The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast
I am a learner, author, speaker, and sometimes I make podcasts talking about any and all of these things. One day, I will rap in my podcasts officially making me a SoundCloud rapper.
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Episodes
Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
In this episode of the Innovators Mindset Podcast, George Couros explores the impact of how rejection is communicated, emphasizing the importance of leading with respect and grace. Broadcasting from the serene outdoors, George discusses a personal experience that inspired him to ponder the often harsh and impersonal way job rejections are conveyed in education and business.
George shares insights from his time as an administrator, revealing the practices he implemented to ensure that every candidate, successful or not, was communicated with directly and respectfully. By offering constructive feedback and support, George demonstrates how these small acts of kindness can significantly influence an individual's career path and enhance an organization's reputation.
The episode highlights a poignant story of a candidate who benefited from this approach and, years later, extended appreciation in an unexpected way. Tune in to discover how treating others with dignity, even in moments of disappointment, can lead to uplifting outcomes for all involved.
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Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.
More at georgecouros.com
George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros
George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros
George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/
George Couros on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519
For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros
The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
What Makes a Great Principal - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
Because of a Teacher - https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Because of a Teacher 2 -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X
Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Sunday Apr 27, 2025
Sunday Apr 27, 2025
Check out Jaime's new book here: https://www.amazon.com/Grow-Grow-Right-Right-Now/dp/B0DPR914HN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=20895LHSV1Q5X&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.bND78RSNbKOn_HTZCU0H5DCJRQ4aTOCrXbDcxaHzVtCwyjCzQqGwqE4AQYexRA7OT4-YAeE5yiZdNJAQ43YOc856oXNi6J2FDDpUqgGwHfA.awV-l4_Qapod4dMRMridyfr9eg6d5sqc1XIGEDlm534&dib_tag=se&keywords=grow+right+jaime&qid=1743268336&s=books&sprefix=grow+right+jaime%2Cstripbooks%2C137&sr=1-1
Welcome to the Innovators Mindset with George Couros, where we embark on an inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Humboldt, Saskatchewan to successful ventures across continents. In this episode, George reconnects with his high school friend, Jamie Hepp, now an accomplished author and business leader. Jamie shares his personal evolution and the insights that have shaped his book, "Grow, Grow Right, Grow Right Now."
The conversation delves into the essence of perseverance, the significance of defining and living by one's values, and the wisdom of learning from both successes and failures. Jamie and George discuss how mentorship and self-reflection can drive personal and professional growth, making this episode a thought-provoking exploration for educators and leaders alike. Don't miss this heartfelt catch-up as Jamie reflects on his life lessons and offers valuable advice for embracing challenges, nurturing resilience, and shaping a fulfilling life journey.
__________________________________________
Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.
More at georgecouros.com
George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros
George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros
George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/
George Couros on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519
For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros
The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
What Makes a Great Principal - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
Because of a Teacher - https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Because of a Teacher 2 -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X
Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
Join George Couros in the final episode of his enlightening podcast series, "Stories," where he shares deeply personal experiences from his career. In this installment, George opens up about a critical period in his life when he had to take a stress leave, a decision that ultimately transformed his career and personal well-being.
Discover how George navigated the challenges of mental health in the workplace, the invaluable support from his mentor Kelly Wilkins, and the surprising career opportunity that arose from this difficult time. Through candid storytelling, George highlights the importance of acknowledging personal limits, asking for help, and the power of stepping back to move forward.
You can read the shortened version at the newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/808839286524/something-personal-professional-and-profound-email-15554750
__________________________________________
Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.
More at georgecouros.com
George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros
George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros
George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/
George Couros on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519
For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros
The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
What Makes a Great Principal - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
Because of a Teacher - https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Because of a Teacher 2 -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X
Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Sunday Apr 20, 2025
Sunday Apr 20, 2025
In this eye-opening episode, host George invites his friend and seasoned educator AJ Juliani, who has just released a thought-provoking book titled "Meaningful and Relevant: Engaging Learners in an Era of Distraction." The conversation dives deep into the challenges educators face in keeping learners engaged amidst the continuous partial attention brought on by modern technology.
AJ shares his insights from over two decades of experience in education, discussing the importance of meaningful and relevant teaching practices. He highlights the critical role of educators in modeling effective technology use for students, emphasizing how engagement goes beyond mere compliance.
Together, they explore the nuances of teaching in today's digital age and the necessity of balancing foundational learning with aspirational goals. They discuss the impactful integration of artificial intelligence and the importance of self-reflection and independent thought for both students and educators.
__________________________________________
Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.
More at georgecouros.com
George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros
George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros
George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/
George Couros on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519
For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros
The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
What Makes a Great Principal - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
Because of a Teacher - https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Because of a Teacher 2 -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X
Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Read the entire newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/b293bb992e13/something-personal-professional-and-profound-email-15554817
Join George Couros on this special edition of the Innovator's Mindset podcast as he reflects on turning 50 and shares profound life lessons he's learned over the years. Emphasizing the importance of elevating others to find success, George offers heartfelt advice on focusing your energy on positive relationships and seeking personal growth.
