Reinventing Education

In this episode of Reinventing Education, Rob and Brendan explore teacher planning and collaborative planning in a counsellor-centred school, where planning emerges from what is happening in the moment rather than being imposed in advance. They discuss planning as a reflective process — making sense of what has already occurred, surfacing ideas and misconceptions, and responding to the interests and needs of individuals and the group. Planning becomes a way of offering provocations, questions, and possibilities for what comes next, rather than a fixed script to be followed. Informed by shared philosophy, mission, and vision — alongside broader pedagogical models and inquiry cycles — collaboration is continuous and embedded in the culture. Teachers are in constant dialogue, new educators are closely supported through counselling and community, and competition gives way to collective growth. By drawing fully on students, staff, parents, and the wider community, learning becomes more connected, more meaningful, and more holistic — developing students’ approaches to learning, from critical thinking to personal wellbeing. It’s complex, with many moving parts and few certainties, but it’s a way of planning that dances with the known while staying open to what’s emerging. Let us know what you think.

Today on the podcast, Brendan and Rob talk PD and what it really means in practice in a counsellor centred school. They explore how genuine professional development grows from what’s needed in the community, where learning is shared, reflective, and constantly evolving. A PD where meaning sits at the centre — not metrics or checklists. When everyone supports each other’s growth, goals become more fluid, evaluation more personal, and all experience becomes transferable. It’s about learning as a living process: collective, adaptive, and completely meaningful. Let us know what you think!

In today’s episode, I sit down with Michelle Auton, educator, speaker, and author of the powerful book What Happy Teachers Do. We dive into her simple yet transformative three-step self-care system designed to help teachers stay calm in class, maintain work–life balance, and reignite their passion for teaching. Whether you're a first-year teacher or a seasoned pro, Michelle’s insights are a breath of fresh air in a demanding profession. Tune in to learn how to stay grounded, energized, and—yes—happy in the classroom. We highly recommend that you check out Michelle's site for link to the book and resources to help you on your journey to becominG a happier teacher!

Daphne Wallbridge works with new principals stepping into leadership. An educator, superintendent, author, and speaker, Daphne brings practical insight into what it means to lead with awareness, manage ego without losing confidence, and share vulnerably without oversharing. Essential listening for anyone navigating the early years of school leadership. We highly encourage you to check out Daphne's 2 books: -The First Year Principal: 52 Practical Lessons to Help New Principals Thrive as Conscious Leaders -Beyond the First-Year Principal: 23 Powerful Lessons for the Conscious Leader   Check out Daphne's online supportive intiative The Principal's Collective     

On today’s episode of the Reinventing Education, Brendan sits down with Craig Randall, educator, author, and creator of the Trust-Based Observations (TBO) model. Craig shares how TBO replaces judgment and anxiety with trust, reflection, and meaningful growth—helping teachers feel safe to take risks, innovate, and truly improve. We dive into how short, frequent, conversation-based observations offer a more supportive and sustainable alternative to traditional evaluation models. If you’re an educator or school leader looking for a more human, more effective approach to professional growth, this one’s for you. You can find Craig here. https://trustbased.com/  

Middle school doesn’t have to be a phase we just survive, it can be a transformative, exciting journey. In this episode, we reconnect with Chris Balme, author of Challenge Accepted: 50 Adventures to Make Middle School Awesome, about reimagining these years as a time for real-world exploration and growth. Chris reveals why middle schoolers are underrated and how the right challenges can unlock their courage, curiosity, and confidence. An appreciated perspective on one of life’s most pivotal stages. Challenge Accepted on Kickstarter Chris Balme on Substack

"The Three Types of Schools: Who’s Right About What Makes a ‘Good’ Education?" In this episode our guests are from The Community Connection podcast. Hosts Nathaniel Provencio and Dr. Eric Worcester, along with our own Brendan O'Leary explore the three dominant school models—Expert, Coach, and Counselor. Each has its own take on what makes a good education and how schools should operate. Join us as we unpack their competing priorities, where they clash, and how they might actually complement each other. Listen to the Community Connection Podcast On Spotify  Watch the Community Connection Podcast on YouTube Follow Nate Provencio's work on Instagram

Culture First Classrooms: Leadership, Relationships, and Practices that Transform Schools In this episode, we're joined by author, speaker and "recovering high school principal" Dr. Darrin Peppard, to talk about Culture First Classrooms. Creating a positive classroom culture is both an art and a science—and Darrin shares practical strategies and powerful stories that show how it’s done. In his book, he shares examples of how to set and maintain expectations—covering everything from seating arrangements and modeling behaviors to creating daily routines that build relationships and set a positive tone. Dig into Darrin’s work here. Get a copy of Culture First Classrooms  Get a signed copy of Culture First Classrooms

This week, we sit down with Erica Saccoccio, host of The Childcare Director’s Chair podcast and YouTube channel. A seasoned early years educator, Erica currently runs several childcare centres and brings a wealth of experience to the table. We explore what makes an outstanding Early Years (EY) program, as Erica shares her vision for nurturing environments that grow alongside child development. She highlights the kind of educators who bring that vision to life—reliable, team-oriented, and full of heart. We also dig into the tough stuff—why it’s hard for parents to leave their kids (and how to make that transition easier), how to truly assess whether an EY program is effective, and what mentorship really looks like in this field. Plus, we talk about avoiding leadership burnout and navigating conversations with parents, whether their expectations lean progressive, traditional, or somewhere in between. This is a super practical, down-to-earth conversation for anyone involved in early childhood education—or just curious about what it really takes to do it well. You can find Erica's podcast and youtube channel here https://www.youtube.com/@childcaredirectorschair690 https://childcaredirectorschair.buzzsprout.com/ They are very much worth checking out!

Dr. Joey Weisler dives into the impact of trauma in our education system. We’ll explore the role of educators—what it is, what it isn’t—and the important distinction between your classroom being a therapeutic environment versus trying to provide therapy for students. Connect with Dr. Joseph Weisler Website Linkedin Social media handles--instagram @classroomnarratives and @throneintheclassroom.  Listen to his Classroom Narratives podcast here or watch the latest short for "The Throne in the Classroom" series here.    Receive Joey’s Trauma informed handout for educators here. Here are the episodes that Joey referenced in our discussion: School mental health counselor Monica Langer Music educator Jen Rafferty, breaking down the "superhero narrative"  National Council of English Teachers trauma scholar Dr. Adam Wolfsdorf