In this heartfelt episode, George Couros reflects on the profound impact that moving has had on his family and the deep appreciation he feels for his parents’ journey to build a new life. He shares how this milestone has reshaped his perspective on belonging, gratitude, and opportunity. George recounts a moment at customs watching new citizens celebrate, the pride that filled the room, and what it stirred in him about identity and family roots. He also opens up about why he records personal messages for his children, the values he hopes to pass on, and how honoring his parents’ story continues to guide his work and purpose today.

In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros sits down with Superintendent Thomas J. Colabufo of Central Square Central School District, a longtime educator and leader with more than 20 years of experience. Colabufo, who began his career as a social studies teacher and later served as a principal before becoming superintendent, shares how a curriculum-first approach combined with AI tools like 4EDU is transforming teaching and learning. He discusses how AI can help personalize instruction, streamline grading and planning, and speed up feedback while keeping teachers at the center of the learning process. Drawing on his background in educational leadership and his hands-on experience in classrooms, Colabufo also offers practical leadership advice for balancing technology with strong curriculum design. This conversation provides educators with a clear and responsible roadmap for using AI to deepen learning without replacing the essential human connection between teachers and students.   ___________     👉 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: 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/

George Couros reflects on how social media algorithms can trap us in echo chambers and why the real growth happens when we engage with those who disagree. Drawing inspiration from a TikTok moment and his own experiences as an educator and leader, George explores how resistance, not agreement, often drives the most meaningful progress. Through stories about hiring colleagues who challenge ideas, involving skeptical parents in professional learning, and amplifying the voices of disengaged students, he shows how listening with empathy can turn critics into collaborators. The episode invites educators to move beyond affirmation and toward shared understanding—a key theme in his upcoming book, Forward, Together: Moving Schools from Conflict to Community in Contentious Times.   ___________     👉 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: 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/

In this special episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros and Dave Burgess celebrate the 10-year anniversary of George’s first book, The Innovator’s Mindset. They reflect on how the book has influenced education around the world, the lessons George has learned over the past decade, and why its message continues to resonate with educators today.   This heartfelt conversation also offers a glimpse into George and Dave’s friendship, the story behind the book’s creation, and the enduring power of ideas that inspire meaningful change in schools and communities everywhere.   You can get your copy here! https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=0986155497&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin   ___________     👉 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: 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/    

You can pick up a copy of "The Innovator's Mindset" here on Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=0986155497&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin   In this special 10-year anniversary episode of the book, "The Innovator's Mindset," George Couros reflects on the lasting impact of the the book for himself personally and how writing it transformed his life and career. He shares behind-the-scenes stories about publishing the book, lessons learned from rejection and risk-taking, and three timeless ideas that still guide his work today: mastering the basics, focusing on better not just new, and doing less but deeper.   George also explores how authenticity, adaptability, and gratitude have shaped his journey as an educator and author.

In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros sits down with Dr. Lynn Moody, education leader and founder of NCSpark, to explore how schools can innovate within the constraints of the system while creating transformative opportunities for students. Together, they discuss:• How NCSpark is reimagining learning experiences to better serve students and communities• The importance of “innovating inside the box” by using constraints as a springboard for creativity• Practical strategies for leveraging technology and AI to free up teachers’ time for deeper conversations with students• How to design schools that prioritize curiosity, well-being, and personal growth over standardization This powerful conversation will inspire educators and leaders to see challenges as opportunities, push past traditional limits, and create better learning environments for every student. 📚 Books by George Couros:The Innovator’s Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739 🎧 Listen to more episodes of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast:https://linktr.ee/gcouros   ___________     👉 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: 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/

On this episode, I share a personal story that started with a tough run in the Florida sun and ended with an unexpected reminder about resilience, quitting, and the power of kind words.   Too often, we hear that quitting is always failure. But what if quitting today means protecting your long-term well-being so you can keep going tomorrow? I explore the fine line between resilience and recklessness, with examples from exercise, careers, and relationships.   This reflection connects to one of the most important lessons in education and leadership: a single interaction can change someone’s trajectory. Sometimes that means helping them keep going, other times it means helping them step away.   Either way, a kind word can plant a seed that grows into something remarkable.   Referenced in this episode: My book Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzgeorge0f-20&creativeASIN=194833433X&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2SBTFVTBT0S6X&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin   Original blog post “Resilience and Risk”:   https://georgecouros.com/resilience-and-risk/

