Is your school harnessing the power of AI? Are you implementing school-wide strategies to help teachers and students navigate this technology? In this episode, we sit down with Priten Shah, author of "AI and the Future of Education", to explore the impact of artificial intelligence on the educational landscape. Key topics include: Mitigating teacher burnout and reducing workload through AI Potential risks of AI adoption in education, including initial increases in burnout Guidance for teachers s...
Aug 20, 2024•26 min•Ep. 51
Do you thrive on healthy routines during summer, only to struggle when the school year begins? You're not alone! In this episode, I sit down with health and fitness coach Brittany Stout to tackle this common challenge faced by teachers and school staff. We dive into practical strategies for time management, self-care, and maintaining healthy habits amidst the whirlwind of the academic year. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your teaching journey, this conversation is packed wit...
Aug 19, 2024•33 min
Do you struggle to plan meaningful PD for your staff? In this episode, Jacqui Le-Mon, an assistant principal with extensive experience in providing impactful PD, joins us to share her insights. In this episode, we discuss: Identifying PD Needs : Learn how to identify the specific professional development needs of your staff through classroom observations, teacher evaluations, and feedback from teachers and leadership teams. Effective PD Planning : Discover strategies for planning professional de...
Aug 13, 2024•21 min•Ep. 50
Do you feel like you never have enough time? Do you wish you could create more time in your day? The number one thing I hear from clients is how busy they are. In our culture, being busy is often seen as a badge of honor, a sign of importance. But is this constant busyness really serving us? In this episode we will talk about: Reframing Your Perception of Time: We all have the same 24 hours, but our perception varies. Shifting how we view time can help us feel less overwhelmed. Scarcity vs. Abun...
Aug 06, 2024•15 min•Ep. 49
Are you ready for the teachers and students to come back to school? Do you have your back-to-school strategy in place? In this episode of The Principal's Handbook , high school principal Mike Geraghty joins me to talk about preparing for the school year. In this episode, we discuss: Preparing for the Opening Staff Meeting: Strategies to ensure your first staff meeting of the year sets a positive and productive tone. Getting the Community Involved for Back-to-School: Effective ways to engage pare...
Jul 30, 2024•32 min•Ep. 48
Have you ever felt burned out and like your well-being was pushed to the wayside? In this episode, I am thrilled to welcome David K. Richards, a passionate educator who transitioned from a high-powered career in corporate banking to teaching. David shares his personal journey of facing burnout in his 30s and how he discovered mindfulness as a transformative tool for well-being. Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being in th...
Jul 23, 2024•23 min•Ep. 47
Do you find it challenging to discover hobbies you enjoy outside of work? Are there activities you've wanted to explore for fun but haven't had the time? In this episode, we delve into: The significance of cultivating hobbies for personal well-being. Various hobbies you might consider trying out. Reflecting on your current hobbies and those you aspire to pursue. Sign up for a FREE Consultation HERE . Join my nutrition group, HERE . Tired of second-guessing your decisions as a principal? Download...
Jul 16, 2024•13 min•Ep. 46
Do you struggle to get regular movement in when you are off work? Did you know that sitting is the new smoking? In this episode, I share the importance of regular movement and ways you can incorporate it throughout the day. We are going beyond just an exercise routine. In this episode: The importance of movement throughout the day Practical ways to move at work and outside of work Self-reflection on how much movement you are currently getting Reflection Questions: How long is your commute to wor...
Jul 09, 2024•13 min•Ep. 45
Do you get enough sleep throughout the week? Do you find yourself neglecting sleep to get more done? In this episode, we kick off a self-care series by delving into the crucial topic of sleep. We highlight the cultural tendency to undervalue sleep in favor of a hustle mentality and discuss the profound impact this has on health and leadership effectiveness. In this episode, you will learn: Scientific research revealing how insufficient sleep impairs cognitive function, memory, decision-making, a...
Jul 02, 2024•14 min•Ep. 44
Do you struggle to hold yourself accountable to your goals or wonder what is truly possible for you? Do you wish you could change your life for the better? In this episode, we will be discussing how life coaching can help you! We'll explore the benefits of having a dedicated coach to guide you, provide support, and help you unlock your full potential. Whether you're looking to improve your personal life or achieve professional success, life coaching can be the catalyst for meaningful change. Tir...
