LEADS Lounge

KansasLEADS

Welcome to LEADS Lounge, the place where educators kick back, share stories, and talk about what really matters in our schools. Every episode features a new guest from the world of education—principals, teachers, advocates, and innovators—who bring fresh ideas and honest conversations. Grab a coffee, settle in, and join us in the Lounge.

  1. 16h ago

    Building the Future of Kansas Education

    What does the future of education in Kansas look like—and how do we get there? In this episode of LEADS Lounge, we sit down with Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Jake Steel for a conversation about leadership, vision, and the opportunities ahead for Kansas schools. From his journey as a Kansas public school student and classroom teacher to serving in the U.S. Department of Education, the White House, and now as Commissioner, Dr. Steel shares the experiences that have shaped his leadership philosophy. Together, they discuss supporting educators, using data to improve student outcomes, strengthening school systems, and what it means to lead with purpose in today's educational landscape. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, board member, or simply passionate about public education, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a hopeful look at what's next for Kansas schools.

  2. Jul 26

    The Disney Difference: Building a Culture That Lasts

    What makes Disney one of the most admired organizations in the world? It's more than castles and characters, it's intentional leadership, purposeful culture, and an unwavering focus on the experience of every guest. Join leadership expert Jeff Barnes for a conversation exploring how the principles behind Disney's success can inspire schools to create cultures where students, staff, and families feel valued, connected, and inspired every day

  3. Jun 24

    A LEADS Lounge Reunion

    Together, Taylor, Leah, and John bring more than five decades of combined experience in education. Since their last appearances on the LEADS Lounge, each has continued to influence the profession in unique ways—through classroom teaching, educational leadership, advocacy, public speaking, and even public service. Join us as we catch up on their journeys, discuss the current state of education, and explore what gives them hope for the future of teaching and learning. Whether you're a classroom teacher, administrator, aspiring leader, or education advocate, this conversation is sure to provide insight, inspiration, and practical takeaways.

  4. May 31

    One State. Many Classrooms. One Message

    In this episode of Leads Lounge, we’re joined by members of the Kansas Teacher of the Year Team—an elite group of educators representing classrooms from every corner of Kansas. They’re in schools across the state sharing a unified message, learning from educators, and seeing firsthand what’s happening in classrooms right now. From powerful innovations to real challenges, this episode pulls back the curtain on what teaching in Kansas really looks like today—and where it’s headed next.

  5. Apr 19

    Leading with Purpose: Empowering Teachers, Elevating Classrooms

    In this episode of Leads Lounge, we sit down with District Elementary Instructional Coach Hailey Couch, an educator whose impact stretches from the kindergarten classroom to statewide educational leadership. With over a decade in education, Hailey shares her journey from teacher to coach, her passion for supporting early career educators, and her mission to strengthen teacher retention and instructional excellence across her district. We also dive into her leadership philosophy, what drives her work every day, and a few fun surprises—including her go-to hype song and a fact that most people wouldn’t expect. This conversation is all about empowerment, growth, and what it truly means to lead from the inside out in education.

  6. Feb 6

    If Walt Were Leading Today… Leadership Lessons Revisited

    What would leadership look like if Walt Disney were leading today? In this return visit to the LEADS Lounge, Dr. Barnes—best-selling author, international speaker, and known worldwide as Dr. Disneyland—helps us revisit Disney’s leadership principles through a modern lens. Building on our earlier conversation, we dive deeper into vision, culture, storytelling, and the intentional choices that turn big ideas into lasting impact. This episode challenges leaders to think differently about how they design experiences, develop people, and create a legacy that endures. Once again, you may never look at Disney...or leadership...the same way.

  7. Jan 9

    Leadership Lessons from the Happiest Place on Earth

    What if leadership, learning, and legacy could be taught in line for a ride? In this episode of the LEADS Lounge, we welcome Jeff Barnes best-selling author, international speaker, and famously known as Dr. Disneyland. As the only professor teaching an accredited college course on the history of Disneyland, Jeff sees Disney parks as living classrooms filled with powerful lessons about people, purpose, and possibility. Join us for a conversation that blends magic with meaning—and might just change the way you think about leadership forever.

  8. 12/16/2025

    From Classroom to Calling: Building the Future of Teaching

    How do we recruit the next generation of educators—and make sure they stay? In this episode of the LEADS Lounge, we’re joined by Amy Hillman and Todd Roberts, two leaders working at the heart of Kansas’ educator pipeline. Together, they bring nearly 50 years of experience in teaching, leadership, recruitment, and teacher preparation. Amy Hillman, Recruiter Liaison for USD 233 and Assistant Director of the Kansas Future Teacher Academy, shares her journey from the classroom to district and university leadership, and her passion for equity, innovation, and meaningful pathways into the profession. Todd Roberts, Teachers College Recruitment and Partnership Specialist at Emporia State University, reflects on his classroom roots and the work he now leads to connect future educators with districts across the state—strengthening partnerships and sustaining the profession. This conversation dives into:✔️ Why recruitment must start early✔️ How relationships keep educators in the profession✔️ What schools, districts, and universities can do together✔️ Why the future of education depends on intentional support If you care about the future of teaching, teacher recruitment, and building pathways that work—this is a must-listen. 🎧 Tune in now and join us in the LEADS Lounge.

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About

Welcome to LEADS Lounge, the place where educators kick back, share stories, and talk about what really matters in our schools. Every episode features a new guest from the world of education—principals, teachers, advocates, and innovators—who bring fresh ideas and honest conversations. Grab a coffee, settle in, and join us in the Lounge.

Information

  • Creator
    KansasLEADS
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © KansasLEADS
  • Show Website
    LEADS Lounge