The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast

George Couros
  • 4.6 (14)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

I am a learner, author, speaker, and sometimes I make podcasts talking about any and all of these things. One day, I will rap in my podcasts officially making me a SoundCloud rapper.

  1. 1D AGO

    Anthony Padrnos on Breaking Silos, AI, and Leadership in Education - The #InnovatorsMindset

    In this episode, George Couros sits down with Anthony Padrnos, Executive Director of Technology for Osseo Area Schools in Minnesota, to explore what it truly means to lead through learning, not just technology. Instead of trying to fit technology into education, Anthony shares how his leadership begins with strong pedagogy, focusing on teaching and learning first, then using tools like AI to enhance those foundations. He discusses how breaking down silos between departments creates stronger alignment, better collaboration, and more meaningful innovation across schools. The conversation also highlights the upcoming CoSN Minnesota conference, where educators and leaders will continue exploring how to integrate AI thoughtfully while keeping student learning at the center. Although George and Anthony come from different professional experiences, they share a common goal: bringing people together, staying adaptable, and continuously learning in a rapidly changing educational landscape. This episode is ideal for educators, district leaders, and anyone looking to better understand how leadership, AI, and pedagogy can work together to improve teaching and learning.   ___________     👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset   🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com   🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros   Follow George Couros: Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros   Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/   LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519   📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3   The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20   Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20   Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/

    19 min

  2. 4D AGO

    Start Before You're Ready: The Power of Just Beginning- George Couros

    George Couros reflects on how accidental beginnings, launching a blog, starting a podcast, and writing Forward, Together, led to unexpected opportunities and long-term professional growth. In this episode, he shares three practical strategies to build momentum in your work and life: start before you feel ready, make and keep appointments with yourself, and share your learning to create accountability and connection. Through real examples from his time as a principal, his health journey, and his speaking career, Couros emphasizes a powerful idea: momentum is created through consistent action, not perfection. Even the things that don’t work contribute to growth. If you are feeling stuck or waiting for the right moment, this conversation will help you take that first step, stay consistent, and open doors you may not have expected.   Get your copy of “Forward, Together” here on Amazon! https://a.co/d/99RGvl3   ___________     👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset   🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com   🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros   Follow George Couros: Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros   Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/   LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519   📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3   The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20   Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20   Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/

    14 min

  3. MAR 8

    Unorthodox Leadership in Schools: Leigh Ragsdale on Empathy, Voice, and Transforming Student Success

    In this conversation, George Couros speaks with Leigh Ragsdale, known as the “Unorthodox Principal,” about her journey from alternative high school teacher to elementary principal and how bold, unconventional leadership can transform school culture. They explore empathetic leadership, standing up to negativity, and why giving both students and educators their voices back leads to stronger learning communities. The discussion also highlights research connecting physical activity to improved student learning and well-being, reinforcing the importance of supporting the whole child. Whether you are a school leader, teacher, or education innovator, this episode offers practical insight into leading with courage, compassion, and purpose to create meaningful change in schools.   LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigh-ragsdale-993094a4/   Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3464539180428684/   Study on exercise helping students learn that I mention: https://www.ou.org/life/health/one-small-change-turned-these-19000-students-into-fittest-smartest-us-alan-freishtat/   ___________     👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset   🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com   🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros   Follow George Couros: Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros   Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/   LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519   📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3   The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20   Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20   Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/

    18 min

  4. MAR 5

    On the "Tell Them Theory": Why Sharing the Good Matters More Than You Think

    Get your copy of “Forward, Together” here on Amazon! https://a.co/d/99RGvl3   What is the "Tell Them Theory" and how can it transform school culture and leadership? In this episode, George Couros explores the simple but powerful habit of intentionally recognizing the good in others. He shares personal stories from his work in schools, reflections from Forward Together, and lessons learned from both following and failing to follow this mindset, especially online. Discover why acknowledging others builds trust, strengthens relationships, and creates a ripple effect that impacts students, colleagues, and entire communities. If you want practical ways to lead with empathy, elevate others, and create meaningful connections, this conversation offers actionable insights you can use immediately.   Link to Vex King post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DVObbP0iDK7/

    8 min

  5. MAR 1

    How Leaders Build Trust and Community: A Conversation on "Forward, Together" with Cristina Capretta

