Explore every episode of the podcast The Empowered Educator Show | Building Systems That Create Success for School Principals
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Surge⚡LEAD — Your Growth Doesn't Have an Expiration Date #301 | 06 nov. 2026 | 00:07:00 | |
Leadership growth doesn't stop when you become a principal. In this Power Surge, Dr. Mel shares the LEAD approach to personal and professional development: Learn, Engage, Apply, and Develop. Discover why reading, listening to audiobooks and podcasts, connecting with mentors, and pursuing leadership training are essential investments in becoming a stronger leader. Grounded in Proverbs 1:5, this episode reminds school leaders that the best leaders never stop learning. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| When the Leader Runs Out of Gas: The Reality of Leadership Burnout #300 | 04 nov. 2026 | 00:16:05 | |
You can love your work, believe in your mission, and still be completely exhausted by leadership. In this personal episode, Dr. Mel opens up about leadership burnout, the emotional toll of carrying responsibility, and why even passionate leaders sometimes run out of energy. You'll explore the research behind principal stress, recognize the signs of burnout, and consider how to build a more sustainable way of leading. Research cited:
Remember: You were called to lead, not to run yourself into the ground. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| How Principals Should Handle Parent Complaints: Establishing a School Chain of Command #299 | 23 oct. 2026 | 00:11:23 | |
When parents bypass teachers and bring classroom concerns straight to the principal, how you respond can shape your entire school culture. In this episode of The Empowered Educator Show, Dr. Mel explores the leadership challenges behind parent complaints, school communication, and maintaining a healthy chain of command. Discover how your response can influence teacher trust, parent relationships, and the way concerns are handled across your school. Are your current practices strengthening your communication systems—or unintentionally creating a bigger problem? Tune in for a practical leadership perspective you can put to work right away. How to respond when parents bypass teachers without damaging parent relationships or undermining teacher trust. How to establish and uphold a clear chain of command while knowing when to redirect concerns and when to step in as the principal. 🎙️ Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡When Is It Time to Step Out of the Student Role? #298 | 21 oct. 2026 | 00:07:15 | |
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Standardized Testing Data: What Principals Need to Know and Why It Matters #297 | 16 oct. 2026 | 00:16:30 | |
Standardized testing produces more than scores—it provides evidence school leaders can use to guide instructional decisions. In this episode of The Empowered Educator Show, Dr. Mel explores what standardized assessment data tells you, why it matters, and how to turn results into meaningful improvements in teaching and student learning. You'll learn how to look beyond schoolwide averages, identify patterns in student achievement, use multiple sources of evidence to investigate learning gaps, and establish a cycle of instructional improvement that keeps student progress at the center. Research and resources
Your principal action step: Choose one grade level and subject area. Identify a pattern in the data, determine what additional evidence you need, and work with your teachers to select one instructional response. Then establish how you'll monitor progress and determine whether the response is working. Remember: data becomes valuable when it informs action that improves learning. Follow The Empowered Educator Show for practical leadership strategies that help you lead with purpose through Leader, Logistics, and Learning. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Are You a Credible Principal? Building Trust in Schools with Doug Fisher #296 | 09 oct. 2026 | 00:37:47 | |
