Shows
Coaching the Whole Educator#173: Short on Time? Skip the Observation, Not the Pre-ConferenceSend us a textIn this episode of Coaching the Whole Educator, Becca sits down again with veteran instructional coaching expert Steve Barkley to unpack one of the most overlooked but powerful parts of the coaching cycle: the pre-conference. Together, they break down why pre-conferences are essential for effective instructional coaching, teacher growth, and human-centered school leadership.Steve explains how pre-conferences create trust, increase teacher agency, and ensure coaching conversations feel relevant and meaningful. Instead of using coaching time for “I gotcha” observations, Steve shows how a strong pre-conference transforms the work into “I got you,”...
2026-01-2514 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#171: How AI Can Spark (Not Replace) Your LeadershipSend us a textThis episode dives straight into the conversation every educator and leader needs right now: How AI is reshaping coaching, leadership, and the way we build an Innovator’s Mindset in schools.Becca sits down with George Couros, world-recognized educator and author of The Innovator’s Mindset, to unpack how AI can support real human-centered leadership instead of replacing it. Together, they explore how AI can fuel curiosity, deepen critical thinking, and expand teacher and student agency when used with intention.You’ll hear George break down:Why innovation is not...
2026-01-1128 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#170: The Leadership Support GapSend us a textLooking for inspiration and real talk you can actually use as a school leader? This episode brings you a powerful conversation between Becca and the vibrant duo behind The Principal Exchange, Andra and Sarah. Together, they explore the real challenges principals face every day. The isolation. The constant demands. The search for support that truly understands the weight of school leadership.You will hear the story of how Andra and Sarah built their platform from the ground up and how their resources and virtual events are creating an authentic community for...
2026-01-0424 min
The Principal Exchange PodcastEpisode 18: Tackling Teacher Resistance with Becca SilverThis week, we’re bringing you something a little different—our very first guest interview! We sat down with Becca Silver, founder and CEO of The Whole Educator and one of our keynote speakers for the upcoming Principal Exchange Winter Conference. Together, we’re digging into a topic every school leader knows all too well: teacher resistance.
Becca shares why resistance happens, why it’s normal, and why the real issue isn’t “difficult teachers” but unmet needs, mindsets, and task-centered leadership approaches that unintentionally create pushback. From human-centered coaching to understanding different motivation profiles, Becca breaks down what’s re...
2025-12-0721 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#165: Perfectionism's Impact on Resilience & Well-beingSend us a textTune in for an engaging conversation with clinical psychologist Dr. Kate Lund as she joins host Becca Silver to explore perfectionism and resilience. This episode dives into how perfectionism can show up in the lives of coaches, leaders, and teachers, and why it often gets in the way of satisfaction and well-being.Dr. Lund explains the difference between perfectionism and healthy striving, sharing how the constant urge to get everything right can actually make growth and adaptability more difficult. Listeners will discover practical tools, including the relaxation response technique to calm...
2025-11-3021 min
Building a Culture of CollaborationOvercoming Teacher Resistance: Strategies for School Leaders with Becca Silver - Ep 53Access a workshop guide to help your team unpack their norms and help them have a greater impact on your collaborative efforts - https://bit.ly/jlnorms🔥 Struggling with teacher resistance in your school? Discover how Becca Silver, creator of the Catalyst Mindsets™ and founder of The Whole Educator, helps leaders and coaches move beyond compliance to build real teacher agency, engagement, and collaboration.In this episode, we explore: ✅ How to understand the unmet needs behind teacher resistance ✅ The 5 Catalyst Mindsets™: Value, Ownership, Belonging, Success, and Growth ✅ Strategies for coaching the whole educat...
2025-11-1845 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#163: Coaching Through Student Learning Production BehaviorsSend us a text[Podcast Sponsor] Kind Cotton: Soft, sustainable apparel, where every purchase provides a book to a child.In this episode, Becca sits down with Steve Barkley, a pioneer in instructional coaching whose influence has shaped how educators think about growth, feedback, and collaboration. Together, they unpack what it really takes to create lasting change in classrooms; not through evaluation, but through curiosity and conversation.Steve shares his journey from being observed every day as a student teacher to becoming one of the most respected v...