George Couros (https://georgecouros.com) sits down with Don Wotruba, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of School Boards (https://www.masb.org), for an inspiring conversation on the future of education. Together, they explore practical strategies for innovation: building digital student portfolios, curating a positive online presence, engaging families, and balancing foundational skills with character development. They delve deeply into how AI is transforming learning and leadership, why educators should model curiosity by learning new tools first, and how schools can take proactive steps to create meaningful and lasting change. This episode also looks ahead to the MASB Annual Leadership Conference (https://www.masb.org/learning/upcoming-events/annual-leadership-conference/), where George will deliver the keynote address. The conference brings together school board members, superintendents, and education leaders from across Michigan to collaborate, learn, and shape the future of education. If you’re attending, this episode is the perfect primer to get you thinking about how innovation, relationships, and vision can work together to serve students. 🎧 Listen and Subscribe: Podbean: https://georgecouros.podbean.com Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-innovators-mindset-podcast/id1206100604 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2QXo3uA1F0HLOpXKk8LgUM YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GeorgeCouros     ___________     👉 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: 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/

George Couros reads a powerful passage from "The Pivot Year" by Brianna Wiest and reflects on the choices and sacrifices we all make when pursuing our goals. He shares personal stories—from missing moments with family to starting piano lessons at 49—to illustrate how every “yes” comes with a “no,” and why being intentional is crucial. Instead of dwelling on regret, George encourages listeners to live with purpose today: rebuild relationships, pursue postponed dreams, and remember that it’s never too late to begin again. 🎧 Listen now and start designing a life that feels meaningful, not just busy. 🔗 Links & Resources: 📖 The Pivot Year by Brianna Wiest: https://www.amazon.com/Pivot-Year-Brianna-Wiest/dp/1949759628 Amazon 📰 Subscribe to my weekly newsletter: https://georgecouros.com/about-me/email/ George Couros+1 📚 Check out my books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/George-Couros/author/B0192TISQ0 🎙️ Subscribe to The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-innovators-mindset-podcast/id1212095816 💬 Connect with me: • Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/gcouros • Instagram: https://instagram.com/gcouros • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgecouros/

In this episode, George Couros sits down with Dr. Jennifer Prince and Dr. Sara Najarro from Glendora Unified School District to explore how the district is transforming teaching and learning through “best first instruction,” MTSS, and the Educator Effectiveness Academy. Discover how ongoing professional learning, restorative practices, and the science of reading are empowering teachers to create stronger classroom communities and actionable strategies that work. You’ll also get a sneak peek into the upcoming October 13 event, where George will collaborate with staff to model practical approaches, celebrate teacher strengths, and foster cross-grade and cross-department collaboration. This episode is perfect for educators and leaders looking to align systems, support teachers, and build a culture where every student thrives.   ___________     👉 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: 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/

In this solo episode, George Couros reflects on how technology can shape who we are and how we connect with others. Drawing on his keynote for the Florida Association of Educational Data Systems (FAEDS) and his own journey from being anti-technology to embracing thoughtful use, George shares three powerful ways educators and leaders can shape technology intentionally: Elevate Communities: Use technology to build connection and share stories that bring schools and families closer together. Stoke Curiosity: Go beyond surface-level information and foster deep thinking and understanding. Support Well-Being: Design tech use to improve mental health, not add stress. George explores how tools like social media and notifications affect our behavior, why intentionality is key, and how we can choose to shape our tech use rather than let it shape us. 🎧 Listen now: https://mailchi.mp/georgecouros/shaping-tech-usage-15555690

In this episode, radio and media personality Lady Jade (@IamLadyJade) shares her inspiring journey from a 19-year radio career to becoming a sought-after host, keynote speaker, and real estate investor. She reflects on the powerful influence of educators, the importance of kindness and mentorship, and why financial fluency should be a priority in schools. Lady Jade also opens up about the challenges of caring for a parent with dementia, encouraging listeners to embrace life's pivots, seek mentors, and use their gifts to uplift others.   Please connect with Lady Jade on Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/iamladyjade   ___________     👉 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: 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/

In this short solo episode, George Couros explores the power of listening in education. He shares a personal story from his experience as a basketball referee to illustrate how constant talking can become noise, and then explains how thoughtful questions help students discover and own their own perspectives.   When we use our voice sparingly, listen with intention, and create space for authentic student expression, our words eventually carry more weight.

