The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast

George Couros

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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#206
Yesterday · 21 min
Building With Teachers, Not For Them: The ForEDU Approach with Meagan French
What happens when educational technology is built with teachers instead of simply built for them? In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros talks with Meagan French, Chief Partnerships Officer at ForEDU, about how ForEDU is taking a teacher-first approach to technology, AI, and professional learning. Rather than starting with a tool and asking teachers to adapt, ForEDU starts with educators themselves. Meagan shares how involving teachers in the ideation, testing, and refinement of technology can create greater ownership, reduce decision fatigue, and better support the realities of the classroom. George and Meagan also explore how AI can actually make education more human. When technology helps reduce the time teachers spend on planning, differentiation, grading, and other repetitive tasks, educators can devote more energy to relationships, meaningful feedback, creativity, and connecting with students. The conversation explores the difference between professional development and professional learning, why AI implementation should begin with teachers before students, and how ForEDU's co-design philosophy puts teacher voice at the center of innovation. Meagan also shares examples from Central Square School District, where teachers reported saving more than 150 hours through tools supporting personalized grading, feedback, and planning. Ultimately, the conversation isn't simply about bringing more technology into schools. It's about how ForEDU can work alongside educators to use technology to strengthen the human side of teaching and learning. Learn more at: https://www.foredu.ai/ ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#201
Thursday · 18 min
3 Conversations to Focus on This Year to Build Stronger Communities
Are you looking for a meaningful book study for your school or district this year, or perhaps already using Forward, Together with your team? This episode can serve as a starting point for those conversations, focusing on three questions that can help educators and leaders move beyond simply reading a book together and toward actually strengthening the community they serve. In a world where disagreement can quickly become division, how do we intentionally build stronger communities in our schools? In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros explores the idea that disagreement does not have to lead to division and shares three questions that can help school leaders and educators strengthen their communities: How do we move forward when we don’t always agree? How do we create ownership instead of simply seeking buy-in? How do we ensure people feel valued for their contributions to our organization? George discusses why listening and finding common ground should come before trying to convince others, why having more fingerprints on the journey creates more advocates for the destination, and why recognizing people’s strengths is only the beginning. We also have to give people meaningful opportunities to use those strengths. The episode shares examples from schools and leadership experiences that demonstrate what it looks like to build community proactively, rather than waiting until relationships become fractured. As George shares in Forward, Together, “When schools and families work together, they double the chance of a child’s success.” Links & Resources Mentioned Forward, Together by George Couros: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334836?linkCode=ssc&tag=georgecouros-20&creativeASIN=1948334836&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin Illinois Association of School Administrators Conference, George Couros Keynote Announcement: https://myemail.constantcontact.com/The-Wait-Is-Over--Meet-Our-Second-General-Session-Speaker.html?soid=1103777180704&aid=l7RLjHlb7PY 3 Questions Before You Launch Your Profile of a Graduate: https://georgecouros.com/portrait-of-a-graduate/ Naperville 203 Profile of a Learner: https://www.naperville203.org/our-district/profile-of-a-learner Being a Good Follower: https://georgecouros.com/being-a-good-follower/ Connect with George / Speaking & Book Study Inquiries: https://georgecouros.com/contact/ Ultimately, building community is not something we should focus on only when things go wrong. Building community should be a proactive endeavor. The question for all of us is not simply, “How do we get people to come along with us?” Instead, it might be: How do we create something together that people are proud to move forward with? ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#199
September 20 · 24 min
Rethinking Time, Personalizing Learning, and the Role of the Arts in an AI World