2025-11-1629 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#161: Beyond Policies & Promises: How Real Leaders Create Conditions for EquitySend us a text[Podcast Sponsor] Kind Cotton: Soft, sustainable apparel, where every purchase provides a book to a child.In this powerful episode, Becca sits down with Dr. Ann Ishimaru and Dr. Decoteau Irby, authors of Doing the Work of Equity Leadership for Justice and Systems Change, to unpack what it really means to lead for equity in today’s schools.Together, they trace the evolution of equity leadership through four distinct phases: morning (where new roles and policies first take root), midday (when equ...
2025-11-0223 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#162: Why Building Trust Might Not Be WorkingSend us a text[Podcast Sponsor]Kind Cotton: Soft, sustainable apparel, where every purchase provides a book to a child.What separates schools that grow from those that stall? One word: trust.In this episode, Becca unpacks research showing that strong trust can double a school’s chance of improving student learning. She breaks down the four types of trust: integrity, intent, capabilities, and results and shares how leaders can pinpoint where trust is missing and rebuild it with purpose.Listen in for practical, research-backed stra...
2025-11-0206 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#160: How a One-Hour Intervention Shifted Outcomes for YearsSend us a text[Podcast Sponsor]Kind Cotton: Soft, sustainable apparel, where every purchase provides a book to a child.Ever wonder how the smallest moments can spark the biggest shifts in learning and leadership? In this episode of Research Rundown, Becca reveals the science behind a simple one hour intervention that slashed achievement gaps and boosted happiness for years, all by strengthening students’ sense of belonging. Discover how tiny, everyday moments can ripple out to create lasting change, and learn the three essential ingredients every leader needs to buil...
2025-10-2606 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#159: Why Teachers Don’t Want to Use Data and What to Do About ItSend us a text[Podcast Sponsor]Kind Cotton: Soft, sustainable apparel, where every purchase provides a book to a child.How can schools and teams make data feel human and actually useful? In this episode, Becca talks with data culture expert Jessica Lane about approaches that move beyond dashboards and charts to create meaningful impact.Jessica shares practical ways to start small, focus on “tiny data,” and connect every action to real student outcomes. Through stories and actionable strategies, listeners will learn how to build trust, support teach...
2025-10-1928 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#158: Why Ownership Requires Agency (And How to Build It)Send us a text[Podcast Sponsor] Kind Cotton: Soft, sustainable apparel, where every purchase provides a book to a child.Discover how teacher agency really works.In this episode, Becca explores the research on teacher agency, showing it’s not simply a personal trait, but shaped by school leadership, collaboration, and trust. You’ll hear why true teacher ownership can’t be forced, and how creating the right conditions helps teachers grow, lead, and stay engaged.📥 Download this FREE resource to help you spot and support bo...
2025-10-1205 minCoaching the Whole Educator#164: Why Your Teacher Support Needs a Tiered SystemSend us a textGet ready for a smarter approach to professional learning!In this episode, Becca challenges coaches and school leaders to stop treating professional development like a one-size-fits-all event. Instead, she shares how to design support that truly matches the needs of your educators.Think of it through the MTSS lens: ✨ Tier 1: Learning that brings everyone together around a shared goal. 🎯 Tier 2: Targeted sessions for small groups who need focused support. 💬 Tier 3: Personalized coaching that addresses individual needs and sparks real growth.Every PD experience, from staff meeti...
2025-10-0807 minCoaching the Whole Educator#157: How Gen Z is Misunderstood in the WorkplaceSend us a textGet ready to see leadership and the next generation from a whole new angle. In this insightful episode, Becca sits down with author and leadership expert Tim Elmore to talk about what Gen Z is bringing to the workplace. Tim shares stories that challenge assumptions, clears up common misconceptions, and shows how Gen Z can help leaders grow sharper in their skills. You’ll hear why shortcuts sometimes represent a new kind of work ethic, how regular check-ins can strengthen team culture, and why curiosity often creates better results than frustration. Whether yo...
2025-10-0733 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#156: Give Feedback So They Can Hear ItSend us a textWhy does the same feedback spark growth in one teacher but shut down another? In this episode, Becca Silver unpacks the research on the “four ways of knowing” and how it shapes the way educators receive feedback. You’ll learn how to recognize these differences, adjust your coaching approach, and move past resistance with compassion and clarity. This conversation will help you shift feedback from frustration to connection, so real growth can take root.🔗Discover the research behind how teachers truly hear feedback in Tell...