    Get your copy of “Forward, Together” here on Amazon! https://a.co/d/99RGvl3   Guest host Cristina Capretta, a district communications director, joins George Couros for a practical and candid conversation about his new book Forward, Together: Moving Schools from Conflict to Community in Contentious Times. Cristina shares her biggest takeaways from the book and reflects on how communication leaders can help move schools from conflict to community by shaping the district story, building strong relationships, and inviting staff into meaningful collaboration. The episode explores real examples from district communication work, how to address criticism with clarity and care, and how storytelling helps teams feel understood and connected. George and Cristina also talk about the emotional weight educators carry and how leaders can create space for staff to grow, learn, and feel supported. They discuss how AI can enhance communication, improve productivity, and support creative work while keeping empathy, authenticity, and human judgment at the forefront. Listeners will walk away with practical insights for strengthening culture, improving communication, and building more connected school communities.     ___________     👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset   🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com   🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros   Follow George Couros: Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros   Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/   LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519   📚 Books by George Couros: The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20   Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20   Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/

    41 min

  6. FEB 26

    3 Habits for Growth, Letting Go, and Self-Belief - George Couros

    Get your copy of “Forward, Together” here on Amazon! https://a.co/d/99RGvl3   What are simple, practical ways to start the year focused on growth without relying on resolutions? In this podcast episode, George Couros shares three intentional habits he is carrying into the new year that have helped him improve his mindset, energy, and sense of purpose. Rather than adding more to an already full plate, this conversation focuses on addition by subtraction and doing the inner work that actually lasts. You will hear reflections on: • Why subtracting from to-do lists can be more motivating than adding to them • How surrounding yourself with the right people, while letting go of grudges, can free up mental and emotional energy • What it really means to learn to clap for yourself, without ego or comparison George also connects this idea of self-belief to a key theme from his book Forward, Together, especially the importance of being proud of your work without feeling the need to shrink for others. This episode is especially relevant for educators, leaders, and anyone looking to start the year with clarity, intention, and confidence. If you are focused on personal growth, leadership mindset, and building habits that actually serve you, this episode is for you.   ___________     👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset   🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com   🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros   Follow George Couros: Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros   Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/   LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519   📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3   The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20   Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20   Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/

    12 min

  7. FEB 22

    Lead From Who You Are: The Personal, People, and Process Rhythms of Meaningful Leadership

    Check out "Lead from Who You Are" here on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0cAIwv7   In this episode, George Couros sits down with Joe Sanfelippo to explore the ideas behind Joe’s new book, Lead From Who You Are. Their conversation focuses on what intentional leadership really looks like in everyday moments, especially when pressure, noise, and self-doubt creep in. Joe shares powerful insights on leadership rhythms like presence, the power of the pause, consistency, and how small interactions quietly shape trust and influence over time. Rather than performative leadership, this conversation centers on being grounded in who you are and how that clarity impacts the people around you. They discuss why the negative inner voice often feels louder than the supportive one, and how leaders can stay anchored in their values when that voice shows up. Along the way, they share personal stories, practical strategies, and reflections that listeners can apply immediately in schools, organizations, and life. The conversation also includes lighthearted moments, family reflections, and a little Chicago Bears talk, reminding us that leadership is human, relational, and built in moments that often go unnoticed. This episode is a thoughtful and practical listen for educators, leaders, and anyone who wants to lead with greater intention, presence, and authenticity. Featuring: George Couros Joe Sanfelippo, author of Lead From Who You Are Key ideas explored: • Leading with presence and clarity • The power of pausing before reacting • How consistency builds trust • Managing negative self-talk • Why small moments matter more than big gestures If you are looking for leadership that starts from the inside and shows up authentically on the outside, this conversation is for you.

    25 min

  8. FEB 22

    From Burnout to Impact: Jayme Braida on Literacy, Leadership, and Resilient Schools

    In this episode, George Couros sits down with Jayme Braida, a National Distinguished Principal from rural Iowa, to explore her journey from classroom teacher to award-winning school leader. Jayme shares her deep commitment to early literacy, the science of reading, and how intentional instructional leadership led to significant student growth in her school community. She discusses practical insights into building systems that support both teachers and learners, especially in rural settings. The conversation also dives into Jayme’s personal leadership journey, including navigating family trauma, divorce, and professional burnout. She reflects on how these experiences shaped her empathy, strengthened her leadership approach, and reinforced the importance of caring for both students and staff as whole people. This episode is a powerful reminder that effective school leadership is rooted not only in evidence-based practices, but also in humanity, resilience, and trust. Learn more about Jayme and her work at https://www.jaymebraida.com/   ___________     👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset   🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com   🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros   Follow George Couros: Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros   Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/   LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519   📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3   The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20   Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d   Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20   Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/

    21 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

I am a learner, author, speaker, and sometimes I make podcasts talking about any and all of these things. One day, I will rap in my podcasts officially making me a SoundCloud rapper.

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