Aspire: The Leadership Development Podcast

In this week’s Aspire to lead episode, Dave Schmittou discusses ways to confront your own thinking and how to challenge the status quo. But the aim of our conversation is not to provide a step-by-step, one size fits all solution. Instead, the goal is to create a spark that inspires you to engage in difficult conversations. In this episode, we discuss: Why an “open door policy” doesn’t work Ways to push past the fear of uncomfortable situations And his new book, Poking the Bear About Dave Schmittou: As an educator for more than two decades, Dave has earned a reputation for being a disruptor of the status quo, an innovator, and a change agent. Having served as a classroom teacher, school-based administrator, central office director, and professor of Educational Leadership, he often uses real-life stories and examples of his own life and career to describe why and how we need to confront “the way we have always done it.” He is now the Director of Leadership and Development with the Teach Better Team whe

This BONUS episode is sponsored by Toddle. Toddle is an all-in-one teaching and learning platform used by over 40,000 educators around the world! On March 3rd and 4th, Toddle hosted the largest virtual gathering for school leaders across the globe with 5000+ school leaders in attendance. Today, I had the wonderful opportunity to speak to Danny Bauer about his fantastic presentation on building leadership momentum and how to become a Ruckus Maker! Get your FREE pass to the Toddle recordings today! – https://bit.ly/3WgLHYe About Danny Bauer: Daniel Bauer is an unorthodox Ruckus Maker who has mentored thousands of school leaders through his Better Leaders Better Schools blog, books, podcasts, and powerful coaching experiences.  Mastermind: Unlocking Talent Within Every School Leader is a book that reimagines what professional development for school administrators looks like in order to meet the needs of all school leaders who currently feel isolated and overwhelmed.  Follow Danny Bauer: Website: https://bet

In this week’s Aspire to lead episode, Stacey Cohen shares the modern playbook that equips teens with strategies and tools to succeed in high school, college, and their first job. This episode is packed with sage advice, practical tips and in-depth skill-building guidance for networking, interviewing, entrepreneurship, and social media. In this episode, we discuss: Building your students a positive digital footprint Teaching students how to interview and professional norms And her new book, Brand Up: The Ultimate Playbook for College & Career Success in the Digital World! About Stacey Cohen: In the world of branding, few experts possess the savvy and instinct of Stacey Ross Cohen. An award-winning brand professional who earned her stripes on Madison Avenue and at major television networks before launching her own agency, Stacey specializes in "everything" branding. She is the CEO and founder of Co-Communications, a public relations, marketing, and design agency headquartered in New York. Since 19

In this week’s episode, Dr. Amy Mathews-Perez shares how, as a Principal, she felt successful but unfulfilled. Join us as we talk about being authentic in our desires and mission, while not conforming to other people's assumptions and expectations.   In this episode, we discuss: Supporting special education as a leader Teaching those we serve how to collaborate And her upcoming projects!  About Dr. Amy Mathews-Perez: Texas-born & raised, I am currently in my 30th year of public education where I have served as a General Ed. Teacher, an SLP, a Diagnostician, a SPED Supervisor, Assistant Principal, Principal and a Director of Special Programs. My passions are communication, laughter and using those things to inspire & empower others. As a learner, I consider myself an "Experience Expert." Life is short but our influence is never ending, so I seek joy and create smiles through connecting, sharing, and highlighting the best in others. Follow Dr. Amy Mathews-Perez: Twitter: https://twitter.com

This BONUS episode is sponsored by Toddle. Toddle is an all-in-one teaching and learning platform used by over 40,000 educators around the world! On March 3rd and 4th, Toddle hosted the largest virtual gathering for school leaders across the globe with 5000+ school leaders in attendance. Today, I had the wonderful opportunity to speak to Adriano Di Prato about his fantastic presentation on thriving high performing schools and how to become a Game Changer! Get your FREE pass to the Toddle recordings today! – https://bit.ly/3WgLHYe   Adriano Di Prato Adriano is the Academic Operations Manager at LCI Melbourne, a leading art and design private higher education institute part of a global network of 23 campuses founded as LaSalle College International in Montreal Canada over 60 years ago. He is co-host of one of Australia's leading educational podcasts Game Changers, and co-author of the Hawker Brownlow Education bestseller, Game Changers: Leading Today’s Learning for Tomorrow’s World. Adriano is a former