2025-09-2805 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#153: Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak: Why Great Leaders Pause Before ActingSend us a textDiagnose why your team is resisting or stuck: Take the Quiz!In this episode, Becca Silver interviews Bethany Rees about her unique approach to leadership, using the metaphor of the "body of leadership": head (mindset), heart (relationships), hands (execution), and guts (accountability). They discuss the importance of pausing, reflection, and focusing on what truly matters ("rocks over sand") to avoid burnout and be more effective leaders. Bethany shares practical mantras and strategies for nourishing leadership and emphasizes the value of self-accountability and proactive problem-solving. The...
2025-09-0729 min
Data in EducationHow to Move Beyond Buy-In and Cultivate True Teacher Ownership with Becca SilverSend us a textFree resources - www.thewholeeducator.com/free-resourcesIn this episode of Data in Education, I had a fascinating conversation with Becca Silver, the CEO and founder of The Whole Educator, and someone who is truly a kindred spirit in making data more human-centered. With a decade of experience in the classroom, including teaching abroad and co-oping a school in Tanzania, Becca brings a unique, global perspective to her work. After transitioning to instructional coaching, she had a lightbulb moment: the traditional, task-centered approach wasn’t creating lasting change. By integrating her li...
2025-09-0549 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#151: Radically Simple PD Systems: Cut the Clutter & Focus on What’s EssentialSend us a textIn this episode, Becca Silver is joined by Tami Shaw to discuss effective approaches to designing professional development (PD) systems. Tami shares insights from her book "Radically Simple Training," including practical activities like using quotes to foster meaningful connections among participants. The conversation explores the importance of making PD relevant and engaging, emphasizing strategies such as "less is more," anchoring activities in the content, and shifting from a mindset of judgment ("shoulds") to one of support and curiosity. Tami and Becca also discuss learning from other industries to improve mentoring and PD practices...
2025-08-2423 min
Leadership on the Rocks#98 Leading Through Resistance: How to Turn Pushback Into Progress with Becca SilverResistance isn’t the enemy—it’s feedback.
In this episode of Leadership on the Rocks, Bethany Rees is joined by Becca Silver, founder of The Whole Educator. Together, they unpack how leaders can reframe pushback, strengthen relationships, and turn conflict into growth.
💡 Key insight: Resistance isn’t about attitude—it’s about unmet needs. When leaders learn to recognize these signals, they can respond with clarity, empathy, and strategy.
🎧 Tune in for practical, real-world strategies you can apply today!
Becca Silver Resources
🌐 Website: thewholeeducator.com
🎙️ Podcast: The Whole Educator Podcast
🔍 Tak...
2025-08-2048 min
The Ed Essentials PodcastUnlocking a Catalyst Mindset with Becca SilverBecca Silver helps school leaders and coaches do one of the hardest things in education—lead people through resistance and into real commitment. With two decades in education, she’s worked with thousands of educators and leaders across the U.S. and beyond. She’s also the founder of The Whole Educator and hosts the Coaching the Whole Educator podcast, where she breaks down the messiness of adult learning and change leadership into something practical—and actually doable.Connect with BeccaWebsite: www.thewholeeducator.comFree Catalyst Mindsets Quiz: https://quiz.try...
2025-07-211h 00
Coaching the Whole Educator#124: Humanizing Imposter SyndromeSend us a textBecca and Dr. Chris Jones cohost another episode where they explore how imposter syndrome affects everyone, especially our high-achieving coaches and leaders. Everyone experiences imposter syndrome, no matter their experience level. Here are the highlights:Different Reactions to Imposter SyndromePeople either overcompensate or underfunction when faced with imposter syndrome.Strategies to Manage Imposter SyndromeChris emphasizes the importance of recognizing and being yourself to manage imposter syndrome.Self-regulation to prevent emotional dysregulation. Become a “professional noticer” to recognize when imposter syndrome is affecting behavior.Impact of Unno...