What if meaningful innovation in schools isn’t about doing more, but about rethinking how we use what we already have? In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros sits down with Heidi Domescik and Daniel Forrester from Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School to explore how they are reimagining professional learning by making it more personal, relevant, and responsive to the needs of educators. The conversation also explores one of the most valuable resources in any school: time. Rather than continually adding new initiatives and expectations, how can schools rethink the way time is used so educators have greater opportunities to learn, collaborate, create, and do work that truly matters? Heidi and Daniel also discuss the powerful connection between the arts and innovation, and why creativity, expression, and distinctly human ways of thinking may become even more important as artificial intelligence continues to reshape education and the world around us. This conversation is a reminder that innovation isn’t always about adding something new. Sometimes, it starts by looking differently at what we already have. ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#198
September 17 · 8 min
Using Technology to Create Intentional Connections
Technology often gets measured by how advanced, intelligent, or innovative it is. But perhaps its greatest value lies in something much simpler: helping us connect with one another. In this episode, I revisit a story from The Innovator's Mindset about meeting an Uber driver who was deaf. Before riding with him again the next day, I used my phone to search YouTube and learn how to sign "thank you." It took only a few minutes, but that small use of technology created a genuine human connection that has stayed with me ever since. Years later, after sharing that story during a keynote, a mother approached me with a powerful message. Her daughter, who is deaf, was about to start at a new school, and she worried about whether people would make the effort to help her feel welcome. She shared that the story gave her hope because it reminded her that inclusion often begins with one person choosing to make a small effort. We spend so much time talking about artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and digital innovation. Yet some of the most meaningful ways we can use technology are also the simplest. A quick search, a short video, a translation app, or a few minutes of curiosity can help someone feel seen, respected, and like they truly belong. Maybe the question isn't whether technology is making us more connected. Maybe the better question is whether we're choosing to use it that way. Questions for Reflection When have you used technology to strengthen a human connection? Are we teaching students to use technology primarily for productivity, or for empathy as well? What simple digital tool could help someone in your community feel more seen and valued? How can schools intentionally model technology as a bridge between people instead of a barrier? What's one small use of technology you could make this week that would have a lasting impact on another person? ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#183
September 13 · 24 min
Trust, Leadership, and a 96.6% Graduation Rate - Dr. Rick Surrency
What does it take to transform a school district from one of the lowest graduation rates in a state to one of the highest in the nation? In this episode, George Couros sits down with Rick Surrency, elected superintendent of Florida's Putnam County School District and author of Trust Me: The Leadership Playbook Behind the Largest Graduation Rate Turnaround in America. Rick shares the remarkable story of how his district increased its graduation rate from 54.9% to 96.6% through a relentless focus on trust, relationships, instructional improvement, teacher support, and creating meaningful opportunities for students. The conversation explores why trust is more than a leadership buzzword, how career-focused programs can transform student engagement, the importance of supporting teachers through mentorship, and why high expectations and innovation can thrive in any community, regardless of size or socioeconomic status. Rick's story is a powerful reminder that meaningful change is possible when leaders consistently invest in people, build credibility through action, and create systems that help every student succeed. Questions for Reflection and Conversation: How does trust influence your willingness to embrace change, whether as a student, educator, leader, or community member? What systems exist in your organization to identify and support people before they fall behind? How can schools create learning experiences that are both academically rigorous and deeply relevant to students' futures? ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#196
September 10 · 9 min
Does "purpose" matter more than "joy" in education?
