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The Principal's Handbook

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Rating
★★★★★
4.9
from
60 reviews
This podcast has
171 episodes
Language
English
Publisher
Barb Flowers
Explicit
No
Date created
2023/10/23
Latest episode
2026/10/20
Average duration
15 min.
Release period
8 days

Description

Are you feeling swamped by the demands of being a principal? From juggling emails, calls, and decisions to boosting test scores and wading through endless paperwork, the pressure is real. But imagine a scenario where you no longer feel this overwhelming stress. Picture yourself as a more resilient leader, concentrating on enhancing your school rather than merely coping with the daily tasks that currently consume your time. I‘m Barb Flowers. Drawing upon my eight-year experience as an elementary principal, with a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and certification as a life coach, Along the way, I've mentored and coached school leaders, guiding them to change their mindset, set boundaries and focus on their own well-being while navigating their roles. Each episode offers practical insights on time management, communication, overcoming overwhelm, boosting confidence, and fostering a positive mindset. We'll also discuss topics like working with stakeholders, implementing new initiatives, and managing discipline. Let's set boundaries, focus on well-being, and reignite your passion for being a principal. Welcome to "The Principal's Handbook." I firmly believe that to be an impactful educator, you must first become a confident and well-rounded individual. Join us in this journey to empower and enhance your confidence as a school leader.

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Check latest episodes from The Principal's Handbook podcast