In this week’s episode, Joshua Buckley shares the surprises, misconceptions, and lessons learned as a new administrator of two elementary schools.  In this episode, we discuss: The differences of teaching vs administration How to create the “Scene” on your campus And his podcast, Punk Rock Classrooms.  About Joshua Buckley: Joshua Buckley is an Elementary Assistant Principal in Mesa, Arizona and co-host of the Punk Rock Classrooms podcast. He has been in public education for 17 years as a classroom teacher, local union president, Title I Specialist, and Assistant Principal. Punk Rock Classrooms is currently in its Fourth Season of sharing the power of a punk rock mindset in education. As a teacher and now an administrator Josh has always brought the punk ethos of passion, unity, and DIY to his classrooms and school. Follow Joshua Buckley: Website: www.punkrockclassrooms.com  Twitter: www.twitter.com/joshrbuckley   Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshrbuckley     Follow Punk Rock Classrooms T

In this new BONUS episode, we learn from Dave’s story of failure as he tried to be the only one to save the campus with ALL the answers. He quickly found out that this was a direct route to failure.  About Dave Schmittou: As an educator for more than two decades, Dave has earned a reputation for being a disruptor of the status quo, an innovator, and a change agent. Having served as a classroom teacher, school-based administrator, central office director, and professor of Educational Leadership, he often uses real-life stories and examples of his own life and career to describe why and how we need to confront “the way we have always done it.” He is now the Director of Leadership and Development with the Teach Better Team where he speaks, consults, and partners with districts around the country.  He has written multiple books, including “It’s Like Riding a Bike: How to make learning last a lifetime”,  “Bold Humility”,  “Making Assessment Work for Educators Who Hate Data but Love Kids”, and “Poking the Bear”.

In this week’s episode, Martin Silverman shares the importance, as a leader, on focusing on the teachers so they can focus on the students.  In this episode, we discuss: Improving Teacher Retention The Longevity of a Principal And his upcoming book.  About Martin Silverman: Martin Silverman is a father, grandfather, husband, and long-time educator in beautiful San Antonio, Texas.  He is committed to providing the best educational experience for the students and families at Salinas Elementary school where he is the principal.  Martin has worked as a teacher and administrator in urban, suburban, and rural districts.  His interests are creating and nurturing school culture, providing enriching experiences for students and families, and developing future teachers and administrators.  As a former bilingual teacher and administrator,  Martin is committed to providing ELL students with quality programs to develop their unique skills.  He hosts a podcast called The Second Question, which highlights educators

The Aspire Mailbag In this 28th Aspire Mailbag episode, Jeff Gargas and I answer questions on different leadership topics provided by the listeners. Please join us for this episode as we answer questions on the interview process and the latest news with the Teach Better Team! Featuring Jeff Gargas and Joshua Stamper Follow Jeff Gargas: Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeffgargas Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_jeffgargas/ Follow Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Teach Better Conference: www.teachbetterconference.com Use Coupon Code "ASPIRE" for $50 dollars off your registration Follow The Teach Better Team: Twitter: https://twitter.com/teachbetterteam Website: https://www.te

This BONUS episode is sponsored by Toddle. Toddle is an all-in-one teaching and learning platform used by over 40,000 educators around the world! On March 3rd and 4th, Toddle hosted the largest virtual gathering for school leaders across the globe with 5000+ school leaders in attendance. Today we are going to speak to a fantastic leader who was in attendance to provide their takeaways and insights from the many wonderful presentations offered.  I have two guests this episode and both are Principals who participated in Toddles School Leaders Bootcamps! My first guest is Ashleigh Woodard, who is located in Canada, and right after that I had the wonderful opportunity to speak with Golfdan, who is located in Egypt.  Follow Ashleigh Goodward Twitter: https://twitter.com/MsWoodward337 OFFICIAL Sponsor of the Aspire to Lead Podcast! This episode is sponsored by Toddle. Toddle is an all-in-one teaching and learning platform used by over 40,000 educators around the world! If you want to learn more, head over to Tod