Should the goal of school be joy or purpose? In this episode, I riff on an idea that has been bouncing around in my head: we've become increasingly focused on creating joyful experiences for students, but joy and purpose aren't the same thing. School should absolutely be a place where students feel valued, connected, and excited to learn. But when we believe every learning experience should feel like Disney World, we risk overlooking an important truth: some of the most meaningful learning is difficult. Purpose often requires struggle. It involves frustration, persistence, failure, and growth. The satisfaction comes not from avoiding the challenge, but from knowing why the challenge matters. I also connect this idea to AI and academic dishonesty. We often criticize students for using AI to shortcut their work, but many of us looked up answers in the back of the math textbook when we were in school. The tool has changed, but the behavior hasn't. The bigger question is why people feel the need to cheat in the first place. When learning feels like nothing more than checking a box for graduation, it's easy to look for shortcuts. When students understand the purpose of the work, they're much more likely to embrace the challenge rather than avoid it. This episode isn't a finished argument. It's me thinking out loud, connecting ideas, and inviting the conversation. I'd love to hear where you agree, where you disagree, and how this resonates with your own experiences. Questions for discussion: Should schools prioritize joyful experiences or purposeful ones, or is that the wrong question? How can we help students understand the purpose behind challenging learning before they look for shortcuts? What is one learning experience that was difficult in the moment but became meaningful because of the struggle? If this conversation sparked a thought, challenged your thinking, or made you see the issue differently, I'd love to hear from you. Please share your perspective in the comments. I'm genuinely interested in where this idea can be strengthened, challenged, or expanded. ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#188
September 6 · 25 min
Better Together: Leading Change Before It Happens - Derek Cantrell
What does it take to bring two rival school communities together and build something new? In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros speaks with Derek Cantrell, Virginia’s High School Principal of the Year, about leading one of the most challenging changes a school leader can face: merging two longtime rivals into one school, one culture, and one community. Derek shares how he helped lead the consolidation of Covington High School and Allegheny High School during and after COVID-19. Rather than waiting for change to happen and reacting to it, he entered the work with an intentional culture and communication roadmap focused on the questions that matter most: What are people excited about? What are they concerned about? And how can leaders address those concerns before the first day? The conversation explores why culture is built long before people enter a new building. Derek discusses the importance of preserving traditions from both communities, involving students and families in the process, and even treating the selection of coaching staff as a critical opportunity to bring people together. Derek and George also explore a powerful leadership idea: change is easier to navigate when we initiate it rather than simply letting it happen to us. That same proactive mindset now shapes Derek’s approach to artificial intelligence. Guided by a philosophy of “people over paperwork,” he shares how he is using AI to reduce administrative burdens and create more time for what matters most: being present in classrooms, supporting teachers, and connecting with students. From AI-supported teacher observations and data analysis to new tools for tracking graduation requirements, Derek offers practical examples of how school leaders can use technology not to replace the human side of leadership, but to create more time for it. This conversation is about more than merging two schools. It is about how leaders build trust, create culture, honor the past, and proactively shape the future. Derek’s book, Better Together: Building One School, One Culture, and One Community from Two Rivals, shares the full consolidation story along with practical lessons and culture systems school leaders can apply in their own communities. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GQMYVJ5R?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback Questions for Discussion: How can leaders address people’s concerns about change before those concerns become barriers to moving forward? What does it look like to honor the past while intentionally creating a new shared culture? Where could AI reduce paperwork in your role and create more time for people, presence, and relationships? Are you currently initiating change, or waiting for change to happen to you? ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#195
September 3 · 16 min
3 Questions Every Educator Should Ask About Technology
