School Business Insider

John Brucato

ASBO International's official podcast. Each week we sit down down with school business professionals and industry experts from around the world to share their stories and explore the topics that matter most to you.

  1. 3D AGO

    Adequacy, Equity, and Effort: Breaking Down School Finance

    Does money really matter in education? The data says yes — but how it’s distributed matters even more. In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with Dr. Bruce Baker, a leading expert in education finance, to break down the findings from his latest report, The Adequacy and Fairness of State School Finance Systems. They explore national trends in school funding, the persistent inequities across districts and student populations, and why many states are still falling short of providing adequate resources for all students. This conversation offers a data-driven look at the challenges facing public education — and what school business officials need to understand as they navigate funding, advocacy, and long-term planning. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes! Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International. ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International. ...

    46 min
  2. Designing Better Leaders: Insights from an Olympian

    MAR 24

    Designing Better Leaders: Insights from an Olympian

    Great leadership doesn’t happen by accident — it’s designed. In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with John Coyle, leadership expert, design thinking practitioner, and Olympic silver medalist, to explore how leaders can become more intentional in their work. Drawing from his experience in elite athletics and organizational leadership, John shares insights on storytelling, human-centered design, and how leaders can approach challenges with greater clarity and purpose. This conversation offers a fresh perspective on leadership for school business officials looking to elevate their impact and better connect strategy, culture, and decision-making. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes! Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International. ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International. ...

    43 min
  3. Schools and Town Halls: Building Strong Municipal Relationships

    MAR 17

    Schools and Town Halls: Building Strong Municipal Relationships

    Strong school districts depend on strong partnerships with their communities — and that includes local government. In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato speaks with Adam Tarquini, Chief of Finance & Operations for West Springfield Public Schools in Massachusetts, about the importance of building productive relationships between school districts and their municipalities. They explore how transparency, education, and collaboration with city and town leaders can strengthen trust and improve financial decision-making. The conversation also highlights why successful school finance leadership relies on letting data guide discussions rather than emotion. This episode offers practical insights for school business officials seeking to build stronger partnerships with local government. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes! Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International. ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International. ...

    42 min
  4. The Fiscal Squeeze: Property Taxes and School Choice in Ohio

    MAR 10

    The Fiscal Squeeze: Property Taxes and School Choice in Ohio

    What happens when a district’s primary revenue source is under debate? In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato speaks with Dr. Erik Roush, Executive Director of Financial Affairs for Columbus City Schools, about the evolving fiscal and political landscape in Ohio. They discuss proposed property tax reforms — including a constitutional amendment effort to repeal property taxes — the continued challenge of fully funding the state’s school funding formula, and the financial impact of expanding school choice policies. This episode offers a real-world look at what it means to manage a large public district amid policy uncertainty and fiscal pressure — and how school business leaders navigate the balance between advocacy, planning, and day-to-day operations. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes! Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International. ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International. ...

    45 min
  5. Leading Forward: Why Serve on the ASBO International Board

    MAR 3

    Leading Forward: Why Serve on the ASBO International Board

    Leadership in our profession doesn’t just happen locally — it also happens at the governance level. In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato speaks with Scott Gooding and Tera Van Dyke, candidates for the ASBO International Board, about their professional journeys and why they’re stepping forward to serve. They discuss the role of the ASBO International Board, the importance of governance, and their vision for supporting members and advancing the profession. This episode offers insight into leadership, service, and the future direction of ASBO International. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes! Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International. ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International. ...

    46 min
  6. Federal Priorities, Texas Realities

    FEB 24

    Federal Priorities, Texas Realities

    In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with Christopher Smith, CFO of Katy Independent School District and Chair of ASBO International’s Federal Advocacy Advisory Committee. They explore how federal advocacy priorities are developed, the key issues facing school districts nationally, and how those policies translate into real fiscal and operational challenges in Texas. This conversation offers insight into the intersection of leadership, advocacy, and district-level financial strategy — and why SBO voices matter in shaping the future of education funding. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes! Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International. ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International. ...

    40 min
  7. The Hidden Budget Pressure: Skilled Trades and School Operations

    FEB 17

    The Hidden Budget Pressure: Skilled Trades and School Operations

    Skilled trades are no longer just an operational concern — they’re a strategic budget issue. In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Chuck Luchen, retired National Strategic Account Director at Staples Business, to discuss why skilled trades must be part of school districts’ financial planning for 2026–2027. Based on Chuck’s School Business Now article, the conversation explores workforce shortages, rising costs, deferred maintenance risks, and how school business officials can proactively budget and plan for facilities and operations needs. This episode offers timely insights for SBOs looking to align workforce realities with long-term financial sustainability. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes! Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International. ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International. ...

    42 min
  8. Does Advocacy Work? Lessons from ASBO New York Advocacy Day

    FEB 10

    Does Advocacy Work? Lessons from ASBO New York Advocacy Day

    In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Dr. Ron Clamser of Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES to reflect on ASBO New York’s Advocacy Day and examine what makes advocacy effective for school business officials. They discuss the advocacy process, legislator reactions to ASBO New York’s priority list, and the realities behind issues like Foundation Aid, UPK mandates, zero-emission bus requirements, and local efficiencies. The conversation also tackles the big question many SBOs ask: Does advocacy really work? This episode offers insight, encouragement, and practical perspective for anyone involved — or considering getting involved — in education advocacy. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media:LinkedInTwitter (X)Website: https://asbointl.org/SBIEmail: podcast@asbointl.orgMake sure to like, subscribe and share for more great insider episodes! Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International. ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO International. ...

    45 min
See All (115)

5
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

ASBO International's official podcast. Each week we sit down down with school business professionals and industry experts from around the world to share their stories and explore the topics that matter most to you.

Information

  • Creator
    John Brucato
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    115
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 School Business Insider
  • Show Website
    School Business Insider

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