Listen as George discusses the value of embracing youthfulness and appreciating life experiences, while navigating challenges and criticism. Discover how turning jealousy into learning opportunities can open new doors and foster a mindset of creation over criticism. This episode is a treasure trove of guidance on living a fulfilling life by helping others and reflecting on the past to enrich the future.
Sunday Apr 13, 2025
Sunday Apr 13, 2025
Check out Lainie's Book, Evolving Gratitude here: https://www.amazon.com/Evolving-Gratitude-Practices-Communities-Difference/dp/1948334542/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0
In this episode of the Innovator's Mindset with George Couros, discover the transformative power of gratitude in education as Lainie Rowell delves into the art of cultivating gratitude within learning communities.
As an author and expert on gratitude, Lainie shares her insights on how small gratitude practices can lead to big changes in personal well-being and community dynamics. Listen in as she discusses strategies for implementing gratitude in schools, the psychological benefits it offers, and how it can enhance both teacher and student experiences.
Whether you're an educator, parent, or just someone interested in personal growth, this episode offers valuable tips on fostering a grateful disposition in your daily life.
__________________________________________
Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.
More at georgecouros.com
George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros
George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros
George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/
George Couros on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519
For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros
The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
What Makes a Great Principal - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
Because of a Teacher - https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Because of a Teacher 2 -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X
Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
In this episode, George Couros shares insightful stories from his personal and professional life, highlighting the value of sometimes declining opportunities to achieve greater personal fulfillment. Through anecdotes, he discusses how not getting his desired kindergarten teaching position led to a fulfilling career in high school technology, and the unexpected consequences of saying no to a principal position opportunity.
Through his experiences, George emphasizes the importance of making career decisions that align with long-term personal happiness and success rather than simply chasing titles or roles. He reflects on the pivotal moments where saying no to an opportunity ultimately meant saying yes to personal growth and happiness. This episode serves as a reminder to carefully consider how career choices can impact both professional success and personal well-being.
Check out the newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/808839286524/something-personal-professional-and-profound-email-15554750
__________________________________________
Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.
More at georgecouros.com
George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros
George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros
George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/
George Couros on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519
For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros
The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
What Makes a Great Principal - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
Because of a Teacher - https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Because of a Teacher 2 -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X
Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Sunday Apr 06, 2025
Sunday Apr 06, 2025
Join Starr Sackstein and Alexandra Laing on The Innovator's Mindset" podcast as they delve into their new book, "Solving School Challenges: The Everything Guide to Transformative Change." This episode explores innovative solutions to 53 pressing issues in education, categorized into 10 main challenges, as identified and solved by over 100 contributors including educators and leaders from diverse backgrounds. The discussion highlights strategies in addressing challenges like retention, diversity in hiring practices, and innovative teaching approaches, emphasizing the role of leadership at all levels.
Discover actionable solutions and the inspiring stories behind them, aimed at transforming schools into thriving educational environments. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or educational leader, this episode empowers you to become a changemaker in your community.
Tap into the collective wisdom shared, and find out how these transformative solutions can be implemented in your school setting, encouraging a reimagining of what education can be.
__________________________________________
Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.
More at georgecouros.com
George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros
George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros
George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/
George Couros on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519
For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros
The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
What Makes a Great Principal - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
Because of a Teacher - https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Because of a Teacher 2 -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X
Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Innovator's Mindset podcast with George Couros.
Drawing inspiration from a poignant personal experience on a pig farm, George delves into the importance of recognizing when it's time to move on from situations where you don’t feel valued. In a candid reflection, he shares how an unexpected job rejection in education led to unforeseen opportunities that significantly altered his career trajectory.
This episode is a thoughtful exploration of how perceived failures can sometimes be the stepping stones to success, encouraging listeners to remain open to new possibilities and to take initiative in pursuing personal growth. Join George as he shares insights on learning from setbacks and the value of feedback in achieving success.
This podcast was inspired by this blog post: https://georgecouros.com/dont-get-used-to-the-smell/
You can also read a shortened version of the story at George's Newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/808839286524/something-personal-professional-and-profound-email-15554750
__________________________________________
Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.
More at georgecouros.com
George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros
George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros
George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/
George Couros on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519
For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros
The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
What Makes a Great Principal - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
Because of a Teacher - https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Because of a Teacher 2 -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X
Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Welcome to the March 2025 highlights of the Innovator's Mindset podcast.
George Couros begins this month-end highlight with a reflection on a recent blog post about how non-decisions make his life so much easier. There are little things that Couros decides once: putting clothes out for his workout, not having junk food in the house, and getting content out on a regular schedule. All of these things help set Couros up for success by eliminating decisions. Share one thing you do to help you set yourself up for success - add your thoughts to the comment below!
__________________________________________
Please share your thoughts with us on Twitter or Instagram at #InnovatorsMindset.
More at georgecouros.com
George Couros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros
George Couros on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros
George Couros on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/
George Couros on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519
For the full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros
The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
What Makes a Great Principal - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=1948334739&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
Because of a Teacher - https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Because of a Teacher 2 -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&linkCode=ssc&creativeASIN=194833450X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X
Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d
Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/