Are you a credible principal? Your title gives you authority, but your daily actions build trust. In this episode of The Empowered Educator Show, Dr. Mel talks with Doug Fisher, educational leadership expert and author, about building leadership credibility, strengthening staff trust, and communicating with confidence. Discover how your everyday leadership habits shape school culture, why an open-door policy isn’t enough, and how to keep teaching and learning at the center—even when the demands of the principal’s office feel endless. Doug Fisher is Professor and Chair of Educational Leadership at San Diego State University and a leader at Health Sciences High & Middle College having been an early intervention teacher and elementary school educator. He is a credentialed teacher and administrator in California. Doug was inducted into the Reading Hall of Fame in 2022. Doug has published numerous books and articles on leadership, reading and literacy, leadership, and curriculum design. 🎧 You’ll learn how to build trust, strengthen communication, and become the kind of school leader your staff believes in. Freebie: The Role of Credibility by Douglas Fisher & Nancy Frey This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡SPARK — Five Moves That Keep Leadership Moving | 07 oct. 2026 | 00:06:42 | |
Leadership moves forward through intentional, everyday decisions. In this Power Surge, Dr. Mel shares the SPARK framework: Serve, Prepare, Act, Reflect, and Keep Going. Grounded in Galatians 6:9, this short leadership encouragement reminds principals that meaningful growth takes time, progress begins with action, and faithfulness in the small things makes a lasting difference. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Principals, We Need to Talk About Fundraising that Doesn't Break the Bank #294 | 02 oct. 2026 | 00:12:59 | |
Nobody Told Me I’d Be the Fundraising Principal Nobody tells you that becoming a principal might also mean becoming the person everyone turns to when a team, club, classroom, or program needs money. And while your staff may have plenty of creative fundraising ideas, managing all those ideas without overwhelming your families is a whole different challenge. In this episode, Dr. Mel talks about the realities of school fundraising, balancing competing requests, supporting staff creativity, and making sure fundraising serves the bigger picture of your school community. Because sometimes the hardest part isn't raising the money. It's figuring out how much is enough, when to say yes, and how to keep everyone moving in the same direction. 🎧 Tune in for a practical conversation about one of those behind-the-scenes responsibilities nobody puts in the principal's job description—but somebody has to manage. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡What’s Your School Known For? #293 | 30 sept. 2026 | 00:06:33 | |
What does your school culture look like when no one is telling people what to do? Using Chick-fil-A as a real-world example, Dr. Mel explores how small, consistent actions shape culture and reminds school leaders that culture is caught, not posted. Scripture: Galatians 6:9 Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| The Power of Student Engagement: Unlocking the Path to Achievement (Rebroadcast) | 25 sept. 2026 | 00:19:48 | |
In this episode, we’re getting to the heart of what really drives student success—engagement. As a school leader, you have the power to shift your entire building by helping your staff focus on what matters most: connecting students to their learning in meaningful ways. We’ll explore how student engagement impacts achievement, why it’s more than just participation, and what the research says about how it shapes outcomes like graduation rates, test scores, and long-term success. You’ll get real strategies you can bring back to your teachers—from tech integration to interactive structures—all designed to support the whole learner: visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and more. Here’s what you’ll walk away with: This episode is packed with value for any principal, AP, coach, or instructional leader who’s ready to create a culture where engagement leads to achievement. 📚 Cited Sources (MLA Style):
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| Power Surge⚡Before the Results, There Was Preparation #292 | 23 sept. 2026 | 00:09:46 | |
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| Data with Direction: Turning Benchmarks into Better Instruction (Updated) | 18 sept. 2026 | 00:12:34 | |
In this episode of The Empowered Educator Show, Dr. Mel breaks down how school leaders can use beginning-of-year benchmark assessments as more than just numbers on a spreadsheet. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by data, you’ll learn how to turn it into a clear roadmap for instructional decisions. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Whether you’re a new principal, an aspiring leader, or a seasoned educator, this episode will help you use data to drive growth and empower your staff with focus and direction. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡When They Can't See What You See with Walt Disney #291 | 16 sept. 2026 | 00:09:50 | |
