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  • Episode 117 - See More Clearly
    2025/07/07

    We, as teachers, are expected to know everything. Of course, that is impossible and unrealistic. Try as we might, the best we can do is to ask better questions. Asking better questions of ourselves is the only way we can get the answers we need to continue to improve. Perhaps we are truly at our best when we realize we don’t know it all.

    In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer, talks about the importance of self-reflection and growth in pursuit of excellence as an educator.

    He discusses the necessity of understanding oneself, sustaining curiosity, and embracing feedback to enhance teaching effectiveness. Along the way, he touches on the significance of humility, respect, and mindfulness in education, encouraging educators to ask better questions and continuously strive for personal and professional development.

    It’s time to rise up, and realize that when we don’t have all of the answers, we simply need to ask better questions.

    Takeaways

    -Self-intelligence is crucial for effective teaching.

    -Curiosity drives personal and professional growth.

    -Feedback loops are essential for improvement.

    -Planning for the future requires self-awareness.

    -Asking better questions leads to deeper understanding.

    -Humility and respect are key to educational excellence.

    -Continuous reflection is necessary for growth.

    -Collaboration with trusted peers enhances development.

    Chapters

    00:43 Introduction

    02:00 Curiosity and Development

    04:35 Staying Sharp

    6:45 Asking Better Questions

    8:57 Rising Up Past Limited Perspectives

    11:38 A Coaching Question

    —-----------------------------

    Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith.

    www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

    www.educatorsamongus.com

    https://www.edfellowship.org/

    Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:

    Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

    https://www.facebook.com/SchoolGrowth/

    https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth

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    12 分
  • Episode 116 - It’s About Time
    2025/06/30

    Timing is the secret sauce of nearly every story of success, and we can improve ours. Do you ever feel like you’re out of sync—rushing through lessons, reacting instead of responding, or missing the moments that matter most? Knowing when to act is just as important as what to do. But how do you master that sense of timing when every day feels unpredictable?

    In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer, unpacks the often-overlooked skill that separates good educators from great ones: timing. From classroom management to leadership decisions, Scott explains how reading the room, adjusting to change, and trusting the moment can make all the difference.

    You’ll hear practical insights on how preparation, reflection, and rest help sharpen your timing—and why learning to trust divine timing brings peace in the chaos. Whether you’re navigating tough conversations, trying to build stronger relationships, or simply trying to stay grounded, this episode will help you find your rhythm and lead with greater purpose.

    Doing what’s right, when it’s right happens when you master the art of timing, and it can make the most out of every moment.



    Takeaways

    -Timing is vital for effective teaching and relationships.

    -Preparation and practice improve our timing.

    -We often underestimate the time we have.

    -Mastering timing is key to leadership.

    -Divine timing is beyond our control.

    -School life is unpredictable; we must adapt.

    -Meeting the needs of others is a powerful responsibility.

    -Reflect on whether you mastered timing today.

    -Interludes are essential for recovery and growth.




    Chapters

    00:44 Introduction

    1:36 What Time is It

    3:22 The Key to Timing

    6:23 Mastering Time

    8:41 Coaching Question

    —-----------------------------

    Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith.

    www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

    www.educatorsamongus.com

    https://www.edfellowship.org/

    Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:

    Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

    https://www.facebook.com/SchoolGrowth/

    https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth

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    9 分
  • Episode 115 - Failure and Innovation: A Conversation with Davies Owens
    2025/06/23

    What is the future of education? Certainly, it includes Artificial Intelligence, and that is a new phenomenon to be sure. But the future still includes parents, motivation, kids who need support and encouragement and motivation, leaders who aspire to higher levels of organizational success, and clear communication across all facets. All of these things matter, perhaps now more than ever.

    In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, welcomes old friend, Zipcast CEO and the host of the BaseCamp Live podcast, Davies Owens. They discuss the profound impact educators have on students' lives, sharing personal stories that highlight the importance of mentorship and support in education.

    Davies reflects on his journey from struggling student to educator, emphasizing the significance of formative years in shaping character and knowledge. Be sure to listen for a classic story of a rocket-propelled go-kart and the teacher who inspired Davies’s love of science.

    They also talk about the need for collaboration with families and communities to foster a supportive learning environment, the transformative potential of AI in schools, and innovative communication strategies to engage parents and students.

    The show concludes with a preview of what’s new at Zipcast, as the next generation of AI-driven educational training materials may be the future of interactive learning.

    Takeaways

    -The authenticity of a school is tied to its educators.

    -Teachers can ignite a passion for learning.

    -Collaboration with families is essential for student success.

    -Modern challenges require innovative solutions in education.

    -Educators must navigate external influences on students.

    -The role of educators extends beyond academics.

    -AI can help schools operate more efficiently.

    -Attention spans are decreasing, affecting learning.

    -Schools are using outdated communication methods.

    -Parents are overwhelmed with school communications.

    -Innovative communication can increase engagement.