Jun 25, 2024•14 min•Ep. 43
Do you struggle to find a balance between being productive and resting in the summer? If that's you, I've been there. In this episode, I share three key areas to focus on during the summer to ensure you're prepared for the upcoming school year. It's all about finding that perfect balance between focusing on your health and well-being, and gearing up for the next school year. Join me, Barb Flowers, on The Principal's Handbook, as I dive into practical strategies for making the most of your summer...
Jun 18, 2024•15 min•Ep. 42
Do you struggle to find time to reflect on the past school year? Do you use your reflections to create an action plan moving forward? In this episode, you will learn: Why reflection is important Key areas to focus on during your reflection How to create an actionable plan Listen now to start reflecting and create an action plan that will help you grow yourself and your school. Take the first step towards a more successful and fulfilling school year! Tired of second-guessing your decisions as a p...
Jun 11, 2024•24 min•Ep. 41
Do you attend conferences and struggle to implement what you learned when you get back? Do you wish you had someone to share difficult situations with and get advice? In this episode, John Mihalyo and I discuss the importance of making time for ongoing professional development. We explore how masterminds can be a fantastic way to engage in professional learning. John also shares details about his masterminds for Catholic school leaders. If you are a Catholic school leader interested in joining a...
Jun 04, 2024•29 min•Ep. 40
Do you struggle to implement new initiatives and get everyone on board? Do you feel like you try to make changes in your building but can't get them accomplished? If that's you, then you need to listen to this episode. Implementation experts Jenice Pizzuto and Steven Carney share insights from their new book, Implement with IMPACT: A Strategic Framework for Leading School and District Initiatives . In this episode, you will learn: What implementation science is How to implement with IMPACT The i...
May 28, 2024•29 min•Ep. 39
Do you have PLC's at your school that seem like they are not as effective as they should be? Do you struggle to get your teachers to collaborate? Whether you are just starting PLCs or have been implementing them for years. This episdoe is for you! In this episode you will learn: The key principles of effective PLCs, including defining a clear purpose and fostering a culture of collaboration. Strategies for implementing and sustaining PLCs in schools, with a focus on the six steps to school-wide ...
May 21, 2024•30 min•Ep. 38
This podcast episode comes from a workshop I did, The One Thing You Need to Know to Accomplish Any Goal. This episode will help you meet any personal or professional goals you have. I am sharing three strategies for how you can meet your goals. I also am linking the workshop video if you want to watch it, as well as the workbook that accompanies the Workshop/ this podcast episode. Get the Workbook HERE . Tired of second-guessing your decisions as a principal? Download my free course! Access it h...
May 17, 2024•15 min•Ep. 37
Are you challenged by the task of creating professional development that is impactful and sustainable? Join us in this episode where Karen Johannesen Brock, author of "Coaching for Multilingual Student Success: Intentional Practices to Accelerate Learning and Close Achievement Gaps," discusses the critical role of instructional coaches. We delve into how these coaches can significantly enhance teacher development and learning. Plus, Karen sheds light on the unique ways instructional coaches can ...
May 14, 2024•28 min•Ep. 36
Do you find that many students exhibit behaviors in your school that upset teachers, who then come to you for support? Do you struggle with managing your own emotions when tensions rise? In this episode, Molly Funk, a seasoned administrator, coach, and consultant, discusses: How leaders can effectively regulate their emotions and support others in doing the same. The Three C's method for regulating emotions throughout the school, fostering problem-solving skills and emotional resilience. Strateg...
May 10, 2024•45 min•Ep. 35
Do you struggle to manage student behaviors? Are you frustrated because you know exclusionary practices don't work but aren't sure what alternatives exist? In today's episode, I am thrilled to have Jessica Djabrayan Hannigan and John Hannigan join us to discuss their book, "Behavior Academies, Targeted Interventions That Work." Here are three key takeaways: Join an important discussion about the necessity of identifying the areas where students struggle behaviorally and discovering the replaceme...
May 07, 2024•32 min•Ep. 34
Dive into the secret sauce that can transform your leadership experience - discovering the power of self-efficacy. Learn how believing in your capabilities to achieve goals and complete tasks can significantly enhance your job satisfaction. This episode isn't just about love for the job; it's about the internal confidence that fuels passion and effectiveness in the demanding role of a school principal. Whether you're struggling with decision-making, discipline, or staff interactions, you'll lear...