2025-02-1629 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#122: Why Growth Mindset Isn't Enough: The Five Mindsets You Need to Drive ChangeSend us a textReady to diagnose the biggest mindset gap on your team? Take the free Catalyst Mindsets Quiz **HERE**! Growth mindset? Oversold. It’s not the magic bullet schools think it is. Telling teachers and students to “just believe in improvement” without addressing what’s blocking them is like throwing seeds on dry, compacted soil and expecting a lush garden—without loosening the ground, adding nutrients, or ensuring there’s water, those seeds don’t stand a chance.Becca reveals five Catalyst Mindse...
2025-02-0210 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#120: Protocols: Helpful or Holding You Back?Send us a textIn this episode, Becca Silver and Dr. Chris Jones shake up the coaching conversation by tackling a common trap: over-reliance on protocols. While structure and frameworks can be helpful, they break down why rigid scripts won’t make you a great coach—and might even hold you back.Chris and Becca debate:The Pros & Cons of Protocols – When they’re useful and when they become a crutch.Coaching Beyond the Checklist – Why developing deep skills in listening and questioning matters more than following a script.
2025-01-1929 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#118: Why Being 'Naturally Gifted' Can Backfire as a CoachSend us a text***Watch the full, unedited YouTube version here.***Becca and Dr. Chris Jones co-host another episode where they discuss the challenges that come when instructional coaches and school leaders are "naturally gifted" in certain areas. Here are the highlights:The Ladder of Conscious CompetenceFour stages: Conscious/Unconscious Competence & Incompetence.This can explain why there’s a lack of knowledge transfer at your schoolWhy having unconscious competence makes skills hard to teach.The Peter Principle in EducationPe...
2025-01-0227 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#117: Defining a Coach's Role: The Four "Hats" a Coach WearsSend us a text***Watch the full, unedited YouTube version here.***Are you struggling to make coaching more impactful in your school? In this engaging conversation, we welcome Jacy and Rita, two experts in coaching and school improvement, to explore how supporting coaches can lead to meaningful changes in education. They discuss the evolving role of coaching, emphasizing that it’s not just a formal title but a dynamic set of activities that can empower teachers and drive systemic change. These activities include adopting four key co...
2024-12-1533 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#116: Is Growth Mindset Actually Good?Send us a text***Watch the full, unedited YouTube version here.***This is the very first episode Dr. Chris Jones (Executive Director of VASCD) and Becca are co-hosting informal, unplanned conversations where they share their experiences and, sometimes differing, opinions and challenge each other about all things instructional leadership and coaching. These co-hosted episodes aim to disrupt the idea that there’s one right way to do things in education and support best practices from many different points of view. Here are the top...
2024-12-0844 minCoaching the Whole Educator#110: **BEST OF** SERIES: Untold Secrets of Teacher Retention and School Culture: The Art of Listening For What's Not Being SaidSend us a textThis is part of our *BEST OF* Series, where we highlight the most downloaded episodes of all time.In this episode, Becca dives into an intriguing conversation with Chanavia Patterson, affectionately known as Principal Patterson, on the powerful concept of "listening for what's not being said" in school culture. Discover the secrets behind understanding underlying messages, emotions, and nonverbal cues to foster a thriving school climate and increase teacher retention. From active and reflective listening techniques to creating open communication spaces and the game-changing impact of creating your very own advisory...
2024-10-2920 minCoaching the Whole Educator*B.O.Y. Favorite* Breaking Through Resistance (Part 4)Send us a textIn this episode, Becca and Gretchen Bridgers address the 4th and final phase of resistance in educators, requiring accountability. Becca and Gretchen walk you through specific things to say (and not to say) to help you navigate the hard conversations around keeping educators accountable. This must-hear discussion explains how to first build a trustworthy relationship to make educators with resistance feel valued, and how to give educators a voice in the process of breaking through their resistance. Their clear action steps are sure to leave you feeling empowered to conquer resistance you’re...
2024-09-2523 minCoaching the Whole Educator*B.O.Y. Favorite* Breaking Through Resistance (Part 3)Send us a textIn this episode, Becca and Mia discuss the third level of resistance: when educators don't feel competent enough to implement the change. They discuss the varying reasons why the resistance happens on this level. In addition, they share strategies on how to build capacity in a building where teachers feel safe and confident to take risks and try new things (including new changes). BEGINNING OF SCHOOL YEAR SPECIAL**25% Off Discount**Breaking Through Resistance and Building Buy-InCONTACT US to qualify for th...
