The Principal Liner Notes Podcast

In this inspiring episode, I’m joined by the dynamic Dr. Rod Berger—a storyteller, connector, and relentless advocate for the human side of education. Known for his ability to amplify voices that matter in education, business, and mental health, Dr. Berger brings an eclectic perspective shaped by his background in psychology, leadership, and media.

We riff on the power of authentic storytelling, the intersection of education and innovation, and the importance of humanizing school leadership. From his work with Forbes and publications across the globe to his unwavering belief in the power of relationships, Dr. Berger shares personal reflections and professional wisdom that will resonate with every educator and leader.

We also explore Rod's upcoming book with Wiley, The Narrative Edge. Now available for pre-order on Amazon.

Tune in as we explore why vulnerability is a strength, how to lead with empathy in a noisy world, and what it really means to "find your note" in the symphony of leadership.

It’s the return of the #PrincipalLinerNotes podcast—and what better way to relaunch than with a guest who has ignited passion, creativity, and courage in classrooms and schoolhouses across the globe: Dave Burgess.

In this powerful conversation, we riff on the enduring impact of Dave’s groundbreaking book, Teach Like a PIRATE, and how it lit a fire in my own journey—ultimately inspiring me to write The Pepper Effect. It’s only fitting, and delightfully serendipitous, that we reconnected on the book birthday of The Pepper Effect, which Dave proudly published.

Our conversation sails through the intersections of education, music, and history, with Dave sharing his deep love for Hip Hop and Rap—and how that love influences his message, mindset, and mission. From Nas and Rakim to classroom culture and legacy-building, we explore how leadership and creativity harmonize in service of students and educators.

Whether you're a veteran principal, aspiring educator, or just someone who believes in the power of purpose-driven work—this episode will reignite your why.

In this final episode of #PrincipalLinerNotes, I express my heartfelt gratitude for my guests and listeners. Thanks for tuning in and supporting!

Stay tuned for upcoming podcast projects!

Longtime guest and unofficial executive producer of the podcast, Lauren Kaufman, joins me one last time on #PrincipalLinerNotes. In our freewheeling conversation, we talk about many things as we always do. This is a very special episode where two friends come together and bring out the best in each other as we always do. Lauren shares here sharp insights on leadership as she always does wiht eloquence, sincerity, and compassion.

#PrincipalLinerNotes Podcast: Episode with Maria Galanis

In this long overdue episode, I finally get to sit down for a heartfelt conversation with my good friend Maria Galanis. As the K-8 Innovation Curriculum Specialist for DPS109, Maria is a guiding light in the world of education, helping to introduce, integrate, and support innovative learning practices throughout the district. I’m incredibly grateful we got to share this conversation before #PrincipalLinerNotes wraps up, and I’m excited to share Maria's insights with all of you.

Maria is truly sunshine for so many in the PLN, bringing her intentional and inspiring approach to #edtech. She empowers others to integrate technology in a meaningful and creative way, reminding us all of the importance of sincerity in our educational practices. In this episode, we dive deep into Maria’s journey, her passion for innovation, and the powerful impact she has on educators across the globe.

You won’t want to miss Maria’s incredible story of seeing Coldplay live in Greece—a moment that brings a unique energy to our discussion. Her outlook on life and education continually inspires us to "Keep Looking Up," and her contributions to the field are nothing short of extraordinary.

Connect with Maria Galanis:

Principal Liner Notes Podcast – Episode: Connected Conversation with Meghan Lawson

In this special episode of the Principal Liner Notes Podcast, we are honored to welcome back Meghan Lawson for her 4th and final appearance. Meghan has been a cherished voice on the podcast, bringing her passion and insights to every conversation. This time, we dive deep into a topic that resonates with educators and leaders alike: Hope.

Meghan shares her thoughts on cultivating hope in our schools, classrooms, and daily lives. We reflect on the power of hope to transform mindsets, inspire action, and create lasting change. This conversation is more than just an episode; it lays the groundwork for an exciting new podcast project that Meghan and I will be launching soon called Hope Amplified. Stay tuned for more details on this inspiring new venture.

Connect with Meghan Lawson:

Harmonee McCrea is an inspiring K-2 Principal who joins me for a connected conversation. She inspires with her leadership and her commitment to wellness. Tune in for insightful ideas for school leadership, fitness, and being grounded in well-being.

