The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast

George Couros starts off the podcast sharing the importance of ownership over the learning process, and how "Authorship" can lead to people being more excited about their own work and learning. He also reminds us that it is imperative to take care of ourselves before we can take care of others.   You can also check out some of the amazing guests from the last month.   The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast with John Kennedy   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2toUOMHiB3o    John Kennedy reflects on the future of AI and shares some of his predictions about how AI will be viewed in the future. Kennedy, who is incredibly well versed as the founder of Mesa and who is now at Panorama, shares some great insights about what AI may be in the future. In this clip from the full episode, Three Questions with John Kennedy, Not All AI is Created Equally, Kennedy considers the variety of AI options and the features it includes while reflecting on how to balance human intelligence with the artificial. Be sure to listen or watch to better understand why AI is average and what Kennedy means when he says that we may see a backlash to AI. If you are considering ways to balance AI in your classroom or in your life, be sure to listen to this clip! Also, check out the full Three Questions episode with John Kennedy for even more great ideas!  Dr. JoAnna Roberto - Empowering Students: Inside the Grand Erie Innovation Hub   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAdIJbbGSU0    Dr. JoAnna Roberto shares how she and her team have created an Innovation Hub and how that serves their learners. Hear how Dr. Roberto had a deep dive into conversations with her students and staff about how to progress as a district no matter where they are in education. The center of their conversations focused on empowering learners and elevating the work they are doing with STEAM education.  Dr. Roberto goes into detail about how a new learning space has both created opportunities for students to learn and for the community to come in and learn as well. Be sure to also watch or listen to the complete episode with Dr. JoAnna Roberto - Empowering Students: Inside the Grand Erie Innovation Hub for even more great ideas and resources!    Embracing Change: Middle School Education & Leadership with Derek McCoy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lh4bpbsFW9E  In this clip from the full episode, Derek McCoy and George Cours talk about education and leadership in middle school as compared to elementary schools. McCoy brings up the phrase, “one screen amongst many,” and the two talk about the evolution of the principalship. Couros comments on this thought and shares details about why it is important to have the in-person relationship away from a screen. McCoy reflects on how adults and students are adjusting to having strong, meaningful relationships. During this conversation, McCoy shares what he means when he says a “heart school” and how they are coaching teachers who want to be good teachers to be great. Couros also reflects on the negative impact of “being chronically online.” Be sure to watch or listen to the full episode for even more great thoughts and ideas from McCoy and Couros.  AI-Driven Leader Book Review   In this clip from the full episode, The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast Epic Book Review: AI-Driven Leader, George Couros reflects on a recent blog post that he shared where he reflects on his reading of the book, AI-Driven Leader by Geoff Woods.  Couros draws a connection between these two ideas:  “Focusing too much on the aspiration, without clearly articulating the importance of the foundation”. - George Couros, One Thing Blog Post “As a leader, you must ensure your people are focused on the most important actions they can take in the short term to fortify your competitive edge in the long term.” - Geoff Woods, AI-Driven Leader Both quotes emphasize the critical balance between long-term vision and immediate action in leadership. Couros highlights the risk of neglecting foundational elements while chasing goals. Couros recognizes the need for clarity and prioritization. Woods’ quote reflects on the leader's role in directing focus towards actions that strengthen competitiveness over time, aligning short-term efforts with long-term strategic goals for sustained success. Be sure to listen or watch the full episode of The Epic Book Review on AI-Driven Leader for even more insights from Couros’ reading!

Join us for an engaging episode of 'Three Questions with Erin Doak' as we delve into the inspirational journey of Erin Doak, a dynamic educator from Ottawa. Discover how Erin transitioned from a career in public relations to teaching, overcoming a five-year hiring freeze and gaining valuable insights along the way. In this episode, Erin shares her experiences as a consultant and educator, highlighting the importance of building relationships and embracing change in the educational landscape. Learn how her background in public relations has informed her teaching methods, fostering a culture of trust and engagement in the classroom. Explore the valuable lessons Erin has learned from her diverse career path and how these experiences have shaped her approach to education. Tune in to uncover the opportunities that arise from change and how Erin applies these principles to both leadership and classroom dynamics.     __________________________________________   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/

