Building a Culture of Collaboration

Jigsaw Learning

Are you an educational leader or administrator searching for actionable strategies to build effective teams? In the Building a Culture of Collaboration podcast, Jigsaw Learning co-founders Kurtis and Lorna Hewson provide simple, purposeful tips to help you tackle meeting frustration, disengagement, and unproductive teamwork. This is your essential resource for advancing school improvement and collective efficacy. You will find practical ideas for mastering effective meetings, where you learn the structures, roles, and agendas required to ensure your team meetings (PLCs, staff, student support) are focused and drive action. You'll discover how to shift your organization's mindset from isolated practice to powerful, shared responsibility for ALL students—this is key to teamwork and collaboration. Finally, you'll gain the leadership strategies needed to intentionally build a robust and sustainable culture that maximizes collective capacity and student success. We also talk with thought leaders outside of education, to grow our understanding of effective collaboration and teamwork. Subscribe today to master the art of intentional collaboration and take your leadership to the next level!

  1. 1D AGO · BONUS

    FRIDAY FOCUS - Simplifying SMART Goals

    ______________________#collaboration #norms #teamspirit  #leadership #systems Are you looking to further your growth as a collaborative leader? Access numerous FREE resources and webinars designed to help you build and sustain a strong culture of collaboration. https://www.jigsawlearning.ca/free Interested in learning MORE about a framework that can transform your PLC and MTSS efforts? Access the FREE Overview of Collaborative Response Article https://bit.ly/CR-overview Explore the book Collaborative Response by downloading the introduction for FREE https://bit.ly/CR-intro Learn more about WeCollab and access a FREE trial.https://www.jigsawlearning.ca/wecollab Become a JL Insider to receive access to newly added resources and video content, advance notice for sessions/workshops, discounts for learning events and resources, plus so much more! https://bit.ly/JLinsider  Join the Facebook Group “The Collaborative Leader”, to engage in further conversations and resource sharing with others dedicated to ensuring effective teams and collaborative structures - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecollaborativeleader 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and click the little bell icon to be notified when @jigsaw_learning posts a new video! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3U_RKp7yxQhckpKaQur7ow Website https://jigsawlearning.caEmail questions@jigsawlearning.caFacebook https://www.facebook.com/JigsawLearningAB/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/jigsaw-learning-incInstagram https://www.instagram.com/jigsawlearningab/

    2 min
  2. 4D AGO

    Data That Drives Collaboration: MTSS, Early Warning Indicators, and Trust with Tom Kaster - Ep 67

