354. Reigniting the Spark Within: Featuring Dr. Julie Schmidt Hasson

What keeps great leaders and teachers going when the work feels heavy and the energy starts to fade?  In this heart-centered conversation, my amazing guest, Dr. Julie Schmidt Hasson, explores what it truly means to sustain passion in education, long after the initial excitement wears off. Together, we unpack the practices that fuel resilience, the power of self-compassion in leadership, and the small moments of joy that remind us why we chose this work in the first place. If you’ve ever felt your battery running low, this episode offers more than motivation. It's a gentle reminder that thriving leaders don’t just pour into others; they learn how to refill themselves too. About Dr. Julie Schmidt Hasson: Dr. Julie Schmidt Hasson is an Associate Professor in School Administration at Appalachian State University and the founder of the Teacher Recharge project. Julie’s research on teacher resilience, engagement, and impact is the heart of her keynotes, training programs, and her TEDx Talk, The Teachers We Remember. Julie is the author of four books, including Pause, Ponder, and Persist in the Classroom. Julie is a former classroom teacher and school principal, now on a mission to help educators stay longer, grow stronger, and keep making an impact. Follow Dr. Julie Schmidt Hasson Website:teacherrecharge.com Twitter (X): @julieshassonInstagram: @julieshassonFacebook: Julie Schmidt HassonLinkedin: Julie Schmidt HassonYouTube: Julie Schmidt Hasson -- Unlock Your Leadership Potential: Free LIVE Event Aspire to Lead Cohort — Exclusive Info Session with Joshua Stamper October 30th, 7:00pm ET (30 Minutes Live on Zoom) Are school demands leaving you overwhelmed and unsure how to advance your leadership career? Do you want practical strategies, community support, and direct mentorship to break through barriers? Join Joshua Stamper for a powerful, free LIVE event: Discover how the Aspire to Lead Cohort transforms educators into confident, influential leaders — and get answers to your burning questions! Why Attend This Event? Understand the main...

In this special episode, Joshua Stamper welcomes Kim Gameroz to announce the launch of the Aspire to Lead Cohort. Discover how this exclusive program was designed to address the real challenges aspiring leaders face, and learn about the community, mentorship, and practical strategies that make this cohort the answer for educators seeking to advance their leadership careers. Hear personal stories, program highlights, and exciting opportunities for listeners to join this transformative journey. For more information about the Aspire to Lead Cohorts, go to https://joshstamper.com/leadership-cohorts/ About Kim Gameroz Kim Gameroz, M.Ed., is a change agent and founder of Teaching Inside Out, revolutionizing classrooms through a systematic approach to teaching social and emotional skills. With over 15 years of experience coaching, training, and mentoring educators, students, and families globally, Kim has spoken at numerous conferences, consults for school districts, serves on SEL panels, and contributes to various publications and podcasts. Through Teaching Inside Out, as well as her second company, SELebrate Good Times, she has created a supportive community for heart-centered educators nationwide where she is committed to making teachers feel seen, valued, and SELebrated at her events and teacher retreats. Kim's upcoming book, "Becoming The Bison," is set to be published in 2025.  She currently resides in Dallas, Texas with her husband, Shaun, and son, Wyatt, and is looking forward to spreading her knowledge of SEL and best practices in teaching even further to schools, districts, and homes around the world.  Visit SELebrate Good Times to learn more about the teacher community that is changing lives all over the country, and her annual National SELebration: The Bloom! Follow Kim Gameroz: Website:SELebrateGoodTimes.comandTeachingInsideOut.comInstagram:@SELebrateGoodTimesandTeaching_Inside_OutLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-gameroz-18144b1b0/ Private Facebook Group:Becoming the B.I.S.O.N. Unlock Your Leadership Potential: Free LIVE Event Aspire to Lead Cohort — Exclusive Info Session with Joshua Stamper October 30th, 7:00pm ET (30 Minutes Live on Zoom) Are school demands leaving you overwhelmed and unsure how to...