Check out "The AI-Driven Leader" here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DB8QL3ZK?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=B0DB8QL3ZK&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.3M1UJOXVPX19P&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin   In this enlightening episode, we dive into a comprehensive review of Geoff Woods' book, "The AI-Driven Leader: Harnessing AI to Make Faster, Smarter Decisions." This is not just a book about artificial intelligence but a profound exploration of leadership principles that transcend time. The discussion highlights the importance of leveraging AI as a thought partner and not a replacement, emphasizing long-term impacts over short-term wins. The episode also draws insightful parallels between the business world and education, encouraging educators to apply leadership strategies to enhance students' learning experiences. Key themes include the significance of reading and writing as foundational educational tools and the concept of fostering both problem-finding and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, the conversation underscores the value of short-term actions that lead to long-term benefits, both in educational settings and personal growth. With anecdotes on the synergetic relationship between technology and people-centred leadership, this episode provides a rich tapestry of ideas for implementing strategic change while keeping human connections at the core.   “Instead of asking, ‘How do I solve this problem?’ start asking, ‘How can AI help me solve this problem?’” - Geoff Woods   “However, our education system often grades you on your ability to have the answer, not on your ability to search for one.” - Geoff Woods   “The idea was simple but incredibly powerful: identify the one thing you could do such that by doing it, everything else would be easier or unnecessary.” - Geoff Woods   “As a leader, you must ensure your people are focused on the most important actions they can take in the short term to fortify your competitive edge in the long term.” - Geoff Woods   “Embrace change. Adapt quickly, and keep people at the center.” - Geoff Woods     __________________________________________   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, which is unlike any other previous episode of The Innovator’s Mindset, Veronica McDaniel discusses her extensive work in combating human trafficking, particularly focusing on educating students and communities about the issue. McDaniel answers a question from George Couros about how educators can work together to reduce trafficking. McDaniel, who is currently a secondary school teacher at Atlanta International School, also works to share multi-faceted approach to eliminating trafficking. In this clip from the full episode, McDaniel shares ways that educators can equip students with a voice to make a difference. Be sure to list for McDaniel’s “Five Shifts of Social Change”: Raising Awareness About an Issue Changing Behavior Engaging  Public Policy Holding the Line Resources for further education on this topic are available through McDaniels’ organization, Freest, and on her LinkedIn profile which are both linked below.  Quotes: “Make your kids feel safe enough to talk to you...Be open with our kids…” - Veronica McDaniel Links: Veronica McDaniel LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-mcdaniel-35256a87/  Freest - https://freestinternational.org/who-we-are/  Street Grace - https://www.streetgrace.org/        __________________________________________   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 insightful episode of the Innovator's Mindset, George Couros, a leading educational thought leader, answers a viewer's query from Mark, addressing how veteran teachers can maintain relevance and student engagement in an ever-evolving educational landscape. George emphasizes that these strategies are crucial not just for experienced teachers but for anyone in education. He highlights three essential strategies for educators at every stage of their career: Understanding students' strengths and experiences: Building meaningful relationships with students is key to successful teaching. A continuous willingness to learn: Staying adaptable and embracing new technologies in education ensures educators remain relevant. Initiating learning from students' questions: Fostering curiosity through student-driven learning experiences creates a more personalized and engaging classroom. Throughout the episode, George shares his personal teaching experiences and offers practical strategies for incorporating strengths-based approaches and innovative teaching methodologies into daily practice. This episode is a must-listen for educators seeking effective engagement strategies and ways to inspire their students. “You cannot change the learning experience for students until you think about how it changes for the adult.” – George Couros Learn more about George and his educational philosophy at georgecouros.com.

Join us in an engaging conversation with Derek McCoy, the inspiring principal of Havelock Middle School in North Carolina. In this episode, we explore his journey in education and leadership, and discuss the critical role middle school plays in the development of young minds. Derek shares insights into creating empowering environments that cultivate risk-taking and independent thinking among students and educators alike. We also delve into the evolving challenges faced by educational leaders in the post-pandemic era, highlighting the importance of genuine relationships and effective communication. Learn about Derek’s collaborative approach to leadership, which emphasizes uplifting voices, fostering creativity, and encouraging innovation in schools. Don't miss this insightful discussion that not only touches on conquering imposter syndrome but also celebrates the power of positive connections and transformational leadership in education.     __________________________________________   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/