In this week’s episode, Bobby Pollicino shares how a transformation of self improvement practices allowed him to develop an important set of leadership principles.  In this episode, we discuss: Relationship Principles Fitness: Mental, Physical, Spiritual Decision Making as a leader And his book, Principled Leader About Bobby Pollicino: Bobby Pollicino is the Head of Upper School at Bullis School in Potomac, MD. He has served as a school administrator for over 15 years, also in dean of students and assistant principal roles. He has taught high school courses in science, leadership, and public speaking while also serving as a varsity assistant soccer coach and varsity head coach of the lacrosse program at Bullis School. Bobby’s academic leadership career is grounded in a healthy interest in leadership which has led to conferences with Stanley King Institute, Garnder, Carney Leadership Institute, and a fellowship with Leadership+Design. Bobby has presented for local and national organizations

In this week’s episode, Henry Turner shares his experience as a young leader and how he learned to listen to his students during a tough time in the community. As a building Principal, Henry has built a strong communication systems to enhance the voices of his students, parents, and community members. In this episode, we discuss: Strategies to Empower Students Evaluation for Culturally Responsive Practices And his book, Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Antiracist Culture in Your School About Henry J. Turner: Henry J. Turner is an award-winning high school principal, author, and nationally renowned speaker.  He is most proud of the collaborative community he works within to empower students to fight hate and bigotry in their school. Pointing to his unwavering commitment to equity and a student-centered culture, Henry was named 2020 K12 Principal of the Year by K–12 Dive. Henry is the author of the newly released book, Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Antiracist Culture in Your School, pub

This BONUS episode is sponsored by Toddle. Toddle is an all-in-one teaching and learning platform used by over 40,000 educators around the world! On March 3rd and 4th, Toddle hosted the largest virtual gathering for school leaders across the globe with 5000+ school leaders in attendance. Today we are going to speak to a fantastic leader who was in attendance to provide their takeaways and insights from the many wonderful presentations offered.  My guest, Katie Ahmadzai, is a Principal located in the United States and attended the Toddle School Leaders Bootcamp. We will be learning about her journey as a young leader of an international virtual school, which serves students from all over the world. Follow Katie Ahmadzai: Twitter: https://twitter.com/AhmadzaiKatie New OFFICIAL Sponsor of the Aspire to Lead Podcast! This episode is sponsored by Toddle. Toddle is an all-in-one teaching and learning platform used by over 40,000 educators around the world! This year, Toddle hosted the largest virtual gatherin

In this week’s episode, Manny Curiel shares how he used his own experiences of overcoming a language barrier to construct emotional attachments to the reading content and lessons.  In this episode, we discuss: Incorporating engaging video techniques Breaking through the fear of technology And all the wonderful ways to use Edpuzzle  About Manny Curiel: Super Manny is the global Community Manager at Edpuzzle. He travels the world loving on teachers and reminding them to share their shine. Prior to Edpuzzle, Super Manny was a bilingual teacher. He taught 1st, 2nd and 3rd grade. When he discover Twitter it open world of opportunities and managed to snatched a job as a EdTech Specialist at his school district  Follow Manny Curiel: Twitter: @MannyDiscoTech Best way! Instagram: @MannyDiscoTech Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mannycuriel/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MannyCuriel  Other: “What is new in Edpuzzle 2023” https://youtu.be/54dILqyfjt8  Edpuzzle Certified Coach https://lea

The #1 question CJ Reynolds gets from teachers is "What classroom management strategies do you use?" So here are some of his daily practices to make sure your classroom runs smoothly. He also threw in a few weird ones just to get your creativity going. In this episode, we discuss: Student Management Techniques How to handle unengaged and defiant students And his YouTube Videos, Real Rap with Reynolds About CJ Reynolds: Mr. Reynolds is a West Philadelphia high school literature teacher, author, YouTuber, & public speaker. In his book, Teach Your Class Off, on his YouTube Channel, Real Rap With Reynolds, and on his Podcast, Sunday Night Teacher Talk, Reynolds offers an authentic glimpse into what it looks like to teach high school in the inner city. Using “Real Rap” to share teaching tips and strategies, Reynolds helps new and veteran teachers alike become the teacher they always dreamed of being. Follow CJ Reynolds: Twitter: https://twitter.com/realrapreynolds Website: https://www.realrapw

