PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning

Magnify Learning
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Courses
  • Updated Monthly

WHAT: PBL Podcast for School Administrators FREE RESOURCE: WhatisPBL.com for free PBL Resources for Administrators PBL Simplified for Administrators Helping School Leaders Launch Their PBL Vision Project Based Learning (PBL) isn’t just for classrooms—it’s a transformative school-wide approach that starts with leadership. Hosted by Ryan Steuer, founder of Magnify Learning, this podcast is designed exclusively for school administrators, principals, and district leaders who are ready to implement and sustain PBL in their schools. Each episode breaks down real-world leadership strategies to help you build a thriving PBL culture, from crafting a clear vision to supporting teachers and engaging your community. Tune in for solo episodes with Ryan packed with actionable insights, as well as guest interviews with top educational leaders who share their challenges, wins, and best practices in making PBL a success. If you're ready to shift from traditional instruction to authentic, learner-driven education, this is the podcast for you. 🎧 Subscribe now and start leading the PBL movement in your school!

  1. 1d ago

    From 10% to 95%: Building a Sustainable PBL Culture | E272

    In this episode, host Ryan Steuer welcomes Rachel Crawford from Babcock Ranch Neighborhood School in Florida to discuss her journey and research around implementing Project Based Learning (PBL). As a Magnify Learning Model School in the nation's first solar-powered town, Babcock Ranch's instructional model and culture have evolved over a decade of growth and learning. Rachel Crawford delves into the school's challenges and successes, sharing her action research on overcoming barriers to PBL implementation, building sustainable systems, and nurturing teacher efficacy. The conversation provides valuable insights and actionable advice for administrators and school leaders striving for effective, authentic PBL in their own communities. Main Points Babcock Ranch's Innovative Start: The school opened in the first solar-powered town in America with project-based learning baked into its charter, facing exponential growth and unique challenges along the way. PBL Implementation Journey: Rachel Crawford describes a decade-long process, transitioning from training only 10% of teachers implementing PBL to a 95% implementation rate through intentional systems, coaching, and a strong culture of support. Barriers and Research: After noticing a post-COVID slump in PBL implementation, Rachel Crawford conducted action research to identify the root causes—discovering hurdles like teacher efficacy, resistance to change, and a lack of consistent support. Sustainable Structures: Solutions included communities of practice, structured support systems, accountability measures such as launch schedules, critical friends' groups, and increased instructional coaching. Leadership and Growth Mindset: The episode emphasizes the importance of clear communication from leadership, honest hiring practices, and a relentless focus on the school's vision and shared language to nurture a culture of growth and innovation. Actionable Takeaways for Leaders: Listeners are encouraged to use needs assessments, facilitate honest conversations, and implement scaffolding for staff, regardless of resource limitations. Notable Quotes “We had 17 PBLs launched in the first month of school. That is a first for us... I feel like we're sustainable.”— Rachel Crawford “A teacher could be trained, but maybe they're not ready to launch into PBL... You have to bridge the gap between the training and implementation.”— Rachel Crawford “If you raise the bar, you teach all your students as if they're gifted. And you know how you get them there... set that same expectation and they will get there.”— Rachel Crawford Call to Action Want to see high-fidelity PBL in action or bring these strategies to your school? Visit magnifypbl.com, click on "Events," and register for upcoming conferences and model school visits!

  2. Sep 8

    Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 5 | E271

    In this episode, Ryan Steuer explores what truly makes project based learning (PBL) successful and sustainable in schools and districts. Drawing on over a decade of experience across a variety of school settings, Ryan emphasizes the critical role of systems—rather than just individual enthusiasm or resources—in embedding PBL at a structural and leadership level. The discussion unpacks the key elements of building a strong PBL system, from leadership alignment to ongoing coaching and teacher leadership, ensuring that PBL becomes a lasting legacy rather than a fleeting initiative. Sustainability comes from systems, not personalities or short-term enthusiasm: Effective PBL requires structures that endure beyond changes in staff or leadership. Leadership and teacher development is ongoing: A multi-year certification and internal coaching ensure teachers grow as practitioners and leaders. Building grassroots buy-in and reflective practice: Leadership teams and teacher leaders collaboratively design, implement, and continuously refine the system, ensuring adaptability and improvement over time. Self-sufficiency is the ultimate goal: Successful PBL schools develop the ability to train and sustain themselves, becoming examples for others and reducing reliance on outside help. Legacy and capacity-building matter: Lasting school transformation is achieved by creating a system that thrives beyond any one leader’s tenure. Notable Quotes "Districts that succeed, schools that succeed, don't do more. They build it differently from day one." "The best part of a system is that it lives beyond you as the leader… as a leader, you're going to groom the next leader that's going to be in your spot." "If it doesn't last without you, it was never a system." Ready to transform your school’s approach to project based learning with sustainable systems and strategies? Visit magnifypbl.com to start building your legacy today!