Join George Couros on the latest episode of the Innovators Mindset Podcast as he shares insights from his inspiring presentation at FETC, titled "What Makes a Great Leader?" Based on his book, "What Makes a Great Principal," co-authored with Allyson Apsey, George explores the impact of effective leadership from the perspective of principals, teachers, and students who have experienced its transformative power.   In this episode, discover the key qualities that define a true leader, including relationship building, continuous learning, talent cultivation, resource maximization, and visionary thinking. George discusses the importance of building positive connections, fostering an emotional bond to drive progress, and the necessity of developing individual strengths to uplift entire communities.   George also shares a heartfelt story of a teacher inspired to pursue leadership, highlighting the significance of being the reason someone gains irrational confidence. Explore strategies to develop a learner-driven, evidence-informed practice and the value of nurturing both staff and students' strengths for holistic growth. Listen in to learn how to bring out the best in others and create a culture of innovation and empowerment.   “ A Leader is someone who has the ability to move others in a positive direction.” - George Couros   “The most important research we can do as educators will always be to know the learners we serve.” - George Couros   Links: What Makes a Great Principal (book on Amazon) - https://www.amazon.com/What-Makes-Great-Principal-Leadership/dp/1948334739  Ask Couros a Question - https://bit.ly/WhatDoesGeorgeSay     __________________________________________   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, George Couros shares his journey of personal growth and change sparked by reading "The Pivot Year" by Brianna Wiest. Through personal anecdotes, he reflects on the challenges and inspirations that shaped his year, including the profound impact of losing his beloved dogs and the motivational insights gathered from Wiest's book.   George opens up about his path to finding closure and momentum after a tough year, discussing the importance of embracing personal transformation and the power of taking action. He shares the encouragement he received from friends and how it propelled him towards new ventures and goals, including a renewed commitment to daily reading and fitness.   This episode is not only a reflective journey but also a call to action, inspiring listeners to pursue their passions, build supportive circles, and recognize the value in personal and professional growth.   Based on the following email: https://us12.campaign-archive.com/?u=9381017234135a9c6d5f7419a&id=d12c8640e6   Books recommended:   The Pivot Year - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3DJ7G72?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=B0C3DJ7G72&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.3M1UJOXVPX19P&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin   Don't Believe Everything You Think - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09WQ218GR?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=B09WQ218GR&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.3M1UJOXVPX19P&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin __________________________________________ 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/

Welcome to the latest episode of "What Does George Say?" where we delve into the intricate world of education, leadership, and learning.   In this thought-provoking episode, George addresses a pertinent question from Sarah: "At what age should AI be introduced to children?" Navigating through the complexities of this topic, George emphasizes the importance of understanding AI's relevance and benefits before introducing it to young learners. Throughout the discussion, George highlights the significance of tailoring AI education to the unique needs of different communities and individual readiness. Rather than focusing on a specific age, it's crucial to adopt an approach where educators and parents learn alongside children, understanding both the challenges and opportunities AI presents. George shares insightful questions that guide this learning process, promoting a collaborative and exploratory environment for both adults and kids. Tune in to discover how we can effectively integrate AI into education, fostering a generation of informed and responsible digital citizens to become digital leaders.   __________________________________________   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/  

"Being an authentic leader means leading with honest and sincere intentions while maintaining a high level of integrity." Dr. Marcus Belin   Check out the January 2025 Highlights from the Innovator's Mindset Podcast!   0:00 Intro with George Couros    0:00 Intro Music   0:08 Leverage What You Have - What Makes a Great Principal Revisit   4:40 Charles Williams   7:56 Mike Trego   10:53 The Heartbreaking Path of Grief: A Book that Helped Me Through a Tough Year   13:27 Closing Leverage What You Have - What Makes a Great Principal Revisit   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqM6_qkuQyk    In this clip from The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros shares a quote from Dr. Marcus J. Belin. Couros reflects on the importance of being ourselves and on pushing others as he dives into the quote from Dr. Belin.   Charles Williams: There are multiple ways to lead   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lk3tNqCL7us    In this clip from The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast with Charles Williams, There are Multiple Ways to Lead, Williams and Couros talk about what leads to burnout and how to reduce it.   Mike Trego: The Need for Inclusive Leadership   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=roXjYbC7GtI    In this clip from the complete episode, Three Questions, Mike Trego shares what he hopes George Couros will accomplish when he speaks at the upcoming AcceleratED Leadership & Learning conference.   The Heartbreaking Path of Grief: A Book that Helped Me Through a Tough Year   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wsr3QfUThD8    In this clip from the complete episode, Three Questions, Mike Trego shares what he hopes George Couros will accomplish when he speaks at the upcoming AcceleratED Leadership & Learning conference. __________________________________________ 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/