School Business Insider

John Brucato
  • 5.0 (19)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. The Hidden Budget Pressure: Skilled Trades and School Operations

    4D AGO

    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: LinkedIn Twitter (X) Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI Email: podcast@asbointl.org Make 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 Internatio...

    42 min
  2. 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: LinkedIn Twitter (X) Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI Email: podcast@asbointl.org Make 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 Internatio...

    45 min
  3. Building Confidence with AI: Frameworks, Tools, and Real Use Cases

    FEB 3

    Building Confidence with AI: Frameworks, Tools, and Real Use Cases

    AI adoption in schools is no longer theoretical — it’s happening, unevenly and imperfectly, across the public sector. In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Aziz Agayev and Jamal Amanoa of flowlyst to discuss what AI adoption really looks like in education and public-sector organizations today. They explore common challenges and concerns, practical use cases that are saving time and reducing rework, and lessons learned from districts already using AI. The conversation also introduces the TADA framework, discusses beginner and advanced AI skills, and examines how leaders can ensure quality, consistency, security, and responsible AI use — including recent updates to ChatGPT for K–12. This episode offers a grounded, experience-based look at moving from AI experimentation to confident, intentional adoption. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media: LinkedIn Twitter (X) Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI Email: podcast@asbointl.org Make 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 Internatio...

    1h 3m
  4. The New Reality of Student Data Privacy

    JAN 27

    The New Reality of Student Data Privacy

    Student privacy is no longer a background issue — it’s a front-line leadership challenge. In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Amelia Vance, President of the Public Interest Privacy Center, to unpack the rapidly changing student privacy landscape. They explore the patchwork of federal and state privacy laws, recent enforcement actions, growing scrutiny of AI and edtech, and rising parental concerns about data collection and consent. Amelia also shares practical guidance for CFOs and school business officials on managing risk, evaluating technology, and communicating transparently with their communities. This episode offers timely insights for leaders navigating technology decisions in an era of heightened accountability and public trust. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media: LinkedIn Twitter (X) Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI Email: podcast@asbointl.org Make 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 Internatio...

    47 min
  5. Powering Learning: Energy Projects as Living Laboratories

    JAN 20

    Powering Learning: Energy Projects as Living Laboratories

    Energy projects in schools can do more than reduce costs — they can create powerful learning opportunities. In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato talks with Dawn Johnson, Director of Customer Engagement at OPTERRA Energy Services, about how school districts can leverage energy initiatives to support sustainability, STE(A)M education, and community engagement. They explore how clean energy projects become living laboratories for students, how priorities around energy have evolved over time, and what school leaders should consider as they evaluate their own energy programs. This conversation offers a fresh perspective on how operational decisions can align with instructional goals and long-term district strategy. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media: LinkedIn Twitter (X) Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI Email: podcast@asbointl.org Make 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 Internatio...

    39 min
  6. The Strategic CFO: Moving Beyond Compliance

    JAN 13

    The Strategic CFO: Moving Beyond Compliance

    The role of the school CFO is changing — and compliance alone is no longer enough. In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Ahnaf Tahmid, CFO of South Bend Community School Corporation, to explore how school finance leaders can move beyond compliance to become true strategic partners. Drawing from his School Business Now article, “The Strategic CFO: Moving Beyond Compliance to Build Capacity,” Ahnaf shares insights on financial leadership, organizational capacity building, and the skills CFOs need to support long-term district success. This conversation is a must-listen for CFOs, SBOs, and aspiring leaders who want to elevate their impact and lead with purpose. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media: LinkedIn Twitter (X) Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI Email: podcast@asbointl.org Make 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 Internatio...

    45 min
  7. Operational Excellence in Practice: ASBO NY and ISBL’s New Pilot

    JAN 6

    Operational Excellence in Practice: ASBO NY and ISBL’s New Pilot

    What if school business operations were designed for sustainability — not constant reaction? In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Stephen Morales of the Institute for School Business Leadership and leaders from ASBO New York to discuss the launch of the Operational Excellence (OpEx) Pilot Program in New York State. They explore what OpEx is, how data from ASBO New York’s State of the Profession Survey shaped the initiative, and how districts can use OpEx principles to strengthen systems, improve workflows, and build long-term capacity. The conversation also highlights district-level application, including how Briarcliff Manor UFSD is engaging in OpEx work, and walks listeners through what to expect as the pilot program launches. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media: LinkedIn Twitter (X) Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI Email: podcast@asbointl.org Make 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 Internatio...

    51 min
  8. Wrapped! 2025

    12/30/2025

    Wrapped! 2025

    In this solo, year-in-review episode, host John Brucato reflects on the conversations, themes, and lessons that defined the podcast in 2025 — a year that also saw the release of its 100th episode. John shares highlights from across the year, explores the biggest themes shaping school business leadership, and offers a candid look at what he’s hearing from colleagues in the field. He also dives into the numbers behind the show, including 16,798 downloads in 2025, listeners across the U.S. and around the world, and the growing reach of the School Business Insider community. From leadership and culture to change management, innovation, and the human side of the work, this episode is both a reflection on the year behind us and a look ahead to what’s next. Whether you’ve listened to every episode or are just discovering the podcast, Wrapped! 2025 is a celebration of the people, ideas, and conversations that continue to shape the school business profession. Contact School Business Insider: Check us out on social media: LinkedIn Twitter (X) Website: https://asbointl.org/SBI Email: podcast@asbointl.org Make 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 Internatio...

    20 min
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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
    109
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 School Business Insider
  • Show Website
    School Business Insider

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