    Access a FREE webinar to learn about 5 mistakes leaders make when organizing data for teams…and how to correct those mistakes - https://bit.ly/5mistakesdata Access the FREE Overview of Collaborative Response Article https://bit.ly/CR-overview  In this episode of Building a Culture of Collaboration, Lorna and Kurtis are joined by Tom Kaster, former IB math teacher and founder of The Datafied Classroom, to explore how data can be used as a tool for trust instead of judgment.Drawing on nearly 20 years in international and public schools, Tom shares how well-designed data dashboards can remove ego from conversations, shift the focus from individuals to systems, and help teams work together to better support both educators and students.In this conversation, you’ll learn:How to use data to strengthen collaboration instead of creating fear or defensivenessWhy objective, visual dashboards can improve trust and clarity in team discussionsHow MTSS and Early Warning Indicator dashboards can support shared ownership for student successWays leaders can use data to tap into collective expertise rather than punishmentHow data-informed practices align with the philosophy of Collaborative ResponseIf your school or district is overwhelmed by data but hungry for meaningful action, this episode will help you rethink how data can become a catalyst for collaboration, clarity, and collective efficacy.Learn more about Tom Kaster at http://www.datafiedclassroom.com#BuildingACultureOfCollaboration #CollaborativeResponse #EducationalLeadership #MTSS #DataInSchools --------- Connect with Tom KasterEmail: tom.kaster@datafiedclassroom.comLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-kaster-datafiedFacebook: The Datafied ClassroomYouTube: @TheDatafiedClassroom Connect with Kurtis Hewson Email: kurtis.hewson@jigsawlearning.ca X: @hewsonk27Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hewsonk27 LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/kurtishewson  Connect with Lorna Hewson Email: lorna.hewson@jigsawlearning.ca X: @LornaHewson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorna-hewson-713a59104 --------- Learn more about Collaborative Response https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tbgetTdAiA&t=0s  Explore the book Collaborative Response by downloading the introduction for FREE https://bit.ly/CR-intro - if interested in ordering the book, use the code JLPodcast10 to receive 10% off! Learn more about WeCollab and access a FREE three month trialhttps://jigsawlearning.ca/wecollab.ca  Become a JL Insider to receive access to newly added resources and video content, advance notice for sessions/workshops, discounts for learning events and resources, plus so much more! https://bit.ly/JLinsider  Join the Facebook Group “The Collaborative Leader”, to engage in further conversations and resource sharing with others dedicated to ensuring effective teams and collaborative structures - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecollaborativeleader 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and click the little bell icon to be notified when @jigsaw_learning posts a new video! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3U_RKp7yxQhckpKaQur7ow Website https://jigsawlearning.caEmail questions@jigsawlearning.caX https://www.twitter.com/Jigsaw_LearningFacebook https://www.facebook.com/JigsawLearningAB/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jigsawlearningab/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/jigsaw-learning-inc Music: “Culture of Collaboration” has been composed, recorded, and produced by Trent Ferguson for Building a Culture of Collaboration. Images: Visuals included in this video not generated under agreement with Jigsaw Learning Inc. have been carefully selected under Creative Commons for their permissions.

    54 min
  3. FEB 20 · BONUS

    FRIDAY FOCUS - Striving for Equality in Conversational Turn-Taking

    ______________________#collaboration #norms #teamspirit  #leadership #systems Are you looking to further your growth as a collaborative leader? Access numerous FREE resources and webinars designed to help you build and sustain a strong culture of collaboration. https://www.jigsawlearning.ca/free Interested in learning MORE about a framework that can transform your PLC and MTSS efforts? Access the FREE Overview of Collaborative Response Article https://bit.ly/CR-overview Explore the book Collaborative Response by downloading the introduction for FREE https://bit.ly/CR-intro Learn more about WeCollab and access a FREE trial.https://www.jigsawlearning.ca/wecollab Become a JL Insider to receive access to newly added resources and video content, advance notice for sessions/workshops, discounts for learning events and resources, plus so much more! https://bit.ly/JLinsider  Join the Facebook Group “The Collaborative Leader”, to engage in further conversations and resource sharing with others dedicated to ensuring effective teams and collaborative structures - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecollaborativeleader 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and click the little bell icon to be notified when @jigsaw_learning posts a new video! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3U_RKp7yxQhckpKaQur7ow Website https://jigsawlearning.caEmail questions@jigsawlearning.caFacebook https://www.facebook.com/JigsawLearningAB/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/jigsaw-learning-incInstagram https://www.instagram.com/jigsawlearningab/

    2 min
  4. FEB 17

    Psychological Safety & Innovation in Education: Building Collaborative School Cultures