2024-09-1816 minCoaching the Whole Educator*B.O.Y. Favorite* Breaking Through Resistance (Part 2)Send us a textIn this episode Becca and Melissa (Mia) Pumo, coach of school leadership and instructional coaches, discuss the 2nd level of resistance: they resist change because they don't trust you. Remember- just because you consider yourself trustworthy, doesn't mean they trust you. Without trust, no amount of clarifying expectations and holding teachers accountable will help. A lack of trust means you will get pushback the whole way through the change. A trusting relationship makes change easier, quicker and more effective. Listen in to find out the different components of trust and how to intentionally...
2024-09-1112 minCoaching the Whole Educator*B.O.Y. Favorite* Breaking Through Resistance (Part 1)Send us a textBecca and Mia Pumo kick off a 4 part series on how to address resistance utilizing a 4 part framework. In this episode, they dive into the first level of resistance: when educators resist because they don't understand why the change is happening. Often, leaders are connected to why change is happening and it is assumed that teachers are connected to that why as well. Becca and Mia share concrete action steps to take that will empower you to address educators that are resisting change because they do not understand why this change is happening.
2024-09-0417 min
Ask The Tech CoachCoaching The Whole Educator – A Conversation with Becca SilverIn this episode of the Ask the Tech Coach, Jeff welcomes Instructional Coach and Educational Consultant, Becca Silver from “Coaching the Whole Educator Podcast” on to the show to discuss how Coaches can build their brands in their schools and in the world.
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In This Episode …
How to start the school year off on the right foot
What are the expectations of the administrator for their building
Understanding what your...
2024-08-0535 minCoaching the Whole Educator#98: Cracking the Code: The Mindsets Behind Growth [Research Rundown]Send us a textIn this episode, Becca dives deep into the concept of learning mindsets. While growth mindset has been a popular focus, research shows that it's just one piece of a larger puzzle. To truly support teacher and student growth, instructional coaches and school leaders must consider four essential mindsets: belonging, growth mindset, self-efficacy, and value & purpose.The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding these mindsets within the hierarchy of learner needs. Before focusing on instructional strategies, coaches and leaders must ensure teachers feel safe, valued, and capable. By diagnosing which mindset might...
2024-08-0408 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#91: How the Change Adoption Curve Helps Build Buy-inSend us a text***Watch the full, unedited YouTube version here.***Does it ever feel like an uphill battle when you are asked to implement a new change in your building or district? In this episode, James Fester and Becca discuss the Change Adoption Curve and how to use it to navigate successful school improvement. The curve gives you the order in which teachers will adopt change: innovators (eager early adopters), early adopters (enthusiastic supporters), early majority (need some convincing), late majority (cautious adopters), and laggards (most reluctant to...
2024-06-1623 min
Growing With Proficiency The PodcastEpisode 96: Beyond Growth Mindset: Cultivating Success in Language Classes with Becca SilverSend us a textJoin us for a powerful conversation with Becca Silver, an instructional coach and the CEO and founder of The Whole Educator. In this episode, we dive into the powerful world of mindsets in education—exploring what growth mindset truly is and how it impacts our brains, backed by fascinating research from Michigan State University.Becca shares why having a growth mindset alone isn't enough and introduces us to the concept of academic mindsets, which include the crucial elements of belonging, self-efficacy, and a sense of purpose. Together, we discuss practical st...
2024-06-0640 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#86: The Brain Science Behind Overcoming Learning Plateaus: Helping Educators Embrace ChallengeSend us a textThis is our VERY FIRST Research Rundown! These episodes will be bi-weekly mini-episodes sharing about research studies Becca uses within her own coaching and professional development.This podcast episode cracks the code on how our brains ACTUALLY handle challenges, and the secret weapon might surprise you. This episode reveals a groundbreaking study that shows how our brains LIGHT UP during challenges, but what happens NEXT is what truly separates growth mindsets from fixed mindsets.The answer? It's all about the BUZZ! Tune in to discover this quirky...
