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
Sunday Mar 02, 2025
Sunday Mar 02, 2025
Join us for an engaging episode of 'Three Questions with Erin Doak' as we delve into the inspirational journey of Erin Doak, a dynamic educator from Ottawa. Discover how Erin transitioned from a career in public relations to teaching, overcoming a five-year hiring freeze and gaining valuable insights along the way.
In this episode, Erin shares her experiences as a consultant and educator, highlighting the importance of building relationships and embracing change in the educational landscape. Learn how her background in public relations has informed her teaching methods, fostering a culture of trust and engagement in the classroom.
Explore the valuable lessons Erin has learned from her diverse career path and how these experiences have shaped her approach to education. Tune in to uncover the opportunities that arise from change and how Erin applies these principles to both leadership and classroom dynamics.
__________________________________________
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 Feb 27, 2025
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Check out "The AI-Driven Leader" here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DB8QL3ZK?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=B0DB8QL3ZK&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.3M1UJOXVPX19P&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
In this enlightening episode, we dive into a comprehensive review of Geoff Woods' book, "The AI-Driven Leader: Harnessing AI to Make Faster, Smarter Decisions." This is not just a book about artificial intelligence but a profound exploration of leadership principles that transcend time. The discussion highlights the importance of leveraging AI as a thought partner and not a replacement, emphasizing long-term impacts over short-term wins.
The episode also draws insightful parallels between the business world and education, encouraging educators to apply leadership strategies to enhance students' learning experiences. Key themes include the significance of reading and writing as foundational educational tools and the concept of fostering both problem-finding and problem-solving skills.
Furthermore, the conversation underscores the value of short-term actions that lead to long-term benefits, both in educational settings and personal growth. With anecdotes on the synergetic relationship between technology and people-centred leadership, this episode provides a rich tapestry of ideas for implementing strategic change while keeping human connections at the core.
“Instead of asking, ‘How do I solve this problem?’ start asking, ‘How can AI help me solve this problem?’” - Geoff Woods
“However, our education system often grades you on your ability to have the answer, not on your ability to search for one.” - Geoff Woods
“The idea was simple but incredibly powerful: identify the one thing you could do such that by doing it, everything else would be easier or unnecessary.” - Geoff Woods
“As a leader, you must ensure your people are focused on the most important actions they can take in the short term to fortify your competitive edge in the long term.” - Geoff Woods
“Embrace change. Adapt quickly, and keep people at the center.” - Geoff Woods
__________________________________________
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/
Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Sunday Feb 23, 2025
In this episode, which is unlike any other previous episode of The Innovator’s Mindset, Veronica McDaniel discusses her extensive work in combating human trafficking, particularly focusing on educating students and communities about the issue. McDaniel answers a question from George Couros about how educators can work together to reduce trafficking. McDaniel, who is currently a secondary school teacher at Atlanta International School, also works to share multi-faceted approach to eliminating trafficking. In this clip from the full episode, McDaniel shares ways that educators can equip students with a voice to make a difference. Be sure to list for McDaniel’s “Five Shifts of Social Change”:
Raising Awareness About an Issue
Changing Behavior
Engaging
Public Policy
Holding the Line
Resources for further education on this topic are available through McDaniels’ organization, Freest, and on her LinkedIn profile which are both linked below.
Quotes:
“Make your kids feel safe enough to talk to you...Be open with our kids…” - Veronica McDaniel
Links:
Veronica McDaniel LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-mcdaniel-35256a87/
Freest - https://freestinternational.org/who-we-are/
Street Grace - https://www.streetgrace.org/
__________________________________________
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 Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
In this insightful episode of the Innovator's Mindset, George Couros, a leading educational thought leader, answers a viewer's query from Mark, addressing how veteran teachers can maintain relevance and student engagement in an ever-evolving educational landscape. George emphasizes that these strategies are crucial not just for experienced teachers but for anyone in education. He highlights three essential strategies for educators at every stage of their career:
Understanding students' strengths and experiences: Building meaningful relationships with students is key to successful teaching.
A continuous willingness to learn: Staying adaptable and embracing new technologies in education ensures educators remain relevant.
Initiating learning from students' questions: Fostering curiosity through student-driven learning experiences creates a more personalized and engaging classroom.
Throughout the episode, George shares his personal teaching experiences and offers practical strategies for incorporating strengths-based approaches and innovative teaching methodologies into daily practice. This episode is a must-listen for educators seeking effective engagement strategies and ways to inspire their students.
“You cannot change the learning experience for students until you think about how it changes for the adult.” – George Couros
Learn more about George and his educational philosophy at georgecouros.com.
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
Join us in an engaging conversation with Derek McCoy, the inspiring principal of Havelock Middle School in North Carolina. In this episode, we explore his journey in education and leadership, and discuss the critical role middle school plays in the development of young minds. Derek shares insights into creating empowering environments that cultivate risk-taking and independent thinking among students and educators alike.
We also delve into the evolving challenges faced by educational leaders in the post-pandemic era, highlighting the importance of genuine relationships and effective communication. Learn about Derek’s collaborative approach to leadership, which emphasizes uplifting voices, fostering creativity, and encouraging innovation in schools.
Don't miss this insightful discussion that not only touches on conquering imposter syndrome but also celebrates the power of positive connections and transformational leadership in education.
__________________________________________
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 Feb 13, 2025
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Join George Couros on the latest episode of the Innovators Mindset Podcast as he shares insights from his inspiring presentation at FETC, titled "What Makes a Great Leader?" Based on his book, "What Makes a Great Principal," co-authored with Allyson Apsey, George explores the impact of effective leadership from the perspective of principals, teachers, and students who have experienced its transformative power.