In this episode of the #InnovatorsMindset, George Couros speaks with Eric, a high school English teacher from Brunswick Schools (Maine), who shares his journey from dropping out of high school to earning a master’s in creative writing and becoming an educator. Eric describes his new approach, “critical lens learning,” which provides students with practical lenses and domain-specific vocabulary to examine texts, develop critical thinking, and take ownership of their learning. They discuss real examples: using primary sources, composition modes, and professional perspectives to engage different learner types (Resistor, Passenger, Achiever, Explorer from The Disengaged Teen) as detailed in the book: https://www.thedisengagedteen.com/ , highlighting classroom strategies that empower students, foster curiosity, and are immediately actionable by teachers.     👉 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: 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/

In this episode, George Couros shares a personal story from his early days as a college basketball official when he made a clear bad call. Instead of hiding it, he admitted the mistake on the spot, changing the tone of the game and earning unexpected respect. George connects this moment to leadership in schools, classrooms, and even parenting. Admitting mistakes is not a sign of weakness, it is a way to build credibility, create space for growth, and foster deeper trust. Explore why vulnerability is essential for effective leadership and how modeling humility can transform relationships in education and beyond.   Referenced post: Vulnerable Leadership: https://georgecouros.com/vulnerable-leadership/   👉 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: 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

Join us October 15, 2025, at the R2i2 Conference Center in Columbia, South Carolina, for the Learning Forward South Carolina Annual Conference, titled Navigating What’s Possible.  https://events.humanitix.com/learning-forward-sc-annual-conference In this episode, George Couros speaks with Jason Fulmer and Angie Rye about the conference’s focus on innovative, personalized professional learning and the opportunity to highlight South Carolina schools that are finding practical solutions under real constraints. They discuss the theme "Navigating What's Possible," a push for innovative, personalized professional learning, and the importance of showcasing South Carolina schools that have found practical solutions under real constraints.   Attendees can look forward to meaningful networking, actionable strategies to implement immediately, dynamic breakout sessions, school showcase presentations from local schools defying the odds, and a featured keynote by George Couros, the internationally recognized educator and author known for his work in innovation and learner-centered leadership. This event is designed for educators at every level seeking inspiration, fresh perspectives, and the opportunity to build lasting professional learning networks that support leadership, classroom success, and student growth. You can learn more and register at the full link:https://events.humanitix.com/learning-forward-sc-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: 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: 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/

George Couros reflects on his summer speaking tour and the renewed energy he witnessed among educators heading into a new school year.   He shares how vulnerability, openness to growth, and a superintendent’s example of embracing feedback set the tone for stronger communities.   The conversation highlights the importance of balancing innovation with core fundamentals like literacy, numeracy, and character, and explores how relationships and connection remain central to meaningful learning.    

In this episode, Michele Asher, former special education teacher and now senior education consultant at Primrose Schools, shares her journey of supporting children with intense behaviors, influenced by her own family experiences. She explains how shifting from blame to skill-building helps children develop accountability, repair relationships, and gain the skills they do not yet have. Michele also highlights the critical role of educator wellness, from moving your body and getting outside to taking small breaks that reset focus. She discusses why listening deeply, pausing before reacting, and holding people accountable can create stronger and more compassionate classrooms. Follow Michele on Instagram for more insights and inspiration: @michele.m.asher     __________________________________________   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/

In this reflective solo episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros explores a vital yet often overlooked leadership skill: listening with intention. He shares how truly understanding where someone is—their personal "point A"—is the first step to helping them grow. Without that clarity, we cannot support their journey to "point B." George unpacks three key leadership lessons: Listen to understand, not just to reply – If everyone is talking, who is truly listening? Make others feel safe and valued - Especially during moments like job interviews or first meetings. Shine a light on others -  Elevating someone else’s work never diminishes your own impact. Whether you're a school leader, educator, or simply someone who wants to build more meaningful relationships, this episode will help you reflect on how to lead better by listening better. 🎧 Discover why creating space for others can be the most transformative move you make as a leader.     __________________________________________   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/

In this episode, host George Couros talks with Sheriffee Humphrey, principal of Renaissance Charter School at Plantation, about his journey from fundraising and teaching to leading a Title I K-8 charter school. Sheriffee shares how his 20 years in education, from Social Studies classrooms to adult education and administration, shaped his belief that every student can thrive with the right support. The conversation highlights how relationships, kindness, resilience, clear communication, and staff buy-in build a strong school culture. Sheriffee also reflects on lessons from Dale Carnegie and past careers that continue to influence his leadership style. With practical strategies, personal stories, and even a fun Buffalo Bills chat, this episode offers educators and leaders a grounded playbook for creating meaningful, lasting impact in their schools and communities. Learn more about Sheriffee Here: https://www.fasa.net/contacts/sheriffee-humphrey   __________________________________________   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/