TEPSA Talk

Discover how modeling genuine relationships can transform school culture. In this episode, Nick Yoder shares simple actions for school leaders to boost student connections and staff morale. Learn about greeting students, the "buddy-up" strategy, and integrating soft skills into lessons. These practices foster a connected, resilient learning environment. Perfect for educators eager to make a real i...

Discover how true rigor in education isn't about more work but about fostering critical thinking and real-world application. In this episode, Barbara Blackburn shares insights on combining high expectations with productive struggle to enhance student learning. Learn practical strategies for implementing rigorous activities across all grade levels and how to support students through challenges. Per...

Unlock the power of effective meetings with Dr. Christy Lamb as she reveals how this overlooked strategy can transform school leadership. Discover the "core four" elements every principal needs to run meetings that drive culture, progress, and shared leadership. Learn practical tips to make meetings efficient, reflect your values, and serve as the backbone of systemic change. This episode is perfe...

Discover how to transform chaos into clarity with Dr. Frank Buck, a time management expert, in this episode. Learn simple, effective strategies to reduce overwhelm and boost productivity in your school life. Dr. Buck shares his journey from band director to school leader, emphasizing the power of writing things down, clear instructions, and meticulous organization. Uncover actionable tactics like...

Discover the power of respectful pushback in leadership with George Couros. In this episode, George shares how challenging your boss can transform your impact and build trust. Learn how a pivotal moment in his career taught him that healthy conflict leads to stronger relationships and better decisions. Perfect for educators and aspiring leaders, this episode offers practical insights to elevate yo...

In this episode of the TEPSA Talk Podcast, host Todd Nesloney engages in a heartfelt conversation with Michael Griffin, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction at Northwest ISD. They discuss Michael's journey in education, the importance of leadership, and the challenges and rewards of supporting school principals. Michael shares insights on maintaining balance, fostering connectio...

Join Barbara Gruener as she shares her 40-year journey in education, revealing how self-love and mindset shifts can reignite passion and purpose. Discover practical tips to combat burnout, embrace new roles, and transform your outlook with simple daily affirmations. Perfect for educators and leaders seeking inspiration and growth.

Join Todd Nesloney as he sits down with Arely Diaz, principal at Willow Vista Early Childhood Academy, to explore her inspiring journey in education. From her early days as a student to becoming a leader in a Title I school, Arely shares her passion for community involvement, the importance of cultural connection, and her unique approach to leadership. Discover how she navigates challenges and emp...

In this inspiring episode of the TEPSA Talk Podcast, host Todd Nesloney sits down with LaToya Patterson, the dynamic principal of Hirsch Elementary in Spring ISD. LaToya shares her journey from classroom teacher to principal, emphasizing the importance of intentional leadership and the impact of nurturing educators. Discover how LaToya's innovative approaches, like the house system and student sur...

Join host Todd Nesloney on the TEPSA Talk Podcast as he interviews Kelly Hastings, a former principal and current coach for educational leaders. In this insightful episode, Kelly shares her journey from teaching to administration, emphasizing the importance of listening and empowering others. Discover her passion for implementation science and learn about the SCALE model she developed to guide eff...

Join us on this episode of the TEPSA Talk Podcast as Todd Nesloney sits down with Vanakin Leggett, a dedicated principal from Navasota ISD. Discover Vanakin's inspiring journey from a local student to a community leader, and learn how her deep-rooted connections and unwavering commitment to impact have shaped her leadership style. Whether you're an educator or a leader in any field, Vanakin's stor...

In this engaging episode of the TEPSA Talk Podcast, host Todd Nesloney sits down with Lori Gallegos, Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Instruction at Northside Independent School District. Lori shares her inspiring journey from kindergarten teacher to educational leader, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and support networks. Discover how Lori navigates the challenges of leadership...

Join Todd Nesloney as he sits down with Crystal Salom, the Assistant Principal at Glencove Elementary, to explore her inspiring journey in education. From overcoming personal challenges to becoming a Region 19 Assistant Principal of the Year, Crystal shares her passion for literacy and leadership. Discover how her experiences have shaped her approach to fostering a love of reading and supporting s...