This BONUS episode is sponsored by Toddle. Toddle is an all-in-one teaching and learning platform used by over 40,000 educators around the world! On March 3rd and 4th, Toddle hosted the largest virtual gathering for school leaders across the globe with 5000+ school leaders in attendance. Today we are going to speak to two fantastic educators who were in attendance to provide their takeaways and insights from the many wonderful presentations offered.  My first guest is Adam Hill, a Principal located in China. Adam's school uses the Toddle platform and he attends as many Toddle online events as possible. We will be learning about his journey as he just started a brand new school and is implementing future ready and STEM practices on his campus.  Follow Adam Hill: Twitter: https://twitter.com/AdamHillEDU  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adamhilledu/  My second guest is Annette de Graaf, an aspiring leader located in the Netherland’s as she too attended the Toddle School Leaders bootcamp. In this con

In this week’s episode, Maria Barrera shares how she discovered a mental health crisis and was determined to help solve the issues that were affecting students, teachers, and the community.  In this episode, we discuss: Creating a business based on a community need Partnering with schools to assist in crisis Resources to battle mental health  About Maria Barrera: Maria is the founder of Clayful, a company on a mission to help kids build the skills and resilience to tackle anything that comes their way.  Throughout her career in education, technology, and human resources, she has always been focused on solving big problems in complex systems. Now, she is tackling the biggest problem of all - the mental health crisis.  Maria's dedication to helping others is rooted in her own experiences. She ran her first coaching session when she was just 15, and has always found joy in coaching others through everyday life stressors and challenges. Her passion for education led her to start a tutoring company whil

In this bonus episode, Dr. Brenda Diaz shares how traditional student discipline didn’t improve the students behavior and the shift her campus made to implement relationship building strategies and restorative practices.  In this episode, we discuss: Trauma-informed practices Increasing diversity among educators Toddle’s School Leader Bootcamp! About Dr. Brenda Diaz: As the Executive Principal of Nashville Big Picture High School in Nashville TN, Dr. Brenda leads with love, courage, and moral character.   With an almost 30-year career in education she believes strongly in small, personalized caring learning environments that allow all students, especially those who are from underserved and/or marginalized communities, to pursue their passions and interests connected to the real-world, which prepares them to attend college and/or pursue post-secondary experiences.  Brenda received her bachelor’s degree in English from Rust College, a Historical Black College; Masters in Curriculum and Instruction fro

In this new BONUS episode, we learn from Kim’s story of failure as she was honest and authentic with her Superintendent, which left her feeling disappointed and disheartened.  About Kim Gameroz: Kim Gameroz is a change agent for schools and districts who seek to revolutionize classrooms by taking on a systematic approach to teaching social and emotional skills. For over 15 years, Kim has coached, trained, and mentored teachers, students, and families around the globe. She was invited to speak at Social Thinking’s Global Provider’s Conference in San Francisco, as well as Get Your Teach On’s Rock Your School and PBIScon22 for PBIS Rewards. She has also consulted for school districts and families in need of social and emotional support, served on SEL panels for the Cotsen Art of Teaching Foundation, and has appeared on various webinars and podcasts with leaders and companies near and far. She holds a Bachelors in Psychology from California State University, Long Beach, and a Masters in Education from National Un

In this week’s episode, Ipek Williamson shares the benefits and power of emotional regulation, mindfulness, and meditation, which creates peaceful and harmonious classrooms. In this episode, we discuss: Meditation’s support for mental health issues Cultivating awareness on the positive impact of meditation and mindfulness among educators Introducing new generations to the importance of knowing their values and implementing them into their lives  And her children's book! About Ipek Williamson: Ipek Williamson is the Founder and CEO of Ipek Williamson Coaching. She is a Change Master, Listener, Certified Insight Coach, Speaker, Author, Ikigai and Ho'oponopono Practitioner, and Meditation Advocate & Teacher. She perfectly blends her 20+ years of corporate experience with diversified areas of expertise as a coach, mentor and teacher. As one of the Education 2.0 2022 Outstanding Leadership award winners, Ipek focuses on projects and efforts toward creating a nurturing education environment for the