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 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/
Thursday Jan 30, 2025
Thursday Jan 30, 2025
In this episode of “What Does George Say,” Couros answers a question about time barriers in education. Couros shares a key point raised - overwhelming demands placed on teachers without adequate support, which leads to a need for sustainable practices. Couros shares a strategy that he used as a principal to support teachers who consistently have tasks added to their plates. If you have a question you want answered by George Couros, use the link below to ask your question!
Question:
“… a pattern I have been noticing among my educator colleagues is their frustrated comments on the 'barrier of time'. Our system has begun an assessment initiative, and although it has been well-received thus far, based on feedback from the teacher advocates, I foresee a plateau (or even decline) on our learning journey due to the previously mentioned 'lack of time' reality. What are some of your suggestions/recommendations to overcome this barrier/obstacle?” - Lisa from Canada
Links:
Ask a Question - https://bit.ly/WhatDoesGeorgeSay
Empower (book on Amazon) - https://www.amazon.com/Empower-Happens-Students-Their-Learning/dp/194644443X
__________________________________________
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 Jan 26, 2025
Sunday Jan 26, 2025
Join Dr. JoAnna Roberto from the Grand Erie District School Board as she shares her passion for innovation in education. Through her leadership, the district is transforming how students learn by focusing on their well-being, sense of belonging, and tapping into their interests. Discover how the newly launched Innovation Hub serves as a catalyst for student engagement and community interaction, providing opportunities for hands-on learning in science, technology, arts, and math.
Explore the importance of connecting curriculum with student passions, ensuring that education remains relevant and exciting. Dr. Roberto emphasizes the power of relationships and responsive teaching in creating a nurturing environment where every student feels valued and heard. This episode is a testament to the incredible work being done to pave diverse pathways to success for students in an ever-evolving educational landscape.
Listen in as Dr. Roberto invites educators and students alike to experience the dynamic changes underway, promising a future where innovation and well-being go hand in hand.
“What do we want to support students with?” - Dr. JoAnna Roberto
“Look at the aspects of the curriculum…create that opportunity for students…” - Dr. JoAnna Roberto
“Every student comes into the district and they feel like they belong.” - Dr. JoAnna Roberto
Links:
Gran Eerie Innovation Hub - https://granderie.ca/news/2024/11/20/the-innovation-hub-grand-erie-officially-opens
__________________________________________
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 Jan 23, 2025
Thursday Jan 23, 2025
Welcome to another enlightening episode where we dive deep into the world of education and leadership. This time, we tackle a question from our listener Chris, a new site principal, about discovering and articulating his "why" to create an effective vision for his school. Through engaging insights and personal anecdotes, we explore the importance of understanding the strengths within your school community and the power of collaborative vision creation.
Our discussion touches on the balance between personal passion and professional competence, distinguishing the real metrics of success in education. Join us as we rethink conventional wisdom, moving away from guilt-driven motivations to creating meaningful educational environments that foster collective growth and inspiration. Whether you're an educator, leader, or simply curious about effective leadership strategies, this episode provides a fresh perspective on driving educational innovation.
Question:
“How do you discover your why? What are ways to help articulate your why in order to help create a vision/direction for your school?” - Chris (New site principal)
Links:
Ask a Question - https://bit.ly/WhatDoesGeorgeSay
Blog Post - https://georgecouros.com/when-you-ask-people-their-why-will-you-be-comfortable-with-their-answer/
What Makes a Great Principal (book on Amazon) - https://www.amazon.com/What-Makes-Great-Principal-Leadership/dp/1948334739
__________________________________________
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 Jan 19, 2025
Sunday Jan 19, 2025
Join us as we sit down with Charles, an inspiring educator and assistant principal, who has dedicated over 20 years to the field of education. In this episode, Charles shares his journey from a classroom teacher to an assistant principal, while embracing roles as a speaker and author. Discover how he maintains his passion for education through various workshops and speaking engagements, both nationally and internationally.
Throughout the conversation, Charles discusses his innovative approach to leadership, drawing on experiences like his workshop "Is Your Check Engine Light On?" which focuses on preventing burnout in educational leadership. Charles emphasizes the importance of learning from others and continuously growing, regardless of where you are in your career.
The episode offers insights into leading with purpose, balancing personal and professional commitments, and the significance of recharging to avoid burnout. Tune in to hear Charles' tips and stories that will inspire educators at any stage of their career.
Quotes:
“When it feels like a chore, then I get to pause.” - Charles Williams
“Spending time, energy, and effort on things that don’t matter...leads to burnout.” - Charles Williams
Links:
Charles William X - https://twitter.com/_cwconsulting
Charles Williams Linktree - https://linktr.ee/_cwconsulting
__________________________________________
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 Jan 16, 2025
Thursday Jan 16, 2025
Join us in this engaging episode where we tackle the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome, drawing insights from listener questions posed by Jay and Holly. Whether you're embracing a new leadership role or navigating a post-retirement phase, we explore how maintaining a learner's mindset can keep you grounded and impactful.
Embrace a community approach, where each voice holds value, and discover how sharing learning experiences can alleviate the pressures of appearing as an expert. Together, we unravel the power of humility and confidence in leadership, encouraging a model where lifting others leads to shared success.
Tune in every Thursday this January and be part of a vibrant conversation about growth, learning, and community-building in today's ever-evolving world.
Check out any of George's Books at https://www.amazon.com/shop/gcouros or connect with him at georgecouros.com