LEADS Lounge

KansasLEADS
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Education
  • Monthly

Welcome to LEADS Lounge, the place where educators kick back, share stories, and talk about what really matters in our schools. Every episode features a new guest from the world of education—principals, teachers, advocates, and innovators—who bring fresh ideas and honest conversations. Grab a coffee, settle in, and join us in the Lounge.

  1. Oct 29

    Your Vote, Your Voice: The Power of Being an Informed Voter

    What does it mean to be an informed voter, and why does your vote matter? 🇺🇸 In this episode of LEADS Lounge, we welcome Brian Skinner, the 2023 Kansas Teacher of the Year, 2025 Lowell Milken Fellow, high school special education teacher, IEP Coach, and member of the National Education Association Board of Directors. With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, we're diving into the importance of voting, knowing where candidates stand, and taking the time to make informed decisions at the ballot box. We discuss how to become an informed voter, why understanding the issues matters, and how to navigate the voting process, including voter registration and participating in elections. This conversation isn't about endorsing candidates or political parties. It's about understanding our role as citizens and recognizing the importance of having our voices heard. We also explore Brian's journey in education, his advocacy for students and educators, and the experiences that have shaped his perspective on public education and leadership. Whether you're a first-time voter, a seasoned voter, or someone looking to become more informed before heading to the polls, this episode offers a reminder that civic engagement starts with curiosity, continues with learning, and matters long after Election Day. Join us for a thoughtful conversation about education, leadership, civic responsibility, and the power of an informed vote. 🎙️ LEADS Lounge — Celebrating the people, ideas, and conversations shaping education and the world around us.

  2. Sep 30

    From Chalkboards to ChatGPT: The Evolution of Technology in Education

    In this episode of LEADS Lounge, we take a look at the evolving role of technology in education—from where we started to where we may be headed next. We begin by exploring the history of technology in the classroom and how technology has changed the way teachers teach and students learn. From there, we dive into the rapid growth of artificial intelligence and what it could mean for the future of education. Our conversation explores practical ways technology and AI can support teachers and students, the balance between using technology effectively and using too much, and what parts of education should remain distinctly human. We also discuss AI literacy, responsible technology use, student privacy, and the conversations happening in Kansas around potential statewide expectations for instructional technology. Technology in education isn't a new conversation—but the pace of change certainly is. What can we learn from where we've been, and how can we make thoughtful decisions about where we're going?

  3. Aug 6

    Building the Future of Kansas Education

    What does the future of education in Kansas look like—and how do we get there? In this episode of LEADS Lounge, we sit down with Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Jake Steel for a conversation about leadership, vision, and the opportunities ahead for Kansas schools. From his journey as a Kansas public school student and classroom teacher to serving in the U.S. Department of Education, the White House, and now as Commissioner, Dr. Steel shares the experiences that have shaped his leadership philosophy. Together, they discuss supporting educators, using data to improve student outcomes, strengthening school systems, and what it means to lead with purpose in today's educational landscape. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, board member, or simply passionate about public education, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a hopeful look at what's next for Kansas schools.

  4. Jul 26

    The Disney Difference: Building a Culture That Lasts

    What makes Disney one of the most admired organizations in the world? It's more than castles and characters, it's intentional leadership, purposeful culture, and an unwavering focus on the experience of every guest. Join leadership expert Jeff Barnes for a conversation exploring how the principles behind Disney's success can inspire schools to create cultures where students, staff, and families feel valued, connected, and inspired every day

  5. Jun 24

    A LEADS Lounge Reunion

    Together, Taylor, Leah, and John bring more than five decades of combined experience in education. Since their last appearances on the LEADS Lounge, each has continued to influence the profession in unique ways—through classroom teaching, educational leadership, advocacy, public speaking, and even public service. Join us as we catch up on their journeys, discuss the current state of education, and explore what gives them hope for the future of teaching and learning. Whether you're a classroom teacher, administrator, aspiring leader, or education advocate, this conversation is sure to provide insight, inspiration, and practical takeaways.

  6. May 31

    One State. Many Classrooms. One Message

    In this episode of Leads Lounge, we’re joined by members of the Kansas Teacher of the Year Team—an elite group of educators representing classrooms from every corner of Kansas. They’re in schools across the state sharing a unified message, learning from educators, and seeing firsthand what’s happening in classrooms right now. From powerful innovations to real challenges, this episode pulls back the curtain on what teaching in Kansas really looks like today—and where it’s headed next.

  7. Apr 19

    Leading with Purpose: Empowering Teachers, Elevating Classrooms

    In this episode of Leads Lounge, we sit down with District Elementary Instructional Coach Hailey Couch, an educator whose impact stretches from the kindergarten classroom to statewide educational leadership. With over a decade in education, Hailey shares her journey from teacher to coach, her passion for supporting early career educators, and her mission to strengthen teacher retention and instructional excellence across her district. We also dive into her leadership philosophy, what drives her work every day, and a few fun surprises—including her go-to hype song and a fact that most people wouldn’t expect. This conversation is all about empowerment, growth, and what it truly means to lead from the inside out in education.

  8. Feb 6

    If Walt Were Leading Today… Leadership Lessons Revisited

    What would leadership look like if Walt Disney were leading today? In this return visit to the LEADS Lounge, Dr. Barnes—best-selling author, international speaker, and known worldwide as Dr. Disneyland—helps us revisit Disney’s leadership principles through a modern lens. Building on our earlier conversation, we dive deeper into vision, culture, storytelling, and the intentional choices that turn big ideas into lasting impact. This episode challenges leaders to think differently about how they design experiences, develop people, and create a legacy that endures. Once again, you may never look at Disney...or leadership...the same way.

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Ratings & Reviews

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About

Welcome to LEADS Lounge, the place where educators kick back, share stories, and talk about what really matters in our schools. Every episode features a new guest from the world of education—principals, teachers, advocates, and innovators—who bring fresh ideas and honest conversations. Grab a coffee, settle in, and join us in the Lounge.

Information

  • Creator
    KansasLEADS
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © KansasLEADS
  • Show Website
    LEADS Lounge