308. Finding Fulfillment in Leadership: Featuring Walter McKenzie

Aspire to Lead, Walter McKenzie, Joshua Stamper, The Worthy Educator

In this engaging episode of Aspire to Lead, we sit down with Walter McKenzie, author, ASCD leader, and co-creator of The Worthy Educator, to explore the complexities of leadership in education. Walter shares his thoughts on the temptation to say “yes” to roles because of titles, money, or pride, and the importance of staying where…

307. Bringing Leaders and Families Together: Featuring Ari Gerzon-Kessler

Aspire to Lead, Ari Gerson Kessler, Joshua Stamper, Solution Tree, On the Same Team

In this impactful episode, award-winning author and family partnerships expert, Ari Gerzon-Kessler, explores the crucial topic of building authentic connections between educators and underrepresented families. Ari shares his expertise on the current reality of family engagement in schools and how it often falls short of creating genuine, lasting partnerships. We dive deep into the difference…

306. The Leader Inside: Featuring Lauren Kaufman

Aspire to Lead, Lauren Kaufman, Joshua Stamper, The Leader Inside

In this episode of Aspire to Lead, we sit down with Lauren Kaufman, author of “The Leader Inside,” to explore the untapped greatness that lies within each of us. Lauren shares her journey and insights on why mentorship plays a crucial role in personal and professional growth, and how mentors—whether we realize it or not—are…

305. Blueprint of Leading Through Change: Featuring Todd Bloomer

Aspire to Lead, Todd Bloomer, The Blueprint, Joshua Stamper

In this engaging episode, we sit down with Todd Bloomer to explore critical topics in educational leadership. Todd shares his experiences and strategies for effectively leading a large campus in the wake of COVID, addressing key issues like teacher retention and the importance of modeling leadership behavior. We dive into the concept of soliciting student…

304. Building Resilience in Education: Featuring Alison Smith

Aspire to Lead, Alison Smith, The Thrive Designer, Joshua Stamper

In this thought-provoking episode, Alison Smith discusses the pressing challenges facing both educators and educational leaders, including burnout, compassion fatigue, emotional dissonance, and a lowered sense of mattering. Alison delves into how cultivating resilience can not only help individuals overcome these challenges but also build collective efficacy, which in turn positively impacts student success. We…