In this inspiring episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper is joined by Jill and Mary, the powerhouse co-founders of Girls Mentorship, an Arizona-based organization helping tween and teen girls unlock their confidence, build emotional intelligence, and navigate life’s challenges with strength and self-awareness. Together, they dive into the importance of teaching personal development skills early, the role of mentorship in shaping young leaders, and how their POWER Framework—Perspective, Ownership, Worthiness, Empowered, and Reassurance—transforms the way girls see themselves and their potential. Jill and Mary’s energy, humor, and heartfelt stories will leave you inspired to foster growth, resilience, and empowerment in the next generation of changemakers. About Jill and Mary: Jill &amp; Mary are the co-founders of Girls Mentorship, an Arizona-based organization on a mission to empower tween and teen girls with the life and personal development skills they don’t always learn in school. Through 1:1 coaching, after-school programs, action-packed summer camps, and workshops, they help girls build confidence, navigate tricky friendships, and develop a strong sense of self. Together, Jill &amp; Mary bring a unique mix of fun and heart to their work—they make tough topics like self-esteem, social media, and body image relatable and approachable for both girls and parents. Over the past four years, they’ve built a movement that’s touched hundreds of families, schools, and communities, all rooted in their signature POWER framework: Perspective, Ownership, Worthiness, Empowered, and Reassurance. Known for their energy, humor, and ability to connect with audiences of all ages, Jill &amp; Mary are more than mentors—they’re community builders who believe every girl deserves the tools to thrive in today’s world. Follow Jill and Mary Website: www.girlsmentorship.com  Instagram: www.instagram.com/girlsmentorship — #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available!  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=aspirewebsite-20&amp;linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior<span...

In this powerful episode of Aspire to Lead, Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket, co-author of Relational Intelligence, joins me to explore how trust, empathy, and authentic connection transform school leadership. Together, we discuss how leaders can shift from transactional to transformational practices, especially during times of crisis and change.Dr. Edoho-Eket introduces the HOPE framework—Hope, Opportunity, Praise, and Encouragement—as a practical tool for cultivating cultures where teachers feel valued and supported. We also unpack the common communication pitfalls leaders face and share strategies for fostering authentic dialogue that builds stronger relationships across a school community.Finally, we dive into one of the most pressing challenges today: burnout. Dr. Edoho-Eket shares how relational intelligence not only helps leaders model balance but also equips them to create healthier, more sustainable environments for themselves and their teams.If you’re ready to lead with heart and transform the way you connect with your staff, this episode will give you the insights and strategies you need.About Dr. Rachel Edoho-EketDr. Rachel Edoho-Eket is a wife, mother, principal, TEDx speaker, author, and the President of the Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals. With decades as a teacher and leader in public education, she has earned the reputation as a strong instructional leader, passionate educational advocate, and dedicated mentor. As the Principal of a National Blue Ribbon school in Maryland, she is a life-long learner who strives for excellence not only for herself, but also for everyone she serves. She also serves as an adjunct professor at McDaniel College helping to support the personal and professional growth of aspiring and current school leaders, and is an ASCD faculty member.Named as one of the Top 100 Influencers in Education by District Administration magazine, Dr. Edoho-Eket’s belief in fostering meaningful relationships serves as the foundation for everything she does, and her highly effective teaching and leadership style continues to inspire up and coming aspiring teacher leaders. During her educational career, she has proudly served as a classroom teacher, instructional team leader, mentor teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal. Her first best-selling book, “The Principal’s Journey: Navigating the Path to School Leadership” provides a helpful and practical blueprint for educators to follow as they transition into new leadership roles. Her second bestselling book, "Relational Intelligence: The Key to Exceptional School Leadership" centers on the importance of trusting and authentic relationships as the driver of school success. Dr. Edoho-Eket holds a B.S. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Temple University, a M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction from McDaniel College, and a Doctorate in Leadership and Professional Practice from Trevecca Nazarene University.To invite Dr. Edoho-Eket to speak at your next event, please visit: www.racheledohoeket.comFollow Dr. Rachel Edoho-EketWebsite:Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket&nbsp;Instagram:@racheledohoeketLinkedin:Dr. Rachel Edoho-EketTwitter:@racheledohoeketYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/@racheledoho-eketAmazon:<a href="https://www.amazon.com/author/dr.edoho-eket" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

