The Innovator's Mindset Podcast - podcast cover

The Innovator's Mindset Podcast

George Courosgeorgecouros.com
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.
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Episodes

Wicked! - Give A First Impression a Second Chance - The #InnovatorsMindset S5 EP49

In this special edition of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros shares his experience watching the movie "Wicked" with his daughter, Kallea. Couros reflects on the emotional impact of the film and shares three key takeaways from his experience: the value of giving first impressions a second chance, the importance of supporting others even when they are not present, and how childhood experiences shape our futures. Be sure to listen or watch this episode to hear how the Wicked soundtrack...

Dec 11, 202416 min

The Heartbreaking Path of Grief: A Book that Helped Me Through a Tough Year S5 EP50

You can check out the book referenced in this podcast here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1614292965?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1614292965&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.3M1UJOXVPX19P&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin George Couros shares a heartfelt book review about "Bearing the Unbearable" by Joanne Cacciatore and Jeffrey Rubin, which helped him cope with the loss of his dogs, Odom and Cooper, who both passed away from cancer this past year. Couros reflects on the...

Dec 10, 202413 min

Change yourself first. - Highlights from 2024 on the #InnovatorsMindset Part 4

In the final highlight edition of the 2024 Year-End Highlights, George Couros reflects on the year and emphasizes the importance of self-improvement in leadership. Couros shares a quote from John Maxwell about the need to change oneself before attempting to change others, highlighting that effective leadership starts with personal growth. Couros also discusses the impact of words on students and encourages a positive mindset as the year ends. Couros closes out the intro by expressing gratitude f...

Dec 05, 202415 min

Positive or negative, it is contagious. - Highlights from 2024 on the #InnovatorsMindset Part 2

In this episode of The Innovator's Mindset Podcast, Year-End Review for 2024, George Couros reflects on the importance of personal energy in influencing others, sharing insights from the book 'Unreasonable Hospitality' by Will Guidara. Couros emphasizes that culture in organizations is shaped by individuals, and one person's energy can significantly impact the atmosphere of a room or organization. Remember to consider the positive or negative energy you bring into your environment and how it can...

Dec 05, 202421 min

Before you add, subtract. - Revisiting What Makes a Great Principal The #InnovatorsMindset S5 EP48

You can check out "What Makes A Great Principal" on Amazon here: 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 Welcome to the next episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast where George Couros discusses impactful books he has read, focusing on one he co-authored with several other educators, "What Makes a Great Principal." Couros reflects on the challenges...

Nov 28, 202425 min

What is the key to happiness? - - Highlights from 2024 on the #InnovatorsMindset Part 2

George Couros opens the second year-end highlight video by reflecting on the importance of having goals and things to look forward to in life, sharing personal experiences related to weight loss and running a marathon. Couros emphasizes that while striving for goals can bring joy and purpose, it's also essential to develop habits and be present in the moment. Couros encourages listeners to identify personal goals for the new year, highlighting that having something to strive for can enhance dail...

Nov 28, 202421 min

Creating small, consistent wins over time. - Highlights from 2024 on the #InnovatorsMindset Part 1

George Couros introduces the Week Two 2024 Year-End Highlight Video by sharing the importance of revisiting meaningful quotes and ideas over time. Couros emphasizes that success is built on consistent, small wins rather than seeking instant fame. Couros also shares his commitment to blogging since 2009, focusing on personal growth and authentic expression rather than catering to audience expectations. Couros also encourages listeners to reflect on their own consistent efforts and the value of le...

Nov 28, 202422 min

Share the compliment before the chance is gone. - Nov 24 Highlights from the #InnovatorsMindset

As mentioned in the introduction, check out a copy of "Because of a Teacher" here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=194833433X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin In this month’s highlight episode, George Couros emphasizes the importance of taking breaks from education and being present in the moment. Couros shares personal experiences, including a story about his high school foot...

Nov 28, 202428 min

The Personal Battles We Win Along the Way - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast S5 EP47

George Couros reflects on a book he read while he was training for the Disney Marathon! In this episode, you will hear Couros share three thoughts from the book, Run the Mile You’re In by Ryan Hall. Be sure to check out this episode for a heartwarming story about how the ideas shared by Hall connected to Couros’ beloved dog, Odom. Quotes: “I believe that we each have a mission to accomplish and that we have been designed in such a way that we are not lacking anything to accomplish it. Everything...

Nov 27, 202413 min

3 Reasons to Connect with People Who Challenge Your Thinking - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast

This is based on the weekly email from George Couros that you can find here: https://mailchi.mp/7a6862cb6558/something-personal-professional-and-profound-email-15554026 A Snippet from the email: If you find yourself looking to be reaffirmed in your thinking, it might feel good, but eventually, it can lead you to making decisions that don't benefit you or your community. It is essential to recognize that being challenged doesn't always mean changing your position or, more importantly, your princi...