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Real Talk on Leading, Retaining, and Growing in Education with Dr. Jana Haywood #290 | 11 sept. 2026 | 00:33:40 | |
Dr. Jana Haywood drops truth and strategy for every aspiring leader, burned-out teacher, and game-changing educator ready to make a move. From tackling the teacher shortage to rethinking onboarding, Dr. Haywood shares how authentic relationships, daily visibility, and intentional leadership can transform your school culture—and your career. We dig into:
Whether you're eyeing your next leadership step or looking for ways to support and retain your staff, this convo will leave you fired up and full of actionable takeaways. ✨ Connect with Dr. Jana Haywood: illuminesolutionsgroup.com www.illuminesolutionsgroupisg.com This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡What Henry Ford Knew About Leadership #289 | 09 sept. 2026 | 00:12:35 | |
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| 10 Family Engagement Activities Every School Should Be Doing #288 (Rebroadcast) | 04 sept. 2026 | 00:14:06 | |
In this episode, Mel breaks down ten high-impact, easy-to-launch family engagement activities that help schools build trust, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful partnerships with families. These ideas work in every school setting — public, private, charter, or Christian — and can be scaled up or down based on your resources. If you’re looking for fresh ways to bring families into the learning experience, this episode gives you the exact blueprint. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| 10 Family Engagement Strategies That Transform Schools #287 (Rebroadcast) | 03 sept. 2026 | 00:18:22 | |
Dr. Mel walks through ten research-backed family engagement strategies that help strengthen trust, boost achievement, and change the way families experience your school. Engagement isn’t about “getting parents to show up.” It’s about partnership — real, reciprocal, relationship-centered partnership that helps kids win academically, emotionally, and socially. Sources
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| Power Surge⚡When You Feel the Temperature Rising Outside, What Temperature Are You Setting Inside? #286 | 02 sept. 2026 | 00:06:48 | |
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| C.L.E.A.R. The 5 Questions Every Principal Should Ask Before Communicating #285 | 28 août 2026 | 00:13:47 | |
You sent the email. You made the announcement. You posted the message. So why are people still confused? 🤔 As a principal, communication isn't simply about getting information out. It's about making sure the right people receive the right information, understand why it matters, and know what to do next. In this episode of The Empowered Educator Show, Dr. Mel introduces the CLEAR Communication Framework—a simple five-step approach you can use before sending your next email, making your next announcement, or having your next important conversation. In This Episode, You'll Discover:
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡Joy in the Chaos During Back to School #284 | 26 août 2026 | 00:08:10 | |
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| Power Surge⚡There is No Tired Like Back to School Tired #283 | 19 août 2026 | 00:09:59 | |
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| The Final Back-to-School Push: What Matters and What Doesn’t #282 | 14 août 2026 | 00:18:16 | |
Back-to-school season can make even experienced principals feel like they're racing against the clock. But the goal isn't perfection—it's readiness. In this episode, Dr. Mel challenges principals to stop sweating the small stuff and focus their energy on the things that actually matter:
Recent back-to-school guidance from principals also emphasizes realistic schedules, classroom preparation time, differentiated support for new staff, and avoiding information overload during the opening days of school. The Big Question Are you preparing your school—or are you trying to control your school? Research & Resources
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| Power Surge⚡Leave an IMPACT Every Day #281 | 12 août 2026 | 00:07:47 | |
Power Surge Today, don't focus on being impressive. Focus on making an IMPACT.