Join Todd Nesloney and Thomas C. Murray as they explore the transformative power of leadership in education. From humble beginnings to national influence, discover how mentorship, courage, and a commitment to empowering others can shape a career and impact countless lives. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned educator, this episode offers insights and inspiration to help you lead with p...

Join us on the TEPSA Talk Podcast as Todd Nesloney sits down with Holly Reid, the principal of Forest Trail Elementary. Holly shares her inspiring journey from classroom teacher to school leader, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of educational leadership. Discover how Holly's realistic optimism and passion for lifelong learning have shaped her career and impacted her community. W...

Join Todd Nesloney as he sits down with Kevin Hunter, the principal of Overton Ray Elementary, to discuss his unique journey from secondary education to elementary leadership. Discover how Kevin's passion for inclusion and his commitment to creating a supportive school environment have shaped his career. From his stylish approach to leadership to fostering meaningful connections through the Unifie...

Join Todd Nesloney as he sits down with Karen May, a dedicated special programs coordinator and former assistant principal, to explore her inspiring journey in education. From her beginnings as a special education teacher motivated by her brother's experiences, to her leadership roles within TEPSA, Karen shares valuable insights on supporting students and educators alike. Discover how Karen's phil...

Join Todd Nesloney, Director of Culture and Strategic Leadership for the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association, as he hosts an insightful discussion on the critical transition from preschool to kindergarten. Featuring guests Sally Campos-Villegas, Ashley Hofman, and Ginger Galban, this episode delves into the importance of building strong educational foundations, tracking student...

Join Todd Nesloney as he sits down with Joshua Stewart, an assistant principal at Robert F. Hunt Elementary, to explore the transition from teaching to leadership. Discover Joshua's insights on maintaining a connection to the classroom, the importance of mentorship, and balancing personal and professional life. This episode is packed with valuable advice for educators and leaders alike, emphasizin...

Join host Todd Nesloney as he welcomes Joe Sanfelippo, a dynamic leader in education, to the TEPSA Talk Podcast. In this engaging episode, Joe shares his journey from teaching kindergarten to becoming a superintendent, emphasizing the power of storytelling and community building in schools. Discover Joe's insights on leadership, the importance of recognizing and extending greatness, and how to eff...

In this episode of TEPSA Talk, host Todd Nesloney sits down with Principal Mo, a seasoned school leader from Maryland, to explore her journey from special education teacher to principal. Principal Mo shares her unique perspective on integrating special education into school planning, her strategic use of social media to advocate for education, and her personal approach to maintaining work-life bal...

Join us for an insightful episode of TEPSA Talk as Todd Nesloney sits down with Tom Sauve, the principal of Elmwood School in Wisconsin. Discover the unique strategies Tom employs in the hiring process to attract and retain top talent in a small district. From crafting the perfect interview questions to creating memorable job offers, Tom shares his experiences and lessons learned. Whether you're a...

Join host Todd Nesloney in this insightful episode of the TEPSA Talk Podcast as he welcomes Pete Hall, a former teacher and principal turned professional development agent. Together, they explore the journey of continuous self-improvement and leadership in education. Pete shares his unique origin story, the importance of taking small steps towards growth, and the reflective cycle that can transfor...

Join Todd Nesloney in this insightful episode of the TEPSA Talk Podcast as he sits down with Andre Deshotel, an administrator from South Louisiana. Together, they delve into the intricacies of school discipline, the importance of building relationships, and the power of emotional regulation in education. Andre shares his journey from middle school to elementary education, offering practical strate...

Join us on this insightful episode of the TEPSA Talk Podcast as we chat with Valerie Arechiga, a seasoned educator and leader. Valerie shares her journey from public school education to her current role in a nonprofit, emphasizing the importance of instructional practices and data-driven strategies. Discover how Valerie's doctoral research on cultural influences in leadership shapes her approach t...