Technology has never been the goal. People always have been. In this episode, I revisit a blog post I originally wrote in 2018, years before AI became part of nearly every conversation in education. While the technology has changed dramatically, I believe the questions we should ask have remained remarkably consistent. Rather than debating whether technology or AI is "good" or "bad," I focus on three questions that can guide better decisions in classrooms, schools, and organizations: Is the way we are using technology building connections or severing them? Is it fostering deep learning, critical thinking, and creation, or simply encouraging surface-level engagement? Are we modeling the balance, curiosity, and human connection we hope to see in others? Technology accelerates whatever already exists. It can strengthen relationships or weaken them. It can deepen learning or simply make old practices faster. The real question isn't whether we should use technology. It's whether we're using it in ways that make us more human. I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments: Which of these three questions do you think schools overlook most often? Has AI changed how you think about meaningful learning? How do you ensure technology strengthens relationships instead of replacing them? What's one example of technology helping people become more connected in your school or organization? Read the original blog post here: https://georgecouros.com/using-technology-to-humanize-revisit/ If you enjoyed this conversation, please like the video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone passionate about meaningful learning, leadership, and innovation. ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#187
August 30 · 23 min
Purpose Over Screen Time - Dr. Karla Burkholder with TETL
What does effective technology leadership look like in K-12 education, especially at a time when schools face growing concerns about screen time, AI, online testing, and student technology use? In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros speaks with Dr. Karla Burkholder, Deputy Executive Director of Texas Educational Technology Leaders (TETL), about why purposeful technology use matters more than blanket restrictions or unlimited access. Dr. Burkholder shares how her classroom experience shaped her approach to technology leadership, from understanding why a one-minute login delay can create chaos in a classroom of first graders to recognizing that reliable systems, meaningful professional learning, and ongoing teacher support are essential. The conversation also explores the growing backlash against screen time and educational technology, including the influence of narratives that do not always reflect how technology is actually used in schools. George and Dr. Burkholder discuss the tension between efforts to limit student technology use and state requirements for online testing, as well as the need for education leaders to better communicate the difference between passive screen time and purposeful learning with technology. As Texas approaches another legislative session, Dr. Burkholder explains how TETL is working to advocate for a more accurate understanding of K-12 technology use. The discussion highlights why technology leaders must do more than manage devices and systems. They must lead through change, remain calm during uncertainty, think strategically, advocate for educators and students, and tell the story of what responsible technology use actually looks like in schools. Topics include: • Why classroom experience is a powerful foundation for technology leadership • The difference between purposeful technology use and passive screen time • How technology leaders can support teachers through reliable systems and training • Why leadership, resilience, and change management matter as much as technical expertise • The tension between online state testing and calls to reduce screen time • How schools can better advocate for responsible technology use • Why education leaders need to tell their story before others tell it for them George also challenges listeners to identify their three biggest takeaways from the conversation as a way to synthesize and retain their learning. ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#194
August 27 · 11 min
What AI Can't Replace - Discussing the Importance of Community and Deep Learning in the time of AI
What keeps people moving when the journey gets hard? In this episode of The Innovator's Mindset Podcast, George Couros reflects on a powerful video shared by Jay Shetty that captures marathon runners from above. Looking at the race from a distance, it becomes clear that every runner has a story. Every person cheering from the sidelines has a story as well. We rarely know what someone is carrying, yet we all have the opportunity to encourage one another. 🎥 Jay Shetty's video: https://www.instagram.com/p/DX1hIEYuIo6/?hl=en George also explores an insight shared by Canadian Olympian Sarah Wells, who notes that approximately 90 to 95 percent of marathon runners who start the race actually finish. While completing 26.2 miles is an incredible physical accomplishment, the deeper lesson is that people rarely finish alone. Community, encouragement, and shared purpose often make the difference between quitting and crossing the finish line. 🏃 Sarah Wells on marathon finishers: https://www.instagram.com/p/Da6XHynO3vz/?hl=en The conversation then shifts to artificial intelligence and learning. George shares how he recently spent more than three hours designing a single slide for an upcoming keynote at the Miami-Dade School Principals Conference. Shortly afterward, he heard someone proudly explain that AI had generated an entire keynote presentation in just 30 seconds. The question is not whether AI can save us time. It clearly can. The real question is this: What do we lose when we no longer wrestle with ideas, revise our thinking, and intentionally create our own work? Often, the learning happens during the process, not simply in the finished product. As George shares: "Deep learning is crucial, but our human relationships are what will guarantee that schools remain relevant for much longer than we can imagine." Whether we are running a marathon, leading a school, or designing meaningful learning experiences, lasting success is built on two foundations: strong relationships and thoughtful learning. Three Big Takeaways • Community helps people accomplish what they often could not achieve on their own. The finish line is rarely reached in isolation. • AI can accelerate production, but we should be careful not to outsource the thinking that helps us grow as learners and leaders. • Schools will continue to matter because they are built on human connection. Technology can support learning, but relationships give learning its purpose. Questions for Discussion Who has been part of your community that helped you keep going when you wanted to quit? How do you decide when AI is helping your thinking versus replacing it? What can educators and leaders do to build communities where people feel supported enough to do hard things? If this conversation challenged your thinking, please like the video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who believes that innovation, leadership, and meaningful learning always begin with strong relationships. ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#200
