Today on the podcast, Brendan and Rob talk PD and what it really means in practice in a counsellor centred school. They explore how genuine professional development grows from what’s needed in the community, where learning is shared, reflective, and constantly evolving. A PD where meaning sits at the centre — not metrics or checklists. When everyone supports each other’s growth, goals become more fluid, evaluation more personal, and all experience becomes transferable. It’s about learning as a living process: collective, adaptive, and completely meaningful. Let us know what you think!

In today’s episode, I sit down with Michelle Auton, educator, speaker, and author of the powerful book What Happy Teachers Do. We dive into her simple yet transformative three-step self-care system designed to help teachers stay calm in class, maintain work–life balance, and reignite their passion for teaching. Whether you're a first-year teacher or a seasoned pro, Michelle’s insights are a breath of fresh air in a demanding profession. Tune in to learn how to stay grounded, energized, and—yes—happy in the classroom. We highly recommend that you check out Michelle's site for link to the book and resources to help you on your journey to becominG a happier teacher!

Daphne Wallbridge works with new principals stepping into leadership.An educator, superintendent, author, and speaker, Daphne brings practical insight into what it means to lead with awareness, manage ego without losing confidence, and share vulnerably without oversharing. Essential listening for anyone navigating the early years of school leadership. We highly encourage you to check out Daphne's 2 books: -The First Year Principal: 52 Practical Lessons to Help New PrincipalsThrive as Conscious Leaders -Beyond the First-Year Principal: 23 Powerful Lessons for the Conscious Leader   Check out Daphne's online supportive intiative The Principal's Collective     

On today’s episode of the Reinventing Education, Brendan sits down with Craig Randall, educator, author, and creator of the Trust-Based Observations (TBO) model. Craig shares how TBO replaces judgment and anxiety with trust, reflection, and meaningful growth—helping teachers feel safe to take risks, innovate, and truly improve. We dive into how short, frequent, conversation-based observations offer a more supportive and sustainable alternative to traditional evaluation models. If you’re an educator or school leader looking for a more human, more effective approach to professional growth, this one’s for you. You can find Craig here. https://trustbased.com/  

Middle school doesn’t have to be a phase we just survive, it can be a transformative, exciting journey.In this episode, we reconnect with Chris Balme, author of Challenge Accepted: 50 Adventures to Make Middle School Awesome, about reimagining these years as a time for real-world exploration and growth.Chris reveals why middle schoolers are underrated and how the right challenges can unlock their courage, curiosity, and confidence. An appreciated perspective on one of life’s most pivotal stages. Challenge Accepted on KickstarterChris Balme on Substack

"The Three Types of Schools: Who’s Right About What Makes a ‘Good’ Education?" In this episode our guests are from The Community Connection podcast.Hosts Nathaniel Provencio and Dr. Eric Worcester, along with our own Brendan O'Leary explore the three dominant school models—Expert, Coach, and Counselor.Each has its own take on what makes a good education and how schools should operate. Join us as we unpack their competing priorities, where they clash, and how they might actually complement each other. Listen to the Community Connection Podcast On Spotify Watch the Community Connection Podcast on YouTube Follow Nate Provencio's work on Instagram

Culture First Classrooms: Leadership, Relationships, and Practices that Transform Schools In this episode, we're joined by author, speaker and "recovering high school principal" Dr. Darrin Peppard, to talk about Culture First Classrooms. Creating a positive classroom culture is both an art and a science—and Darrin shares practical strategies and powerful stories that show how it’s done. In his book, he shares examples of how to set and maintain expectations—covering everything from seating arrangements and modeling behaviors to creating daily routines that build relationships and set a positive tone. Dig into Darrin’s work here. Get a copy of Culture First Classrooms  Get a signed copy of Culture First Classrooms

This week, we sit down with Erica Saccoccio, host of The Childcare Director’s Chair podcast and YouTube channel. A seasoned early years educator, Erica currently runs several childcare centres and brings a wealth of experience to the table. We explore what makes an outstanding Early Years (EY) program, as Erica shares her vision for nurturing environments that grow alongside child development. She highlights the kind of educators who bring that vision to life—reliable, team-oriented, and full of heart. We also dig into the tough stuff—why it’s hard for parents to leave their kids (and how to make that transition easier), how to truly assess whether an EY program is effective, and what mentorship really looks like in this field. Plus, we talk about avoiding leadership burnout and navigating conversations with parents, whether their expectations lean progressive, traditional, or somewhere in between. This is a super practical, down-to-earth conversation for anyone involved in early childhood education—or just curious about what it really takes to do it well. You can find Erica's podcast and youtube channel here https://www.youtube.com/@childcaredirectorschair690 https://childcaredirectorschair.buzzsprout.com/ They are very much worth checking out!

Dr. Joey Weisler dives into the impact of trauma in our education system. We’ll explore the role of educators—what it is, what it isn’t—and the important distinction between your classroom being a therapeutic environment versus trying to provide therapy for students. Connect with Dr. Joseph WeislerWebsite Linkedin Social media handles--instagram @classroomnarratives and @throneintheclassroom.  Listen to his Classroom Narratives podcast here or watch the latest short for "The Throne in the Classroom" series here.    Receive Joey’s Trauma informed handout for educators here. Here are the episodes that Joey referenced in our discussion: School mental health counselor Monica Langer Music educator Jen Rafferty, breaking down the "superhero narrative"  National Council of English Teachers trauma scholar Dr. Adam Wolfsdorf

Your school has 4 dimensions: the organizational, relational, actionable and personal.You and everyone there, focuses on one more than the others. Too often we think about improving one dimension of school without considering the interconnected others.In this episode we'll explore how to use the 4 dimensions tool can:-help you define and solve problems-communicate more effectively with others

In this episode of Reinventing Education, Rob and Brendan explore the impact of flattening hierarchies in schools, focusing on a counselor-centered approach where all voices are equal. They discuss the benefits of shared responsibility in student-led inquiries and the fluidity of roles, but also examine challenges like uneven workload and lack of oversight. Tune in for a lively debate on this bold shift in education.