Leading Instructional Improvement With (or Without) an Instructional Coach
2026/10/20
How can principals effectively partner with instructional coaches to improve teaching and learning? And what happens when your school doesn't have an instructional coach? In this episode of The Principal's Handbook, Barb Flowers sits down with Chrissy Beltran, also known as Buzzing with Miss B, to discuss how principals can build strong coaching partnerships, create a culture of professional learning, and turn instructional goals into meaningful classroom change. Together, they explore the importance of defining the instructional coach's role, building trust with teachers, and creating alignment around school wide instructional priorities. Connect with Chrissy: Website: https://buzzingwithmissb.comBook: https://buzzingwithmissb.com/toolboxPodcast: Instructional Coaching with Miss B Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Before We Add Another Intervention, Let’s Fix Tier 1
2026/10/06
Tier 1 instruction is the foundation of everything we do, but improving it doesn’t mean every teacher has to follow a script perfectly. In this episode, we’re talking about fidelity vs. integrity, creating consistency without taking away teacher judgment, and building stronger alignment across Tier 1, intervention, and enrichment. You’ll walk away thinking differently about what strong, coherent instruction can look like across your school. Check out The Instructional Leadership Toolkit. Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Manager vs. Leader: Balancing Both as Principals
2026/09/22
In this episode of The Principal’s Handbook, we explore the difference between management and leadership and why effective principals need both. You'll learn how management creates the systems, routines, and accountability that keep schools running smoothly, while leadership inspires growth, builds culture, and drives instructional improvement. The episode also includes reflection questions to help you identify whether you naturally lean more toward management or leadership and where you may need to strengthen your skills. If you're looking to lead your school more effectively, this episode will help you find the balance between being a strong manager and an inspiring leader. Get free resources at principalfreebies.com.  Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Why a Better To-Do List Won't Fix Your Time Problem
2026/09/15
Think a better planner or longer to-do list will finally help you get ahead? In this episode, we're unpacking why the real issue isn't your productivity system, it's the habits driving how you manage your time. I'll share the mindset shifts that helped me stop chasing the "perfect" plan and start creating more focus, margin, and peace in my workdays. If you're tired of feeling busy but never caught up, this episode is for you. Click here to get my Workshop: 5 Time Management Habits Keeping Me Grounded (Even When Work Feels Crazy) Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Ten Habits for Busy Principals
2026/09/08
In this episode of The Principal’s Handbook, I share 10 simple habits that have helped me become a more effective leader, parent, and person. From protecting time in the morning and prioritizing exercise to disconnecting from school, focusing on family, and creating supportive routines, these habits have made leadership more sustainable and enjoyable. I also discuss the importance of healthy eating, quality sleep, lifelong learning, and building a strong support network. Rather than trying to change everything at once, this episode encourages principals to identify one habit that can create a meaningful impact on their leadership and well-being. Get Leadership by Design: The Principal's Custom Habit System.  Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
You Shouldn't Have to Wait Until Summer to Feel Like Yourself Again
2026/09/01
Do you feel like there are two versions of you—the relaxed, present summer version and the overwhelmed, exhausted school-year version? In this episode, we explore what that gap can teach you about the way you’re leading and what overwhelm may be changing about who you are. You’ll reflect on the habits, boundaries, and patterns that disappear when the school year begins and identify what you may need to subtract to feel more like yourself all year long. You shouldn’t have to spend the entire school year waiting for summer to feel like yourself again. Get The Principal's Overwhelm Toolkit Here Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Your Calendar Is Showing Your Real Leadership Priorities
2026/08/25
Your calendar reveals more about your leadership priorities than your intentions do. In this episode, learn how to audit your calendar to see whether your time is being spent reacting to problems or proactively leading your school. Discover how to schedule priorities first, create space for instructional leadership, and build a realistic calendar that focuses on consistency over intensity. This episode also shares practical strategies for spreading out observations, reducing unnecessary meetings, and protecting time for the proactive work that prevents future problems. Because the goal isn’t to fit more into your calendar—it’s to make sure your calendar reflects the leader you want to be. Get The 8 to 4 Principal Planner. Get The 8 to 4 Principal Blueprint.  Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Stop Letting Other People’s Urgency Run Your Day
2026/08/18
Not everything that feels urgent actually is. In this episode, I share a simple red, yellow, and green framework to help you decide what truly needs your immediate attention, what can be scheduled for later, and what proactive work you need to protect. You’ll learn how to stop letting other people’s urgency control your day so you can spend more time on the work that actually moves your school forward. Get the mini-course From Reactive to Proactive Leadership Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
What Actually Matters in the First 30 Days of School
2026/08/11
The first 30 days of school can make everything feel urgent, but effective leadership starts with knowing what matters first. In this episode, we’ll focus on the foundations that need your attention right away: clear behavior expectations, clarity for new teachers, and making sure staff understand the curriculum they are expected to teach.  We’ll also talk about what can wait, including interventions, MTSS, and other systems that may be better introduced once the school year is underway. Leadership by Subtraction isn’t about ignoring important work—it’s about sequencing the work so you can build a strong foundation without overwhelming yourself or your staff. Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
How to Make This School Year Sustainable (Instead of Just Surviving It)
2026/08/04
Too many principals spend the school year just trying to survive. In this episode, you'll learn four practical strategies to make your leadership more sustainable by simplifying your work, protecting your time, building a life outside of school, and growing your confidence. If you're tired of constantly feeling overwhelmed, this episode will help you focus on what matters most so you can lead with more clarity, energy, and purpose all year long. Highly RecommendedFree workshop: From Self-Doubt to ConfidenceThe 8 to 4 PrincipalThe Discipline Toolkit Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Subtracting the Noise as a Principal
2026/07/28
In this episode, you'll learn the first principle of Leadership by Subtraction: subtract the noise. As a principal, it's easy to feel like every email, interruption, parent concern, and staff request deserves your immediate attention, but not everything is urgent or important. This episode explores how constant reacting keeps school leaders from focusing on the work that has the greatest impact and shares three simple questions to help you filter out distractions, protect your time, and lead with greater clarity and purpose. Join the group coaching program Leadership by Subtraction HERE. Get the Leadership by Subtraction Starter Kit HERE. Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
The Hidden Cost of Too Many Priorities as a Principal
2026/07/21
In this episode, we explore why so many principals feel like they're constantly putting out fires and why the real issue often isn't time, but too many competing priorities. You'll learn how trying to improve everything at once leads to scattered leadership, overwhelmed staff, and slower progress. Barb shares lessons from her own leadership journey and introduces the idea of focusing on one high-impact initiative at a time to create lasting change. If you're ready to stop reacting and start leading with greater clarity and purpose, this episode is for you. Join the coaching program Leadership by Subtraction HERE.  Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
Bonus Episode: The Power of Group Coaching for Principals
2026/07/20
Principals don’t need more information—they need space to think, reflect, and actually implement what matters most. In this bonus episode, I share why group coaching is so powerful for school leaders and how learning alongside other principals can help you feel less alone, gain clarity, and create real change. If you’re ready to stop adding more to your plate and start focusing on what matters most, join me inside Leadership by Subtraction. You’ll get coaching, accountability, and a community of principals who understand the work. Click here to join Leadership by Subtraction. Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
The Secret to Better Leadership Isn't Doing More
2026/07/14
In this episode of The Principal’s Handbook, we explore why becoming a better leader isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing less with greater intention. You’ll learn how trying to tackle too many initiatives at once can create burnout, reduce momentum, and keep your building from making meaningful progress. The episode introduces the Leadership by Subtraction framework, helping you identify the one area that will have the biggest impact on your school through three simple reflection questions. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by competing priorities, this conversation will help you lead with more focus, clarity, and confidence. Join the Leadership by Subtraction Waitlist HERE.  Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
From Self-Doubt to Confidence for Principals
2026/07/07
Self-doubt is something every principal experiences, but it doesn't have to define your leadership. In this episode, I share my ACT Framework to help you recognize the thoughts fueling your self-doubt, uncover what's causing them, and replace them with confidence-building beliefs. You'll learn practical strategies to stop second-guessing your decisions, navigate difficult conversations with greater confidence, and trust yourself as a leader. If you're ready to lead with more clarity, confidence, and peace of mind, this episode is for you. Get my free workshop: From Self-Doubt to Confidence HERE Get The Confident Principal Reset: A 14-Day Action Plan and Mini-Course Learn more about today's sponsors, Playworks and IXL: We’re proud to be sponsored by Playworks, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with evidence-based practices that help schools improve the health and well-being of children by increasing opportunities for physical activity and safe, meaningful play. If you’re a school or district leader struggling with the challenge of chronic absenteeism, as so many are across the U.S., you may not realize that structured recess is a research-backed approach to keep kids in school. In fact, a UC Berkeley study of Title I schools found that those partnering with Playworks had significantly lower chronic absenteeism rates. Further, Mathematica research demonstrated that Playworks schools spent 27% less time transitioning from recess back to learning, saving teachers valuable instructional time.  These results are possible for your students, too. Learn how Playworks can help you improve student-educator relationships, belonging, and attendance by signing up for a quick no-obligation conversation.  We’re also thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Podcast reviews