August 23 · 21 min
Teaching & Learning at the Center of Educational Leadership - Dr. Dawn Bridges & The IASA Conference
What happens when we put teaching and learning at the center of educational leadership? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Dawn Bridges, Associate Director of Professional Learning for the Illinois Association for School Administrators (IASA), to talk about the upcoming IASA 62nd Annual Conference, taking place September 30–October 2 in Springfield. Dawn and I talk about the conference, what school leaders can expect, and—more importantly—what makes a professional learning experience truly meaningful. We explore the idea that great leadership in education is grounded in doing everything we can to support teaching and learning in our classrooms. When leaders stay connected to the work of teaching and learning, they are better equipped to lead their schools. That same philosophy is at the heart of how Dawn approaches professional learning. The experiences we create for educators should look a lot like the experiences we want for students: engaging, relevant, personalized, conversational, and grounded in learning with and from others. With so many great things happening in Illinois schools, Dawn sees the conference as an opportunity for school leaders to learn from one another, personalize their experience around what they need, and have the kinds of conversations that can lead to new ideas and meaningful growth. Ultimately, Dawn's goal is for people to leave the conference better than when they arrived—and excited to come back because the experience was that valuable. We also talk about my upcoming keynote on October 1 and how the ideas behind the keynote connect to this larger conversation about leadership, learning, relationships, and moving education forward together. Learn more about my keynote: https://myemail.constantcontact.com/The-Wait-Is-Over--Meet-Our-Second-General-Session-Speaker.html?soid=1103777180704&aid=l7RLjHlb7PY Learn more about Dr. Dawn Bridges: https://www.iasaedu.org/about/iasa-staff Learn more about IASA Professional Learning: https://www.iasaedu.org/professional-development Learn more about the IASA 62nd Annual Conference: https://www.iasaedu.org/professional-development/iasa-annual-conference ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#190
August 20 · 10 min
Build Staff Strengths to Then Leverage Student Strengths - George Couros
Strong schools are built by recognizing strengths, not just fixing weaknesses. In this episode, I explore why the way we develop educators ultimately shapes the experiences of every student they serve. Inspired by a recent ISTE presentation from Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket on the importance of identifying and building student strengths, I ask a simple question: What if we approached our staff the same way? I share a story from The Innovator's Mindset about Ontario education headlines that focused almost entirely on declining math scores, while overlooking significant gains in literacy. Instead of only asking, "Why did math go down?" we should also have been asking, "What did we do so well in literacy, and how can we build on that success?" The same mindset applies to leadership. This isn't about ignoring areas for growth. Every educator, every student, and every organization has room to improve. But when we begin with strengths, people feel seen, valued, and capable. Those strengths become the foundation for meaningful growth, rather than improvement feeling like a constant effort to fix what's broken. When leaders intentionally build on their staff's strengths, those strengths ripple into classrooms, creating richer learning experiences and helping students discover and develop their unique gifts. In this episode, we discuss: • Why strengths-based leadership leads to stronger schools • The connection between staff growth and student success • What Ontario's literacy story can teach us about improvement • Why beginning with strengths increases trust, ownership, and motivation • How to address weaknesses without allowing them to define people Special thanks to Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket for the inspiration behind this conversation. Watch her video here: https://www.instagram.com/p/Dauzge3DRMn/ I'd love to hear your thoughts: How do you intentionally identify and build on the strengths of your staff? When have you seen a person's strengths create unexpected growth for others? How can schools create a culture where strengths become the starting point for improvement, not the finish line? If you enjoyed this conversation, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who believes great schools are built by developing great people. Check out "The Innovator's Mindset" where I have an entire chapter on Strengths-Based Leadership: https://a.co/d/0de51Bia Also, Innovate Inside the Box focuses on "5 Questions to Ask Your Students to Start the School Year": https://a.co/d/0j8cFTHs ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#193
August 16 · 16 min
Challenge, Community, and Student Potential - Anne Uberti and Frank Purcaro