  3. Aug 25

    Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 4 | E270

    In this episode of the mini series, Ryan tackles the often-heard myth that Project Based Learning (PBL) "just doesn't work" for some schools. Rather than blaming teachers, training, or resources, Ryan dives into the need for a sustainable system and highlights why passion alone isn’t enough for lasting change. Listeners are guided through building leadership teams, establishing support structures, and making PBL truly scalable and durable. Myths About PBL: Failing PBL initiatives are often attributed to the wrong causes such as teachers, insufficient training, or a lack of resources. Importance of Systems: Sustainability requires a system beyond any one person’s passion or energy. If PBL depends on a single person, it cannot last. Leadership Teams: Starting with a dedicated leadership team distributes responsibility, creates internal capacity, and provides help for ongoing teacher training and support. Consistency and Scalability: Effective PBL programs are consistent, sustainable, and scalable because of intentional systems, not just individual effort. Diagnosing and Improving Systems: Systems enable schools to identify issues and address them efficiently, ensuring that improvements are manageable and outlast staff turnover. Notable Quotes "If it depends on one person, it's not a system. If it's not a system, it won't last." "Systems create consistency, they create sustainability and they create scalability." "It's much easier to change a system than a person." Ready to see how your school can start or improve its PBL journey? Visit magnifypbl.com to learn more, access assessment tools, and find free resources to equip your staff and make project-based learning a lasting part of your school culture!

  4. Aug 11

    Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 3 | E269

    In this episode, Ryan Steuer explores the misconception that resources and materials are the key factors in implementing effective project based learning (PBL). He addresses common reasons why PBL initiatives may fail in schools and explains why lasting change depends on more than just having the right tools. By highlighting the essential roles of skills, mindset, and systems, Ryan Steuer provides insights for administrators and educational leaders looking to create authentic and sustainable PBL environments. Main Points Resources Alone Are Not Enough: While customized forms, rubrics, and tools are helpful, they do not drive successful PBL without a foundation of proper training and school-wide understanding. Importance of Skills, Mindset, and System: True PBL success comes from systematically building teachers' facilitation skills, fostering a growth mindset, and establishing routines and processes that persist beyond individual leadership efforts. The Role of Leadership: School leaders must be equipped to model and support PBL strategies; without leadership that understands and champions these changes, PBL cannot gain lasting traction. Authenticity and Innovation: Effective PBL must involve real-world learning, client-connected projects, and a continuous cycle of reflection and innovation within the staff and student body. Notable Quotes "Resources amplify a strong system; they don't replace one." "You need a system that keeps those things going... so that reflection and innovation are happening without you." "It’s about building skills, mindsets, and really a system of internal innovation, reflection and internal innovation where you have a system within your teachers, your coaches, your administrative staff, that leadership team that knows how to keep these things running." Call to Action Discover more insights and practical resources to strengthen your PBL journey—visit magnifypbl.com.

  5. Jul 28

    Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 2 | E268

    In this episode, Ryan delves into the common myth that failed Project Based Learning (PBL) implementations are simply the result of ineffective teacher training. He explores the deeper systemic and leadership factors that can make or break successful adoption of PBL in schools. Listeners will gain insight into why training often fails to make lasting change, what distinguishes authentic PBL from surface-level projects, and the critical role of leadership alignment in creating a culture of innovation. Main Points Not All Training Is Equal: Project Based Learning training that only addresses vocabulary or superficial project scenarios is often insufficient. The most important elements—mindset and authenticity—are frequently missed. Systemic & Leadership Support Matter: Effective PBL requires leadership involvement, clear student outcomes, and systems that support a shift from traditional teaching to a student-centered approach. Teacher Excitement Is Temporary Without Systemic Change: Initial energy from PD can fade quickly if there are no ongoing structures, internal supports, or authentic projects. Leadership Alignment Is Key: Lasting success in PBL must start at the leadership level, with structures for reflective practice, teacher empowerment, and a clear, transparent vision. Authenticity Over Scenarios: Strong PBL involves real-world problem solving and community partnerships, not just scenario-based projects. Notable Quotes "You might get the vocabulary, you might go through the motions, but you might miss the mindset and the authenticity.""If you just did a teacher training without any kind of systems training, leadership training or authenticity, your PBL work is going to be exciting for just a bit and then it's going to fade right back to normal classrooms.""If it doesn't last without you, it was never really a system."Call to Action Ready to assess your school’s PBL readiness? Visit pblscore.com to access your PBL Scorecard™ and discover where your training and systems can grow.

