School Business Insider

John Brucato
  • 5.0 (18)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
School Business Insider

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. Supreme Decisions: How the High Court Is Shaping Public Education

    2D AGO

    Supreme Decisions: How the High Court Is Shaping Public Education

    In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Sonja H. Trainor, Executive Director of the National School Attorneys Association, for a timely conversation about the U.S. Supreme Court’s major rulings and what they mean for school leaders. From religious objections to curriculum (Mahmoud v. Taylor) to transgender rights and medical procedures (U.S. v. Skrmetti), and from charter school governance (Drummond v. OK) to E-Rate funding’s uncertain future, this episode covers it all. Sonja unpacks the legal reasoning, the risks, and the real-world changes SBOs need to anticipate as law and education policy collide. 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...

    49 min
  2. The Foundations of SBO Success: Career Starts & Disaster Preparedness

    JUL 8

    The Foundations of SBO Success: Career Starts & Disaster Preparedness

    Join host John Brucato and Maria Parry, retired SBA from Monmouth Regional High School (NJ), as they explore essential advice for those new to the school business field and those aiming to safeguard their district from disaster. Drawing from her School Business Now articles on career setup and disaster planning, Maria provides actionable insights—from résumé-risk mitigation to vendor planning—that every SBO needs. Perfect for both emerging and seasoned professionals looking to strengthen their foundation. 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...

    35 min
  3. Roadmap to Sustainable Schools: Finance, Operations & Environmental Stewardship

    JUL 1

    Roadmap to Sustainable Schools: Finance, Operations & Environmental Stewardship

    In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato speaks with Chris Wildman, Assistant Superintendent for Finance at Grayslake CCSD 46 in Illinois. Chris shares how his district launched a robust sustainability program—including composting, solar, paper use reduction, and strategic planning—all while delivering financial savings and engaging stakeholders. Drawn from Chris’s June 2025 School Business Now article, this episode offers a roadmap for SBOs to start or scale sustainable practices. Key takeaways: How environmental initiatives can reduce costsAligning sustainability with long-range planning toolsEngaging students, staff, and community through task forcesPractical steps, common pitfalls, and the business case for green schoolsWhether you’re just starting or looking to deepen your district's green efforts, this episode provides insights to help you lead sustainability 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...

    39 min
  4. From Rejection to Renewal: A School Business Journey in Trust & Transparency

    JUN 24

    From Rejection to Renewal: A School Business Journey in Trust & Transparency

    In this solo episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato reflects on a remarkable transformation in his district—from the failure of a $36 million bond in 2018 to the successful completion of a $27 million capital project in 2024. With no tax increase and overwhelming community support, this journey was built on trust, transparency, and thoughtful planning. John shares actionable lessons in stakeholder engagement, strategic communication, and financial stewardship that helped restore confidence and unify a once-divided community. Whether you're facing a tough bond climate or seeking to strengthen public trust, this episode offers real-world insights for school business leaders at every level. 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...

    44 min
  5. Helpful or Harmful? The Promise and Pitfalls of AI for CFOs and SBOs

    JUN 17

    Helpful or Harmful? The Promise and Pitfalls of AI for CFOs and SBOs

    In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with Mary Ellen Normen, a retired school business official blazing new trails in the world of artificial intelligence. With presentations at ASBO and AASA conferences and a widely-read article on AI in school business, Mary Ellen unpacks how SBOs can use AI tools for budgeting, facilities, communications, and strategic planning. From ethical guardrails to getting started with your first AI prompt, this episode is a practical and inspiring roadmap for school business leaders navigating one of the most significant shifts in our profession. Listen now to learn how to leverage AI — wisely, ethically, and effectively. 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
  6. Breaking the Silence: Addressing Mental Health Among School Business Officials

    JUN 10

    Breaking the Silence: Addressing Mental Health Among School Business Officials

    In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato engages in a heartfelt conversation with Peter Bard, CFO of East Stroudsburg Area School District. Peter shares his personal experiences with mental health challenges, the impact on his professional life, and his journey towards healing and advocacy. This discussion sheds light on the importance of mental well-being in the high-stakes world of school business leadership and offers insights into creating supportive environments for professionals. 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
  7. Empowering the Next Generation: Insights from ASBO's Emerging Leaders

    MAY 29

    Empowering the Next Generation: Insights from ASBO's Emerging Leaders

    In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato speaks with Brandy N. Smith, PCSBA, and Baillie M. Nash, SFO, recent recipients of the ASBO International Emerging Leaders Scholarship. They discuss their career journeys, the impact of the scholarship on their professional development, and the importance of networking in the field of school business. This conversation offers valuable insights for aspiring school business officials and those looking to support emerging leaders in their organizations. 📥 Apply today: https://www.asbointl.org/web/Web/Awards/Scholarship/Emerging_Leaders_Scholarship.aspx 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...

    34 min
  8. Mentorship Matters: Cheryl Campbell on Nurturing School Business Leaders

    MAY 27

    Mentorship Matters: Cheryl Campbell on Nurturing School Business Leaders

    In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato engages in a compelling conversation with Cheryl Campbell, Chief Operating Officer at Thomas Tallis School in London and a leading advocate for mentorship in the school business profession. Cheryl shares her personal journey, insights on establishing effective mentoring relationships, and the pivotal role mentorship plays in professional development and fostering diversity in leadership. Discover practical strategies for initiating and sustaining impactful mentorships that can shape the future of school business leadership. 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...

    35 min
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5
out of 5
18 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 - 2025
  • Episodes
    78
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 School Business Insider
  • Show Website
    School Business Insider

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