What does it take to build a school culture where every student is challenged, valued, and inspired to reach their potential? In this episode of The Innovator's Mindset Podcast, George Couros sits down with Anne Uberti, Superintendent of Newtown Public Schools, and Frank Purcaro, Assistant Superintendent, to discuss the vision behind the district's upcoming Convocation Day and the beliefs that shape their work with students and staff. Together, they explore why meaningful learning often requires productive struggle, how educators can recognize the unique strengths of every learner, and why building a culture of high expectations starts with believing every student is capable of growth. The conversation also highlights Newtown's commitment to inquiry-based learning, Building Thinking Classrooms, and creating experiences that continue influencing educators long after a keynote ends. Drawing connections to George's book Forward, Together, the discussion reinforces a simple but powerful idea: every student deserves to know they are good at something, even if they are not all good at the same thing. When schools embrace challenge, relationships, and community, they create environments where both students and educators can thrive. Whether you're a teacher, principal, district leader, or anyone passionate about creating stronger school communities, this conversation offers practical insights into leadership, learning, and sustaining meaningful change. In this episode, you'll learn: Why challenge, not comfort, leads to deeper learning. How to help every student recognize and develop their unique strengths. What makes professional learning experiences create lasting impact. Why community partnerships strengthen school culture. How district leaders build a shared vision that extends beyond a single event. Reflection Questions How do you ensure every student experiences both challenge and success in your school? What professional learning experiences have stayed with you long after they ended, and why? How can schools create cultures where every learner is known for their strengths while still being pushed to grow? ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#185
August 13 · 8 min
Before you challenge people, do they know you have their back?
Great ideas are not always enough. In this episode of The Innovator's Mindset, I explore why building rapport matters before we challenge people, push their thinking, or introduce new ideas. I share a story from earlier in my career about someone who was truly ahead of their time. They had great ideas and saw possibilities that many others did not. But the way those ideas were communicated often felt condescending and dismissive. Instead of drawing people toward the ideas, the approach often pushed them away. That experience taught me something I have carried throughout my career: People want to know that if you are going to push them, you also have their back. This matters in leadership, professional development, speaking, teaching, and almost any situation where we are asking people to consider something new. Building rapport does not mean avoiding difficult conversations or lowering expectations. In fact, the opposite can be true. When people know that you care about them, respect their experience, and genuinely want them to succeed, you can often challenge them more. But if we push before building trust, even a great idea can be dismissed because of how it was delivered. Before asking people to move forward, we need to consider whether we have taken the time to connect with where they are right now. Questions for Discussion How does knowing that someone genuinely has your back affect your willingness to be challenged by them? What does it look like to build genuine rapport without avoiding difficult conversations or lowering expectations? Think of a time when a good idea was lost because of how it was communicated. What could have been done differently? ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#192
August 9 · 17 min
Innovation Begins with Relationships - West Ottawa Public Schools
What does it take to build a culture where innovation is expected, supported, and sustainable? In this episode of The Innovator's Mindset Podcast, George Couros is joined by Tim Bearden, Superintendent of West Ottawa Public Schools, and Todd Tulgestke, Associate Superintendent for Innovation & Secondary Instruction, to explore how their district developed an Instructional Compass that centers relationships in every learning experience. Rather than creating another initiative that sits on a shelf, West Ottawa spent a full year working alongside teachers and school leaders to design a shared instructional framework that emphasizes how students learn, not just what they learn. The result is a living document displayed in every classroom, revisited each year, and owned by the people who use it every day. The conversation also previews the district's upcoming opening day for more than 450 staff members, where the goal extends beyond professional learning. The hope is that every educator leaves feeling inspired, empowered, and trusted to innovate. As Tim and Todd explain, when teachers experience the same joy, autonomy, and sense of belonging that we want for students, meaningful change becomes possible. In this episode, you'll learn: Why relationships are the foundation of meaningful innovation. How to create instructional frameworks that teachers actually own. The difference between focusing on what we teach and how we teach. How collaborative design builds long-term commitment. Why giving educators permission to innovate is essential for student success. Practical leadership strategies for building a culture where creativity and trust thrive. If you're a superintendent, principal, instructional coach, or teacher leader looking to strengthen culture while improving instruction, this conversation offers practical ideas that can be implemented in any school or district. West Ottawa Public Schools Instructional Compass - https://www.westottawa.net/academics/instructional-compass/ ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#184
