The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast

In this solo episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros shares five powerful questions every educator should ask students to start the school year strong. Based on his widely read blog post, “5 Questions to Ask Your Students to Start the School Year”, George explores how these questions create meaningful connections, uncover student passions, and foster learner-driven environments. Drawing from his book Innovate Inside the Box (co-authored with Dr. Katie Novak), George highlights how shifting from a data-driven to a relationship-focused approach builds more inclusive, empowering learning experiences. Educators, administrators, and support staff will gain actionable insights to better understand student strengths, reimagine success, and personalize learning. Tune in to discover how a few thoughtful questions can lead to stronger classroom culture, deeper student engagement, and a more connected school year from day one.   📚 For more on learner-driven education, check out Innovate Inside the Box by George Couros and Dr. Katie Novak: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334127&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin

In this powerful episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros sits down with renowned educator and author Dr. Katie Martin to explore how community schools can serve as the heart of local transformation. Dr. Martin shares actionable strategies for redesigning traditional school systems into inclusive environments that emphasize relationships, performance-based assessments, and partnerships with families and community organizations.   Listeners will gain insights into how to build a sense of belonging, reduce behavioral issues, and increase engagement by prioritizing student relationships and community collaboration. From rethinking compliance-driven models to launching the school year with a focus on connection and purpose, this episode offers practical ideas for educators, leaders, and parents invested in meaningful change.   Learn how schools can move beyond outdated models to create holistic learning pathways that empower students to thrive in and improve the world around them. __________________________________________ 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 solo episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros shares a powerful leadership lesson rooted in his experience as a college basketball referee. Discover how taking ownership of mistakes can de-escalate conflict, strengthen relationships, and foster a culture of growth.   Drawing connections between sports and education, George offers practical strategies to help leaders build trust, model vulnerability, and lead with authenticity.   Whether you're in the classroom, boardroom, or on the court, this episode will challenge you to see mistakes not as failures, but as opportunities for meaningful connection and progress.   For more insights on this topic, check out the companion newsletter: https://us12.campaign-archive.com/?u=9381017234135a9c6d5f7419a&id=c9debb6537

In this powerful episode, Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket, a veteran school administrator and president of the Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals, returns to the podcast to share her remarkable journey and leadership insights. From delivering a keynote in South Carolina to connecting with global educators at the ASCD Ghana International Educator Summit, Dr. Edoho-Eket brings passion and purpose to every space she enters. We dive into her latest collaborative book with Dr. Brad Johnson, Relational Intelligence: The Key Factor to Exceptional School Leadership—a practical guide for educators looking to build trust, communication, and connection across their school communities. Dr. Edoho-Eket unpacks how strong relationships are essential for boosting morale and retaining quality staff in today’s educational climate. She also reflects on the meaningful experiences from her time in Ghana and the lessons she believes can enhance learning environments around the world. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, principal, or aspiring leader, this episode offers an inspiring conversation about the power of relational leadership in transforming schools. Listen now and discover how relational intelligence can elevate your impact.   Find the new book here: https://www.amazon.com/Relational-Intelligence-Exceptional-Leadership-LeadershipGoals-ebook/dp/B0FCYXYK2L/ref=sr_1_1?crid=KKSRM7ETNV1G&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ikIwcKcRsgoR6lf__PMvI3VP2AjqdB36I531dxc4DygYC93Fl6FflamiLi6cCBuw.OyKf3rHiS2zxXY4MzZwI7adXK7EahJ_jckPA9jp9dsc&dib_tag=se&keywords=relational+intelligence+brad+johnson&qid=1753294161&sprefix=relational+intelligence+%2Caps%2C108&sr=8-1   __________________________________________   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/

This podcast is based on the following blog post: https://georgecouros.com/change-toxic-culture/   Description: In this powerful episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros reflects on how a single individual can influence a toxic culture without becoming part of it. Drawing from his visit to the Charleston County School District with Superintendent Anita Huggins and a personal story from an LA Fitness gym, George explores the small yet meaningful actions that shape environments. Listeners will learn: How leaders model cultural change through consistent actions Why personal values matter more than fitting in with the crowd How small decisions, like re-racking weights or picking up trash, can lead to systemic transformation This episode provides practical inspiration for educators, leaders, and anyone seeking to cultivate a better culture, beginning with themselves.        

