Advertise on podcast: Leaders Coaching Leaders

In this episode of Leaders Coaching Leaders, Sylvie Arseneau turns the tables and hosts a rich conversation with Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson about their upcoming book, Lead Collectively: From Belief to Action to Impact. Drawing on 15 months of collaborative work with over 50 school leaders in New Brunswick, the discussion explores how collective leader efficacy can be broken down into shared understanding, joint work, and evidence of impact. Sylvie brings a unique lens as a former vice principal and New Brunswick Lead co-chair, asking incisive questions that reflect the real challenges and aspirations of today’s education leaders. The episode dives into how leaders can use formative and summative data to guide their practice, build coherence across systems, and foster meaningful professional learning. Listeners will gain insight into how to move beyond belief to action, how to create space for reflection and growth, and how to lead learning with confidence—even when the answers aren’t clear. This episode is a must-listen for educators committed to building capacity and driving student outcomes through intentional leadership. Let us know who you want to hear from next!

What happens when schools focus on the right kind of data? Elaine Allensworth joins the Leaders Coaching Leaders podcast to discuss the transformative power of meaningful metrics in education. Drawing from her groundbreaking work in Chicago Public Schools, Elaine shares how identifying critical data points, like ninth-grade course failures, can create a ripple effect of dramatic improvements in student outcomes. With decades of experience in education research, Elaine highlights the role of ninth-grade success as a foundation for long-term achievement and explains why data is best used as a tool for communication and collaboration. Unraveling the complexities of data overload, she outlines ways for educators and district leaders to prioritize actionable insights that lead to meaningful impact. Inspiring, insightful, and packed with strategies, this conversation will leave you rethinking how data can fuel positive change in education. Let us know who you want to hear from next!

What does it take to turn classrooms into spaces of healing, empowerment, and belonging? What if education prioritized love, courage, and community over compliance? Educators and authors Shane Safir and Sawsan Jaber join Leaders Coaching Leaders to explore these questions in an eye-opening discussion about dismantling inequities and championing radical love in education. Drawing from their collaborative forthcoming book, Pedagogies of Voice, published by Corwin, they share strategies to elevate teacher and student agency while humanizing learning spaces. Through the lens of their personal stories and decades of experience, Safir and Jaber uncover how micro-communities, inquiry, and authentic leadership can reignite the spark for teaching. This conversation will leave you inspired to transform your classroom into a sanctuary where every learner feels seen, valued, and heard. Let us know who you want to hear from next!

What does it truly mean to build resilience in education? Lindsay Prendergast and Piper Lee share insights from their groundbreaking book Habits of Resilient Educators and offer a passionate look into how habits can transform the personal and professional lives of educators. Having observed thousands of instructional rounds and professional learning sessions, they’ve identified key practices that help educators not just survive but thrive in challenging times. From grounding your work in purpose to setting healthy boundaries, Lindsay and Piper discuss how resilience is more than a buzzword; it’s a science. They also preview their upcoming book, Habits of Resilient Leaders, which explores how leaders can foster environments where wellbeing and balance are truly achievable. Whether you’re a teacher, leader, or lifelong learner, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered and better equipped to take on the challenges of education. *Piper Nichols now goes by Piper Lee Let us know who you want to hear from next!

Leadership isn’t just about guiding others; it’s about growing yourself. On this episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, cohosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson talk with Jennifer Abrams, renowned educator and author of Stretching Your Learning Edges: Growing Up at Work. Jennifer dives into the essential skills leaders need to succeed, including building resilience, managing challenging conversations, and cultivating professional cultures rooted in trust and collaboration. Drawing on her extensive experience working with schools and organizations, Jennifer offers advice on fostering self-awareness and navigating interpersonal dynamics with confidence and care. Don’t miss this empowering conversation packed with practical wisdom for leaders looking to grow their impact. Let us know who you want to hear from next!