  6. Jul 14

    Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 1 | E267

    In this first episode of the miniseries, Ryan Steuer explores why Project Based Learning (PBL) may have failed in your school or district. Challenging the commonly held belief that teachers are the root cause, Ryan Steuer discusses the importance of system-level change, supporting teachers, and building sustainable models for PBL. The episode introduces a multi-part series aimed at uncovering the primary reasons PBL initiatives don't stick—and how to do it better. Main Points PBL struggles are rarely due to teacher resistance alone; systemic issues and lack of support are often at fault. The innovation curve (innovators, early adopters, majority, laggards) is a natural part of any new educational initiative—not just PBL. Sustainable change requires a clear, supportive system—not pressure or blame directed at teachers. Resistance increases when teachers feel unsupported or sense the initiative is just another passing educational fad. Strong teachers will embrace systems that provide clarity, support, and resources tailored to their needs. Leadership turnover and absence of a multi-year plan can undermine long-term PBL success. Notable Quotes "It's not a teacher problem because the truth is, it's not a teacher problem. It's probably a systems problem." "Strong teachers don't resist good systems. They can feel the systems helping them and they'll move with it." "If it doesn't last beyond you, it was never a system." Call to Action Want to assess your PBL readiness and get free resources to move forward? Visit pblscore.com to take the next step!

  7. Jun 23

    Do you Really Need Full Buy-in for PBL Implementation? | E265

    In this episode, Ryan Steuer challenges the conventional wisdom that leaders need full buy-in before initiating meaningful change. He explores how the quest for consensus often slows down momentum and argues that true buy-in develops from progress, not from waiting for unanimous agreement. Drawing from real-life examples and experience guiding educational leaders, Ryan outlines actionable strategies for moving schools toward student-centered, project-based learning—even in the face of hesitation and imperfect alignment. Main Points Waiting for 100% consensus often delays or derails important initiatives. Directional alignment—not perfect agreement—gets the ball rolling. Identify and empower early adopters to build momentum and demonstrate success. Progress, transparency, and sharing wins accelerate broader buy-in. Customized implementation plans tailored to each school’s unique context drive sustainable change. Sustainable systems and internal capacity are critical for long-term success. Notable Quotes "Consensus becomes a mechanism for delay. And we’re just waiting for the perfect storm to happen." "You don’t wait for buy-in, you build it. You actually get buy-in or ownership from progress." Call to Action Ready to see where your school system stands and take the next step? Visit magnifypbl.com for free resources, practical frameworks, and to access the PBL Scorecard™. Don’t let waiting hold your students back—start building momentum today!

  8. Jun 9

    We Tried PBL… and It Didn’t Work With Our Kids (Here’s Why) | E264

    In this episode of PBL Simplified for Administrators, Ryan Steuer, CEO of Magnify Learning, addresses the common challenges educational leaders face when implementing Project Based Learning (PBL). The episode explores why PBL can feel overwhelming for teachers and ineffective for students, identifying system gaps and mindset issues as main causes. The discussion emphasizes the importance of sustainable systems, internal supports, and a shift in culture to achieve lasting success with PBL. Main Points Common Struggles with PBL: Many educators feel that PBL doesn't work for their students or it is too much for teachers, but these issues usually stem from implementation gaps, not PBL itself. Importance of Systems: Effective PBL requires robust systems that persist beyond individual leaders, ensuring sustainability and consistent results. Student Readiness Myth: Research disproves the myth that students must be "ready" before engaging in PBL; in reality, PBL helps students master foundational skills. Teacher Overload: PBL feels overwhelming when it's treated as an add-on, rather than fully integrated into how schools operate through internal support, shared expectations, and strong leadership modeling. Cultural Transformation: When properly supported, PBL changes school culture, empowering teachers, engaging students, and creating a cycle of continuous improvement. Grassroots Movement: Success comes when everyone—from the leadership team to teachers—shares the vision and commitment to PBL, becoming a self-sustaining force within the school. "If the work you're doing doesn't last beyond you, it was never a system." "The research shows that your kids actually need project based learning to master the basics of literacy and math." "What if the implementation just wasn't spot on? What if there's a better way?" Call to Action Ready to transform your school's approach to PBL and create lasting change? Visit magnifypbl.com to take the next step in your PBL journey.

See All (270)

About

WHAT: PBL Podcast for School Administrators FREE RESOURCE: WhatisPBL.com for free PBL Resources for Administrators PBL Simplified for Administrators Helping School Leaders Launch Their PBL Vision Project Based Learning (PBL) isn’t just for classrooms—it’s a transformative school-wide approach that starts with leadership. Hosted by Ryan Steuer, founder of Magnify Learning, this podcast is designed exclusively for school administrators, principals, and district leaders who are ready to implement and sustain PBL in their schools. Each episode breaks down real-world leadership strategies to help you build a thriving PBL culture, from crafting a clear vision to supporting teachers and engaging your community. Tune in for solo episodes with Ryan packed with actionable insights, as well as guest interviews with top educational leaders who share their challenges, wins, and best practices in making PBL a success. If you're ready to shift from traditional instruction to authentic, learner-driven education, this is the podcast for you. 🎧 Subscribe now and start leading the PBL movement in your school!

Information