In this episode, discover the key qualities that define a true leader, including relationship building, continuous learning, talent cultivation, resource maximization, and visionary thinking. George discusses the importance of building positive connections, fostering an emotional bond to drive progress, and the necessity of developing individual strengths to uplift entire communities.
George also shares a heartfelt story of a teacher inspired to pursue leadership, highlighting the significance of being the reason someone gains irrational confidence. Explore strategies to develop a learner-driven, evidence-informed practice and the value of nurturing both staff and students' strengths for holistic growth. Listen in to learn how to bring out the best in others and create a culture of innovation and empowerment.
“ A Leader is someone who has the ability to move others in a positive direction.” - George Couros
“The most important research we can do as educators will always be to know the learners we serve.” - George Couros
Links:
What Makes a Great Principal (book on Amazon) - https://www.amazon.com/What-Makes-Great-Principal-Leadership/dp/1948334739
Ask Couros a Question - https://bit.ly/WhatDoesGeorgeSay
__________________________________________
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/
Sunday Feb 09, 2025
Sunday Feb 09, 2025
In this heartfelt solo episode, George Couros shares his journey of personal growth and change sparked by reading "The Pivot Year" by Brianna Wiest. Through personal anecdotes, he reflects on the challenges and inspirations that shaped his year, including the profound impact of losing his beloved dogs and the motivational insights gathered from Wiest's book.
George opens up about his path to finding closure and momentum after a tough year, discussing the importance of embracing personal transformation and the power of taking action. He shares the encouragement he received from friends and how it propelled him towards new ventures and goals, including a renewed commitment to daily reading and fitness.
This episode is not only a reflective journey but also a call to action, inspiring listeners to pursue their passions, build supportive circles, and recognize the value in personal and professional growth.
Based on the following email: https://us12.campaign-archive.com/?u=9381017234135a9c6d5f7419a&id=d12c8640e6
Books recommended:
The Pivot Year - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3DJ7G72?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=B0C3DJ7G72&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.3M1UJOXVPX19P&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
Don't Believe Everything You Think - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09WQ218GR?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=B09WQ218GR&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.3M1UJOXVPX19P&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
__________________________________________
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 Feb 06, 2025
Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Welcome to the latest episode of "What Does George Say?" where we delve into the intricate world of education, leadership, and learning.
In this thought-provoking episode, George addresses a pertinent question from Sarah: "At what age should AI be introduced to children?" Navigating through the complexities of this topic, George emphasizes the importance of understanding AI's relevance and benefits before introducing it to young learners.
Throughout the discussion, George highlights the significance of tailoring AI education to the unique needs of different communities and individual readiness. Rather than focusing on a specific age, it's crucial to adopt an approach where educators and parents learn alongside children, understanding both the challenges and opportunities AI presents. George shares insightful questions that guide this learning process, promoting a collaborative and exploratory environment for both adults and kids.
Tune in to discover how we can effectively integrate AI into education, fostering a generation of informed and responsible digital citizens to become digital leaders.
__________________________________________
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/
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
"Being an authentic leader means leading with honest and sincere intentions while maintaining a high level of integrity." Dr. Marcus Belin
Check out the January 2025 Highlights from the Innovator's Mindset Podcast!
0:00 Intro with George Couros
0:00 Intro Music
0:08 Leverage What You Have - What Makes a Great Principal Revisit
4:40 Charles Williams
7:56 Mike Trego
10:53 The Heartbreaking Path of Grief: A Book that Helped Me Through a Tough Year
13:27 Closing
Leverage What You Have - What Makes a Great Principal Revisit
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqM6_qkuQyk
In this clip from The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros shares a quote from Dr. Marcus J. Belin. Couros reflects on the importance of being ourselves and on pushing others as he dives into the quote from Dr. Belin.
Charles Williams: There are multiple ways to lead
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lk3tNqCL7us
In this clip from The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast with Charles Williams, There are Multiple Ways to Lead, Williams and Couros talk about what leads to burnout and how to reduce it.
Mike Trego: The Need for Inclusive Leadership
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=roXjYbC7GtI
In this clip from the complete episode, Three Questions, Mike Trego shares what he hopes George Couros will accomplish when he speaks at the upcoming AcceleratED Leadership & Learning conference.
The Heartbreaking Path of Grief: A Book that Helped Me Through a Tough Year
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wsr3QfUThD8
In this clip from the complete episode, Three Questions, Mike Trego shares what he hopes George Couros will accomplish when he speaks at the upcoming AcceleratED Leadership & Learning conference.
__________________________________________
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/
Sunday Feb 02, 2025
Sunday Feb 02, 2025
In this episode, George engages in an enlightening conversation with John, the founder of Mesa and a leading figure in AI solutions at Panorama Education. As they prepare to speak at the Panorama Education Aim for Impact conference, they delve into the integration of AI in education, highlighting its potential to revolutionize the learning environment.
John shares his impressive journey, starting from his entrepreneurial ventures in high school to becoming an influential leader in educational technology. The discussion covers the evolution of AI, its historical roots, and its practical applications in today's educational landscape, aiming to streamline school operations and enhance student learning experiences.
This episode also touches on the transformative power of technology in shaping educational practices that cater to individual strengths, promoting an environment where students and educators can thrive in their unique ways. Join George and John as they explore the possibilities AI offers in creating future-ready schools and students.
“I think we are going to start to see a backlash to AI…where folks are looking to see something as authentically human as possible.” - John Kennedy
“Not all AI is created equally.” - John Kennedy
“By definition, (AI content) is average.” - John Kennedy
Links:
John Kennedy on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johngkennedy4/
Panoramaed Conference - https://events.panoramaed.com/AIMFORIMPACT/home
__________________________________________
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/