In this impactful episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, Dr. Latish Reed, a trailblazing equity specialist and author of the upcoming book, The Complexities of Equity: Navigating Shades of Gray in Schools and Organizations, shares her unique and deeply personal insights on equity in education, drawing from her tenure as Milwaukee Public Schools' first equity administrator. Through her “shades of gray” framework, she explores the complexities of addressing equity in schools and other organizations, highlighting the transformational power of leadership, moral courage, and intentional action. From her reflections on building shared understanding of key equity concepts to practical solutions for navigating challenging political and organizational contexts, Dr. Reed inspires leaders to leverage their spheres of influence for meaningful change. You’ll also hear heartfelt stories of her dedication to creating better educational outcomes for all students, as well as her personal motivation to make schools work for every child—including her own son. Whether you're leading a school, tackling DEI challenges, or interested in fostering equitable practices, this conversation with Dr. Reed is filled with actionable insights and hope for the future of education. Don’t miss this fascinating discussion, and prepare to think deeply about how we can all do better for our students, staff, and communities! Let us know who you want to hear from next!

Step into the inspiring world of Jennifer Gonzalez, the creative force behind the Cult of Pedagogy, with this episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast. Our co-hosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson sit down with Jennifer to explore her groundbreaking ideas on empowering educators and fostering growth in schools. From the inspiring story behind the Cult of Pedagogy’s name to actionable strategies for feedback, leadership, and teacher support, Jennifer offers a treasure trove of insights. The discussion dives into how education leaders can balance high expectations with emotional and professional support for their teams, seamlessly blending innovation and practicality. Discover how Jennifer repurposes content to drive learning and how leaders can leverage similar techniques to build stronger, more resilient school communities. Packed with humor, real-world examples, and tools for slowing down to focus on what matters most, this conversation delivers an empowering perspective for educators, principals, and district leaders alike. Don’t miss this chance to harness Jennifer’s wisdom and take your leadership practice to new heights! Let us know who you want to hear from next!

Jim Knight delves into the remarkable success of his latest book, The IC Toolkit, which became a bestseller within two weeks of its release. This comprehensive toolkit is designed for instructional coaches and those who support them, o organized around seven critical success factors for coaching, encompassing personal attributes, professional practices, and systemic support. Knight emphasizes the importance of role clarity for coaches, highlighting that without it, coaches may engage in low-impact activities rather than focusing on strategies that significantly enhance student achievement and wellbeing. He also underscores the necessity of leadership in coaching, noting that effective coaches are supported by leaders who understand and value the coaching process. The reach of Knight’s work is global, facilitated by partnerships with organizations like Growth Coaching International, which allows for a broader impact on educational practices worldwide. He passionately advocates for treating teachers as professionals, arguing that this respect is crucial for fostering an environment where both teachers and students can thrive. Knight's insights are not only a testament to his extensive experience and research but also a call to action for educational leaders to invest in meaningful professional development and support systems that empower coaches and, ultimately, benefit students. Let us know who you want to hear from next!

Disability rights activist Tim Shriver, Chairman of Special Olympics, editor of The Call to Unite and author of Fully Alive, delves into the profound impact of unity and dignity in education and beyond. Shriver eloquently discusses the transformative power of inclusion, recounting personal anecdotes and professional experiences that highlight how bringing people together fosters empathy, resilience, and a sense of belonging. He emphasizes the critical role of educators in nurturing these values, advocating for the integration of programs like unified sports and Best Buddies in schools to bridge divides and promote mutual respect. Shriver also introduces the Dignity Index, a tool designed to measure and encourage respectful dialogue, which he believes is essential in combating the pervasive culture of contempt. His insights are not only a call to action for educational leaders but also a beacon of hope, underscoring the potential for societal change through compassionate leadership and community engagement. This interview is a must-listen for those committed to fostering inclusive environments and driving positive change in their communities. Let us know who you want to hear from next!

Zaretta Hammond draws on her book Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain, her upcoming new title Teaching for Instructional Equity and Cognitive Justice, and her decades of experience to discuss what impacts equity, from challenges to supports. In this eye-opening conversation, she encourages school leaders to find new framings and perspectives that create conscious intentions around equity and inclusion and take concrete action steps toward these goals. One constant throughout her message: put the student first. Let us know who you want to hear from next!

