Aspire: The Leadership Development Podcast

In this inspiring episode, Vicki Davis, veteran educator, edtech expert, and edublogger, joins me to explore the evolving world of educational technology and artificial intelligence in the classroom. Vicki shares how she teaches students to use AI art tools with prompt stacking techniques, discusses the importance of formative assessment, and explains how educators can reach every learner. We also dive into the mindset behind servant leadership, the value of collaboration in education, and why elevating others is key to lasting impact. With over 20 years of experience in edtech, Vicki brings wisdom, humility, and a powerful message about staying grounded while embracing innovation. About  Vicki Davis: Vicki Davis, known as the Cool Cat Teacher has been teaching Computer Science since 2002 and blogging at the Cool Cat Teacher blog since 2005. She teachers AP Computer Science Principles (100% pass rate last year) and digital film classes and is an IT Coach and works with technology integration K3-12th grade. Vi

Leadership isn’t about staying busy—it’s about making an impact. In this episode, Dr. Samuel Nix, author of 6 Steps to a Strong School Culture, shares how school leaders can shift their focus from activity to meaningful results. We dive into the leadership cycle, common pitfalls in creating change, and real-world examples of schools that have successfully implemented sustainable improvements. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, this conversation will provide actionable steps to help you think more systemically and lead with purpose. About  Dr. Samuel Nix: Dr. Sam Nix has served as an Assistant Principal and Principal of both middle and high schools. While serving as a high school principal, Dr. Nix’s campus was named as a National Model School by the National Association of Black School Educators (NABSE) and was named as one of the Top 32 Urban Schools in America by the National Center for Urban School Transformation (NCUST). His school was ranked in the Top 10 (comparable group) in the s

What if building a positive school culture didn’t have to be so traditional? In this week’s episode of Aspire to Lead, the amazing educator, speaker, consultant, and magician, Dr. David Rische, shares his innovative strategies for transforming school environments in ways that inspire both staff and students. We explore the power of creative leadership through unique approaches like staff mud runs, flipped faculty meetings, and using magic to motivate and engage. David also unpacks how leaders can rethink professional development and culture-building to create spaces where educators feel valued and students thrive. If you’re ready to reimagine your leadership and bring fresh energy into your school, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies to help you create a culture that truly connects and inspires your students and staff! About  Dr. David Rische: David Rische served in public education for 30 years as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal. His most recent role was the principal of Th

How can school leaders prepare for the challenges of tomorrow while making informed decisions today? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Dr. Richard Bernato, author of Co-Creating the Future, shares groundbreaking insights on futures-based leadership and how simulations can help leaders experiment with change in a low-risk environment. We explore the power of futuring in leadership, how simulation design can enhance professional and academic development, and what it means to lead from the top of the learning triangle—shaping not just the emerging future, but a preferable future. Dr. Bernato also walks us through the seven phases of a leadership simulation, demonstrating how school and district leaders can proactively plan for success. Whether you're navigating change, looking to refine your leadership skills, or searching for innovative ways to prepare your team for the future, this conversation is packed with practical strategies you won’t want to miss! About  Dr. Richard Bernato: Currently serving as an ad

What if the key to student success lies in the environment we create? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Dr. Layne Dillard shares how building a strong, student-centered learning environment is essential for growth. She introduces the LEAD Framework, a powerful approach that emphasizes leadership and vision, engaged instruction, and data-driven accountability—all with students at the core. Dr. Dillard also dives into innovative programs like Ready, Set, Work!, a simulated workforce experience designed to prepare students for real-world success, and discusses alternative education models that support at-risk students. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or school leader, this episode is packed with insights on how to cultivate a thriving school ecosystem that fosters meaningful learning and lasting success. About Dr. Layne Dillard: With 28 years in education, Dr. Layne Dillard has dedicated her career to transforming learning environments to drive student success. She holds a Doctorate in Learning Orga