Principal Martha Jaureguizar joins me for an inspiring and upbeat conversation on school leadership. She shares many ideas and lessons as an experienced principal at Kendal Lakes Elementary School in Miami, FL. I am grateful for Martha for sharing how her expertise and the #CelebrateKLE Story.

Dr. Matt Zakreski joins me for a connected conversation on Neurodiversity and building a Strengths-Based Approach.

Coach Jim Johnson joins me for a connected conversation. Jim shares his expertise on leadership, team-building, and culture. Jim also talks about his book: A Coach and a Miracle: Life Lessons from a Man Who Believed in an Autistic Boy.

In the latest episode of #PrincipalLinerNotes, I’m thrilled to share a vibrant conversation with the amazing Dr. Andrea Trudeau, a true champion for literacy and belonging. We dive into the power of books, the magic of collaboration, and the heart of creating a welcoming school library for every student. Tune in to hear Dr. Trudeau's inspiring insights and feel the positive energy she brings to the world of Education. This episode is sure to uplift and ignite your passion for building connections in your school community!

Follow Andrea:

Dr. Ryan Jackson, founder of Fit Leaders and an inspiring school leader, joins the podcast. Learn about his journey as an educator and the origin story of Fit Leaders.

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Dr. Marie Moreno joins the podcast for a Connected Conversation. Dr. Moreno is the founder of Newcomer Success, LLC. She advocates for immigrants and refugees on a worldwide level. Dr. Moreno is a former principal and educator who leads with empathy, innovation, and purpose. In 2022, Dr. Moreno was named a 2022 Time.com Innovative Educator recipient and a nominee for the 2022 World Affairs Council - Global Leader of Influence award.

Follow Dr. Moreno:

X: https://x.com/NewcomerSuccess

Email: DrMoreno@Newcomersuccessllc.com

Sammi Betham is an Assistant Principal based in Virginia Beach, VA. With more than two decades of service as an educational leader, Betham completed her own education attending Department of Defense schools in Italy and Japan. She is a first generation college graduate. Sammi is currently working on her doctorate in Educational Leadership.

David James, Teacher Leader at Harold E. Winkler Middle School in Concord, NC, joins me for a Connected Conversation. David shares his leadership journey and passion for Middle School. David is an active board member of the North Carolina Association for Middle Level Education and serves as one of the organizers for the NCMLE Conference.

David discusses his work with NCMLE and their upcoming conference. Additionally, David discusses how his school has developed an innovative model for schoolwide professional development.

My very good friend and thought partner, Lauren Kaufman, returns to the podcast for a 3rd time! Lauren discusses her brand new book, #TheLeaderInside. The book is a masterpiece and provides compelling stories and reflections to inspire your leadership journey.

Connect with Lauren:

Noa Daniel, educator, author, and consultant, joins me for a Connected Conversation. We discuss Noa's book, Strum and the Wild Turkeys. Additionally, we share record store memories and discuss the beautiful intersection between Music and Education.

Adam Welcome, educator, podcaster, author, and keynote speaker, joins for a Connected Conversation. We delve into a deep conversation on leadership and the essential habit for leaders to read and grow.

Visit Adam's website for more information on booking for speaking engagements, ordering his books, and consulting:

Jennifer Moroz, educator, podcaster, and professional development consultant, joins for a Connected Conversation. We discuss assessment, learning pathways, and how to take a "Greatest Hits" approach to empowering school culture.

Jen Rafferty, educator, author, and former Music teacher, joins the podcast for a connected conversation. Jen is also the founder of Empowered Educator, a groundbreaking platform of resources, tools, and community for educators to thrive in their profession. "Take Notes with Jen Rafferty" is her podcast and is in the top 2.5% globally.

We discuss Jen's journey as a Music teacher and how she fostered communities of safety so all are visible. Jen shares how she connects with educators in her consulting work. Jen is an inspiring voice and you will be empowered in so many ways after this conversation.

Meghan Lawson returns to the podcast for a third time! We discuss our takeaways on Season 3 of "The Bear." Our conversation focuses on Episodes 1-2 of the new season.

Spoiler Alert: Don't play if you have not watched any of the episodes yet!

Vicki Wilson, educator, author, and education consultant, joins me for a connected conversation. We discuss Strengths-Based Instruction Rounds, which is the basis for her book, Lead with Instructional Rounds: Creating a Culture of Professional Learning.

