Aspire: The Leadership Development Podcast

What if the key to transforming your school culture is as simple as celebration and storytelling? In this energetic episode of Aspire to Lead, Josh Tovar, veteran principal and host of the Para #Ganas Podcast, joins me to share how his relentless positivity, powerful use of social media, and commitment to daily recognition have redefined leadership on his campus. We dive into practical ways administrators can build a culture of belonging, why telling your school’s story matters, and how leaders can maintain joy and longevity in a demanding profession. Whether you’re feeling the weight of burnout or looking to bring fresh energy to your school community, Josh brings the passion and purpose to reignite your why. About Josh Tovar: Josh Tovar, a proud son of Virginia and Jesus Tovar, was born in Cd. Juarez, Mexico, and immigrated with his family to El Paso, Texas in the late 70s. After challenging years in high school, he joined the US Marine Corps as an 0811 artilleryman. His military service allowed him to s

What happens when educators put classroom culture at the center of everything they do? In this engaging episode, I sit down with authors Katie Kinder and Darrin Peppard to explore their bold new book, Culture First Classroom. We unpack the mindset shifts teachers and leaders must make to prioritize culture over compliance, why laughter and relationships are essential to learning, and how the fusion of creativity and strategy can transform any classroom. Katie and Darrin share real-world examples, powerful takeaways, and small, actionable steps to help educators start building a thriving learning environment—one rooted in joy, connection, and purpose. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, building leader, or passionate about improving school climate, this episode will equip you with the tools to lead with culture and create classrooms that inspire. About Darrin Peppard Darrin Peppard is a keynote speaker, author, publisher and consultant focused on what matters most in leadership. Darrin is an expert in school c

In this forward-thinking episode of Aspire to Lead, Dr. Matthew Rhoads, author of Co-Teaching Evolved and Crush it from the Start, joins me to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping instructional coaching, co-teaching, and school leadership. Dr. Rhoads shares powerful insights on building equitable and inclusive classrooms while embracing tech-powered strategies that truly support educators and students alike. Together, we break down the essential components of successful co-teaching partnerships, dive into AI-supported planning and leadership practices, and discuss how to cultivate collaborative cultures where every voice matters. Whether you're a coach, a classroom teacher, or a school leader, this episode will spark new ideas for transforming teaching and learning in the modern era. About Dr. Matthew Rhoads: Matthew Rhoads, Ed.D. is an expert and innovator in educational technology and instructional strategy integration within online, blended, and traditional in-person classroom settings. As a

In this heart-centered episode of Aspire to Lead, I’m joined by globally recognized speaker, educator, and author Angela Maiers to explore the movement that changed everything—#YouMatter. Angela shares the powerful story behind the origin of this global initiative and how a simple affirmation can shift mindsets, unlock potential, and ignite lasting change in students, educators, and communities. We unpack how leaders can go beyond surface-level praise to cultivate environments where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered. Angela also reveals how her workshops help people rediscover their purpose and reignite their passion for contribution, and we dive into her latest project—M is for Mattering, a science-based picture book designed to embed the language of significance in learners from the start. This episode is less of a conversation and more of a call to remember what we too often forget: that real leadership begins with seeing, hearing, and believing in the people right in front of us. Tune in, take

In this week’s episode, Kyle Morin shares the journey that took him from substitute teaching in Colorado to leading a charter school through the pandemic and now shaping education policy with a practitioner’s lens. Kyle reflects on his teaching experience in Taiwan, how international education systems compare to the U.S., and the leadership challenges he faced during one of the most disruptive periods in modern education. We also explore why it’s essential for educators to have a voice in policy conversations—and how decision-makers can better support those on the frontlines of education. About Kyle Morin: Kyle Morin is an experienced educator and education policy professional with over 15 years of experience in teaching, education leadership, and policy. His career has spanned both his home state of Colorado and international settings, including Taiwan, where he taught as a Fulbright Fellow before later working at a private school. Currently, Kyle is an education policy resident with ExcelinEd, where he i

In this inspiring episode of Aspire to Lead, I’m joined by renowned inclusion expert Toby Karten to explore the heart of inclusive education through her ADMIRE Inclusion Framework. Together, we dismantle common misconceptions about inclusion, dive into strategies for supporting diverse learners, and reveal how strong family partnerships can transform the learning environment. Toby shares hands-on tools that empower educators to meet a wide range of student needs without losing momentum. If you're ready to rethink inclusion, reimagine support, and reignite your passion for reaching every learner, this conversation is the spark you’ve been waiting for. About Toby Karten: Toby Karten is an experienced educator, author, and consultant specializing in inclusive education. She has extensive experience in teaching students with diverse needs and disabilities and is known for her work in promoting inclusive practices in schools. Karten has written numerous books and resources on inclusive education, providing strat

What if the traditional education system isn’t broken—but outdated? In this compelling episode of Aspire to Lead, I’m joined by Richard DeLorenzo, founder of the Re-Inventing Schools Coalition, Roxy Mourant, CEO of CBE Ignited, and Jessica Enderson, COO of CBE Ignited, to explore the transformative power of Competency-Based Education (CBE). Together, we unpack the foundational principles from their book, Competency-Based Education Ignited, and examine how CBE differs from past reform efforts. We discuss why this student-centered, mastery-driven approach holds real promise for sustainability and equity in education. The team shares what mindset shifts are needed for teachers, how leaders can guide schools through the transition, and what it truly looks like when students take ownership of their learning. From redefining success to scaling system-wide change, this episode is filled with bold ideas, proven strategies, and the passion to reshape the future of learning. About Richard DeLorenzo: A dynamic leade

In this energizing episode of Aspire to Lead, Chad Dumas, award-winning researcher and author of The Teacher Team Leader Handbook, joins the conversation to break down what it truly means to lead within a professional learning community. Chad shares how teacher team leaders can move beyond the title and embrace a powerful, purpose-driven role that impacts culture, collaboration, and student achievement. Together, we explore the foundational responsibilities of teacher leadership, the essential mindsets that fuel successful teams, and 40 actionable strategies that can help your PLC gain traction and overcome obstacles. If you're just stepping into leadership or looking to refine your practice, this episode is packed with practical tools, fresh perspectives, and encouragement to help you lead with clarity, confidence, and impact. About Chad Dumas: Chad Dumas is a Solution Tree associate and international educational consultant, presenter, and award-winning researcher whose primary focus is collaborating to dev

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