Because empowered educators don't just fill positions. They leave an IMPACT that lasts long after they're gone. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| The 10 Things Every Principal Must Do Before Day One #280 | 07 août 2026 | 00:23:30 | |
August can feel like a race against the clock for school leaders. Between staffing, schedules, professional development, technology, and a never-ending to-do list, it's easy to believe that success comes from simply getting everything checked off. But experienced principals know there's a better way. In this episode, Dr. Mel shares the priorities that have the greatest impact before students ever walk through the doors. Rather than focusing on doing more, you'll learn how to focus on what matters most through the three leadership systems—Leader, Logistics, and Learning. If you're a new principal or early-career school leader, this episode will help you begin the school year with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose. In This Episode
Resources Mentioned Collins, J. (2001). Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap... and Others Don't. HarperBusiness. Fullan, M. (2020). Leading in a Culture of Change (2nd ed.). Jossey-Bass. Gallup. (2023). State of the Global Workplace 2023 Report. Gallup Press. Hattie, J. (2023). Visible Learning: The Sequel. Routledge. Sinek, S. (2009). Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action. Portfolio. The Wallace Foundation. (2021). How Principals Affect Students and Schools: A Systematic Synthesis of Two Decades of Research. https://www.wallacefoundation.org/knowledge-center/pages/how-principals-affect-students-and-schools.aspx Proverbs 24:3–4 (NIV) "By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures." As leaders, we don't build great schools by accident. We build them intentionally—through wise decisions, thoughtful systems, and a commitment to serving students, staff, and families well. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Simplify to Multiply: The Secret of Empowered Leadership #279 | 05 août 2026 | 00:06:06 | |
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| 3 Systems. 3 Actions. Start School Strong 💪 #278 | 31 juil. 2026 | 00:15:39 | |
The countdown to the first day of school is on. If you're like most school leaders, your to-do list is growing by the hour. Schedules, staffing, professional development, open houses, and a flood of emails can make August feel like a race to simply get everything done. But what if the key to a successful school year isn't checking off more tasks? In this episode of The Empowered Educator Show, Dr. Mel challenges a common mindset that keeps many principals stuck in reactive leadership long after the first bell rings. Instead of focusing on everything that needs to be completed before students arrive, you'll discover a different way to prepare—one that can shape the entire school year. Through the lens of the Leader • Logistics • Learning framework, Dr. Mel shares practical insights, leadership stories, and research-backed principles that will help you think differently about the weeks leading up to the start of school. If you want to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose this year, this episode is for you. In This Episode
Resources Mentioned
Scripture Proverbs 24:3 – "By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established." Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Courage Over Comfort ➔ The Three Marks of an Empowered Leader #277 | 29 juil. 2026 | 00:06:10 | |
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| Is This Leadership Mistake Driving Students and Staff Away from Your School? with Nathaniel Provencio #276 | 25 juil. 2026 | 00:38:04 | |
What if the biggest challenge facing schools isn't academics—it's the experience families have every day? In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Mel sits down with educational consultant, speaker, and author Nathaniel Provencio to explore why today's school leaders must begin thinking like service leaders. Nathaniel challenges traditional leadership thinking by showing how customer service, culture, and intentional experiences directly impact student success, staff retention, and family trust. Whether you're a new principal or a veteran leader, this conversation will stretch your thinking and give you practical ways to create a school people are excited to join—and reluctant to leave. In This Episode You'll Learn:
Power Surge Takeaway Ask yourself one simple question: Would I enthusiastically choose this school for my own child? If the answer isn't an immediate "yes," identify one experience you can improve this week for students, staff, or families. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 New Book FIVE STARS will be out in Oct The Community Connection Podcast This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡From Professional Learning to Professional Transformation #275 | 22 juil. 2026 | 00:07:57 | |
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| Progress Over Perfection: Leading with Confidence, Not Fear with Kevin Voisin #274 | 17 juil. 2026 | 00:32:54 | |
Perfection isn't the goal—progress is. In this episode, Dr. Mel sits down with leadership coach Kevin Voisin to unpack why perfectionism keeps so many school leaders stuck. If you're a new principal or educational leader feeling the pressure to have all the answers, this conversation will help you shift your mindset from fear to growth. Together, they explore how embracing powerful imperfection leads to stronger leadership, greater confidence, and lasting impact. They also discuss personal responsibility, navigating rapid change, and why AI should be viewed as a tool—not a threat. In This Episode, You'll Learn:
Remember: You don't have to be a perfect leader to make a powerful impact. "Perfection is a horizon—it gives you direction, but it's never the destination."