    Access a workshop guide to ensure you are truly engaging as a team - https://bit.ly/JLgroupteam Did you know EVERY school needs four layers of teams to not only respond to the needs of students but build instructional capacity with intentionality and focus?  Learn more in a FREE webinar at https://bit.ly/layeringteams  In this episode of Building a Culture of Collaboration, Kurtis is joined by Josh Stamper, Director of Innovation for the Teach Better Team, author and former middle school administrator. Josh shares practical strategies to foster trust, psychological safety, and innovation in schools. Learn how approaches like Relationship Walks, the Creative Corner, and saying “yes” to teacher-led ideas can empower staff, strengthen collaboration, and create connected, thriving school communities.Whether you’re a principal, administrator, or educational leader, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to move beyond pockets of collaboration to a whole-school culture of shared growth and creativity.Key Takeaways:How Relationship Walks build trust and two-way feedback with staff Leveraging teacher creativity through programs like Creative Corner Being a “YES Principal” to empower teacher-led initiatives Daily practices and mindsets to sustain collaboration school-wide Balancing structure and autonomy for high-performing, innovative teams Learn more about Joshua Stamper at www.joshstamper.com#SchoolLeadership #CollaborativeSchools #TeacherCollaboration #EducationalInnovation #SchoolCulture--------- Connect with Joshua StamperEmail: Joshua@joshstamper.comX: @Joshua__StamperLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Connect with Kurtis Hewson Email: kurtis.hewson@jigsawlearning.ca X: @hewsonk27Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hewsonk27 LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/kurtishewson  --------- Learn more about Collaborative Response https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tbgetTdAiA&t=0s  Access the FREE Overview of Collaborative Response Article https://bit.ly/CR-overview  Explore the book Collaborative Response by downloading the introduction for FREE https://bit.ly/CR-intro - if interested in ordering the book, use the code JLPodcast10 to receive 10% off! Learn more about WeCollab and access a FREE three month trialhttps://jigsawlearning.ca/wecollab.ca  Become a JL Insider to receive access to newly added resources and video content, advance notice for sessions/workshops, discounts for learning events and resources, plus so much more! https://bit.ly/JLinsider  Join the Facebook Group “The Collaborative Leader”, to engage in further conversations and resource sharing with others dedicated to ensuring effective teams and collaborative structures - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecollaborativeleader 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and click the little bell icon to be notified when @jigsaw_learning posts a new video! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3U_RKp7yxQhckpKaQur7ow Website https://jigsawlearning.caEmail questions@jigsawlearning.caX https://www.twitter.com/Jigsaw_LearningFacebook https://www.facebook.com/JigsawLearningAB/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jigsawlearningab/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/jigsaw-learning-inc Music: “Culture of Collaboration” has been composed, recorded, and produced by Trent Ferguson for Building a Culture of Collaboration. Images: Visuals included in this video not generated under agreement with Jigsaw Learning Inc. have been carefully selected under Creative Commons for their permissions.

    43 min
  5. FEB 13 · BONUS

    FRIDAY FOCUS - Leaders, It's Your Job to Organize the Data for Your Teams

    ______________________#collaboration #norms #teamspirit  #leadership #systems Are you looking to further your growth as a collaborative leader? Access numerous FREE resources and webinars designed to help you build and sustain a strong culture of collaboration. https://www.jigsawlearning.ca/free Interested in learning MORE about a framework that can transform your PLC and MTSS efforts? Access the FREE Overview of Collaborative Response Article https://bit.ly/CR-overview Explore the book Collaborative Response by downloading the introduction for FREE https://bit.ly/CR-intro Learn more about WeCollab and access a FREE trial.https://www.jigsawlearning.ca/wecollab Become a JL Insider to receive access to newly added resources and video content, advance notice for sessions/workshops, discounts for learning events and resources, plus so much more! https://bit.ly/JLinsider  Join the Facebook Group “The Collaborative Leader”, to engage in further conversations and resource sharing with others dedicated to ensuring effective teams and collaborative structures - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecollaborativeleader 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and click the little bell icon to be notified when @jigsaw_learning posts a new video! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3U_RKp7yxQhckpKaQur7ow Website https://jigsawlearning.caEmail questions@jigsawlearning.caFacebook https://www.facebook.com/JigsawLearningAB/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/jigsaw-learning-incInstagram https://www.instagram.com/jigsawlearningab/

    2 min
  6. FEB 10

    Trust-Based Observations: Building Collaboration & Teacher Efficacy in Schools with Craig Randall - Ep 65