Society is evolving at an unprecedented pace, but are our schools keeping up? In this compelling conversation, Adriano Di Prato, co-author of Game Changers: Leading Today’s Learning for Tomorrow’s World, explores the balance between honoring our traditions and exploring innovation in education. We discuss how school leaders can adapt to a rapidly changing world, what it means to be a "game-changing" leader, and the role courage and purpose play in transforming schools for a future-ready model. If you're ready to challenge the status quo and rethink leadership in education, this deep and impactful conversation is for you!  About Adriano Di Prato: Adriano Di Prato serves as the Campus Director at LCI Melbourne, a progressive art, design, and enterprise institute of higher education that is part of a global network of 23 campuses, originally founded as LaSalle College International in Montreal, Canada, over 65 years ago. Adriano is the co-author of the bestselling book Game Changers: Leading Today’s Learning fo

In this special bonus episode, Charle Peck and I join Jeff Gargas from the Teach Better Team to celebrate the release of our new book, The Language of Behavior! We dive into the framework, share key strategies for supporting students, and discuss how educators can shift their approach to behavior management in meaningful ways. Whether you've already started reading or are just hearing about the book, this episode is packed with insights to help you create a more supportive and responsive learning environment. New Book "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=4245ec9c9a57818c393df859724df613&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge

Get ready for a conversation that flips the script on leadership, motivation, and what it truly means to connect with today’s students. Dr. Christopher Culver, an experienced educator, consultant, and professor, joins me to unpack the evolving dynamics of Gen Z and Gen Alpha, the power of kindness in shaping school culture, and why understanding motivation is key to retention and success. With his high-energy approach and passion for cultivating strong, positive environments, Dr. Culver shares invaluable insights that will challenge and inspire you. If you’re ready to lead with more heart, purpose, and impact, this episode is for you! About Dr. Christopher Culver: Dr. Christopher Culver is a proud product of Oklahoma education and has served educational communities for more than a decade as a classroom teacher, secondary principal, and most recently as a cabinet-level administrator. Dr. Culver is a product of a divorced family and split time between Tulsa & Wyandotte, OK and Fayetteville, NC during his ch

In this Aspire Mailbag episode, Jeff Gargas and I tackle two critical leadership questions submitted by our listeners: How do you know when it's time to coach someone out instead of coaching them up? How do we coach teachers so they don’t feel fear through the process of evaluation? We dive into the delicate balance of supporting struggling staff while recognizing when a different path may be best for both the educator and the school community. We also explore how to shift the evaluation process from a source of fear to an opportunity for growth, ensuring teachers feel supported rather than judged. Tune in for practical strategies and leadership insights to navigate these challenging situations with confidence and clarity! 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: ww

Leadership isn’t just a role—it’s a journey that evolves over time. In this powerful episode, I sit down with educational leader and author Julia Bialeski to explore what it means to lead with grace at every stage of the leadership lifespan. We discuss the realities of burnout, imposter syndrome, and the challenges of maintaining well-being while leading others. Julia shares practical strategies for staying authentic, fostering hope, and keeping people at the heart of leadership. With insights from her new book, Leading with Grace: Cultivating Hope, Authenticity, and a Focus on People Throughout the Leadership Lifespan, Julia provides the tools to navigate leadership with purpose and resilience. Whether you're just stepping into leadership or reflecting on your journey, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to lead with intention! About Julia Bialeski: Julia Bialeski is an educator, speaker, and the author of Leading with Grace: Cultivating Hope, Authenticity, and a Focus on People Throughout