Apr 30, 2024•15 min•Ep. 33
In this episode of our podcast, we're joined by Chris Jenson, who brings a unique perspective as both a former physician and high school teacher. Chris shares invaluable strategies to combat teacher burnout, drawing parallels from his extensive experience in the healthcare sector. He delves into his latest book, outlining a revolutionary system that adopts a healthcare model to address teacher burnout effectively. In this episode, you will: Discover how to implement triage in your school as a st...
Apr 23, 2024•32 min•Ep. 32
Are you looking to boost parent engagement at your school? Uncover three immediate strategies to enhance parent involvement and see the difference it makes. Gain insights on empowering your teachers to connect more effectively with parents, too. In this episode, we dive deep into: The top three methods to actively engage parents within your school community. Various approaches to cater to the diverse needs of parents and families. Effective strategies to support parents in contributing positivel...
Apr 16, 2024•19 min•Ep. 31
In today's episode, we're excited to host Beth Pandolpho and Katie Cubano, the creative forces behind "Choose Your Own Masterclass." This groundbreaking book has intrigued us with its potential to transform professional development for educators through personalized learning journeys. We also delve into the topic of decision fatigue among teachers and its contribution to burnout, discussing strategies to alleviate this issue. In this episode, you'll discover: Customizable professional developmen...
Apr 12, 2024•40 min•Ep. 30
Are you familiar with the CDC's recent release, "Promoting Mental Health and Well-Being in Schools: An Action Guide for School and District Leaders"? If not, this episode serves as the perfect primer on the report and its practical applications. In this episode, you'll discover: The six key strategies schools can implement to enhance mental health and well-being among students and staff. How schools can apply these strategies equitably across different communities. Valuable resources and tips fo...
Apr 09, 2024•20 min•Ep. 29
Do you want to shift the focus away from standardized testing and reduce the pressure it places on your staff and students? Discover strategies to ease the pressure on both students and staff regarding standardized testing. Learn to view standardized testing through a new lens. Find out how to demystify the test, making it less intimidating. In this episode, you'll learn: The downsides of overemphasizing standardized testing. Strategies for reducing testing pressure on students and teachers. How...
Apr 02, 2024•13 min•Ep. 28
In this episode we're talking about how to guard your mental energy so you don't leave each school day feeling exhausted. Join us as we explore 3 strategies for protecting your mental energy. In this episode you will learn... the importance of taking breaks how to stop making decisions out of emotions ways to take care of your mental well-being throughout the day. By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with valuable insights to protect your mental energy. Don't miss it! Connect with Barb...
Mar 26, 2024•10 min•Ep. 27
Feeling stuck in the daily chaos of school leadership? In this episode of The Principal’s Handbook , Barb Flowers helps you reset your focus and reconnect with the bigger picture. Discover 7 practical strategies to craft a vision, set meaningful goals, and lead with purpose—even on your busiest days. 🎯 You’ll Learn: How to shift from reactive to visionary leadership The role of consistent goal check-ins and daily alignment How to engage in PD that supports both you and your staff Why celebratin...
Mar 19, 2024•18 min•Ep. 26
March can be one of the most difficult months in education. Between testing pressure, behavior issues, teacher burnout, and looming end-of-year decisions, it’s a perfect storm of stress. In this episode of The Principal’s Handbook , Barb Flowers shares actionable strategies for supporting your teachers and protecting your own well-being—so you can lead with strength, even in the tough months. You’ll Learn: 5 ways to lift teacher morale and support staff in March How to reset behavior expectation...
Mar 12, 2024•17 min•Ep. 25
Are you chasing goals but still feeling unfulfilled or frustrated? In this episode of The Principal’s Handbook , Barb Flowers shares the one crucial mindset shift that can transform your leadership and reignite your passion— celebration . Learn why acknowledging your progress is essential for motivation, how to model celebration for your staff, and simple ways to build celebration into your daily routine. Whether you're leading a school or leading yourself, this episode will help you celebrate w...
Mar 05, 2024•13 min•Ep. 24
Do you ever doubt your decisions as a principal. As a principal myself, I understand the constant second-guessing and the toll it can take on confidence. Discover the symptoms of self-doubt, from questioning every decision to hesitancy in sharing innovative ideas. Understand the root cause of self-doubt and why it can hinder leadership effectiveness. Learn what doesn't work when trying to combat self-doubt and uncover practical strategies to stop it in its tracks. From remembering your value to ...
Mar 05, 2024•12 min•Ep. 23