Co-hosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson delve into the transformative power of collective leader efficacy for this premiere episode of the Leaders Coaching Leaders podcast’s 9th season. Sharing insights from their extensive collaboration with New Brunswick schools, they discuss the critical role of trust, clarity, and coherence in developing shared understanding among leaders, and how these elements foster effective joint work, emphasizing the importance of long-term partnerships and reciprocal learning. Through engaging anecdotes, such as a puzzle activity that underscored the necessity of collaboration, our co-hosts demonstrate how collective leader efficacy can break down silos and enhance both teacher and student outcomes. This interview is a must-listen for educational leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of collective efficacy and its practical applications in fostering a supportive and high-performing school culture. Let us know who you want to hear from next!

Dive into the heart of educational leadership with this dynamic podcast compilation featuring Peter DeWitt, Michael Nelson, Tiffany Anderson, Sonja Hollins-Alexander, Nicole Law, and Thomas Guskey. Tiffany Anderson shares a poignant story about a student that underscores the critical role of community in education. Sonja Hollins-Alexander and Nicole Law discuss the essence of equity, emphasizing the need for tailored support to help every student thrive. Thomas Guskey delves into the nuances of grading and assessment, drawing on his extensive research and insights from educational pioneers. This episode is packed with powerful anecdotes, expert advice, and actionable strategies, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about transforming education. Join the conversation and be inspired by these leaders who are making a real difference in schools and communities. Let us know who you want to hear from next!

The bonus podcast of the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast features a compilation of insightful excerpts from previous interviews with educational leaders John Hattie, Viviane Robinson, and Marc Brackett. John Hattie emphasizes the importance of educators developing a theory of learning that aligns with their teaching methods, highlighting the need for teachers to focus on learning strategies. Viviane Robinson discusses the concept of leadership as an influence process accessible to everyone, stressing the importance of teachers exercising leadership in their roles. Marc Brackett offers insights and advocates for using emotions wisely to achieve goals and improve relationships. The hosts, Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson, reflect on these themes, sharing personal anecdotes and emphasizing the practical application of these insights in professional learning and workshops. The compilation underscores the value of continuous learning, leadership, and emotional intelligence, and, of course, leading with intention in education. Let us know who you want to hear from next!

In a fascinating interview on the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, Marc Brackett, the founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and author of the bestselling book Permission to Feel, delves into the profound importance of emotional intelligence and self-regulation in both personal and professional realms. In this conversation with co-hosts Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson, Brackett emphasizes the necessity of understanding and managing emotions to achieve goals and maintain well-being and discusses the challenges posed by political polarization and the misconceptions surrounding social-emotional learning, advocating for clear definitions and practical applications. Brackett’s insights are particularly relevant for leaders, highlighting the critical role of emotional intelligence in creating a positive school culture and climate. He shares compelling research findings, including the significant impact of emotionally intelligent leadership on teacher satisfaction and retention. Through engaging anecdotes and evidence-based strategies, Brackett provides actionable advice for educators and leaders to foster emotional intelligence, enhance communication, and build supportive environments. This interview is a must-listen for professionals seeking to understand the transformative power of emotions in education and leadership. Let us know who you want to hear from next!

In this compelling interview on the Leaders Coaching Leaders Podcast, David Sousa, a respected educational neuroscience consultant and author, delves into the profound impact of technology on the developing brain. Sousa, known for his groundbreaking work on brain plasticity and the rewired brain, highlights the alarming increase in technology use among preteens and teenagers over the past decade. He underscores the critical role of nurture in shaping the brain, challenging the theory that genetics predominantly determine brain development. Sousa articulates concerns about how excessive screen time affects memory, thinking skills, attention, and social skills, emphasizing that the brain’s plasticity makes it highly susceptible to environmental influences. He discusses the importance of educators and parents understanding these changes to better support children’s cognitive and social development. Sousa also addresses the potential dangers of artificial intelligence, stressing the need for discernment between real and fake information, especially for the young. His insights are a call to action for educators and administrators to balance technology use with activities that promote higher-order thinking and interpersonal skills. The interview is a thought-provoking exploration of how modern technology is reshaping the educational landscape and the urgent need for informed strategies to mitigate its negative effects while harnessing its benefits. Let us know who you want to hear from next!