August 6 · 21 min
3 Lessons 4 Years After Starting Over - What is the life you want to create for yourself?
Read the full Substack post: https://georgecouros.substack.com/p/3-lessons-four-years-after-starting Subscribe to my Substack: https://georgecouros.substack.com/subscribe Four years ago, I packed up my minivan with my dogs, Cooper and Odom, and drove from Edmonton, Alberta, to a new life in Orlando, Florida. Starting over was exciting, terrifying, and ultimately transformative. In this solo episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, I share four lessons I have learned since making that move: how a fresh start can help you build a new version of yourself, why sometimes you have to leave to feel appreciated, how easy it is to overlook the opportunities already in front of us, and why you have to create the life you want rather than the one others think you should live. Whether you are navigating a new job, relationship, home, goal, or chapter of life, I hope these reflections remind you that change does not automatically create something better. You have to make it that way. Get your copy of “Forward, Together” here on Amazon! https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#191
August 2 · 20 min
Why Creative Risk Matters - From Legendary Producer Larry Kasanoff
What does it take to innovate when everyone else is playing it safe? In this episode of The Innovator's Mindset Podcast, George Couros sits down with legendary film producer Larry Kasanoff, author of A Touch of Madness, to explore why the biggest breakthroughs in film, business, and education often begin as ideas that others dismiss as impossible. Drawing from his experiences producing films like Platoon and Mortal Kombat, Larry shares why true innovation requires the courage to move away from the comfortable "middle" and pursue ideas that challenge conventional thinking. From listening to a sixth grader who changed an iconic movie character, to explaining why Blockbuster missed Netflix, this conversation is filled with practical lessons for leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to create meaningful change. George and Larry also explore what these ideas mean for education today. They discuss how schools can nurture creativity instead of compliance, why authentic learning matters more than simply earning grades, and how AI presents both opportunities and challenges for developing original thinkers. Whether you are leading a school, building a business, or simply trying to bring a new idea to life, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about risk, creativity, and innovation. In this episode, you'll learn: Why the safest path often leads to irrelevance How listening to your audience creates better ideas Why asking is one of the most powerful innovation strategies Lessons educators can learn from the film industry How creativity can be developed, protected, and encouraged The role of AI in authentic learning and creative work 📘 Get Larry Kasanoff's book, A Touch of Madness: How to Be More Innovative in Work and Life... by Being a Little Crazy: https://a.co/d/07N0isaK Reflection Questions Are you encouraging innovation, or rewarding people for playing it safe? How can you create an environment where creative risk-taking is valued? What opportunity have you assumed was impossible simply because you never asked? ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#168
July 30 · 18 min
3 Ideas That Turn Professional Learning Into Something Valuable
What makes professional learning actually valuable for educators? In this episode, I reflect on a recent keynote with nearly 400 school and district leaders in Pinellas County and share three powerful ideas that can transform professional learning experiences for teachers, principals, and leadership teams. Drawing from themes in my book Forward, Together, this conversation explores how leaders can create learning experiences where people feel seen, heard, appreciated, and challenged to grow. In this podcast, we discuss: • Why educators need professional learning that feels relevant and personalized • The importance of helping people “see themselves in the story” • How humor and authenticity build stronger connections in leadership • The “Warm Bath, Cold Shower” approach to leadership and growth • Why people are more open to challenge when they know you genuinely care • How school leaders can create better cultures for learning and innovation • Practical strategies for making PD more meaningful and impactful Whether you are a teacher, principal, superintendent, instructional coach, or district leader, this episode shares actionable ideas to improve professional learning, leadership development, and school culture. If you are looking for ways to improve