Explore every episode of the podcast Coffee Stained EDU Podcast

As a school leader, your most impactful moments don’t happen behind a computer screen; they happen in classrooms, hallways, and cafeteria chats. But how do you find the time to actually be present when administrative tasks are piling up?

In this episode, we dive into how artificial intelligence can become your ultimate assistant. I’m sharing exactly how I leverage AI in my daily routine; from mapping out complex school event schedules and framing observation reports, to doing quick gut-checks on email tone to ensure total professionalism. Discover how to let AI handle the heavy lifting of administrative busywork so you can reclaim your day, leave the desk behind, and show up for your students and staff when they need you most

"That’s not in my job description" has no place in school leadership.

In this episode, we’re talking about the raw, messy reality of leading an elementary school. From cleaning up vomit and sweeping hallways to covering classrooms and answering phones, being a leader means no task is beneath you.

We dive into the power of servant leadership and how getting your hands dirty builds the trust and culture your staff needs to thrive.

Grab your coffee, and let’s get to work.

Tenure isn’t just a destination; it’s a portfolio of your heart and hard work. Episode 61 dives into the NYC AP probationary period. We talk about the logistics of the five-year journey, how to document your wins without burning out, and why staying vulnerable is your greatest leadership asset. Whether you’re Year 1 or Year 5, this one is for the leaders navigating the middle.

Are you retrofitting your lessons or designing them for everyone from the start? Episode 60 breaks down the "UDL Shift" for elementary educators. Learn why your classroom needs to be a buffet and not a set menu, and how to use your co-teaching partner to live-map concepts, facilitate choice boards, and move away from the "essay or test" bottleneck.

Stop pretending multitasking is a superpower and start treating it like the tactical triage it actually is. In this episode of Cold Coffee & Open Doors, we’re trading the "do-it-all" myth for three realistic strategies to help Assistant Principals survive the daily whirlwind. From mastering the "Parking Lot" notepad to navigating emotional gear-shifts, we’re diving into how to stay present when everyone needs a piece of your time.

What does five years as an Assistant Principal actually teach you? Hint: It’s not about the paperwork. This episode is a deep dive into the professional and mental discoveries of a mid-decade AP. From mastering the "shock absorber" role to learning how to stop compartmentalizing and start leading authentically, this is a "real-talk" guide to thriving in the middle of the school machine.

Is your ICT classroom a true partnership or just a roommate situation? Professional relationships can make or break student success, yet we often fall into the "Lead and Assistant" trap. In this episode, we’re getting real about the "Inclusion Illusion." Learn how to fix typical co-teaching mistakes, establish true parity, and use a "Gumby" mindset to build a partnership that actually serves your students. Tune in to move beyond compliance and start making an impact.

Initiating the conversation about a potential evaluation is one of the most delicate moments for both educators and families. In Episode 56, we discuss how to navigate these conversations with empathy, moving the focus away from "what’s wrong" and toward "how we help." Learn practical strategies to prepare for these meetings, bridge the gap between home and school, and turn the anxiety of a possible diagnosis into a powerful roadmap for advocacy.

An IEP might get a student through the school day, but it isn’t a blueprint for a thriving life. In this episode, we look beyond the paperwork to show how neuro-affirming environments can exist in every classroom—even for students without a formal diagnosis. We’re moving past "checking boxes" to focus on what actually matters: emotional regulation, executive function, and a true sense of belonging for every learner.

Are you avoiding that tough talk with a colleague or supervisor? Don't. In this episode, we break down the principles of Crucial Conversations to help educators and school leaders turn high-stakes, emotionally charged discussions into productive breakthroughs. Learn the three steps to Start with Heart, build Shared Meaning, and stop letting your internal "stories" poison your performance.

Special education doesn't have to be a mystery. In just 20 minutes, we demystify the entire process for families and explain the core components every educator should communicate clearly. We cover the federal law (IDEA), break down the 5 steps of the process, and explain the key parts of the IEP from present levels to measurable goals. This episode is packed with clear definitions and empowering takeaways to foster genuine home-to-school collaboration.

What does it mean to lead a school? Is it all about budgets, meetings, and policies? In this candid conversation, we challenge the conventional view of the principalship. Discover the empathy, vision, and resilience required to move from being a manager to a truly transformative school leader. If you're in education or leadership, you can't miss this deep dive into the impact that lies beneath the title.

Get ready for your best first day of school yet! In this episode, we're tackling those first-day jitters with a practical survival guide for new teachers. We’ll walk you through exactly what to do when your students walk in, from setting the tone to establishing your key classroom routines. You'll get actionable tips, a clear checklist, and the confidence you need to start the school year feeling prepared and in control.

Join us as we share some heartfelt and practical tips to help you start the school year off on the right foot. We'll cover everything from organizing your classroom to planning your syllabus and communicating with parents, all designed to align with the unique school calendar and its common procedures. We understand this transition can be challenging, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Tune in to learn 3 steps on how classroom visits can be used to do more than rate a teacher's instructional practices.

