The Dips of Doubt

In this episode, Susan and Tessa discuss the vital role of positive language and communication in leadership. They explore the concept of the "Ratio of Positive Comments" and how maintaining a higher ratio of positive to negative feedback can significantly impact team morale and productivity. Susan and Tessa share insights and strategies for incorporating more positive communication into daily int...

In this episode, Susan and Tessa explore the art of reconnecting with staff after long school breaks, such as holidays and summer vacations. They delve into the challenges of reestablishing relationships and creating an inclusive campus culture. Susan and Tessa share practical strategies for reigniting connections, encouraging open communication, and making everyone feel welcomed and valued. This...

As the new school year kicks off, Susan and Tessa dive into the essential steps for successful onboarding in your school or district. They emphasize the importance of building quality relationships, sharing key information, and fostering a sense of community among educators. Susan and Tessa offer practical tips and strategies to ensure new staff members feel welcomed, informed, and integrated into...

In this episode titled "Making Changes Quickly or Slowly?" Susan and Tessa provide valuable insights and suggestions for new leaders navigating the complexities of implementing change on a school campus. They discuss the challenges of introducing new initiatives in the educational environment and weigh the benefits and drawbacks of making swift versus gradual changes. Drawing from their experience...

Interruptions are a daily challenge for leaders, often disrupting focus and productivity. In this episode, Susan and Tessa delve into the art of managing interruptions effectively. They share personal anecdotes and practical strategies for setting boundaries, maintaining control over time and tasks, and communicating assertively. With insights on preserving your leadership presence and keeping you...

In this episode of "How Do You Support Your Staff When They Don't Like Each Other?" Susan and Tessa tackle the complex issue of managing team dynamics and conflict in the workplace. They explore effective strategies for supporting staff members who have interpersonal conflicts, ensuring that personal differences don't hinder team performance or morale. Drawing from their extensive experience in le...

In this episode of "How Do You Quiet Your Brain?" Susan and Tessa explore the vital topic of mental calm and focus. They discuss various techniques and strategies to help you quiet the noise in your mind, manage stress, and find inner peace amidst the demands of daily life. Drawing from their own experiences and expert insights, Susan and Tessa offer practical advice on mindfulness practices, medi...

In this crucial episode titled "Loyalty to the Absent," Susan and Tessa address the challenging issue of handling negative talk about colleagues in the workplace. They discuss the importance of maintaining respect and loyalty to those who are not present, emphasizing how gossip and negative conversations can erode trust and morale within a team. Susan and Tessa share effective strategies for confr...

Join Susan and Tessa in this enlightening episode titled "Are You Going to Be Happy with Your Future Self? Time for a Check-In..." as they delve into the power of reflection and visualization. Using a fascinating science experiment on visualization, they explain how picturing your future self can significantly impact your ability to achieve your goals and enhance personal growth. Susan and Tessa s...

Join Susan and Tessa in this thought-provoking episode titled "How Do You Use Your Power?" as they delve into the dynamics of leadership power. They discuss the contrasting concepts of "Power over" versus "Power with," highlighting the differences between authoritative and collaborative leadership styles. Through engaging dialogue, Susan and Tessa explore how relying on power as a short-term strat...

In this insightful episode titled "What Kind of Pilot are You?" Susan and Tessa draw a compelling analogy between leadership and piloting an aircraft. They explore how effective leaders, much like pilots, must navigate tough situations by clearly communicating expectations, engaging in difficult conversations, and making crucial decisions that impact their teams. Using the metaphor of a pilot who...

In this special episode titled "This One's for You," Susan and Tessa celebrate the incredible dedication and resilience of educators who have gone above and beyond for their students, staff, and parents through a challenging year. Join them as they pause to reflect on the numerous struggles faced and overcome, and take a moment to appreciate the profound impact that teachers and school leaders hav...