2024-05-1306 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#82: When You’re Having the Same Conversation Over and OverSend us a text***Watch the full, unedited YouTube version here.*****NEW and FREE PD** Grab your Podcast Playlists (Part 2) HERE!Have you ever found yourself perplexed by the repetitive conversations with teachers or staff? Alongside Angela Kelly and Becca, explore the key factors driving this issue. They explore elements such as awareness levels, resistance to change, fear of failure and the desire for control. Gain insights into self-reflection questions and strategies for addressing these underlying dynamics. Discover how reframing perceptions, b...
2024-04-1422 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#81: Why People Resist FeedbackSend us a text***Watch the full, unedited YouTube version here.***This conversation between Mia Pumo, coach of coaches, and Becca discusses how to give and receive feedback more effectively. Here are the key takeaways:People resist feedback for three reasons:*Truth triggers: they believe the feedback is untrue or unhelpful.*Relationship triggers: they don't trust the person giving the feedback.*Identity triggers: they feel the feedback threatens their sense of self.They discuss how to mitigate these triggers and how giving feedback...
2024-04-0123 minCoaching the Whole Educator#80: Stop Teacher Stagnation! 5 Disciplines to Ignite Adult LearningSend us a text**Watch the unedited Youtube episode here**In this episode, Allison Rodman and Becca dive into the messy, beautiful world of adult learning. In Allison's book "Still Learning," she shares about the adult social and emotional journey and the real, raw stuff that fuels our capacity to learn and grow.Here's the thing: we spend so much time worrying about curriculum and perfect facilitation for our students, but sometimes forget about the adults. We forget that teachers are whole humans, too, with vulnerabilities, strengths...
2024-03-3125 min
Leader of LearningCoaching for Change: Breaking Through Teacher Resistance with Becca SilverWelcome to episode 166 of the Leader of Learning Podcast. In this episode, our host Dan engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Becca Silver, founder and CEO of The Whole Educator. Together, they explore the intricacies of addressing resistance to change in professional development, particularly in the field of education. Becca shares her expertise in the neuroscience behind habit formation and discusses strategies for empowering educators to overcome resistance. The episode delves into the importance of trust, active listening, and celebrating small wins to create a supportive environment for educators.Guest Information:Becca Silver is the...
2024-02-1936 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#74: Is Your Coaching Stuck on Repeat? Take Them From Clueless to MasterfulSend us a textEver feel like you're giving the same coaching advice over and over, but nothing changes? This podcast episode could really help! It dives into the "four stages of competence" framework, helping you understand why teachers might be stuck in making progress and how to adapt your approach. This episode of delves into the four stages of competence framework and how it can be used to guide your teachers' progress. Becca emphasizes the messiness and complexity of adult learning, encouraging you to consider individual needs and learning styles.
2024-02-1117 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#71: Breaking the 21-Day Myth: The Realities of Habit DevelopmentSend us a textIn this podcast episode, Becca welcomes back Chad Ransom, an experienced educator, consultant and fellow habit-enthusiast. The discussion focuses on the importance of developing habits for coaches and leaders. Chad shares insights from his journey, emphasizing the impact of habits on personal effectiveness, efficiency and instructional practices.The conversation explores decision fatigue, the misconception of the 21-day habit rule, and the need to identify and address ineffective habits (and their triggers) to create sustained change. Chad highlights the role of systems in supporting efficient communication and time management for leaders.
2024-01-2219 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#70: Why Teaching Growth Mindsets Might Not Be WorkingSend us a text***Watch the full, unedited YouTube version here.***In this discussion, Becca brings in Jenn Maichin as a guest, with an impressive 29-year career pioneering growth mindset work in Mineola (NY) school district. The conversation delves into Academic Mindsets and its four components: Belief in Growth (aka Growth Mindset), Self-Efficacy, Sense of Belonging, and Sense of Meaning and Purpose. If you have been bringing Growth Mindset concepts into your school and have seen very little impact on teacher and student success, you might be missing other...
