Cognia Leader Chat

Jeff kicks off this episode with a special announcement. With the myriad of challenges education leaders face, Jeff discusses the themes he has identified across hundreds of conversations with educators, leaders, and experts. He reminds listeners to take the essence of these lessons and focus on the road ahead.

In this episode of Leader Chat, Jeff welcomes back Dr. Tim Elmore for a record setting third appearance, showcasing discussions on his latest, forthcoming book, 'The Future Begins with Z.' Dr. Elmore, founder of Growing Leaders and former protege of Dr. John Maxwell, shares invaluable insights into blending generational strengths and fostering collaboration among varied age groups in professional...

In this episode, Jeff continues with the second part of his enlightening discussion with Peter Gray, a research professor of psychology and neuroscience at Boston College. Jeff and Peter delve into the growing pressures in elite and high-achieving schools and their impact on student anxiety and wellbeing. Featuring insights from Gray's book 'Free to Learn,' this episode explores the effects of par...

In today's episode, Jeff speaks with Peter Gray, a renowned professor and researcher in psychology and neuroscience from Boston College. Peter shares his insights and researched about how heavily structured schooling has affected children's mental health and development. Their conversation touches on the impact of Common Core, homeschooling trends, and the vital role of teacher autonomy. Don't mis...

In this episode of Leader Chat, Jeff continues his conversation with esteemed educators and leaders, Joe Pinto and Houman Harouni. This part of the conversation explores the transition from protocol to praxis, the challenges leaders face in avoiding premature solutions, and the critical importance of understanding the nuanced roots of problems. The trio also delves into the significance of moral c...

In this episode of Leader Chat, Jeff engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Harvard educators Houman Harouni and Joe Pinto. They share insights on transformative leadership, adaptive change, and the important role of discomfort in the learning process. The conversation highlights their innovative approach to leadership development and explores how experiences of failure and moral complexit...

In this episode of Leader Chat, Jeff continues the 2nd half of his insightful discussion with Jason Rosoff on Radical Candor. We dive into the nuances of persuasion vs. manipulation, the significance of debate, and the importance of soliciting feedback from a leadership perspective. Discover why effective leadership is essential and how to cultivate a culture of honest feedback and growth in educa...

In this episode of Leader Chat, Jeff sits down with Jason Rosoff, CEO and Co-founder of Radical Candor, to discuss the importance of candid feedback in leadership. They explore the key concepts of the book 'Radical Candor' by Kim Scott, including the crucial balance of caring personally while challenging directly. Jason shares insights from his time at Khan Academy and how radical candor can trans...

In this episode of Leader Chat, Jeff continues his conversation with Jay McTighe on modern learning strategies. Jay delves deep into the importance of mission and vision, the IOI framework, and backward design in education. He discusses engaging students authentically and shares pragmatic advice for educational leaders to drive impactful change. Tune in for thoughtful insights and practical recomm...

In this episode of Leader Chat as Jeff converses with veteran educator and accomplished author, Jay McTighe. They delve deep into McTighe's extensive career in curriculum design, assessment, and professional development. Highlights include discussing the foundational 'Understanding by Design' framework, systemic integration of modern learning practices, and the importance of prioritizing competenc...

In this episode of Leader Chat, Jeff speaks with renowned author and educational leader Dr. Douglas Reeves, about one of his many books, 'Fearless Schools.' Jeff and Douglas explore the importance of creating fearless learning environments, the science of trust in education, and the detrimental effects of a fix-it leadership approach. Douglas also delves into the topics of resilience, healthy conf...

In this week's episode of Leader Chat, Jeff speaks with Michael Hinojosa, a veteran leader with over 27 years as a superintendent/CEO, including 13 of those years that were spent with the Dallas Independent School District. Michael shares his journey, insights on effective leadership, handling media, building strong teams, and the importance of ethics and equity. Learn practical advice and strateg...