In this inspiring episode of Aspire to Lead, I sit down with Danny Steele, veteran principal and author of The Instructional Leader in You. Together, we dive into what it truly takes to build a thriving school culture, stay inspired as an educator, and sustain longevity in leadership without burning out. Danny shares his insights from over 12 years as a principal and offers a fresh perspective on how to redefine the role of school leaders in ways that prioritize both staff and student success. Whether you’re looking to reignite your spark or discover new approaches to instructional leadership, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and encouragement for every educator.About Danny SteeleDanny Steele worked for 31 years in education as a principal, assistant principal, teacher, coach, and assistant professor of Instructional Leadership. In 2005, Steele was recognized as Alabama’s “Assistant Principal of the Year,” and in 2016, he was recognized as Alabama’s “Secondary Principal of the Year.” He has written six books including two with Todd Whitaker, has presented at numerous state and national conferences, and has spoken in school districts around the country. Steele has an undergraduate degree in History from Covenant College; he has an Master’s in History from the University of Alabama, Birmingham, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Samford University. He is the father of three grown children and resides with his wife in Birmingham, Alabama.Follow Danny SteeleWebsite: www.leadershiplearningandculture.com&nbsp;Twitter (X): https://x.com/SteeleThoughts&nbsp;Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-steele-steelethoughts/https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Truths-Principals-Danny-Steele/dp/0367138018?crid=2FWWWWM9UB1O9&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sOjdRz9lNnOCWG-nxcQH2PoaS6NheJtmPV80ihVNlw1481WUzQIIwW4mbS0Y9bHXY8VXD7pcu_3vBs2bA25x4cnI3QIGU20KJwo6KbIAzq8kwjD_TLypctu8zk_xxYVDB2On50FASbLGAjvMpwn3motSlJ3e-eSBvCCqy-sq1MwbAZs8Um6jLinlreZ5J2EN7w8-Y_5AFy_SetYCT-_-l9NhbXwT6iM_lE8vTgyNH8M.Czy1I3jiMj6Ur8q4ETkw3l619-F8XFmyk1rOfa6pcBY&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=danny+steele&amp;qid=1758492104&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=danny+steele%2Cstripbooks%2C176&amp;sr=1-2&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=aspirewebsite-20&amp;linkId=9beb445f47a9b62aac2afe0e90bf9727&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tlhttps://www.amazon.com/Quotes-School-Leaders-Danny-Steele/dp/1032076283?crid=2FWWWWM9UB1O9&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sOjdRz9lNnOCWG-nxcQH2PoaS6NheJtmPV80ihVNlw1481WUzQIIwW4mbS0Y9bHXY8VXD7pcu_3vBs2bA25x4cnI3QIGU20KJwo6KbIAzq8kwjD_TLypctu8zk_xxYVDB2On50FASbLGAjvMpwn3motSlJ3e-eSBvCCqy-sq1MwbAZs8Um6jLinlreZ5J2EN7w8-Y_5AFy_SetYCT-_-l9NhbXwT6iM_lE8vTgyNH8M.Czy1I3jiMj6Ur8q4ETkw3l619-F8XFmyk1rOfa6pcBY&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=danny+steele&amp;qid=1758492142&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=danny+steele%2Cstripbooks%2C176&amp;sr=1-4&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=aspirewebsite-20&amp;linkId=aaf0bc19ed70a4a2c87fc096635a2922&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl—#1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available!&nbsp;https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=aspirewebsite-20&amp;linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tlThe Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary...

