching Learning Coaching Conference, encouraging educators to connect and grow together. Overall, the conversation is rich with practical advice and insights for coaches looking to start the school year strong. We’d love to hear your feedback about my weekly coaching conversations. Please consider leaving a rating or review and subscribing to our channel!Learn how to Join us in New Orleans for TLC by clicking here. Interested in joining one of our Institutes? Click here. 

In this episode, I had the opportunity to have an insightful conversation with TLC 2024 breakout presenters John Campbell and Christ Munro who are leading experts in the field of educational coaching and leadership development.  They have collaborated on various projects and publications, including their upcoming book "Growth Talk: Brief Conversations – Big Impact," which dives into their innovative approach to leadership, emphasizing how coaching skills can enhance everyday conversations in educational settings. Our focus is particularly on brief, informal interactions that can have significant impact.   This discussion equips listeners by providing practical tools and frameworks for more effective leadership conversations: • The Learning Conversations Map: A framework to help leaders identify and organize different conversational contexts Two axes: leader's stance (facilitative to directive) and degree of formality (formal to informal) • Focus on Brief, Informal Conversations: Emphasis on making short interactions more transformational and less transactional Recognition that a 10-minute conversation can be significant in moving things forward • Practical Strategies: "What's wanted, what's working, what's next" framework for conversations Tuning listening skills to focus on desired outcomes and strengths • Application in Educational Settings: Recognizes the complexity and time constraints in educational leadership roles Aims to make existing conversations more productive rather than adding new tasks  I hope this episode offers valuable takeaways for educators and leaders looking to improve their communication skills and foster growth in their organizations. As John Campbell and Chris Munro shared, these techniques can be immediately applied in daily interactions, emphasizing that even short conversations can be powerful tools for positive change in educational settings.  I’d love to hear your feedback about my weekly coaching conversations. Please consider leaving a rating or review and subscribing to our channel!To learn how Better Conversations can make an impact on your daily life, click here.A decade of research and hundreds of in-services later, The Impact Cycle provides an all-new instructional coaching cycle to help teachers and, in turn, their students improve in clear, measurable ways. Learn more here.

This podcast features a conversation with TLC 2024 presenter Trent Hall, a facilitator, sociologist, and communication expert who focuses on helping people "human better" and lean into our collective humanity. The discussion covers several key topics related to effective communication, coaching, and building connections:Reflective listening techniques and the importance of listening to understand rather than respondUsing inclusive language that resonates with both "feelers" and "thinkers"The concept of a "dignity lens" for seeing the inherent worth in all peopleBuilding rapport and creating a collective culture in organizationsPractical communication tools like the SBI (Situation-Behavior-Impact) model for giving feedbackThe importance of intentionality in communication and relationship-buildingThroughout the conversation, Trent emphasizes the value of effective communication skills in fostering understanding, resolving conflicts, and honoring each person's humanity. He provides insights and practical tips that coaches, educators, and leaders can use to improve their interactions and create more equitable, connected environments.Interested in joining us for TLC in the Big Easy? Click here to learn how. Learn how to sign up up for our virtual Institute by clicking here 

In this episode of Coaching Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Andrea Honigsfeld, an expert in language development, collaboration, and co-teaching for dual language learners. Dr. Honigsfeld shared valuable insights and strategies for effective collaboration and partnership in education.Our conversation began with Dr. Honigsfeld emphasizing the importance of co-planning with shared goals and objectives to support multilingual learners effectively. She highlighted the need for alignment between content and language goals for accelerated learning.We delved into the concept of co-teaching, where Dr. Honigsfeld emphasized the shift from remediation to acceleration in language development. She discussed the significance of building partnerships and shared understanding to create an environment conducive to accelerated learning for multilingual learners.Dr. Honigsfeld also touched on the upcoming release of her book on co-assessment with Dr. Margot Gottlieb, focusing on collaborative assessment practices for English learners. The discussion underscored the value of gathering data to track progress and make informed instructional decisions.Throughout the episode, Dr. Honigsfeld emphasized the asset-based approach to working with multilingual learners and teachers, promoting a mindset of collaboration, mutual learning, and co-generation. Our conversation concluded with a shared appreciation for the power of dialogue and collaboration in driving positive outcomes in education.I hope this episode leaves you inspired to adopt a collaborative and asset-based approach in your work with multilingual learners, recognizing the transformative impact of partnership and shared expertise in supporting student success.I'd love to hear your feedback about my weekly Coaching Conversations. Please consider leaving a rating or review and subscribing to our channel.Learn more about the System Support: What Administrators Need to Know About Coaching workshop. Learn more about the Impact Cycle workshop.

