327. Forecasting the Future of Education: Featuring Dr. Richard Bernato

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 adjunct professor specializing in educational leadership within doctoral and professional certificate programs, Richard Bernato, EdD, wears multiple hats as an education expert, author, podcaster, and blogger. With 55 years of experience in the field of education, his journey encompasses higher education, extensive research, numerous leadership positions in K–12 settings, and consultancy work alongside presentations for various school districts. Additionally, Dr. Bernato is the editor-in-chief of the Journal for Leadership and Instruction, a peer-reviewed publication under SCOPE. https://www.scopeonline.us/publications/
Follow Dr. Richard Bernato:
Twitter (X): @richDis48
Instagram: rbernato_simulation_educator
Facebook: www.facebook.com/richard.bernato.3
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/richard-bernato-1658854
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#1 New Release, “The Language of Behavior” is NOW Available!
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 Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate.
Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it’s a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders
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Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD?
Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits.
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Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper:
Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper
Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast
Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2
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Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award!
I’m happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio!
It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support!
The book is available for purchase on Amazon.
Review the Podcast
I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show.
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