In this episode, hosts Rob and Brendan explore a counselor-centered approach to education, where hierarchy is flattened and staff function as peers rather than authority figures. This creates a school environment rooted in authenticity, empathy, and shared responsibility. They discuss how educators can promote emotional well-being and personal growth by shifting away from traditional roles and embracing a more collaborative, supportive approach. By doing so, schools can meet the deeper needs of both students and staff, fostering self-actualization and genuine connection within the community.

If you only listen to one episode of our podcast, make it this one. It is a summary of what we're all about. In this episode, we unpack the three distinct roles that a school can have for a student. Schools either serve students as their expert, coach or counsellor. Each type organizes differently and has a different kind of culture. However, most schools are an unintentional mix of all 3 which fails to fulfill passionate educators. We'll explore how to spot your type, your school's type and identify misalignment. You'll understand why one approach isn't universally "best"—as it depends on context. We'll try and make school make more sense. 

In this episode of the Reinventing Education Podcast, hosts Rob and Brendan dive into a pressing topic at the center of political debates around the world: should there be a dedicated Department of Education Management at the government level? This idea raises complex questions about how we oversee, fund, and guide education systems. Rob and Brendan examine both the potential benefits and the significant challenges of such a department. They explore whether centralized oversight could lead to greater equity, innovation, and accountability in education or whether it risks creating excessive bureaucracy and eroding local autonomy. Drawing on examples from countries like Belgium, Japan, the USA, the UK, and others, they highlight how different nations approach the balance between national control and local flexibility in their education systems. The conversation also tackles broader questions: to what extent should education policies be driven at a national level versus being tailored to regional or even school-specific needs? What can we learn from other countries’ successes and failures in managing their education systems? And ultimately, does centralizing educational governance provide more solutions or more problems? Whether you're an educator, policymaker, student, parent, or just curious about the future of education, this episode will give you plenty to think about. We’d love to hear your thoughts—join the conversation by emailing us at reinventingeducationpodcast@gmail.com.

In this episode of the Reinventing Education Podcast, Rob & Brendan dive into the transformative role of the Counselor Principal within progressive, sociocratic, or counselor-centered schools. Unlike the traditional hierarchy of the expert-led "pyramid" model or the managerial "star" approach of a coach principal, the counselor principal thrives in a flattened hierarchy where collaboration and shared responsibility take center stage. Discover how this role focuses on facilitation over authority, fostering relationships, empowering teachers and students, and cultivating a supportive, inclusive school culture. We’ll explore how the counselor principal promotes participatory decision-making, emotional well-being, and collective leadership to create a truly community-driven educational environment. Tune in to learn how this innovative approach challenges conventional models and redefines what leadership can look like in today’s schools.

Today, Rob and Brendan hit pause on our exploration of the counselor-centered school to dive into some eye-opening headlines about the current state of teacher attrition. Following up on our previous discussion about the teacher shortage, we turn our attention to a recent article that sheds light on why so many educators are leaving the profession. We’ll explore compelling stories, including that of Paul, a former graphic designer who transitioned to teaching with virtually no experience after being hired on the fast track. How did he find himself in a classroom so quickly? What does this mean for the future of education? Join us as we dissect these pressing issues, share insights, and consider what innovative solutions might help reshape the education landscape. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that goes beyond the headlines to uncover the realities of teaching today!

Today, Rob and Brendan dive into the counselor-centered approach to libraries and P.E. spaces. In P.E. there is a move toward treating these parts of the school as flexible, community-driven areas that explore and embrace a range of approaches to physical health. We’ll look at how these spaces are shaped by the ongoing needs of students and their communities. The same goes for libraries, which, in a counsellor centred school, evolve into dynamic hubs that connect students with their local communities. Whether it’s hosting workshops, collaborative projects, or student-led initiatives, libraries in a counsellor centered school are more than just places to read—they're the heart of student-driven, real-world learning. But with all this flexibility, what happens when there’s no consistency? No regular practice for your team? No quiet time for study? Does the freedom outweigh the confusion? We’re talking about the pros, cons, and everything in between. Get ready for a conversation that’s as flexible as the spaces we’re discussing!

Welcome! Today Rob and Brendan dive into the knotty topic of the four-day school week. Countries like Belgium and various states in the U.S. are trying it out for reasons such as reducing operational costs, combating teacher burnout, and offering students more time for family activities. Why is this shift happening, and what are the potential drawbacks? And—dare we say—could there be some surprising benefits? Join us for an insightful discussion that explores the changing landscape of education. Don't miss it!

How do counselor schools approach shared spaces like gymnasiums and lunchrooms? At first glance, it might seem like a minor issue, but move one piece, and the whole system shifts. If the counselor classroom is built on the idea of negotiating learning time, then shared spaces in schools must also be negotiated by everyone involved. Suddenly, we realize these spaces can adapt to fit the needs of the people, instead of forcing people to adapt to the space.

In today’s episode, we explore the counselor-centered approach to schools, focusing on how this method reshapes education by designing learning spaces that foster freedom, choice, and inquiry. We’ll discuss how this approach unites environments to support both personal and academic growth while also addressing some of the challenges it introduces. Join us as we dive into the importance of creating a more dynamic and supportive education system.