Darrin Peppard, former high school principal and superintendent, joins me for a connected conversation on leadership. We delve into the essential aspects of clarity and intentionality being key characteristics for a leader to demonstrate. We also talk about the importance of nurturing and facilitating a leadership team.

Darrin is a dynamic speaker, author, and leadership coach!

Elizabeth Dampf, author, blogger, and district leader, returns for a THIRD time to the podcast. We have another engaging and insightful conversation on Leadership.

Alyssa Gallagher of BTS Spark joins the podcast for another Connected Conversation. We discuss ever changing world of school leadership and focus on her latest book, "Embracing Messy Leadership: How the Experience of 20,000 School Leaders Can Transform You and Your School." Alyssa is an inspiring and empathetic leadership coach.

This is the inaugural episode for Season 7 featuring Kim Strobel.

Kim is a Happiness Coach, Keynote Speaker, Consultant, and former educator/school leader. She is the author of Teach Happy: Small Steps to Big Joy. We discuss her book and her inspiring work in empowering educators to be their best selves. Also, learn Kim's favorite song by The Rolling Stones!

Links:

This is my annual tribute to my favorite Monkees album, "Headquarters." This episode was recorded on the 57th anniversary of the album's release. I consider it a masterpiece and an emblem for creative courage.

I dedicate this episode with humility and respect for Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones.

Don Sturm joins the podcast for a connected conversation. He is a district instructional technologist and innovative educator. Recently, Don was named President-Elect of Illinois Digital Educators Alliance. Don is also an avid podcaster and co-hosts two podcasts:

Ben Dumbauld, Director of Content for the Rock and Soul Foundation, joins #PrincipalLinerNotes for a connected conversation. We discuss the wonderful intersection between Music and Education. Additionally, we take a deep dive into TeachRock, a classroom resource whose mission resonates as "....improves students' lives by bringing the sound, stories, and science of music to all classrooms."

Christina Collins joins the podcast for a Connected Conversation episode. She is the founder and owner of NeverStopMoving365 (NSM365). Christina is an PE educator and doctoral candidate who is on mission to bring more physical movement into our schools and communities.

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Evan Whitehead, Executive Director of the Forte Therapeutic Day School, is an experienced school and district leader, consultant, and mental health advocate. He joins me for an upbeat and inspiring conversation on well-being, leadership, and overcoming the Imposter Syndrome. Evan is also the creator of the Balanced Boundaries and Breaks TM. We also talk about the musical genius of Prince!

Connect with Evan:

Katie Robey, host of "The Music Variety" podcast joins this episode for a connected conversation. We talk about teaching and the last Beatles song, "Now and Then."

Check out Katie's podcast on Spotify:

Josh Tovar is an upbeat and rocking school leader! He joins me such a impassioned connected conversation. Princpal Tovar is the leader of Memorial Pathway Academy in GISD, Texas. He is the co-host of the videocast, #UnlockTheMiddle.

Tune in for a connected conversation episode with Deidre Roemer, Superintendent of South Milwaukee Schools.

Deidre and I cover many topics including the following:

• Student-Centered Leadership
• Strategic Planning
• Music as a connector
• Principal Coaching

Jimmy Casas joins the podcast for an inspiring episode where we chat about leadership, culture, and recalibration. I am honored to have this renowned author, speaker, and publisher share his insights on #PrincipalLinerNotes.

Jimmy is the CEO of J Casas & Associates. He has led schools as a principal and authored nine books including, Culturize, Live Your Excellence, and Recalibrate the Culture.

Natasha Nurse is a seasoned educator with nearly two decades of experience, dedicated to transforming education and uplifting communities. She is currently a middle school STEM teacher, crafting innovative curricula that nurture curiosity and ignite student passions. Additionally, Natasha plays a pivotal role as Mentor Coordinator K-12, offering guidance to new teachers and pioneering a groundbreaking mentorship program (along with four amazing teachers) for high school students. Beyond the classroom, Natasha chairs the Long Beach Housing Authority, emphasizing community development. Her journey inspires both the education and community sectors.

Connect with Natasha:

My inspiring friend and mentor, Todd Whitaker, joins #PrincipalLinerNotes as my special guest. Todd is a longtime educator, coach, school leaders, university professor, and author of 60 books.

We chat about leadership, school culture, and The Beatles, of course.

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This is another movement in a mini-suite of episodes dedicated to the last Beatles song release.

In anticipation of the November 2nd release of "Now and Then" by The Beatles, I also share an event to celebrate that day.