2024-01-1525 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#69: Why New Year’s Resolutions Don’t Work (and How This Connects to Coaching)Send us a textDid you know that only 9% of American complete their New Year's resolutions? In this episode, Becca shares the challenges and strategies of maintaining this year's New Year's resolutions and discusses the strong connections to coaching and leading in your schools. Here are some key takeaways:Challenges with New Year's Resolutions:Size of Changes: Most resolutions fail due to setting overly ambitious goals. Becca emphasizes the effectiveness of small, incremental steps over grand overhauls.Lack of Connection to "Why": Resolvers often focus on societal expectations ("...
2024-01-0418 minCoaching the Whole Educator#68: Leaving Them Feeling AppreciatedSend us a textThis episode explores the often overlooked practice of acknowledgments and their vital importance, especially in educational settings. Yes- we said overlooked! Acknowledgments (also called Generous Appreciation), described as specific positive statements about someone, are discussed as a powerful tool for creating connections. This is distinguished from general kind words.Becca emphasizes the neurological impact of acknowledgments, explaining that they trigger the release of oxytocin in the brain, fostering genuine human connection. It is important we move beyond generic expressions of gratitude ("Thanks for your hard work this year") and this episode...
2023-12-1107 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#66: It doesn't matter what you say. It matters what they hear.Send us a textIn this episode, Becca welcomes Kim Wynn, a former educator consultant turned performance and leadership coach, to discuss the nuances of communication, specifically focusing on the concept of "speaking to the listening." So, why should you care? Communication isn't just about what you want to say; it's about understanding what the other person needs to hear. We're talking about creating a space where people feel heard, and that, alone, can transform whether someone actual hears your intended message or not – whether it's in a classroom or your daily interactions. Kim d...
2023-11-2714 minCoaching the Whole Educator#65: The One Where Becca Gets InterviewedSend us a textCoaches and leaders, get ready to kick back and enjoy a podcast episode that gets a little more relaxed. In this unique episode, Becca flips the script, letting Tami Shaw take the reins and ask some questions. Unwind and delve into the host's preferences, from rom com favorites to a surprising weightloss journey. Beyond the casual banter, the episode imparts invaluable life advice gleaned from personal experiences and parental wisdom. Expect a dose of real talk as the discussion navigates through professional transitions, the significance of human connection in educational leadership, and strategies...
2023-11-1919 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#64: The Mental Skills Needed to FunctionSend us a textIn this episode, coaches and leaders will gain valuable insights into the realm of executive functions. This discussion with Becca and Candace Heiken, a seasoned education professional and Executive Director of the Lively Minds Institute, sheds light on the critical role executive functions play in adult learning and productivity. The episode not only defines these functions but also offers a practical framework for identifying behaviors associated with deficiencies and implementing targeted strategies. Candace's emphasis on self-awareness and humility in acknowledging skill gaps provides a relatable perspective, allowing coaches and leaders to approach skill...
2023-11-1322 minCoaching the Whole Educator#63: Implicit vs. Explicit Agreements: Their Impact on TrustSend us a textUnlock the power of clear agreements and foster trust with this enlightening podcast episode featuring Brendalyn King, an executive leadership coach with extensive experience in education. Join Becca and Brendalyn as they delve into the often-overlooked world of agreements and the pivotal role they play in effective leadership and coaching. Discover actionable steps, practical tips, and proven strategies to navigate the complexities of agreements, both explicit and implicit. Brendalyn highlights the significance of making implicit agreements explicit and shares the practical benefits of clarity, helping you sidestep misinterpretations and misunderstandings.In...
2023-11-0519 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#62: When They Go Back to Their Old WaysSend us a textJoin Alissa Crabtree and Becca Silver in this enlightening podcast episode as they delve into the complexities of driving (and sustaining) change beyond the coaching cycle. Discover the keys to creating sustained change in educational settings, addressing the frustrations and challenges that educators, coaches, and leaders often encounter. Key Takeaways for Coaches and Leaders:1. **Understanding Teacher Frustrations**: Gain insights into teacher challenges and get actionable tips and strategies for addressing them, fostering a healthy change process.2. **Emphasize Relevance and Investment**: Highlight the relevance of change and its alignment w...