Read The Principal's Handbook podcast reviews


4.9 out of 5
60 reviews
★★★★★
wsbhy 2026/06/23
Thankful
Every episode is so relevant and helpful. I’ve grown so much from this podcast, and I always appreciate the resources.💕
★★★★★
mossdabossmossy 2024/10/29
Amazing
A great podcast for school leaders and anyone who wants to improve their presence in the educational environment
★★★★★
mrsnicholsrocks 2024/08/27
Become Your Best Self
I stumbled upon this podcast for school leaders and have found so much value in each episode! The tips are realistic and actionable, and I always find...
★★★★★
Mrs. Powers 2024/05/06
Thoughtful Leadership
A great podcast for school leaders!
★★★★★
AliciaTwoey 2024/03/12
So great!
This podcast is so encouraging!
★★★★★
LThomas03 2024/03/10
Great!
This podcast is so helpful with great advice!
★★★★★
Gianna Grace 65 2024/03/07
Especially for school leadership
I find this podcast validating and helpful. It feels very authentic and the focus on mental resilience is much needed for school leaders. It can be a ...
★★★★★
MrPeabody! 2024/03/07
Amazing!!!
One of the most useful podcasts I’ve ever listened to. Full of useful, relevant info for anyone wanting to improve their skills, and their life as a p...
★★★★★
Reelee7 2024/03/06
So needed & such great advice!
Such great advice and support for principals and school leadership! So needed I think more than ever - what a great resource
★★★★★
;)-/@cbud 2024/03/06
So much good advice!
Just finished the self-doubt episode and very much appreciate the practical helps to reframe my thinking and move in a direction of confidence. Thank ...
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