Join Susan and Tess in an inspiring episode as they explore the transformative power of kindness and positivity in leadership. Drawing inspiration from a poignant story by Simon Sinek, they delve into the concept of the ripple effect and how small acts of kindness can have far-reaching impacts on individuals and communities. In this insightful discussion, Susan and Tess reflect on the importance o...

Join Susan and Tessa in a thought-provoking episode as they explore the power of the word "sorry" and its implications in leadership and communication. In this insightful discussion, they examine how overusing apologies can diminish their impact and hinder effective problem-solving. Drawing from their experiences in leadership and interpersonal dynamics, Susan and Tessa share practical strategies...

This week, Susan and Tessa share a thought-provoking episode as they compare and contrast schools with the magical world of Disneyland. In this engaging discussion, they explore the similarities and differences between these two environments, including how they make people feel and the overarching goals of each place. Drawing from their experiences in education and leadership, Susan and Tessa shar...

Welcome to an enlightening episode of our podcast featuring Susan and Tessa! Join us for a captivating conversation titled "Who are Your Marigolds and Are You a Marigold?" as we explore the profound metaphor of marigolds in gardening and its powerful implications for education, leadership, and campus culture. Drawing parallels between the protective nature of marigolds in gardens and their counter...

Join Susan and Tessa in a reflective episode as they explore the common phenomenon of feeling constantly rushed, especially in educational leadership roles. In this discussion, they offer practical strategies and insights to help educational leaders break free from the cycle of perpetual hurry and reclaim a sense of calm and purpose in their work and lives. Drawing from their experiences and exper...

In this thought-provoking episode, Susan and Tessa delve into the often-overlooked aspect of communication: silence or intentional pauses. Join them as they explore the significance of incorporating moments of silence into conversations, presentations, and interpersonal interactions. Drawing from their expertise in communication and leadership, Susan and Tessa share insights on the power of intent...

Join Susan and Tessa in an inspiring episode where they explore the transformative power of shifting your mindset from "trying" to "doing" when taking on new tasks or initiatives as a leader. In this discussion, they provide practical strategies and insights on overcoming self-doubt, embracing action, and cultivating a mindset of resilience and success. Drawing from their experiences in leadership...

In this week's episode, join Susan and Tessa as they tackle the common dilemma of wishing to avoid meetings, especially in educational leadership roles. With their wealth of experience in the field, Susan and Tessa provide practical strategies and insights on navigating this challenging scenario with grace and effectiveness. From identifying when a meeting is truly necessary to setting clear objec...

In this episode titled "Conveying a Decision You May Disagree with as the Boss," join us as we dive into the complexities of leadership and the challenges of delivering decisions that may not align with personal beliefs. As experienced educational leaders, Susan and Tessa offer valuable insights and practical advice on navigating such situations with integrity and professionalism. Learn how to eff...

Welcome to "Dips of Doubt" for an insightful episode titled "Do Others Try to Bring You Their Challenges?" Join hosts Susan Rosenthal and Tessa Brock as they candidly discuss the common scenario of teachers and staff members unloading their problems onto leaders without necessarily seeking solutions. Drawing from their extensive experience in educational leadership, Susan and Tessa offer practical...

Join Susan and Tessa in a deep and insightful conversation on trauma-responsive relationships. In this episode, they explore the profound impact of dysregulated interactions on connection and healing. Drawing from their expertise and experiences, Susan and Tessa delve into the complexities of navigating relationships in the aftermath of trauma, highlighting the importance of understanding and addr...

Have you ever wondered if your words hold power beyond their surface meaning? In this thought-provoking conversation, Susan and Tessa delve into the profound impact of our words on ourselves and others, using a fascinating rice experiment as an example. Join us as we explore how our words can create positive or negative outcomes in our lives. Discover how changing your "stinkin thinking" can lead...

In this episode, hosts Susan and Tessa invite the listeners to explore the significance of acknowledging and celebrating personal and professional achievements. Susan and Tessa delve into the transformative power of embracing success, discussing how recognizing milestones, no matter how small, can fuel motivation, boost confidence, and foster a positive mindset. Drawing from their own experiences...