    Looking to learn more and get started with a powerful meeting structure that will transform your school’s MTSS efforts?  Access the Collaborative Team Meeting Starter Kit at https://bit.ly/ctmstarter Access a workshop guide to help your team STOP focusing on things outside of our locus of control - https://bit.ly/JLlocus In this episode of Building a Culture of Collaboration, Kurtis is joined by Craig Randall, author of Trust-Based Observations and a 30-year education veteran. Craig shares how trust-based observation practices can transform school culture, deepen collaboration among teachers, and foster collective teacher efficacy.Learn practical strategies for school leaders to move from traditional observation models to approaches that build trust, support professional growth, and empower educators. Whether you’re a principal, administrator, or instructional coach, Craig’s insights will help you create a thriving, collaborative learning environment.Topics Covered:✅What Trust-Based Observations (TBO) are and why they work✅Stories of collaboration and growth from real schools✅Building trust to strengthen school culture✅Practical steps leaders can take to implement TB Learn more about Craig Randall at trustbased.comAccess the Trust-Based Observation form at https://trustbased.com/trust-based-observation-form/#TrustBasedObservations #SchoolLeadership #TeacherCollaboration #CollectiveEfficacy #EducationalLeadership--------- Connect with Craig RandallEmail: craig@trustbased.comX: https://x.com/TrustbasedCraigLinkedIn: https://www.instagram.com/trustbasedcraig/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/craig.randall.7311 Connect with Kurtis Hewson Email: kurtis.hewson@jigsawlearning.ca X: @hewsonk27Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hewsonk27 LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/kurtishewson  --------- Learn more about Collaborative Response https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tbgetTdAiA&t=0s  Access the FREE Overview of Collaborative Response Article https://bit.ly/CR-overview  Explore the book Collaborative Response by downloading the introduction for FREE https://bit.ly/CR-intro - if interested in ordering the book, use the code JLPodcast10 to receive 10% off! Learn more about WeCollab and access a FREE three month trialhttps://jigsawlearning.ca/wecollab.ca  Become a JL Insider to receive access to newly added resources and video content, advance notice for sessions/workshops, discounts for learning events and resources, plus so much more! https://bit.ly/JLinsider  Join the Facebook Group “The Collaborative Leader”, to engage in further conversations and resource sharing with others dedicated to ensuring effective teams and collaborative structures - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecollaborativeleader 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and click the little bell icon to be notified when @jigsaw_learning posts a new video! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3U_RKp7yxQhckpKaQur7ow Website https://jigsawlearning.caEmail questions@jigsawlearning.caX https://www.twitter.com/Jigsaw_LearningFacebook https://www.facebook.com/JigsawLearningAB/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jigsawlearningab/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/jigsaw-learning-inc Music: “Culture of Collaboration” has been composed, recorded, and produced by Trent Ferguson for Building a Culture of Collaboration. Images: Visuals included in this video not generated under agreement with Jigsaw Learning Inc. have been carefully selected under Creative Commons for their permissions.

    45 min
  7. FEB 6 · BONUS

    FRIDAY FOCUS - Are You Asking - "What Is My Role in This Meeting?

    ______________________#collaboration #norms #teamspirit  #leadership #systems Are you looking to further your growth as a collaborative leader? Access numerous FREE resources and webinars designed to help you build and sustain a strong culture of collaboration. https://www.jigsawlearning.ca/free Interested in learning MORE about a framework that can transform your PLC and MTSS efforts? Access the FREE Overview of Collaborative Response Article https://bit.ly/CR-overview Explore the book Collaborative Response by downloading the introduction for FREE https://bit.ly/CR-intro Learn more about WeCollab and access a FREE trial.https://www.jigsawlearning.ca/wecollab Become a JL Insider to receive access to newly added resources and video content, advance notice for sessions/workshops, discounts for learning events and resources, plus so much more! https://bit.ly/JLinsider  Join the Facebook Group “The Collaborative Leader”, to engage in further conversations and resource sharing with others dedicated to ensuring effective teams and collaborative structures - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecollaborativeleader 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and click the little bell icon to be notified when @jigsaw_learning posts a new video! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3U_RKp7yxQhckpKaQur7ow Website https://jigsawlearning.caEmail questions@jigsawlearning.caFacebook https://www.facebook.com/JigsawLearningAB/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/jigsaw-learning-incInstagram https://www.instagram.com/jigsawlearningab/