This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡Why the Culture You Create Changes Everything #273 | 15 juil. 2026 | 00:07:11 | |
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Stop Working Harder: The Leadership Shift Every Principal Needs w/ Jimmy Burroughes #272 | 10 juil. 2026 | 00:30:48 | |
What if working longer hours is actually making you a less effective leader? In this episode, Dr. Mel sits down with leadership coach and former British Army officer Jimmy Burroughes to discuss why so many school leaders burn out—and what to do instead. New principals often believe that success comes from simply working harder, staying later, and saying yes to everything. Jimmy challenges that mindset by sharing practical leadership strategies that help leaders maximize their impact without sacrificing their health, relationships, or effectiveness. If you're preparing for a new school year or you're already feeling overwhelmed by leadership demands, this conversation will help you rethink how you lead. In This Episode You'll Learn:
Power Surge Statement "An open-door policy isn't always the best leadership strategy. Schedule uninterrupted thinking time each week so you can focus on the highest-impact work that only you can do." Connect with Jimmy Burroughes 🌐 Website Connect with Jimmy on LinkedIn for additional leadership resources, assessments, blogs, and free tools. Free Resource Jimmy is offering listeners his free guide: Escape the Multitasking Trap This practical resource explores the hidden cost of constant interruptions and provides strategies to improve focus, productivity, and decision-making. This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡What Are You Celebrating? #271 | 08 juil. 2026 | 00:06:51 | |
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Simple Daily Habits That Help Principals Thrive—Not Just Survive with Phil Januszewski #270 | 03 juil. 2026 | 00:29:35 | |
Burnout doesn't happen overnight. More often, it's the result of countless small stressors that slowly drain our energy, passion, and purpose. In this episode, Dr. Mel sits down with former educator, keynote speaker, and positive psychology advocate Phil Januszewski to explore practical ways educators and school leaders can flourish—even during the most demanding seasons. Phil shares how tiny, intentional habits can create lasting change, why assuming positive intent transforms workplace relationships, and how building simple systems can reduce stress while increasing joy. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or like you're constantly pouring into everyone else while running on empty, this conversation is for you. In This Episode You'll Learn:
Connect with Phil Januszewski
About Phil Phil Januszewski is a nationally recognized keynote speaker, former chemistry and physics teacher, and positive psychology advocate. After spending 20 years in education, he now helps educators and public health professionals flourish personally so they can create greater impact professionally—without burnout, boredom, or cynicism. His upcoming book, Too Damn Happy: Flourishing in a Tired and Uninspired World, explores practical mindset shifts and intentional habits that help people build sustainable joy and resilience. 🎁 Free Resource from Phil Januszewski Phil is offering listeners a FREE one-month membership to the Positive Growth Lounge so you can experience practical strategies for building resilience, increasing joy, and preventing burnout. Get Your Free One-Month Membership This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡What You'll Discover When You Keep Walking #269 | 01 juil. 2026 | 00:07:45 | |
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| What Great Instructional Leaders Study in the Summer #268 | 26 juin 2026 | 00:14:00 | |
What Strong Instructional Leaders Study in Summer Summer offers school leaders something that's often in short supply during the school year—time to think, reflect, and grow. But with so many books, podcasts, conferences, and professional learning opportunities available, how do you know what deserves your attention? In this episode, Dr. Mel Vandevort shares three areas that strong instructional leaders intentionally study during the summer to better support teachers and improve student learning. Rather than chasing the latest educational trend, you'll be challenged to focus on learning that creates lasting impact in your school. Whether you're a new principal, an experienced administrator, an instructional coach, or an aspiring school leader, this conversation will help you be more intentional about how you invest your professional growth before the school year begins. In this episode, you'll discover:
Reflection Question: References
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge ⚡Listen Deeply and Lead Boldly #267 | 24 juin 2026 | 00:06:03 | |
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Principals in Action 🎬 The Weekly Principal Planning System #266 | 19 juin 2026 | 00:11:57 | |