In this Bonus Episode, Joshua Stamper, co-author of The Language of Behavior, presents at the Thrive Virtual Conference and unpacks three powerful tenets that reshape how we respond to student behavior. In this Thrive session, Josh shares practical strategies educators can implement immediately, including: ✔️ The Push-In Model for real-time student support ✔️ A framework for teaching after mistakes, helping students learn from poor decisions ✔️ The connection between parenting techniques and school procedures, creating consistency that fosters growth and trust This conversation is filled with actionable insights designed to help educators move from reactive discipline to proactive, relationship-centered practices. Walk away with tools you can use tomorrow to transform behavior challenges into opportunities for learning. 👉 Learn more about Joshua Stamper and The Language of Behavior: www.joshstamper.com — Grab your copy of the #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior"!  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=aspirewebsite-20&amp;linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl  The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders  — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. &nbsp; Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram:<a...

What if drug prevention could be exciting, empowering, and led by students themselves? In this episode, Jake White, co-founder of Vive 18, shares his innovative approach to youth drug prevention and mental health awareness. From hosting unforgettable drug-free events to helping students launch their own prevention clubs, Jake has reached thousands of young people with a message of hope and empowerment. Together we explore the importance of engaging youth in substance use prevention, the role of schools in fostering healthier choices, and how his upcoming Prevention Conference &amp; Cruise is building a nationwide movement. This conversation offers practical insights for educators, leaders, and communities committed to shaping a generation that thrives without substances. About Jake White: Jake White started his first company as a college student doing something that many people said was impossible… throwing giant parties… without any drugs or alcohol.  After just a few months he had hundreds of students attending his signature “sober parties”, nationally known sponsors, and media coverage across the U.S…  Today, Jake speaks to middle school, high school and college students all over the country to help them make great decisions.They even have the chance to throw their own sober parties, creating a positive peer-to-peer youth movement in their community.  When Jake isn’t speaking or throwing parties, he likes to play games and sports with his friends, go on adventures with his wife Emily, or cross off items on his bucket list like going on the Price Is Right!  You can learn more about Jake and his prevention platform at vive18.com Free Resources: 5 Ways to Keep Kids Off Drugs, Student Guide to Thrive Without Drugs Follow Jake White:  Website: www.vive18.com  Twitter (X):  Instagram: https://instagram.com/vive18_  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevive18  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakewhitespeaks/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vive18  <span

As a leader, what does instructional leadership look like in action? In this inspiring episode of Aspire to Lead, Valerie Arechiga shares her journey as an aspiring leader and her powerful insights on what instructional leadership must look like in today’s classrooms. We explore her work with Thinking Nation and how its services are reshaping the way educators approach literature and social studies.  Valerie also reflects on the experiences that best prepared her for leadership, offering practical takeaways for teachers and leaders striving to create classrooms where students think critically, engage deeply, and thrive. This conversation blends vision with actionable strategies, making it a must-listen for educators passionate about cultivating both knowledge and leadership in their learning communities. About Valerie Arechiga: Valerie Arechiga is an educator, consultant, speaker, and soon-to-be Ed.D. graduate committed to equipping teachers, inspiring leaders, and building thriving school communities. With over a decade of experience as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal, she now serves as Director of Partnerships at Thinking Nation, a nonprofit aligning social studies and literacy. She also consults with schools on SEL, PLCs, and using AI and data to streamline systems, strengthen Tier 1 instruction, and drive intentional conversations. As a presenter, Valerie has led sessions at Mid-Winter Conference, Region 13, Tech2Teach, the Thrive Virtual Conference, and the 2025 Summer TEPSA Conference. She blends expertise in leadership, SEL, instructional practices, and authentic school culture to inspire and equip educators at every level. Passionate about collaboration and lifelong learning, Valerie is completing her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership at Texas A&amp;M–Corpus Christi, researching how leaders can leverage culture and their own leadership style to build meaningful school connections. Her ultimate goal is to open a student-centered charter school that empowers teachers to reconnect with their “why” and create lasting impact. Follow Valerie Arechiga Website: thinkingnation.org  Twitter (X): https://x.com/ValerieArechiga  Instagram: vaarechiga24 Facebook: Valerie Arechiga Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-nesmith-arechiga-abd-993552153/  Other: Latina Voices -- SCHOOL BEHAVIOR SOLUTIONS Virtual Summit 📅 Sept. 16 +17, 2025  🕙 5:00pm - 9:00pm ET Join us for this FREE event for school leaders who need practical tools + strategies to calm the chaos. https://thrivingeducator.myflodesk.com/summit2025  — #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available!  <a...