    2 min
  8. FEB 3

    How Trust and Alignment Create Strong Collaborative Cultures with Hanna Bauer - Ep 64

    Access the FREE Guide for Leaders to Develop and Reinforce Team Norms - http://bit.ly/teamnormsguide Access a workshop guide to ensure you are truly engaging as a team - https://bit.ly/JLgroupteam In this episode of Building a Culture of Collaboration, Kurtis is joined by Hanna Bauer, Founder and CEO of HEARTnomics™, leadership strategist, author of Hustle with HEART, and internationally recognized expert in culture, alignment, and trust. Hanna brings nearly three decades of leadership experience across education, business, nonprofit, and government sectors — along with a powerful personal story that shaped her understanding of collaboration long before she ever led an organization. As a teenager, her life depended on unprecedented collaboration between multiple hospitals — an experience that became the foundation for her HEARTnomics™ CORE methodology. This episode is especially valuable for leaders and leadership teams who want collaboration to be more than a buzzword — and instead become a lived, visible part of their organizational culture. If you’re working to build trust, clarity, and collective efficacy in your organization, this conversation will give you both insight and practical next steps. Personal assessment for leadership alignment: https://go.heartnomics.com/leadership-scorecard Learn more about Hanna Bauer at www.HEARTnomics.com #SchoolLeadership #EducationalLeadership #CollaborativeCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #SchoolCulture --------- Connect with Hanna Bauer Email: hanna@heartnomics.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bauerhanna Facebook: https://facebook.com/hannad.bauer YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@heartnomics Connect with Kurtis Hewson  Email: kurtis.hewson@jigsawlearning.ca  X: @hewsonk27 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hewsonk27  LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/kurtishewson  --------- Learn more about Collaborative Response https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tbgetTdAiA&t=0s  Access the FREE Overview of Collaborative Response Article  https://bit.ly/CR-overview  Explore the book Collaborative Response by downloading the introduction for FREE  https://bit.ly/CR-intro - if interested in ordering the book, use the code JLPodcast10 to receive 10% off! Learn more about WeCollab and access a FREE three month trial https://jigsawlearning.ca/wecollab.ca  Become a JL Insider to receive access to newly added resources and video content, advance notice for sessions/workshops, discounts for learning events and resources, plus so much more!  https://bit.ly/JLinsider  Join the Facebook Group “The Collaborative Leader”, to engage in further conversations and resource sharing with others dedicated to ensuring effective teams and collaborative structures - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecollaborativeleader 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and click the little bell icon to be notified when @jigsaw_learning posts a new video! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3U_RKp7yxQhckpKaQur7ow Website https://jigsawlearning.ca Email questions@jigsawlearning.ca X https://www.twitter.com/Jigsaw_Learning Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JigsawLearningAB/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jigsawlearningab/  LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/jigsaw-learning-inc Music: “Culture of Collaboration” has been composed, recorded, and produced by Trent Ferguson for Building a Culture of Collaboration. Images: Visuals included in this video not generated under agreement with Jigsaw Learning Inc. have been carefully selected under Creative Commons for their permissions.

    46 min
5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Are you an educational leader or administrator searching for actionable strategies to build effective teams? In the Building a Culture of Collaboration podcast, Jigsaw Learning co-founders Kurtis and Lorna Hewson provide simple, purposeful tips to help you tackle meeting frustration, disengagement, and unproductive teamwork. This is your essential resource for advancing school improvement and collective efficacy. You will find practical ideas for mastering effective meetings, where you learn the structures, roles, and agendas required to ensure your team meetings (PLCs, staff, student support) are focused and drive action. You'll discover how to shift your organization's mindset from isolated practice to powerful, shared responsibility for ALL students—this is key to teamwork and collaboration. Finally, you'll gain the leadership strategies needed to intentionally build a robust and sustainable culture that maximizes collective capacity and student success. We also talk with thought leaders outside of education, to grow our understanding of effective collaboration and teamwork. Subscribe today to master the art of intentional collaboration and take your leadership to the next level!