The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast

George Couros

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. 6h ago

    3 Ways to Change the "System" from Within - George Couros

    Is the “system” really the problem in education, or is it something we have more influence over than we think? In this episode, we challenge a common narrative in education: blaming “the system.” While constraints like standardized testing and schedules are real, many of the limitations we experience are actually created within those constraints. The conversation explores how educators and leaders can rethink their approach by recognizing that systems are made up of people, and people have the power to change them. Through real examples, this discussion highlights how innovation doesn’t require breaking the system, but rather reimagining how we work within it. From redefining professional learning to creating more meaningful classroom experiences, the focus is on shifting from identifying problems to taking ownership of solutions. This episode is a reminder that leadership is not just about recognizing what is broken, but about having the courage to propose something better, even within existing expectations. 🔗 Read the full post here: https://mailchi.mp/georgecouros/becoming-the-bison-15557066 3 Questions to Consider Where in your work are you blaming “the system” instead of identifying what you can influence or change? What is one constraint you face that might actually offer more flexibility than you initially thought? When you see a problem, do you stop at identifying it, or do you take the next step of proposing a better solution? ___________     👉 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/

    17 min

  2. 4d ago

    Building the Future in Education - Dr. Peggy Buffington

    In this conversation with Dr. Peggy Buffington from the Hobart School District, we explore what it looks like to build a future-focused school system while honoring the traditions and values that make a community strong. Known as the Brickies, Hobart has embraced the mindset of “building the future one brick at a time,” combining innovation, work ethic, and opportunity to create powerful outcomes for students. Peggy shares how the district chose not to fear artificial intelligence when tools like ChatGPT emerged, but instead created teacher pilot groups to explore how AI could expand learning opportunities for students and staff. We also dive into Hobart’s remarkable early college program, where students can graduate with associate’s degrees, college credits, and industry certifications in areas like Adobe, Microsoft, Autodesk, and healthcare. The program not only saves families thousands of dollars, but also helps students discover meaningful career pathways before making expensive post-secondary decisions. Throughout the conversation, we discuss: • Why innovation is about finding “new and better ways” to support learning • How schools can approach AI with curiosity instead of fear • The importance of productive struggle for both educators and students • Scaling great ideas across a school community • Learner-centered approaches to technology, one-to-one devices, and cell phone policies • Why schools remain the bedrock of strong communities Peggy also shares how Hobart’s culture encourages educators to take risks, share ideas openly, and continue learning together while staying deeply connected to the traditions that define the district. If you are interested in AI in education, innovative leadership, early college pathways, or creating schools that prepare students for an ever-changing future, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiring stories.   ___________     👉 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/

    16 min

  3. May 28

    3 Lessons That Can Shape a Child for Life

    This episode dives into a deeply personal story that reveals how a single moment in childhood can leave a lasting imprint on confidence, identity, and future direction. Reflecting on an experience of being belittled by peers and unsupported by an adult, the conversation explores how negative moments can linger, but also how the presence of a caring adult can redefine how those moments are remembered. The episode highlights a powerful truth, that growth and pain are not mutually exclusive. While adversity can shape resilience and lead to unexpected opportunities, it does not erase the emotional weight of the experience. From quitting hockey to finding confidence through basketball, this story emphasizes how belief, opportunity, and environment can transform a child’s trajectory. Ultimately, this conversation is a reflection for educators, parents, and leaders. It challenges us to consider the impact we have in everyday interactions, and how small actions, or inaction, can shape how young people see themselves for years to come. 3 Takeaways: A single supportive adult can dramatically influence how a child processes both positive and negative experiences. Confidence grows through opportunity and belief, not just natural ability or talent. Difficult experiences can build resilience, but they can also leave lasting emotional impact, both can be true at the same time. 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/

    17 min

  4. May 24

    Teaching Art, Vulnerability, and Purpose - A Conversation with Rob Santos

    In this conversation with Rob Santos, we explore the powerful role of teaching artists in education, creativity, and personal growth. Rob shares how great educators do more than inspire passion, they help students confront frustration, injustice, and even hate in ways that push them toward meaningful action and deeper purpose. We also discuss why vulnerability matters in teaching. Rob explains that students should not only feel known by their teachers, but should also know who their teachers are as people. That connection helps students see themselves in the learning process and creates classrooms built on trust, empathy, and authenticity. Beyond education, we dive into Rob’s journey in comedy and storytelling, including his television series Beige on Tubi, and how humor can open doors to difficult but important conversations. You’ll also find information below about the upcoming Arts for Learning HOT Schools Conference, where we continue conversations around creativity, innovation, and meaningful learning experiences for students and educators. In this episode, we discuss: • Why strong emotions can fuel purpose and growth • The importance of vulnerability and authenticity in teaching • How students connect more deeply when they know their teachers as people • Creativity, comedy, and storytelling as tools for learning • Rob Santos’s work on Beige and his journey as an artist and educator Links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raggedy_rob/ Beige on Tubi: https://tubitv.com/series/300016636/beige Arts for Learning HOT Schools Conference: https://www.aflct.org/programs/higher-order-thinking-hot-schools/ If you are passionate about education, creativity, leadership, or helping students find purpose through meaningful experiences, this conversation will challenge and inspire 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/