In this inspiring episode of Aspire to Lead, Todd Nesloney shares insights from his new online course, Culture Unleashed: Your Guide to Creating a School Kids Deserve. Together, we explore how school culture isn’t accidental—it’s intentionally built through vision, relationships, and purposeful action. Todd unpacks strategies for creating classrooms and campuses where joy, connection, and growth thrive. Whether you’re a teacher seeking to reenergize your classroom or a leader aiming to transform your campus, this conversation provides the tools and encouragement to unleash the culture your students truly deserve. About Todd Nesloney: Todd Nesloney is the Director of Culture and Strategic Leadership for the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA). He was previously a Principal/Lead Learner at a PreK-5 school in Texas. He is an award winning author for his work in co-authoring Kids Deserve It! and Sparks in the Dark. He has also written the book Stories from Webb and published a children’s book, Spruce &amp; Lucy. Todd has been recognized by John C. Maxwell as a Top 10 Finalist for the 2018 Transformational Leadership Award, by the White House as a Connected Educator “Champion of Change”, the National School Board Association as one of the “20 to Watch” in Education, the Center for Digital Education as one of their “Top 40 Innovators in Education”, the BAMMYs as the “National Elementary Principal of the Year” and the “National Elementary Teacher of the Year”, and the Texas Computer Education Association as their “Texas Elementary Teacher of the Year”. FREE RESOURCE: 4 Simple Steps to Difficult Conversations No one likes to have difficult conversations but they don’t have to be…..difficult! When you sign up for Todd’s email list you get these 4 easy steps on how to make every difficult conversation a success! Follow Todd Nesloney:  Website: https://www.toddnesloney.com/ Twitter (x): https://twitter.com/TechNinjaTodd Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToddNesloney/ — BIG NEWS! I'm speaking at The Thrive Conference on September 4th and I can't contain my excitement! As one of 10 educators sharing real strategies that actually WORK, I'll be joining amazing sessions like "PLC's Against Humanity" and "Art That Makes Kids Better Learners." ✨ September 4th, 3-8pm CST ✨ 100% FREE via Zoom ✨ 5 PD hours for IL &amp; OK educators ✨ No travel needed - join from anywhere! This isn't your typical sit-and-get PD. We're talking game-changing strategies from educators who are in the trenches making magic happen every day! Ready to transform your teaching...

In this forward-looking episode of Aspire to Lead, Brad Waid, international speaker and author of the upcoming book Racing the Future, joins me to explore how technology is reshaping classrooms and careers. From sparking discovery in students to preparing them for jobs that don’t yet exist, Brad shares powerful insights on the role of emerging technology in shaping the future workforce. We also dive into how schools can leverage innovation to create learning environments that are engaging, relevant, and future-ready. About Brad Waid: Brad is an Award-winning Emerging Technology Leader, International Keynote Speaker, Futurist, Educator, Visionary, and Author specializing in AR/VR/XR, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence and Industry 4.0.  He is tabbed as one of the top 20 Global Futurist &amp; Keynote Speakers by TAFFD (Transdisciplinary Agora for Future Discussions), recognized as the #14 influencer world-wide in Augmented Reality by Onalytica as well as being recognized as one of the “20 to Watch” by the National School Board Association.   Follow Brad Waid Website: www.bradwaid.com  Twitter (X): @techbradwaid Instagram: @techbradwaid Facebook: Brad Waid Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-waid-21187593/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bradwaid3790  Other: www.newhorizonsglobal.net  &nbsp; — #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available!  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=aspirewebsite-20&amp;linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce...