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School Business Insider

John Brucato

84 episodes

1 day ago

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with members of ASBO International’s Legislative Advocacy Committee (LAC) — Brandy Smith (Montoursville Area School District, PA), Erik Roush (Columbus City Schools, OH), Chris Smith (Katy ISD, TX), and Brian Cechnicki (ASBO New York). Together, they reflect on the 2025 Legislative Advocacy Conference and share why advocacy at the federal level is essential for protecting school funding and supporting students. From Hill ...

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All content for School Business Insider is the property of John Brucato and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with members of ASBO International’s Legislative Advocacy Committee (LAC) — Brandy Smith (Montoursville Area School District, PA), Erik Roush (Columbus City Schools, OH), Chris Smith (Katy ISD, TX), and Brian Cechnicki (ASBO New York). Together, they reflect on the 2025 Legislative Advocacy Conference and share why advocacy at the federal level is essential for protecting school funding and supporting students. From Hill ...

Show more...

Episodes (20/84)

School Business Insider

Making a Difference in Washington: Reflections from ASBO’s Advocacy Leaders

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with members of ASBO International’s Legislative Advocacy Committee (LAC) — Brandy Smith (Montoursville Area School District, PA), Erik Roush (Columbus City Schools, OH), Chris Smith (Katy ISD, TX), and Brian Cechnicki (ASBO New York). Together, they reflect on the 2025 Legislative Advocacy Conference and share why advocacy at the federal level is essential for protecting school funding and supporting students. From Hill ...

1 week ago

42 minutes

School Business Insider

Speak Like a Human, Prompt Like a Pro

Aziz Aghayev, CEO of Flowlyst, returns to School Business Insider to go deeper on AI strategies for school business officials. In this episode, we unpack prompt engineering best practices, custom GPT creation, and Aziz’s six-phase model for AI adoption. You’ll learn how to turn your thoughts into powerful, structured prompts and create your own GPTs to automate repetitive, time-consuming tasks—like policy research, board minutes, and transportation questions. Whether you're using AI to refine...

2 weeks ago

44 minutes

School Business Insider

From Mustard Seeds to Milestones: Trust, Leadership, and Budgeting in Texas Schools

In this episode of School Business Insider, we head to the Lone Star State for an honest and engaging conversation with Dr. Tracy Ginsburg, Executive Director of TASBO, and Heather Wilson, TASBO Board President and Assistant Superintendent of College Station ISD. Heather shares her experience transitioning to a new district after nearly two decades in her previous role—discussing what it takes to build culture, relationships, and trust from day one. Tracy reflects on TASBO’s role in supportin...

3 weeks ago

42 minutes

School Business Insider

Ready, Set, School: SBO Strategies for a Smooth Fall Start

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with Howie Barber, Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations at Old Rochester Regional and MA Supervisory Union #55 in Massachusetts, to walk through the essential steps school business officials should take before students return to class. From finalizing capital projects and updating safety plans to managing last-minute staffing and food service readiness, Howie shares his detailed approach to a successful sch...

4 weeks ago

50 minutes

School Business Insider

So You Want to Start a Podcast? A Roadmap for School Business Affiliates

In this special episode of School Business Insider, we’re sharing a recorded webinar presented by ASBO New York and ASBO International’s affiliate staff planning group. Host Amanda Wing leads a candid conversation with John Brucato—Assistant Superintendent, podcast host, and ASBO New York President-elect, about how to start a podcast from scratch, even when you're busy and budget-conscious. You’ll learn: How to pick your podcast format and frequencyEssential recording gear (on a budget)How to...

1 month ago

1 hour

School Business Insider

Reflect and Lead: Ron Clamser’s Journey with ASBO New York

In this episode of School Business Insider, John Brucato sits down with Dr. Ron Clamser, Assistant Superintendent for Business at PNW BOCES and current President of ASBO New York. They explore Ron’s 18-year journey in volunteer leadership, from his early advocacy work to helping revamp ASBO NY’s strategic direction. Ron shares his “reflect” theme for the year, the importance of balancing service with a demanding career, and how the organization is refocusing on member engagement. Whether you’...

1 month ago

37 minutes

School Business Insider

Supreme Decisions: How the High Court Is Shaping Public Education

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Sonja H. Trainor, Executive Director of the National School Attorneys Association, for a timely conversation about the U.S. Supreme Court’s major rulings and what they mean for school leaders. From religious objections to curriculum (Mahmoud v. Taylor) to transgender rights and medical procedures (U.S. v. Skrmetti), and from charter school governance (Drummond v. OK) to E-Rate funding’s uncertain future, this episode c...

1 month ago

48 minutes

School Business Insider

The Foundations of SBO Success: Career Starts & Disaster Preparedness

Join host John Brucato and Maria Parry, retired SBA from Monmouth Regional High School (NJ), as they explore essential advice for those new to the school business field and those aiming to safeguard their district from disaster. Drawing from her School Business Now articles on career setup and disaster planning, Maria provides actionable insights—from résumé-risk mitigation to vendor planning—that every SBO needs. Perfect for both emerging and seasoned professionals looking to strengthen thei...

1 month ago

35 minutes

School Business Insider

Roadmap to Sustainable Schools: Finance, Operations & Environmental Stewardship

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato speaks with Chris Wildman, Assistant Superintendent for Finance at Grayslake CCSD 46 in Illinois. Chris shares how his district launched a robust sustainability program—including composting, solar, paper use reduction, and strategic planning—all while delivering financial savings and engaging stakeholders. Drawn from Chris’s June 2025 School Business Now article, this episode offers a roadmap for SBOs to start or scale sustainable ...

