Leaders Coaching Leaders

In this engaging discussion, Elaine Allensworth, an educational research expert with decades of experience in data-driven school improvement, reveals how effective data can transform education. She emphasizes the importance of monitoring critical metrics like ninth-grade success to boost long-term student outcomes. Elaine also addresses the complexities of data overload and encourages educators to focus on actionable insights. By fostering trust and collaboration, she believes schools can leverage data for meaningful changes and improved student engagement.

What does it take to turn classrooms into spaces of healing, empowerment, and belonging? What if education prioritized love, courage, and community over compliance? Educators and authors Shane Safir and Sawsan Jaber join Leaders Coaching Leaders to explore these questions in an eye-opening discussion about dismantling inequities and championing radical love in education. Drawing from their collaborative forthcoming book, Pedagogies of Voice, published by Corwin, they share strategies to elevate teacher and student agency while humanizing learning spaces. Through the lens of their personal stories and decades of experience, Safir and Jaber uncover how micro-communities, inquiry, and authentic leadership can reignite the spark for teaching. This conversation will leave you inspired to transform your classroom into a sanctuary where every learner feels seen, valued, and heard.Let us know what you think!

Lindsay Prendergast and Piper Lee, co-authors of *Habits of Resilient Educators*, explore the vital theme of resilience in education. They discuss how educators can thrive rather than just survive, emphasizing the importance of purpose and healthy boundaries. Highlighting their extensive experience, they reveal practices that foster supportive learning environments free of toxic productivity. Additionally, they tease their upcoming book on resilient leadership, promising insights that inspire a commitment to well-being in educational settings.

Leadership isn’t just about guiding others; it’s about growing yourself. On this episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, cohosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson talk with Jennifer Abrams, renowned educator and author of Stretching Your Learning Edges: Growing Up at Work. Jennifer dives into the essential skills leaders need to succeed, including building resilience, managing challenging conversations, and cultivating professional cultures rooted in trust and collaboration. Drawing on her extensive experience working with schools and organizations, Jennifer offers advice on fostering self-awareness and navigating interpersonal dynamics with confidence and care. Don’t miss this empowering conversation packed with practical wisdom for leaders looking to grow their impact.Let us know what you think!

In this impactful episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, Dr. Latish Reed, a trailblazing equity specialist and author of the upcoming book, The Complexities of Equity: Navigating Shades of Gray in Schools and Organizations, shares her unique and deeply personal insights on equity in education, drawing from her tenure as Milwaukee Public Schools' first equity administrator. Through her “shades of gray” framework, she explores the complexities of addressing equity in schools and other organizations, highlighting the transformational power of leadership, moral courage, and intentional action. From her reflections on building shared understanding of key equity concepts to practical solutions for navigating challenging political and organizational contexts, Dr. Reed inspires leaders to leverage their spheres of influence for meaningful change. You’ll also hear heartfelt stories of her dedication to creating better educational outcomes for all students, as well as her personal motivation to make schools work for every child—including her own son. Whether you're leading a school, tackling DEI challenges, or interested in fostering equitable practices, this conversation with Dr. Reed is filled with actionable insights and hope for the future of education. Don’t miss this fascinating discussion, and prepare to think deeply about how we can all do better for our students, staff, and communities!Let us know what you think!

Join Jennifer Gonzalez, the creative force behind Cult of Pedagogy, as she shares her passion for empowering educators. She dives into the inspiring story behind her platform and offers innovative strategies for feedback and leadership. The conversation emphasizes the balance between high expectations and emotional support in schools. Discover how to leverage technology and effective communication to enhance educational resources. With humor and real-life examples, Jennifer inspires educators to create resilient school communities.

Jim Knight, an instructional coaching expert and author, shares insights from his bestselling book, The IC Toolkit, aimed at enhancing coaching practices. He discusses the importance of role clarity for coaches to focus on impactful strategies that improve student outcomes. Knight emphasizes the necessity of leadership support in the coaching process and advocates for treating teachers as professionals to foster a thriving educational environment. His global reach through partnerships highlights the transformative potential of effective coaching.

Disability rights activist Tim Shriver, Chairman of Special Olympics, editor of The Call to Unite and author of Fully Alive, delves into the profound impact of unity and dignity in education and beyond. Shriver eloquently discusses the transformative power of inclusion, recounting personal anecdotes and professional experiences that highlight how bringing people together fosters empathy, resilience, and a sense of belonging. He emphasizes the critical role of educators in nurturing these values, advocating for the integration of programs like unified sports and Best Buddies in schools to bridge divides and promote mutual respect. Shriver also introduces the Dignity Index, a tool designed to measure and encourage respectful dialogue, which he believes is essential in combating the pervasive culture of contempt. His insights are not only a call to action for educational leaders but also a beacon of hope, underscoring the potential for societal change through compassionate leadership and community engagement. This interview is a must-listen for those committed to fostering inclusive environments and driving positive change in their communities.Let us know what you think!

Zaretta Hammond, an expert in culturally responsive teaching and educational equity, dives into the essential elements of effective teaching strategies. She emphasizes the need for school leaders to adopt intentional approaches that prioritize student needs and improve inclusivity. Discussing her books, she inspires educators to challenge implicit biases and foster environments conducive to growth. Personal anecdotes enhance her insights on collaboration in education, highlighting how crucial parental involvement and emotional resilience are for meaningful student engagement.

Co-hosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson delve into the transformative power of collective leader efficacy for this premiere episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders podcast’s 9th season. Sharing insights from their extensive collaboration with New Brunswick schools, they discuss the critical role of trust, clarity, and coherence in developing shared understanding among leaders, and how these elements foster effective joint work, emphasizing the importance of long-term partnerships and reciprocal learning. Through engaging anecdotes, such as a puzzle activity that underscored the necessity of collaboration, our co-hosts demonstrate how collective leader efficacy can break down silos and enhance both teacher and student outcomes. This interview is a must-listen for educational leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of collective efficacy and its practical applications in fostering a supportive and high-performing school culture.Let us know what you think!