What is instructional coaching—really? And how can coaches meet teachers where they are without forcing everyone into the same coaching mold?
In this episode of the Time For Teachership podcast, Lindsay is joined by Chrissy Beltran, instructional coaching expert, host of Instructional Coaching with Miss B, and author of an upcoming ASCD book on differentiated coaching. Together, they unpack what it means to differentiate instructional coaching, define the coaching role clearly, and build authentic relationships with teachers—especially those who may be resistant to coaching.
Chrissy shares practical strategies, mindset shifts, and real-life coaching stories that help instructional coaches move from uncertainty to clarity and impact.
Why instructional coaching often feels "nebulous" and how to bring clarity to the role
How to define your coaching vision
What it means to differentiate coaching instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach
Low, medium, and high-impact coaching strategies—and when to use each
How to work with resistant teachers without damaging relationships
Why peer observation can be a powerful gateway into coaching
How coaching can reconnect teachers to joy, play, and purpose
[00:00] Welcome & introduction to Chrissy Beltran
[01:00] Why instructional coaching feels undefined and isolating
[02:30] Freedom dreaming: Chrissy's vision for education and equity
[05:30] Coaching as play, exploration, and joy
[08:00] Key mindset shifts when moving from teacher to coach
[13:00] Defining your coaching role and vision
[16:40] Differentiated coaching & the coaching toolbox
[18:45] Low, medium, and high-impact coaching strategies
[21:30] Working with resistant teachers: a real coaching story
[25:00] Why visiting colleagues is a high-impact coaching move
[30:00] Lightning round: next steps, learning, and resources
Coaching is not about "fixing" teachers—it's about partnering to grow
Every interaction with a teacher is a potential coaching moment
Differentiation matters just as much for adults as it does for students
Relationship-building strategies are not "low value"—they're foundational
Peer observation helps shift beliefs without putting the coach at the center
Get Your Episode Freebie & More Resources On My Website: https://www.lindsaybethlyons.com/blog/243
Podcast: https://pod.link/1496989397
Website: https://www.buzzingwithmsb.com