Embrace the power of hands-on mentorship for new teachers! This collaborative partnership allows experienced educators to guide and support their new colleagues through direct observation, valuable feedback, and practical learning opportunities. By focusing on the development of practical skills, real-time strategy application, and building confidence, we empower the next generation of educators to thrive.

Tune in to learn practical ways to create a safe and welcoming environment for all students, by focusing on these key areas: Declutter for Focus, Flexible and Accessible, Warm and Calm Atmosphere, Supportive and Caring, and Community Orientation.

Focusing on these aspects can significantly enhance the learning experience for all students.

Tune in to learn 6 steps to create your path as a school leader.

• Identify your leadership style
• Identify your strengths, weakness, and passion
• Set goals
• Stay grounded in your wHY
• Self reflect
• Embrace a learner mindset

Discover how embracing trust in your students can transform your classroom into a vibrant space where they lead their learning. Empower them to explore their independence and foster engaging, meaningful conversations with their peers that promote collaboration and growth. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your teaching approach!

Students are more than just numbers; they are unique individuals who depend on us for education and guidance. It's our duty to support their aspirations and prepare them to become responsible citizens. Understanding your students is crucial. By fostering deeper connections, you enhance the teaching experience and create a more effective learning environment. Join us to explore powerful strategies for building meaningful relationships with your students and transforming your classroom dynamics.

Ever experienced the Sunday Scaries? Are you restless thinking about the work week? Tune in to learn a realistic and wholesome approach to eliminating the Sunday Scaries.

Episode 42 shares a realistic approach to being visible and approachable as a school leader. Hear a realistic approach to being visible and approachable to families, students, and staff.

Tune in to find out how to foster a culture of calm in your classroom by teaching students self-regulation strategies and techniques through emotional and self-awareness.

Tune in to learn the importance of:

• Developing routines during the first few weeks of school.
• Fostering Community- respect, accountability, expectations
• Building relationships
• Using Incentives and praise

Acting and thinking like a leader can help develop leadership skills and increase the chances of getting a promotion. Some say that performing in a current role as if already a leader can eventually lead to a leadership title and mindset. Tune in to learn simple steps you can take that will help you think and act like a leader.

Leading and working with people who give pushback and who might not have the same vision and beliefs as you do.

How can you make the best of your time off? How can you maximize on your time to alleviate stress and burnout? Listen for tips and strategies on managing your time during Spring break. Reflect on your instructional practices and learn why planning for the remainder of the school year would be a good choice.

Tune in to hear interviewing tips and advice for teachers and aspiring school leaders.

Tune in to learn how to shift your mindset about our new migrant families. Educators who have a negative attitude towards our new families should reflect on their WHY. Listen as we dive into a passionate conversation about educating all learners regardless of who they are, where they come from, and their language abilities.

Let's reflect on 2023 and listen to how we can use 2023 and all its challenges to conquer 2024!

Tune in to hear all about why I decided to invest in a Mobile office. The mobile office has been a great way to stay visible, and to take multitasking to a whole new level!

Teaching ENL students takes a lot of empathy, patience, and compassion. It also takes language knowledge, teaching strategies, and methodologies.

Tune in to Episode 30 to learn fun and creative ways to support your ENL Students.

Listen to learn strategies on how to cultivate a classroom that represents your students.

Tune in to learn how to shine bright as a substitute teacher. We share tips and advice from an Assistant Principal on how to be professional and prepared, and what you should bring with you on every assignment.

Tune in to get ideas on leadership activities and initiatives you can take on before having a leadership title. Activities and initiatives that will give you leadership experience and responsibilities.

Join me as I welcome fellow educator, podcaster, and life coach Mateo Donohue. As a 12-year veteran educator, and as someone with 20 years of experience working with the youth he shares some of his secrets and tips on connecting and building lifelong relationships with his students.

Learn how to meet your students where they are by following these 3 steps. Learn how General education and Special education teachers can support all learners in their classrooms.

Tune in to learn what schools can do to increase parent involvement and to hear tips and suggestions on how families can become more involved with the social and academic well-being of their children.

Tune in to get a better understanding of the role of a paraprofessional. How to step up and take control of your role and responsibilities as a classroom assistant.

Tune in to learn strategies on how to pace yourself to avoid burnout.

Episode 3 concludes our Tenure portfolio series with the 3rd component of the Teacher decision-making framework-Professionalism.

Episode 2 tackles both the student learning and instructional practices domain of the tenure decision-making framework.

Listen to the perspective of a 4th grader who shares what makes a great teacher, how can a teacher make their students feel welcomed and so much more!

This series will discuss how to put together your NYC Teacher Tenure Binder. Episode 1 gives you a summary of what to expect and goes over the tenure decision-making framework.

Listen to learn all about domain 4- Growing and developing professionally as an educator.

Episode 3 dives into Domain 3-Instruction which covers, using questioning and discussion techniques, engaging students in learning, and using assessment In instruction. Learn strategies to engage students in discussions and how to implement assessments.