Do you ever reach the end of the week feeling exhausted, yet unsure if you actually moved the most important work forward? In this episode, Dr. Mel explores one of the most overlooked leadership habits of effective school leaders: intentionally planning the week before it begins. This isn't another time-management conversation. It's a leadership conversation. You'll discover why some principals seem to make consistent progress despite the constant interruptions that come with the job, while others spend their days reacting to whatever comes next. Through reflection questions and practical insights, you'll be challenged to think differently about how your calendar, priorities, and leadership impact are connected. In this episode, you'll learn: Whether you're a new principal, aspiring administrator, or experienced school leader looking to lead with greater purpose, this episode will help you evaluate how you're spending your most valuable resource—your time. 🔹 Reflection Question: 📌 Action Step: If you found value in today's conversation, share this episode with another school leader and leave a rating and review. Your support helps more educators discover practical leadership guidance that makes a difference. Robinson, V. M. J., Lloyd, C. A., & Rowe, K. J. (2008). The Impact of Leadership on Student Outcomes: An Analysis of the Differential Effects of Leadership Types. Hattie, J. (2015). High-Impact Leadership. Bendikson, L., Robinson, V., & Hattie, J. (2012). Principal Instructional Leadership and Secondary School Performance. Çelik et al. (2022). The Association Between Principal Leadership and Student Achievement: A Multivariate Meta-Meta-Analysis. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡Lead with Courage, Clarity, and Conviction #265 | 17 juin 2026 | 00:05:59 | |
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Principals in Action 🎬 Assessing Your Leadership Operating System: Where Am I Now? #264 | 12 juin 2026 | 00:15:56 | |
Before you can improve your leadership, you need an honest picture of where you are today. In this episode, Dr. Mel Vandevort guides school leaders through a practical self-assessment designed to uncover strengths, identify growth opportunities, and reveal the areas that may be creating unnecessary frustration or overwhelm. Through a series of reflective questions, you'll evaluate your leadership across three critical areas: leading people, managing the work, and supporting learning. You may discover that the challenge you're experiencing isn't where you thought it was. Grab a notebook and prepare to think deeply about your current leadership reality. The awareness you gain today could be the catalyst for meaningful growth tomorrow. In this episode, you'll: This is the second and final free episode in The Principal Operating System™ series. Future episodes and implementation resources will be available exclusively inside the Empowered Educator Community. 🔗 Learn more about the Empowered Educator Community in the show notes. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡Are You Prioritizing the Wrong Things? #263 | 10 juin 2026 | 00:06:43 | |
Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Principals in Action: Why Great Leaders Build Systems #262 | 05 juin 2026 | 00:19:14 | |
In this first episode of the Principal in Action series, Dr. Mel Vandevort explores why effective leadership isn't about working harder, staying later, or carrying more responsibility. It's about building systems that make success repeatable. You'll learn how systems help school leaders: ✅ Reduce decision fatigue If you've ever ended the day wondering where your time went, this episode will help you identify why reactive leadership happens and how simple systems can help you lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose. Reflection Questions
"For God is not a God of disorder but of peace." — 1 Corinthians 14:33 Strong leadership systems create order, clarity, and consistency so leaders can focus on serving people and advancing their mission. Power Surge I don't have to do everything to lead effectively. I choose to build systems that create consistency, protect my priorities, and strengthen my impact. Today, I will lead with intention, not reaction. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡Build People, Not Just Programs #261 | 03 juin 2026 | 00:05:33 | |
Build People, Not Just Programs Programs may create momentum, but people create lasting impact. In this episode of Power Surge, Dr. Mel reminds leaders that sustainable success isn't built through initiatives alone—it's built by investing in the people who carry the mission forward. Discover why coaching, encouragement, and intentional development matter more than any program you implement. Scripture Focus: Power Surge Statement: Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| The Hard Lesson That Might Cost You Your First Principalship w/Danny Steele #260 | 29 mai 2026 | 00:31:52 | |
In this episode, Dr. Mel sits down with educator, speaker, and leadership coach Danny Steele for an honest conversation about school leadership, culture, and sustaining joy in education. Danny shares the difficult lesson that reshaped his entire leadership philosophy after losing out on his first principalship—and why new administrators must shift from being advocates for students to becoming champions for teachers and staff. Together, Mel and Danny unpack:
Danny also shares powerful stories about:
This episode is full of practical encouragement and tangible strategies for new and aspiring school leaders who want to lead with both purpose and people in mind. Connect with Danny Steele: Newsletter: Free weekly leadership inspiration delivered every Sunday morning If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another school leader who needs this reminder today. This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge: Are You Always Counting the Days Until Summer? #259 | 27 mai 2026 | 00:07:05 | |
If you’re counting the days until summer every single year, it may be time to rethink the way you’re leading and living. In this Power Surge episode, Mel challenges educators and leaders to stop normalizing survival mode and start building rhythms, systems, and boundaries that create peace during the school year—not just escape during the summer. Rooted in Matthew 11:28–30, this episode is a reminder that Jesus never called you to carry every burden alone. Real rest is not found in a calendar break—it’s found in walking closely with Him while leading with purpose and wisdom. Scripture Reference: Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Why Great Instruction Starts With Clear Outcomes with Chad Ostrowski #258 | 22 mai 2026 | 00:32:56 | |
In this episode of the The Empowered Educator Podcast, Dr. Mel sits down with Chad Ostrowski from the Teach Better Team for a powerful conversation about instructional alignment, mastery learning, and the leadership systems schools need to truly improve student outcomes. Together, they unpack why lesson planning often becomes “activity-focused” instead of outcome-focused—and how that disconnect creates gaps in student learning. Chad shares practical insight into backward design, standards alignment, mastery learning, and the importance of establishing clear instructional non-negotiables as a school leader. Dr. Mel and Chad also discuss:
This episode is packed with practical leadership insight for principals, instructional coaches, curriculum leaders, and teachers who want to create aligned, student-centered learning environments that actually move achievement forward. Key Takeaways
Connect with Chad Ostrowski This episode includes a referral for Upside—a free app that gives you cash back on gas, groceries, and dining. I use it myself and have been saving that extra cash for a vacation. If you want to try it, download Upside and use promo code MELINDA35278 to earn and extra $17 on your first purchase. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Are You a Victim of Your Thoughts? #257 | 20 mai 2026 | 00:05:53 | |
In this week’s Power Surge, we’re talking about the connection between feelings, thoughts, and actions—and why self-awareness is one of the most important disciplines for leaders. Learn how to recognize spiraling thoughts, take them captive, and lead from truth instead of emotion. Remember: your feelings become thoughts, your thoughts become actions or inactions. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡Grace Under Pressure The Hannah Harper Way #256 | 15 mai 2026 | 00:05:29 | |
What do you do when the pressure feels heavier than usual? In this Power Surge, inspired by hometown winner Hannah Harper and her journey on American Idol, we’re talking about grace under pressure, leadership in hard seasons, and what it looks like to keep showing up when life feels overwhelming. This one is personal. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡Check Your Bags, Leader #254 | 06 mai 2026 | 00:06:42 | |
You’re carrying more than your bags into your building every day. Some of it is necessary. In this Power Surge, we’re taking a cue from Elsbeth and talking about what happens when leaders carry too much—and why it’s costing you clarity, confidence, and presence. If you’ve ever replayed a conversation, questioned a decision, or felt the weight of everything at once… This one is for you. It’s time to check your bags. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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| Power Surge⚡Leadership and Imperfections #253 | 01 mai 2026 | 00:04:28 | |
You ever feel like one tough moment is the only thing people see? In this Power Surge episode, you unpack how leadership can feel a lot like waking up with a pimple front and center—suddenly, it feels like that’s all anyone notices. One hard conversation, one misstep, one interaction that didn’t go as planned… and now it’s playing on repeat in your mind. But here’s the truth: that moment doesn’t define you. This episode is your reminder that your leadership is built over time—through consistency, care, and intentional action—not one isolated situation. If you’ve been replaying a conversation or questioning yourself after a tough day, this one will reset your perspective and help you step back into your leadership with confidence. Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more.
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