staff engagement, build trust, encourage innovation, and create more meaningful learning experiences in schools, this conversation is for you. 3 Questions for Consideration: How can school leaders create professional learning experiences where educators feel both supported and challenged to grow? What strategies help teachers and staff feel seen, heard, and valued during professional development? How can districts make professional learning more relevant, personalized, and impactful for educators? Signed Copies of Forward Together: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/JEY8PVRZ6PUJS Link to Newsletter: https://us12.campaign-archive.com/?u=9381017234135a9c6d5f7419a&id=f6260d0fce Forward Together: https://a.co/d/011l40jv ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: Twitter: https://twitter.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#186
July 26 · 26 min
Model the Learning, Lead the Change - Haven Schools CEO, Brittany Lewis
What does it look like when a CEO models the same learning, risk-taking, and growth she hopes to see throughout her organization? In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros speaks with Brittany Lewis, CEO of Haven Schools, about creating a culture where high expectations for students are matched by a willingness to keep learning and improving as adults. Brittany shares how her own visibility as a learner matters. Rather than asking others to take risks from the sidelines, she puts herself up front, tries new things, and demonstrates that growth requires a willingness to be vulnerable, reflect, and improve. Her example helps create the conditions for staff to take risks in their own learning and find better ways to serve students. The conversation also explores an important question about change: Do we initiate change, or do we wait for change to happen to us? When we take an active role in creating change, we are better positioned to shape what comes next instead of simply reacting to it. This episode is a conversation about high expectations, leadership, organizational learning, risk-taking, and the power of modeling the growth we hope to see in others. Learn more about Haven Schools. Questions for Reflection: How do leaders model the learning and risk-taking they hope to see in others? How can high expectations for students be matched by high expectations for adult learning and growth? Where might we initiate change instead of waiting for change to happen to us? ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/
#178
July 23 · 13 min
The Power of Proving The People Who Support You Right! - George Couros
Have you ever found yourself spending more energy focused on critics than on the people who have supported you all along? In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros explores a powerful shift in perspective: moving from the desire to prove doubters wrong to the commitment to prove believers right. Inspired by a comment from NBA player Jared McCain, George reflects on how encouragement from one educational leader changed the trajectory of his career and why the people who believe in us often deserve more of our attention than the people who don't. Through personal stories, lessons from leadership, and reflections on gratitude, purpose, and growth, this conversation explores a different kind of motivation, one rooted in honoring opportunity rather than responding to criticism. Whether you're an educator, leader, parent, or someone navigating a challenging season, this episode is a reminder to recognize those who have invested in you and to use that belief as fuel for growth. Questions for Reflection and Conversation: When facing criticism or setbacks, do you spend more time focused on proving doubters wrong or proving supporters right? Who are the people who believed in you during a pivotal moment in your life, and how has their support influenced your journey? How might your mindset, work, or leadership change if gratitude toward your supporters became a greater source of motivation than criticism from others? ___________ 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset 🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com 🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros Follow George Couros: X: https://x.com/gcouros Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgecourosauthor/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/george-couros-a5146519 📚 Books by George Couros: Forward, Together: https://a.co/d/99RGvl3 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?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20 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 Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/

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