In this special BONUS episode, Joshua Stamper reads the introduction to The Language of Behavior: A Framework to Elevate Student Success. Dive into the heart of the book as Joshua explores key sections like Are We Failing?, Regaining Trust in the System, and Why Traditional Approaches to Misbehavior Aren't Working. Discover how this new approach redefines student behavior support, fosters stronger connections, and equips educators with practical strategies to elevate success in every classroom. Ready to transform the way you see student behavior? This episode is the perfect starting point to dive into this new resource! Do you have any questions for the podcast? Fill out this quick Google Form: https://forms.gle/u5axHazzuyN5pry76 -- New Book "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?crid=1KEYLCSOLH9SO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.mO11i0dqqa2kReCQCgKdoBVv-UGD2JUkm7d-TgL7-0om9G0wIXZDyIo3yGE2SycDVsTyJ8TfqEKVu8oKJmlm9niistbAUmma4fY-Sgtd0Gx9O3xTDfv6_y2C2W9GKnOFi6SlNXUo9-zQYpQAzk

What does it truly mean to lead with intention in today’s fast-paced educational landscape? In this powerful episode of Aspire to Lead, I’m joined by Michael D. Nelson and Peter DeWitt, authors of Leading With Intention: How School Leaders Can Unlock Deeper Collaboration and Drive Results. Together, we explore how school leaders can move beyond just checking off tasks to reconnecting with their core purpose and fostering meaningful engagement in their work. We dive into practical strategies for setting personal and professional goals using success criteria, building deeper academic and social-emotional connections within school communities, and overcoming common barriers that hinder intentional leadership. This conversation is packed with insights to help you reignite your passion, strengthen collaboration, and drive impactful change in your school community. About Michael D. Nelson: Michael Nelson co-facilitates coaching, keynotes, and workshops with Peter DeWitt. He is co-author of the best-selling book, L

What does it truly mean to emerge as a middle leader? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Gavin Grift, author of Emerge: Overcoming Common Challenges Associated with Middle Leadership, joins us to reimagine leadership in today’s educational landscape. We explore the profound concept that "Clarity Precedes Competence," reframing hardships as stepping stones to growth, and the role self-awareness plays in transformative leadership. Gavin unpacks how busyness has become the modern-day "I'm fine" and reveals how leaders can reclaim their time for what truly matters. Dive into Gavin’s fascinating Leadership Archetypes—the Pleaser, Ostrich, Imposter, Dynamo, and the Judge & Juror—and learn practical ways to recognize and grow beyond these tendencies. Whether you're navigating the complexities of middle leadership or looking to refine your approach, this episode delivers a fresh perspective and powerful strategies to help you emerge stronger and more focused than ever. Don’t miss this engaging conversation wit

What does it take to truly lead with confidence and inspire others to do the same? In this thought-provoking conversation with LaVonna Roth, renowned author, speaker, and creator of Ignite Your S.H.I.N.E.®, we explore the transformative power of self-awareness and strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome. LaVonna shares practical tools to help leaders strengthen their confidence, even in the face of tough challenges, while creating environments that foster growth and resilience for their teams. We also take a deep dive into the unique experiences of women in leadership roles, discussing how they can rise above the challenges in the education field and how we can collectively empower more women to embrace their roles as change-makers. Packed with actionable insights and heartfelt advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to elevate their leadership journey and inspire others along the way. About LaVonna Roth: Leaders face external pressures and internal doubts like “What if I’m not good enough

In this insightful episode of Aspire to Lead, I’m joined by the dynamic duo Susan Rosenthal and Tessa Brock to uncover the journey of leadership through its many seasons. Susan shares why she coined the term "Dips of Doubt" and the inspiration behind their podcast, exploring the cycles that leaders experience throughout the school year—from the highs of August to the challenges of November and beyond. We dive deep into the importance of self-aware leadership and its evolution over time, introducing the three transformative steps: Reflect, Elevate, and Cultivate. Together, Susan and Tessa break down how these principles can empower any leader or team to thrive, regardless of their starting point. Beyond the conversation, we highlight their work as keynote speakers, executive coaches, and workshop facilitators dedicated to transforming leaders and workplace environments. Whether you’re navigating the "Dips of Doubt" or simply looking to enhance your leadership approach, this episode will leave you inspired an