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring educational leaders from Medinah School District 11, Keeneyville School District 20, and Itasca School District 10 in Illinois. These districts came together for a groundbreaking joint professional learning day, showcasing the power of collaboration in education. Hear directly from Melissa Langietti, Carrie Buckley, and Heidi Weeks, as they share how their districts are breaking down silos and building up shared success. From fostering competitive collaboration to strengthening local school communities, this episode explores how smaller districts can drive significant innovation. Discover how uniting around shared goals is helping educators and leaders create resilient, future-ready schools. If you're passionate about professional development, community engagement, and the future of education, this conversation is a must-listen.   __________________________________________   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 special solo episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros shares a personal and passionate update—his new book Moving People Forward, Together, in Contentious Times is nearly complete and set for release in early 2026. Written in just under two weeks, this book explores the challenges and opportunities of uniting people during divisive times, while emphasizing the power of community, connection, and courageous leadership. George also reflects on one of the most pivotal moments in his career—getting a new boss—and outlines 3 practical strategies for navigating leadership transitions and fresh professional starts: See yourself through a new lens. Proactively share your hopes and aspirations. Ask what success looks like from your leader’s perspective. He shares personal stories, including how a tie sparked a renewed sense of purpose, and highlights insights from admired educators like Kelly Wilkins and Abby Ramos-Stanutz. Whether you are starting a new role or entering a new season in your career, this episode offers the inspiration and tools to create your own opportunities and lead with intention. 🔗 Read the full newsletter that inspired this episode: https://mailchi.mp/georgecouros/whyyouneedabreak-15555266 Tune in to explore how embracing change with an innovator’s mindset can help you and your community move forward—together.     __________________________________________   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, you will hear an in-depth conversation with Ivin Gunder, a passionate principal from Orange Park, Florida. Ivin shares how intentional connections and authentic relationships can transform schools and improve learning outcomes for all students.   Please connect with Ivin on his Instagram account at: https://www.instagram.com/ivinj.gunder/   Who is Ivin Gunder? Ivin Gunder is an influential school leader known for creating a supportive and engaging educational environment. His journey began as a student who struggled academically, and today he empowers teachers and students through his philosophy of connection, trust, and care.   What will you learn? How to build meaningful relationships with students and staff Why trust and teamwork are essential in school culture Ways to create a positive, engaging learning atmosphere How lessons from athletics, especially basketball, can shape effective educational leadership Practical examples of strategies that make a lasting impact in schools Why should you listen? This episode is perfect for educators, school leaders, and anyone interested in improving school culture and fostering authentic connections. Ivin’s story shows that caring relationships are the foundation of any thriving school community. How can you connect with Ivin Gunder? Follow Ivin on Instagram to stay updated on his work, insights, and new initiatives in education leadership.   https://www.instagram.com/ivinj.gunder/     __________________________________________   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 heartfelt solo episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros shares three powerful strategies for navigating moments of uncertainty, anxiety, and life transitions. Inspired by a recent reflection after an incredible event in Missouri, George talks candidly about what to do when life feels out of sync. Whether you're dealing with a big decision or just overwhelmed by change, these practical ideas will help you find clarity and peace in the chaos. 💡 In This Episode: Slow Down – Why rushing leads to regret, and how taking your time can bring better decisions Move – How physical movement can bring mental clarity when you're overwhelmed Ask for Help – The value of leaning on others who have been through it and the power of simply being heard ✨ This episode is for anyone experiencing a time of personal or professional change. You are not alone in your uncertainty, and small steps can make a big difference. 📬 Read the original newsletter: 3 Things To Do When You Don’t Know What To Do 📘 Explore more insights in George’s book, The Innovator’s Mindset: Available on Amazon 🎤 Book George Couros for your next event: Workshops and keynotes on innovation, leadership, and personal growth https://georgecouros.com/contact

In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros speaks with Giselle Rodriguez, Director of the Office of Innovative Learning, and Peter Bayer, Principal of Pembroke Pines Charter School at the Academic Village Campus in Southern Florida. Learn how a municipally run charter school system is redefining what’s possible in education by focusing on aligned leadership, mental health supports, and innovation at every level. Giselle shares how her department ensures consistency and collaboration across schools, while Peter explains how their unique leadership model empowers educators and students to thrive. 🎯 In This Episode: How Pembroke Pines bridges innovation and tradition through a charter-municipal partnership Strategies for system-wide professional learning and leadership alignment A proactive approach to mental health through the Student Assistance Program The role of community voice and shared leadership in shaping school culture This conversation is full of practical insights for school leaders, teachers, district administrators, and policymakers who are striving to build student-centered systems that adapt to the needs of their communities. 📘 Explore more ideas in George’s book: The Innovator’s Mindset — Available on Amazon 🎤 Book George Couros to speak at your event: Keynotes and workshops on innovation, leadership, and the future of learning 👉 georgecouros.com/contact