Nov 25, 202418 min

Saying Goodbye to Cooper

This is a podcast about the passing of my dog Cooper. I apologize that there are some audio issues, but honestly, I did not have the energy to record again. Please forgive the audio

Nov 16, 202421 min

3 Terms to Rethink in Education - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast

George Couros reflects on a recent conversation he had with a conference attendee about college. In this solo episode, Couros shares why college is not always the best pathway for every individual and he shares three terms that we can start to rethink in education. Quotes: “,,, ultimately, education is about elevation.” - George Couros “We all have gifts to share with the world. My hope is that school can inspire students and show them there are many pathways to success.” - George Couros Links: ...

Nov 16, 202417 min

Dr. Margaret Coates: Leading Through Lifting Staff - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast S5 EP46

Dr. Margaret Coates joins this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast! Dr. Coates and George Couros have a great conversation about what makes teachers want to teach, why relationships matter, and how to celebrate and communicate the everyday learning happening in classrooms. Be sure to check out this episode to learn all about why Couros says that Dr. Coates is adored by her staff! Quotes: “The student was saying things like girl power, you got this kind of thing and just encouraging me.” -...

Nov 16, 202423 min

3 Questions with Dr. Margaret Coates - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast

Welcome to Three Questions with Dr. Margaret Coates! In this episode, Dr. Coates, the Superintendent of Owasso Public Schools shares her answers to these three questions: What do you hope people get from your summits? What impact do these summits have on schools? What do you hope that summit participants get from the speakers? Quotes: “I would advise my first-year self...don't be afraid to reach out to your colleagues and ask questions and ask for support and help.” -Dr. Margaret Coates Links: M...

Nov 14, 202414 min

"Obvious to you, amazing to others." - 3 Reasons Open Reflection Improves Learning - George Couros

George Couros shares his thoughts on open reflections! Couros shares why he writes and how blogging and podcasting helps him improve his own learning and thinkig. When we ask for ideas and thoughts, do we act on the thoughts being shared, how do we communicate when we cannot always take action in an timely manner? In this solo episode, Couros openly reflects and considers three ways that open reflection helps him inlcuding opportunities to consider thoughts shared by others, brainwriting, and ha...

Nov 07, 202418 min

Ann-Marie Foucault: A Tradition of Innovation in Pursuit of Excellence - #InnovatorsMindset S5EP43

Ann-Marie Foucault, the Superintendent St. Michael-Albertville Public School, joins this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast to share some amazing ideas about her time in education. She and George Couros have a powerful conversation about school-wide practices, creating systems of innovation, and why “traditions are peer pressure from dead people.” Watch or listen to this episode to gain some great insights from Ann-Marie Foucault! Quotes: “…Not just in academics, in arts, in, activities ...

Nov 03, 202426 min

On Staff Led Professional Learning - Highlights from the #InnovatorsMindset October 2024

George Couros introduces these monthly highlights and shares a template that encourages a shift towards collaborative and self-driven professional growth, allowing educators to lead the way in their own development and impact on students. Considering who the experts are and giving ownership to others makes them more likely to convince the entire staff to be more successful. Be sure to check out this highlight episode for even more great thoughts from educators! Link to Template: https://docs.goo...

Oct 31, 202423 min

Epic Book Review! - "Hidden Potential" by Adam Grant on the #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast

Welcome back to a new episode of EPIC Book Review! In this episode, George Couros shares his reflection of the book, Hidden Potential, by Adam Grant. Couros dives into a series of quotes after sharing a summary of the book that he pulled from ChatGPT. Be sure to watch or listen to this episode to hear some Couros’ insights and thoughts after reading this book by Adam Grant! Quotes: "When you procrastinate, you’re not avoiding effort. You’re avoiding the unpleasant feelings that the activity stir...

Oct 27, 202423 min

3 Questions with Ann-Marie Foucault - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast

Welcome to Three Questions on Educators that Inspire with Ann-Marie Foucault! In this episode, the Superintendent St. Michael-Albertville Public School, joins us to share her answers to these questions: Who is a teacher that inspired you and why? Who is an administrator that inspired you and why? What advice would you give yourself as a first-year educator? Quotes: “Create a culture of learners…don’t worry about the content right now…” - Ann-Marie Foucault Links: Ann-Marie Foucault LinkedIn - ht...

Oct 24, 202417 min

John Mertz: If You Build It... - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast S5EP41

John Mertz, the superintendent of community schools in Michigan, joins this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast! During his conversation with George Couros, Mertz emphasizes the importance of community connections, noting that the school district he serves acts as a central hub for local activities and employment. Mertz and Couros also discuss the need for innovation within education. Mertz also shares his excitement about upcoming events that will bring new opportunities to his community...

