Fostering Connections with Michael Griffin

What does it take to turn "all kids can learn" from a wall slogan into daily action? In this episode of the TEPSA Talk Podcast, host Todd Nesloney talks with Brad Gustafson, an elementary principal, author and speaker, about leading belief with staff, not at them.Brad shares practical, honest ideas on: Choosing one or two shared strategic priorities so teachers have the bandwidth to focus Listening to understand colleagues and families who struggle to buy in Rebuilding trust by looking toward a shared future Staying grounded when your own belief wavers His "belief engine" equation for collective efficacy: shared beliefs × aligned actions × reinforcing results Brad's takeaway: what we believe, and what we do next because of it, matters immensely. Brad's books include Reclaiming Our Calling, Six Literacy Levers, Renegade Leadership and Overcoming Education. Learn more at his website, bradgustafson.com. TEPSA serves preschool through eighth grade administrators in Texas. Join at tepsa.org.

Observation does not have to feel like a gotcha. Lauren Kaufman shows school leaders how to turn classroom walkthroughs into real coaching moments that build trust, improve instruction, and make feedback actually stick.With 21 years in education—from classroom teacher to reading specialist, instructional coach, assistant principal, and district literacy leader—Lauren shares the mindset shift that changed how she leads: be the leader you always needed. That simple question shapes everything from how she enters a classroom to how she follows up with teachers. You'll discover: How to make pre-observation conversations feel collaborative instead of intimidating Why in-the-moment feedback can be more powerful than a written evaluation How to read resistance, build emotional intelligence, and know when to ease off The small coaching moves that can create big change over time Why leaders should be willing to teach, model, and learn alongside their staff Lauren also explains how her most-read blog post on observation evolved into a practical framework for school leaders, including eight actionable moves you can use right away. She breaks down how to balance empathy, courage, and accountability so observations become a tool for growth rather than fear.If you're a principal, assistant principal, coach, or anyone responsible for supporting teachers, this conversation is a reminder that great leadership is not about checking boxes. It's about time, attention, partnership, and the willingness to keep refining your practice. Perfect for educators who want observations that feel human, useful, and truly instructional. Listen in, then head to LaurenMKaufman.com to explore her blog, book, and resources.

Critical thinking is not a buzzword - it's the skill that helps students, staff, and school leaders thrive when the answer is not obvious. Todd Nesloney sits down with Adam Bellow, the educator-turned-entrepreneur behind Breakout EDU, for a conversation about why challenge, play, and productive struggle matter more than ever in classrooms and school culture. Adam shares how his own experiences as a deeply curious, sometimes "selective" learner shaped his belief that students should not just memorize and regurgitate. From there, he unpacks how Breakout EDU evolved from a physical engagement tool into a powerful learning experience built around puzzles, collaboration, and the four C's, while still keeping academics front and center. He also explains why the pressure to go faster, finish first, and always be right can actually work against real learning. You'll discover how to use hands-on experiences to help adults buy into new ideas, why modeling being wrong in front of others can change a staff culture, and how challenges can become opportunities instead of roadblocks. Adam also connects these ideas to the realities schools are facing right now, from reduced screen time to the rise of AI, and makes the case that critical thinking cannot be outsourced to a tool. He also shares how this mindset shows up at home with his two sons, including what it looks like to step back, let kids try, and trust them with real problem-solving. Along the way, Todd and Adam highlight the power of working together, embracing failure as part of learning, and creating spaces where every voice can matter. Essential listening for principals, teachers, and parents who want practical ways to build stronger thinkers and a stronger school culture. If you lead people, teach kids, or just want to make learning more meaningful, this conversation will give you plenty to think about and put into practice right away.

Most schools are trying to improve family engagement with more meetings, reminders, and obligations—but Kim Bearden says that's backwards. Real breakthroughs happen when families feel welcomed, known, and connected before difficult conversations ever begin.In this episode of the Todd Nesloney sits down with Kim Bearden, co-founder of the Ron Clark Academy, to discuss practical ways schools can build trust and create stronger family partnerships. Kim shares ideas for: • Making open house more engaging with mini lessons • Using bingo nights, trivia nights, and game nights to build community • Creating meaningful events for mothers, grandmothers, and caregivers • Involving fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and other men in school life • Using family photo days and name buttons to help parents connect • Turning parent relationships into genuine school partnershipsTodd also explains how he adapted these ideas for his own school community. The central message is simple: when schools stop seeing families as "us versus them" and start creating joyful, welcoming spaces for connection, students benefit.Kim Bearden is the co-founder of the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, an educator training facility and middle school known for engaging classrooms and innovative approaches to school culture. Learn more about Kim Bearden and the Ron Clark Academy: https://ronclarkacademy.com/ #Education #FamilyEngagement #SchoolLeadership #EducationalLeadership #TEPSATalk

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 impact. Visit HarmonyAcademy.org for resources.

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. Perfect for educators and leaders aiming to inspire growth and resilience in their classrooms. Connect with Barbara for resources that make adopting these strategies easy and effective.

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 perfect for school leaders seeking to reduce stress and improve outcomes with actionable strategies. Follow Dr. Lamb on Instagram @DrChristyLamb or visit drchristylamb.com for more insights.

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 digitizing lists, engaging your team through modeling, and batching activities to avoid burnout. Perfect for educators at any level, this episode offers a blueprint to regain control and create a culture of clarity. Tune in to make organization your superpower and start rewriting your success story today.

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 your leadership game. Listen now to explore how asking, "Are we all aligned on what's best for kids?" can revolutionize your approach to leadership and community.

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 connections, and the significance of keeping the heart in education.