    -Investing in foundational skills is crucial for innovation.

    -Educators play a vital role in shaping the next generation.

    Chapters

    00:47 Introduction

    03:15 Meet Davies Owens

    04:42 An Impactful Teacher and The Rocket Powered Go Cart

    09:57 Starting in Education

    13:26 Impact of an Educator

    15:48 Parents Role in Education

    20:00 A New Era in Education

    23:18 Artificial Intelligence Beyond the Classroom

    26:00 Zipcast

    34:11 Leveraging AI as Educators

    36:26 Conclusion

    37:03 Coaching Question

    _______

    Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith.

    www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

    www.educatorsamongus.com

    https://www.edfellowship.org/

    Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here

    Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

    https://www.facebook.com/SchoolGrowth/

    https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth

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    38 分
  • Episode 114 - Swing Thoughts
    2025/06/16

    Challenges help us to grow. As in baseball, we have to keep “getting in the box” and taking that swing. Let’s ensure that when we do, we “swing like we mean it”. Purposefully, with focus, intention, hope, confidence, and resolute commitment. There’s nothing wrong with a swing and a miss, as long as you keep swinging.

    In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, talks baseball as he discusses the evolving landscape of education and the importance of commitment, focus, and trust in building a positive school culture.

    Using baseball as a metaphor, he emphasizes the need for educators to “swing like they mean it”, fully committing to their roles and responsibilities. The conversation highlights the significance of reflection and personal growth in the educational journey.

    Takeaways

    -Baseball people see life through the lens of baseball

    -Baseball lessons can also be lessons for life and for educators

    -Keep your eye on the ball, with focus on the important task at hand

    -You have to swing the bat with certainty and purpose

    -Swing like you mean it to make the most of every attempt to overcome a challenge

    -Resolute commitment galvanizes the will and activates abilities

    -Building a vibrant school culture is the ultimate strategy

    -Be sure to “step into the batter's box” to help your team win the important game at hand

    Chapters

    00:42 Introduction

    03:17 The Cleanup Hitter

    04:58 Seeing Life Through a Baseball Lens

    06:36 Baseball Advice for Life

    10:37 Swing like you mean it

    16:25 Coaching Question

    —-----------------------------

    Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith.

    www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

    www.educatorsamongus.com

    https://www.edfellowship.org/

    Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:

    Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

    https://www.facebook.com/SchoolGrowth/

    https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth

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    17 分
  • Episode 113 - Architecting the Future: A Conversation with Alan Metcalfe
    2025/06/09

    Schools are a culture and a community. Families are coming together in pursuit of excellence in education. The buildings are a function of that work. How can we create buildings that inspire each other? How can we make our buildings more a part of our plan, and less about walls and square footage and classrooms?

    In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, engages in a deep conversation with architect Alan Metcalfe, founder of Metcalfe Architecture and Design in Philadelphia, about the intersection of education and building design.

    They explore the impact educators have on students, the importance of creating joyful and functional learning environments, and the challenges facing education today, particularly in fostering community and well-being.

    Alan shares insights from his architectural practice, emphasizing the need for spaces that reflect the ethos of the schools they serve. They also touch on the role of music in fostering collaboration and creativity in design, and the importance of asking the right questions to truly understand community needs.

    Takeaways

    -Designing schools should reflect the community's ethos and pedagogy.

    -Outdoor spaces enhance the learning experience and promote physical activity.

    -Community well-being is crucial for a successful educational environment.

    -Listening to the needs of staff and students is essential in school design.

    -Beauty in school design can create memorable experiences for students.

    -Music can teach valuable lessons about cooperation and listening.

    -Schools should be designed as containers for human experiences, not just curriculum delivery.

    -Asking the right questions is key to understanding community needs.

    -Creating joyful learning environments requires thoughtful design and planning.



    Chapters

    00:41 Introduction

    03:12 An Impactful Teacher

    06:20 Favorite Projects

    10:50 Building a Sense of Community and Well Being

    14:20 Musicianship and the Art of Design

    20:06 School Buildings and Culture

    24:04 Understanding Your Community

    _______

    Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith.

    www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

    www.educatorsamongus.com

    https://www.edfellowship.org/

    Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:

    Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

    https://www.facebook.com/SchoolGrowth/

    https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth

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    30 分
  • Episode 112 - Leave the Door Unlocked
    2025/06/02

    If you’ve ever found yourself lost, then you know how it feels to be found. To realize that you are loved and welcome to come inside. That’s the power of an unlocked door. It helps others to know that you care about them and want to welcome them in. Often, especially as educators, we are mandated to lock our doors. But leaving them unlocked can give hope, especially to the lost.

    In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, emphasizes the vital role educators play in providing hope and guidance to those who may feel lost.

    He recounts a recent story of survival and the importance of being “found”, drawing parallels to the educational journey that students, as well as educators, often find. The conversation highlights the dual responsibility of educators to both lock doors for safety and to unlock doors for opportunity, encouraging listeners to serve others with compassion and intentionality.