In this episode of the Coaching Conversations podcast, I have the opportunity to sit down with TLC 2024 keynote speaker, Kate Murphy. Kate is the acclaimed author of You're Not Listening: What You're Missing and Why It Matters, easily the best book on listening I have ever read. During our conversation we speak about the nuances of effective communication, exploring why listening is more than just hearing words—it's about understanding another person's story. We discuss the importance of asking the right questions, the power of analogies, and how genuine listening can transform relationships in a time of increasing polarization. Kate shares her journey of writing the book, emphasizing the role of innovation and creativity in her work. We also touch on practical advice for becoming a better listener, whether in personal relationships or professional coaching.You'll discover why listening is a selfless act that paradoxically leads to better connections, how to avoid common pitfalls like letting ego or fear dominate conversations, and why everyone can be interesting if you ask the right questions. Tune in for a conversation that will inspire you to hone your listening skills and deepen your interactions with others.I'd love to hear your feedback about my weekly Coaching Conversations. Please consider leaving a rating or review and subscribing to our channel.Learn more about the TLC 2024 conference.Learn more about the Intensive Instructional Coaching Institute.

In this month's Coaching Q&A episode, a follow-up to Part 1, Jessica Wise and I dive deeper into the journey of instructional coaching. Previously, we explored my early career and curiosity that led to the partnership approach. Now, in Part 2, we unpack the intricate evolution of instructional coaching and the significant milestones that shaped it.Episode Highlights:Jim Knight’s Definition of Instructional Coaching: Discover how Jim's extensive research laid the groundwork for what would become a revolutionary support system for educators.The Impact Cycle: Learn about the dynamic process that helps teachers set and achieve meaningful goals, ensuring continuous improvement and sustained practice.PEERS Goals: Understand the elements of Powerful, Emotionally Compelling, Easy, Reachable, and Student-focused goals and why focusing on students is crucial.Challenges and Adaptations: Hear about the initial hurdles, such as lack of implementation and sustained practice, and how evolving around goal-setting addressed these issues.Directive vs. Dialogical Approaches: Jim explains the importance of balancing different coaching styles and how a dialogical approach, grounded in partnership principles, enhances teacher engagement and effectiveness.The Role of Video: Explore the powerful impact of using video as a starting point for reflection and improvement in teaching practices.Evidence-Based Process: Gain insights into the rigorous research and iterative design process that led to the creation of the Impact Cycle, including the invaluable contributions from numerous dedicated professionals.Misconceptions in Instructional Coaching: Jim addresses common misunderstandings, emphasizing the importance of a dialogical approach over a purely directive or facilitative method.Practical Takeaways for CoachesLearn the 7 Success Factors for recalibrating your coaching practice to be more student-focused.Discover actionable steps to implement the Impact Cycle effectively in your coaching.Understand the benefits of a dialogical approach and how to incorporate it into your interactions with teachers.View the two articles I reference in this episode: "Teach to Win" and "One Size Fits One". I also reference the Impact Cycle checklist as a great starting point for coaches who want to recalibrate their coaching. To learn more about a dialogical approach to coaching, or the Impact Cycle, consider attending the Impact Cycle workshop or the Intensive Instructional Coaching Institute.Learn more about our annual TLC conference taking place in New Orleans or Online.

During this episode, I had a fascinating conversation with TLC 2024 Keynote Speaker, Dr. Haesun Moon from the University of Toronto. We delved into the concept of scaling in coaching conversations and the importance of focusing on progress rather than deficits. Dr. Moon shared insights on how to work with clients' progress and the significance of asking the right questions to facilitate their growth.We discussed the idea of radically accepting another's truth and the importance of understanding people's logic for their lives. Dr. Moon emphasized the power of dialogue and how it can lead to a deeper understanding and connection with others. We also explored the concept of inviting others to imagine what's possible, highlighting the Solution Focused approach to coaching and the value of helping individuals envision positive outcomes.This episode provides valuable insights into effective coaching practices, the significance of empathy and understanding, and the transformative impact of dialogue in fostering growth and development.Learn more from Dr. Moon by joining us in New Orleans for TLC this year. To learn how, click here.Join us at our next Impact Cycle workshop to learn powerful tools that grow student achievement. Learn how to by clicking here.