
The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast
I am a learner, author, speaker, and sometimes I make podcasts talking about any and all of these things. One day, I will rap in my podcasts officially making me a SoundCloud rapper.
Latest episodes

May 4, 2025 • 22min
Mastering Teacher Time Management with Ellen Linnihan - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast S6 EP18
Check out Ellen's book here:https://www.amazon.co capm/Teacher-Time-Management-Prioritize-Strategies/dp/1958590398/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2P9S1SZ5H4ZII&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.n5jp7olTwekEWt77VCFU5qTdAkSChoq8nJ3yFrzUG5KD_Zbu3ZgWepjDdCE7vYayXFQ6fvYBHXPlIm3eZk3gG8aQRbKz7-yuv5y4-rlIfxU.dXyt5vMiulUW4HxYyCoOLuuF1Hmhf4oOEPwP4ZUIixM&dib_tag=se&keywords=ellen+linnihan&qid=1744819193&sprefix=ellen+lin%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1
In this insightful episode of "The Innovator's Mindset," George Couros welcomes back Ellen Linnihan, who returns to discuss her latest book, "Teacher Time Management: How to Prioritize Your Day so You Can Enjoy Your Evening."
Ellen shares her journey of balancing a demanding teaching career with personal wellness, providing listeners with practical strategies to optimize their time both in and out of the classroom. From scheduling tips to understanding the importance of maintaining a work-life blend, Ellen emphasizes the need for teachers to manage their minutes wisely to prevent burnout and lead fulfilling lives.
Throughout the episode, she highlights the significance of teaching students real-life skills, including public speaking, to prepare them for the future.
Tune in to learn how Ellen's time management strategies can enhance productivity and personal satisfaction.
__________________________________________
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/

May 2, 2025 • 23min
Embracing Continued Learning at Any & Every Age: April 2025 Highlights from the #InnovatorsMindset
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!

May 1, 2025 • 9min
Navigating Rejection with Grace: Insights from George Couros on the #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast
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

Apr 27, 2025 • 24min
Grow Right: Lessons in Leadership and Life from Jamie Hepp - The #InnovatorsMindset S6 EP17
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/

Apr 24, 2025 • 10min
Finding Strength in Vulnerability: A Journey of Resilience - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast
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

Apr 20, 2025 • 26min
Meaningful & Relevant: Strategies for Today's Educators from AJ Juliani - The #InnovatorsMindset S6EP16
In this engaging conversation, AJ Juliani, a seasoned educator and author, shares his insights on keeping learners engaged amid digital distractions. With over two decades in education, he highlights the need for meaningful teaching practices and how educators can model effective technology use. They discuss the importance of balancing foundational learning with aspirational goals and the impactful role of artificial intelligence in education. AJ emphasizes fostering independent thought in students and sharing strategies for navigating the challenges of modern teaching.

Apr 17, 2025 • 20min
Turning 50: Lessons from Success and Failure - The #InnovatorsMindset
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.

Apr 13, 2025 • 31min
Lainie Rowell: The Power of Gratitude: Transforming Mindsets | #InnovatorsMindset S6EP15
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/

Apr 10, 2025 • 11min
How Turning Down my Dream Job Led Me to Something Better - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast
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

Apr 6, 2025 • 21min
Innovative Solutions for Education Challenges | with Starr Sackstein & Alexandra Laing S6 EP14
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/