    Takeaways

    -Educators provide hope and pathways for those who are lost.

    -Being lost can be a lonely and scary experience.

    -The purpose of life is to be useful and compassionate.

    -Unlocking doors in education allows for new opportunities.

    -Generosity in education can lead to profound impacts.

    -Anticipating the needs of others is crucial in education.

    -Leaving doors unlocked symbolizes openness and support.

    -Emotional exhaustion is common, but renewal is a choice.

    -Serving others is a privilege and a calling for educators.

    -Daily reflection on our impact can guide our actions.

    Chapters

    00:41 Introduction

    01:34 Being Lost

    02:56 The Search for Tiffany Slaton

    04:26 Unlocking Locked Doors

    05:50 Handfuls of Purpose

    08:43 Coaching Question

    _______

    Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith.

    www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

    www.educatorsamongus.com

    https://www.edfellowship.org/

    Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here

    Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

    https://www.facebook.com/SchoolGrowth/

    https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth

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    9 分
  • Episode 111 - Doing the Hard Things: A Conversation with Rob Bridges
    2025/05/26

    Almost by definition, doing the hard things is not easy. It’s a choice. When you do hard things, you make yourself better. You show others what you’re willing to do in pursuit of excellence. And you make a difference that needs to be made, even when others are not as willing to try. All of these things are key in the role of educators, and for the educational leaders who blaze the path toward excellence.

    In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth, speaks with Rob Bridges, President at Cathedral High School in Indianapolis, who has done the hard things with excellence across a long educational career. Scott asks Rob about the importance of educators in shaping lives, including his. They also discuss Rob’s journey in various educational settings and the leadership lessons he learned from his time in the Peace Corps.

    The conversation emphasizes the calling of educators, the need for joy and kindness in schools, the significance of listening and follow-up, and the importance of work-life balance for educators.

    Rob shares insights on building a positive school culture and the impact of dedicated educators on students' lives. This episode of the Educators Among Us podcast is inspiring to all educators and leaders who want to be the best that they can be and to bring out the best in the people they love and lead.

    Takeaways

    -Education is a calling, not just a job.

    -The impact of a single educator can last a lifetime.

    -Leadership requires courage and perseverance.

    -Building relationships with students is essential.

    -Joy and kindness should be at the core of education.

    -Listening to educators is crucial for effective leadership.

    -Work-life balance is important for sustainability in education.

    -Creating a positive school culture enhances learning.

    -Follow-up and personal connections matter in leadership.

    -Great educators inspire and uplift their colleagues.

    Chapters

    00:48 Introduction

    002:35 An Impactful Teacher

    05:21 The Road to Becoming an Educator

    11:29 Peace Corps to Education

    14:05 Authentic Excellence in Education

    17:02 Joy and Calling

    19:52 Lessons from Today

    27:50 An Era of Change/Conclusion

    _______

    Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith.

    www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

    www.educatorsamongus.com

    https://www.edfellowship.org/

    Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:

    Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

    https://www.facebook.com/SchoolGrowth/

    https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth

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    30 分
  • Episode 110 - We Are Family
    2025/05/19

    Mixing families into the emotional ecosystem of a school yields predictable struggle. Schools, like families, are places where learning, growth, failure, creativity, and maturity occur. Schools are difficult by design! They contain all of the ideal ingredients needed for adversity, rumbling, and strife. It’s no wonder they, like family, are messy at best.

    In this episode of the Educators Among Us podcast, host Scott Barron, Chief Reinvention Officer with School Growth talks about the complexities of school environments that resemble family dynamics.

    He highlights the importance of love and resilience in navigating conflicts within educational settings, encouraging educators to embrace the messiness of growth and learning. The conversation serves as a reminder of the vital role educators play in fostering a supportive community amidst all of the challenges, similar to those found in the typical culture of a family.

    Takeaways

    -Schools are complex environments formed by diverse family backgrounds.

    -Conflict is a natural part of school life and should be addressed, not avoided.

    -Love is essential in overcoming challenges within educational settings.

    -Schools are places of growth, learning, and resilience.

    -Understanding each other's backgrounds can help shift expectations in schools.

    -Marketing messages should reflect the messy reality of school life.

    -Educators are encouraged to be the glue that holds the school community together.



    Chapters

    00:42 Introduction

    02:34 Recipe for a School

    03:47 We Are Family

    05:00 Family TV Shows

    08:15 Difficult By Design

    11:09 Coaching Question

    _______

    Educators Fellowship is a non-profit organization that encourages educators in their calling and in their faith.

    www.educatorsamonguspodcast.com

    www.educatorsamongus.com

    https://www.edfellowship.org/

    Sign up for weekly encouragement messages here:

    Buy the book, Love’em and Lead’em, here:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottebarron/

    https://www.facebook.com/SchoolGrowth/

    https://twitter.com/schoolgrowth

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/school-growth

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    12 分