2 months ago

38 minutes

School Business Insider

From Rejection to Renewal: A School Business Journey in Trust & Transparency

In this solo episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato reflects on a remarkable transformation in his district—from the failure of a $36 million bond in 2018 to the successful completion of a $27 million capital project in 2024. With no tax increase and overwhelming community support, this journey was built on trust, transparency, and thoughtful planning. John shares actionable lessons in stakeholder engagement, strategic communication, and financial stewardship that helped restor...

2 months ago

44 minutes

School Business Insider

Helpful or Harmful? The Promise and Pitfalls of AI for CFOs and SBOs

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with Mary Ellen Normen, a retired school business official blazing new trails in the world of artificial intelligence. With presentations at ASBO and AASA conferences and a widely-read article on AI in school business, Mary Ellen unpacks how SBOs can use AI tools for budgeting, facilities, communications, and strategic planning. From ethical guardrails to getting started with your first AI prompt, this episode is a practi...

2 months ago

45 minutes

School Business Insider

Breaking the Silence: Addressing Mental Health Among School Business Officials

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato engages in a heartfelt conversation with Peter Bard, CFO of East Stroudsburg Area School District. Peter shares his personal experiences with mental health challenges, the impact on his professional life, and his journey towards healing and advocacy. This discussion sheds light on the importance of mental well-being in the high-stakes world of school business leadership and offers insights into creating supportive environments for ...

2 months ago

46 minutes

School Business Insider

Empowering the Next Generation: Insights from ASBO's Emerging Leaders

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato speaks with Brandy N. Smith, PCSBA, and Baillie M. Nash, SFO, recent recipients of the ASBO International Emerging Leaders Scholarship. They discuss their career journeys, the impact of the scholarship on their professional development, and the importance of networking in the field of school business. This conversation offers valuable insights for aspiring school business officials and those looking to support emerging leaders in t...

3 months ago

33 minutes

School Business Insider

Mentorship Matters: Cheryl Campbell on Nurturing School Business Leaders

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato engages in a compelling conversation with Cheryl Campbell, Chief Operating Officer at Thomas Tallis School in London and a leading advocate for mentorship in the school business profession. Cheryl shares her personal journey, insights on establishing effective mentoring relationships, and the pivotal role mentorship plays in professional development and fostering diversity in leadership. Discover practical strategies for initiating...

3 months ago

35 minutes

School Business Insider

Discovering a Sea of Knowledge: Inside MD ASBO's Spring Conference

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with Jeff LaPorta, Executive Director of Maryland ASBO, and Libby Hillard, School Business Administrator and incoming Vice President of MD ASBO, to explore the intricacies of the 71st Annual Spring Conference. They discuss the inspiration behind this year's theme, "Discover a Sea of Knowledge," the meticulous planning that goes into organizing the event, and MD ASBO's steadfast commitment to professional development. Gain...

3 months ago

30 minutes

School Business Insider

Church, State, and School Choice: Navigating the Legal Crossroads

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato engages with legal expert Dr. Charles J. Russo to dissect a landmark Supreme Court case that could redefine the intersection of public education funding and religious institutions. The case centers on Oklahoma's attempt to establish St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual Charter School, raising pivotal questions about the constitutionality of state-funded religious charter schools. Dr. Russo provides a comprehensive analysis of th...

3 months ago

45 minutes

School Business Insider

From the Hill to the Classroom: ASBO’s Federal Advocacy in Action

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with Elleka Yost, ASBO’s Director of Advocacy & Research, along with Trisha Schock and Jeff Hollamon, Chair and Vice Chair of the Legislative Advisory Committee (LAC), to explore what ASBO International is doing to protect and promote education funding at the federal level. They discuss the 2025–2026 U.S. policy priorities, key legislative issues impacting school districts—from IDEA and Title I to AI, student meals, a...

3 months ago

49 minutes

School Business Insider

Righting the Ship: Navigating Financial Challenges in Special Education

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Cindy M. Reilmann, CPA, SFO, Chief Financial Officer, and Dr. Michael Maclin, Superintendent of Schools, from the Special School District (SSD) of St. Louis County. Facing a projected $74 million deficit, SSD launched the Righting the Ship plan—a strategic roadmap designed to stabilize finances while preserving their mission to serve students with excellence. Cindy and Dr. Maclin share how they tackled tough decisions,...

4 months ago

42 minutes

School Business Insider

From Compliance to Collaboration: Redesigning the School Budget Process

How do school leaders move beyond compliance and create budgets that reflect shared values? In this episode of School Business Insider, John Brucato sits down with Dr. Michael Juech, Assistant Superintendent of Operations for the Howard-Suamico School District in Wisconsin, to explore his thought-provoking article, "We Versus Me: Collaborative Resource Allocation and Budget Management." Dr. Juech shares actionable strategies for engaging school leaders, staff, and board members in transparent...

4 months ago

48 minutes

School Business Insider

The School Food Procurement Puzzle: Challenges, Solutions & Innovation

Food procurement is one of the biggest challenges facing school business officials today. Between regulatory red tape, supply chain disruptions, and vendor relationships, school districts must navigate a complex system to ensure students receive nutritious meals. In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato is joined by Sacha Pouliot, SFO/RSBA, and Darin Crawford, MBA, RTSBA, to break down their work with the Food Advisory Procurement Workgroup. Together, they explore: ...

4 months ago

47 minutes

School Business Insider

In this episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato sits down with members of ASBO International’s Legislative Advocacy Committee (LAC) — Brandy Smith (Montoursville Area School District, PA), Erik Roush (Columbus City Schools, OH), Chris Smith (Katy ISD, TX), and Brian Cechnicki (ASBO New York). Together, they reflect on the 2025 Legislative Advocacy Conference and share why advocacy at the federal level is essential for protecting school funding and supporting students. From Hill ...