Oct 20, 202419 min

3 Questions with John Mertz - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast

John Mertz, the superintendent of community schools in Michigan, joins this episode of Three Questions! During his conversation with George Couros, the two discuss topics on education, community engagement, and personal inspiration. Mertz even reflects on his experiences in education, highlighting the influence of his middle school art teacher, who instilled a sense of caring and discipline in his students. Be sure to check out this episode to hear how Mertz answers these questions: What do you ...

Oct 17, 202415 min

3 Questions with Kevin Stewart - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast

Welcome to Three Questions with Kevin Stewart! In this episode, Stewart, the Director of Innovative Schools Summits shares his history working with youth in another country and then answers these questions: What do you hope people get from your summits? What impact do these summits have on schools? What do you hope that summit participants get from the speakers? Quotes: “All people need love.” - Kevin Stewart “...restored my faith in education ... I still have something to give and I'm not quitt...

Oct 17, 202420 min

Dr. Justin Terry: Innovating Inside the Box to Create Better Learning - #innovatorsMindset S5EP40

Dr. Justin Terry joins this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset and shares how he as the superintendent of Forney ISD in Texas works to innovate inside the box! Learn all about how Forney ISD has helped create Opportunity Central where career connections are made through community engagement. Quotes: “Dream big, make it happen...one of the things we don’t do is ever talk about innovation outside the box.” - Dr. Justin Terry “If we can be successful with one thing, then maybe that success will beg...

Oct 13, 202422 min

3 Questions with Justin Terry - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast

Dr. Justin Terry, the superintendent of Forney ISD, joins this episode of Three Questions on Educators that Inspire to share his reflections on the questions below. Dr. Terry even shares that he was originally going to be a coach, not a superintendent! Who is a teacher that inspired you and why? Who is an administrator that inspired you and why? What advice would you give yourself as a first-year educator? Quotes: “We embrace innovation inside the box, you can create engaging environments for ki...

Oct 10, 202412 min

Sarah Painter: The Best Thing to Not Happen - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast S5 EP39

Sarah Painter, the 2022 Florida Teacher of the Year, joins this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast and shares some truly powerful thoughts about the importance of following through on your commitments to yourself just like you would follow through on your commitments to others. Painter is an inspiring guest and she took the time, even before her run, to sit down with George Couros and share some of her inspiration. Check the links below to see where to follow Painter on social media! Quo...

Oct 06, 202425 min

3 Questions with Cristina Capretta - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast

Cristina Capretta, Director of Marketing and Community Relations at Berea City School District in Ohio, joins this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast: Three Questions on Educators that Inspire and shares some great tips about communication and social media. Capretta also drops a great strategy for getting notified when one of your own children signs up for a social media account. Quotes: “Never underestimate the impact you can make.” - Cristina Capretta “I ask them…tell me something good...

Oct 03, 202422 min

Listen to Lead - September 2024 Highlights from the #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast

George Couros welcomes you to a new monthly highlight episode with some fantastic guests! To kick off the September highlights, Couros shares a few details about his weekly photo dumps and one of his favorite quotes from Dale Carnegie about why it is important to understand others. Couros reflects on the difference between leading by listening and leading by shouting. Be sure to check out this intro and the great ideas shared by this month's guests in this episode of The Innovator's Mindset Podc...

Oct 02, 202417 min

Using NotebookLM to generate a Convo on Adam Grant's Hidden Potential - #InnovatorsMindset S5EP38

After the introduction, the conversation you are about to hear is between two people that do not exist. It is an AI generated podcast using the NotebookLM software from Google. It is based on a recent email I sent to my community on Adam Grant's "Hidden Potential" at this link: https://us12.campaign-archive.com/?u=9381017234135a9c6d5f7419a&id=ab84690870 I then uploaded the link to https://noteebooklm.google.com/ and gave a few prompts. The discussion in this podcast was what was generated wi...

Sep 29, 202411 min

3 Questions with Michelle Krell - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast

Michelle Krell, the Executive Director of the Minnesota Elementary School Principals' Association (MESPA), joins this episode of Three Questions on Educators that Inspire to answer a the traditional two questions and a special third question specifically asked just for Michelle: Who is a teacher that inspired you and why? Who is an administrator that inspired you and why? What advice would you give yourself as a first-year administrator? Quotes: “Every interaction you have will be remembered...I...

Sep 27, 202417 min

Michelle Krell: Creating a Leaderful Environment - The #InnovatorsMindset #Podcast S5 EP 44

Michelle Krell, the Executive Director of the Minnesota Elementary School Principals' Association (MESPA), joins this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast to share some great ideas and thoughts about leadership. During this episode, Krell even makes up a new word and she and host, George Couros, discuss the power of relationships and knowing the staff at your school site. Be sure to listen or watch this episode to hear all of Krell’s great thoughts on leadership and to better understand wh...

Sep 27, 202423 min
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