    18 min

  5. May 21

    3 Signs It Is Time To Leave Your Current Job - George Couros

    Check out "Forward, Together" here on Amazon: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3   In this episode, we explore one of the most powerful shifts in leadership and education today: how to move from conflict to connection. Inspired by ideas from Forward, Together, this conversation focuses on what it truly takes to turn disagreement into progress and transform adversaries into advocates. Rather than trying to “win” conversations, the key is learning to listen with the intention to understand, not respond. When people feel heard and see their perspectives reflected in the direction of a community, they are far more likely to move from resistance to ownership. As highlighted in Forward, Together, meaningful change starts when we are open to the possibility that our own thinking might evolve. This episode unpacks practical strategies for educators and leaders who want to build trust, foster collaboration, and create environments where diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes, not deeper divides. If you want to dive deeper into these ideas and explore actionable ways to shift from opposition to partnership, read more here: https://mailchi.mp/50b139516bdc/forward-together-adversaries-to-advocates-15556927 Whether you are leading a school, a team, or a community, this conversation will challenge you to rethink how you engage with disagreement and how you build something better, together.   ___________     👉 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

  6. May 17

    Why Time & Patience Matter in Education - Christine Dyer

    In this conversation, I sit down with Christine Dyer to explore the often overlooked role of time and patience in meaningful learning and leadership. We discuss how creating intentional space for reflection supports both student growth and adult development, and why slowing down can actually accelerate progress in education. Christine also shares her family’s journey from Guatemala to Alaska, highlighting how shifts in environment, light, and culture can deepen our understanding of time, ecology, and relevance in learning. Her perspective challenges us to rethink how we structure time in schools, not as something to manage, but as something to design with purpose. If you are an educator, leader, or lifelong learner, this episode offers practical and reflective insights on creating the conditions for growth, for yourself and for those you serve.   Check out Christine's site here: https://www.msdyer.com/   3 Questions for Conversation:   How intentionally are we designing time for reflection, rather than just reacting to what fills it? In what ways are we modeling patience and growth for others, not just expecting it from them? How might a shift in environment or perspective help us, or our students, see time, learning, and relevance differently? ___________     👉 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/

    24 min

  7. May 14

    Start Where You Agree: Aligning Class Size with the Future We Want in Education

    Get your copy of “Forward, Together” here on Amazon! https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 ____ What if the way forward in education is not about winning arguments, but about starting from what we already agree on? In this episode, I explore a simple but powerful mindset shift: when we disagree, we should first identify common ground, then build forward together. Too often in education, conversations get stuck in debate, when in reality, there is far more alignment than we acknowledge. Using the ongoing discussion around class size as a starting point, I unpack a deeper idea. Across educators, leaders, and communities, there is strong agreement that schools should help students develop skills like grit, communication, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. That belief is reflected in this post from Francis Suarez during a visit to Alpha School: https://www.instagram.com/p/DV8gjQKDnLV/?hl=en So if we agree on where we want to go, the real question becomes: are our current structures aligned to help us get there? This episode challenges the disconnect between vision and reality in education. It is not just about whether class size matters, it is about whether our systems support the future we say we want to build. When we begin with shared beliefs, we create a clearer path toward meaningful, lasting change. 3 Questions to Consider: Where is there clear agreement in your school or organization that is not yet reflected in practice? How can focusing on shared beliefs shift conversations from debate to progress? What structures in your context need to change to support the future you say you want?     👉 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/

    11 min

  8. May 10

    Empowering Educators: Alise Pulliam on Innovation, Mindset, and Self-Leadership

    In this episode, I sit down with Alise Pulliam, Executive Director of Innovation and Technology at Comax Schools, to explore what it truly means to lead with a mindset of possibility rather than limitation. Alise shares her journey from English teacher to a leadership role in innovation and technology, and how that experience shaped her belief that learning must always come before technology, not the other way around. We dive into the importance of moving away from a “culture of no” and instead creating environments where educators feel empowered to make thoughtful, positive decisions.   She discusses bridging instructional and IT teams, hands-on STEM and robotics for young learners, adapting to continuous change, and approaching AI and new tools from curiosity rather than automatic rejection. A powerful part of our conversation centers on self-leadership, inspired by her favorite chapter, “Clap for Yourself,” from Forward, Together. Alise reflects on a question that continues to guide her thinking: What advice would you give to a friend, and are you willing to give that same grace to yourself? This episode is a reminder that innovation is not just about new tools, it is about mindset, trust, and the courage to support both others and yourself. In this episode, we discuss: Why “learning first, technology second” is essential for meaningful innovation How to shift from a culture of compliance to a culture of empowerment The importance of self-reflection and self-support in leadership Questions for Consideration: How can you move from a culture of “no” to one that empowers thoughtful decision-making? Are you giving yourself the same advice and grace you offer others? In your context, are you prioritizing learning first, or letting technology lead the way?     👉 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
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4.8
out of 5
65 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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