In this episode, Jeff has an insightful conversation with Tiffany Taylor, a dynamic leader with extensive experience in education and the public sector. Tiffany discusses her journey, the mission of ASU GSV Summit, and the critical role of access and innovation in education. Explore themes of collaboration, innovation, and the future of education with insights from one of the industry's influentia...

In this episode of Leader Chat, Jeff sits down with acclaimed urban educator and transformational school leader, Baruti Kafele. They delve into key topics on protecting your leadership mindset, fervor, and authenticity. Baruti shares his profound journey from a struggling student to an impactful principal and now a sought-after speaker and consultant. They discuss the importance of teachers and le...

In this episode of Leader Chat, Jeff sits down with Carlos J. Malave, author of 'Translating Your Success' and visionary behind the Restorative Power Program. They delve into the significance of vulnerability in leadership, Carlos's impactful work in restorative practices, and the importance of building community connections within educational institutions. Carlos shares personal stories, discusse...

In another special episode of Leader Chat, Jeff features advice from experienced education leaders gathered at the Leadership Circle Summit. Listen as superintendents, CEOs, and board members share strategies for navigating turbulence and controversy in the education sector. Highlights include interviews with Jared Corden, Janice Stockman, Michael Hinojosa, and Antwan Wilson, each offering unique...

In this episode of Leader Chat, Jeff speaks with several education leaders from our recent Leadership Circle Summit. Listen to insights from fellow leaders Walter Gonsolin, Cynthia Wright, and Melanie Nelson. The discussion highlights the importance of collaboration, continuous learning, and data-driven decision-making for successful leadership during challenging times.

In this episode, Jeff shares key takeaways from Cognia's recent Leadership Summit that focused on navigating turbulence and overcoming conflict in educational leadership.  

In this episode, Jeff is joined by Erin Jones, an education and systems consultant and the author of the book 'Bridges to Heal Us.' Jeff and Erin discuss her unique life story, the importance of self-identity, and strategies for promoting racial healing and community in educational settings. Erin shares insights from her extensive career and imparts wisdom on fostering empathy, curiosity, and vuln...

In this episode, Jeff speaks with Gustavo Balderas, the superintendent of Beaverton School District in Oregon. Jeff and Gustavo discuss leadership, education's evolving landscape, and creating impactful systems for student success. Gustavo shares his inspiring journey from a migrant background to becoming a nationally recognized educational leader. Fun twist . . . Jeff was the superintendent in Be...

In this episode, Jeff dives into a dynamic conversation with Susanna Córdova, Colorado's first Latina Education Commissioner, and Allen Smith, Cognia's VP of Leadership Development. They discuss leadership, the significant changes in education post-COVID, the critical role of AI, and strategies to close educational inequities. Susana shares her inspiring career journey, her vision for the future o...

In this week's episode, the incredible Dr. Julia Rafal-Baer talks with Jeff about the complexities of educational leadership, gender and racial disparities, and leveraging AI in education. Learn from her experiences and insights on sustaining effective leadership and creating impactful policy changes.

In this episode, Dr. Christina Grant, the new Executive Director at Harvard's CEPR, speaks with Jeff about bridging research and practice in education. Jeff and Christina discuss the complexities of modern educational leadership, the importance of data-driven decision-making, and the role of politics in education. You will gain insights into Dr. Grant's journey and her vision for using research to...

In this week's episode, Jeff and Leader Chat producer Kris Richard discuss Cognia's upcoming Leadership Circle Summit in January 2025. As a school leader, you have a pivotal role in shaping the educational outcomes of students across the country and directly influencing the quality of education within your community. However, even leaders need professional development opportunities occasionally to...

In this engaging episode of Leader Chat, Jeff speaks with teacher educator and author of Culturally Responsive Teaching & The Brain, Zaretta Hammond. Jeff and Zaretta delve into the importance of culturally responsive teaching, productive struggle, and building strong teacher-student learning partnerships. Zaretta also discusses the integration of neuroscience with teaching practices and provi...