In this captivating episode of Aspire to Lead, Greg Bennick, author of Reclaim the Moment: 7 Strategies to Build a Better Now, shares profound insights on leadership, focus, and creating a thriving work culture. Together, we dive into key concepts from his book, including the transformative power of “Keeping Your Eyes on the Knife” to improve focus, and the courage to “Leap Into the Dark” by embracing creative risks and stepping into the unknown. Greg also unpacks the “Reverberation Effect™,” a powerful strategy to amplify vision and inspire momentum within teams. Through personal stories from his life and career, Greg offers relatable and actionable insights on peak performance. This isn’t just a conversation about leadership—it’s a deep dive into rethinking how we approach growth, creativity, and connection in both work and life. If you’re ready to lead with purpose and build a better now, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! About Greg Bennick: Greg Bennick knows about focus. Though reading about h

To conclude this year's episodes, I sit down with Dr. Jasmine Kullar, chief school leadership officer and author of Training Teacher Leaders in a PLC at Work: A Guide to Cultivating Shared Leadership, to uncover the power of teacher leadership. Dr. Kullar shares why principals can’t do it all alone and why cultivating teacher leaders is crucial for school success. We dive into the barriers that often hinder teachers from stepping into leadership roles and explore practical strategies for overcoming them. Dr. Kullar also offers expert advice on selecting the right teacher leaders and highlights key areas to focus on when developing leadership skills. Whether you’re a principal seeking to empower your staff or a teacher aspiring to lead, this conversation provides actionable insights to inspire growth, collaboration, and shared leadership in your school. Tune in for an episode filled with practical strategies and thought-provoking ideas! About Dr. Jasmine Kullar Jasmine K. Kullar, EdD, is a chief school lea

In this thought-provoking Aspire Mailbag episode, Jeff Gargas and I unpack some of the trickiest challenges leaders face in education and beyond. Ever had to deal with someone who says one thing to your face but something completely different behind your back? Or been left in the cold after a disagreement with an administrator, only to be met with silence? We’ve got you covered with practical strategies and fresh perspectives to tackle these tough situations head-on. We also dive into the emotional complexity of handling rejection after making complicated decisions. How do you maintain your confidence and move forward when your choices aren’t well-received? This episode is packed with actionable insights, real-world advice, and the kind of conversation that makes you feel ready to tackle any leadership challenge that comes your way. Don’t miss this candid, solutions-focused discussion—and remember to send us your questions for future mailbag episodes! — Featuring Jeff Gargas and Joshua Stamper Follow Jeff

What if the key to thriving as an educator lies in the same skills we often teach our students? In this inspiring episode of Aspire to Lead, Mitch Weathers, author and creator of Organized Binder, takes us on a deep dive into the world of executive functioning—not just for students, but for educators themselves. Mitch unpacks how a foundation of predictable routines, intentional practice, and emotional regulation can transform your approach to teaching and leadership. Together, we explore how modeling executive functioning skills in the classroom fosters a culture of success, and why practicing these strategies as educators is vital for staying grounded and effective. But this isn’t just about structure—it’s about embracing tools that help you navigate the chaos of education with confidence and purpose. Tune in to discover practical ways to elevate your daily routines, improve emotional resilience, and truly lead by example. Whether you’re an educator or leader, this conversation with Mitch Weathers will le

What if our so-called "discipline problems" were really just connection problems in disguise? In this engaging episode of Aspire to Lead, we sit down with the visionary founder of Differentiated Discipline, author of The Connection Driven Classroom, to flip the script on how educators approach discipline. Together, we explore the deeper stigma surrounding the word "discipline" and uncover the magic of fostering connections that transform classroom culture. Learn practical techniques to quickly build meaningful relationships with students, even in the busiest school day, and discover how these connection-driven strategies can help you gather key evidence for your state evaluations. Plus, hear about exciting upcoming projects, including a nationwide book tour, the Train the Trainers initiative, and a comedy show that blends humor with heart to inspire educators everywhere. This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a movement to shift how we see and shape our classrooms. Tune in and leave equipped to lead with empat