2023-10-3021 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#61: A Coaching Tool That Supports Your School Improvement PlanSend us a textJoin Becca and Whitney Triplett for an insightful episode where they discuss a Response to Coaching Intervention tool, created by Whitney and designed specifically for instructional coaches and leaders. This transformative tool offers practical support in five distinct tiers, catering to the specific coaching and guidance needs of teachers. Throughout this conversation, Becca and Whitney emphasize that the Response to Coaching Intervention tool is all about empowerment and motivation, steering clear of labels or judgments. By addressing resistance and focusing on individualized support, instructional coaches and leaders can not only help educators improve...
2023-10-2323 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#60: The Predictive Index: Improve Leadership Self Awareness, Team Cohesion and Job SatisfactionSend us a textIn this episode, Becca and Sean Bennett dive into the pivotal role of self-awareness and the Predictive Index (PI) assessment tool in fostering a cohesive leadership team. Sean recounts his journey into school leadership, highlighting early role ambiguity that led to frustration and inefficiency among administrators.The episode underscores the helpfulness of the Predictive Index in identifying team imbalances, providing valuable insights into self-perception and collaboration dynamics. Sean's realization about the impact of adaptability and flexibility offers a compelling lesson for leaders. Learn how tools like the Predictive Index can empower...
2023-10-1622 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#59: Overcoming Our Addiction to Being RightSend us a textWith our hyper focus on standards, curriculum and assessments, there is a resulting disconnection of relationships that happens in schools. In this episode, Becca Silver explores how to combat that by highlighting our addiction to being right (trust me, it relates) and how it impacts our relationships and connections.1️⃣ The Addiction to Being Right: Discover why our brains are naturally wired to judge and seek the comfort of being right. Becca discusses the roots of this addiction and its impact on our daily interactions.2️⃣ Neurological Rewards: Uncov...
2023-10-0810 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#58: The Language of Growth: The Surprising (and Important) Nuances of our Words******************NEW******************[FREE DOWNLOAD] Podcast PlaylistsThis podcast episode takes a deep dive into the world of mindset and social emotional learning. Becca Silver and Dr. Kendra Coates shared insights and personal experiences that got us thinking about how mindset shapes our education journey.This episode is all about keeping it real when it comes to workplace culture and language in education. Dr. Coates made a simple but powerful suggestion: Let's call it a workplace, not just a school. This small change in how we talk about it can actually make...
2023-10-0113 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#57: The Choice Map: A Guide to Shifting MindsetsSend us a textIn this episode, Becca takes a deep dive into the fascinating world of mindset and truly transformative coaching with Dr. Marilee Adams. Dr. Adams is a seasoned author and professor in psychology and social work who has created a map that guides you through shifting mindsets (your own and those you lead).Here are the top three takeaways from this enlightening conversation:1. The Choice Map: Uncover the practical Choice Map tool, which empowers you to recognize and shift from a constraining "judger mindset" to an e...
2023-09-2451 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#56: Their Coaching Model Made Them National NewsSend us a textIn this episode, Becca engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Kelli Crain and Jill Hoda, State Literacy Coordinators for the Mississippi State Department of Education. As Mississippi garners national recognition for its pioneering strides in education and literacy, Kelli and Jill generously share their invaluable insights and strategies for achieving that success. They stress the importance of practical coaching and give you some solid advice to make it work smoothly. Plus, they highlight how building trust and strong relationships is the first crucial step in being an effective coach. It's all about creating...
2023-09-1850 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#55: New Teacher Success StrategiesSend us a textIn this podcast episode, Becca engages in a conversation with Dr. Melissa Bonds, a highly experienced education leader, Director of a doctoral program and consultant. Melissa discusses various aspects of supporting new teachers and concrete tips and strategies to meet differing need throughout the school year. She starts by acknowledging the wide ranging definition of a "new teacher." She emphasizes the need to treat each new teacher as an individual with unique strengths and experiences, rather than making assumptions based on their background.The conversation delves into the concept of the...
2023-09-1219 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#54: How One District is Retaining Early Career EducatorsSend us a textIn this episode Becca and Tami Shaw, Professional Development and Learning Specialist in Edmond Public Schools, explore the innovative strategies that Edmond is pioneering to support and retain early career educators ("new teachers"). Tami shares current structures she currently employs to “wrap around” early career educators and previous strategies that didn’t work. She shares out of the box strategies and concrete tools to support early career educators such as her high yield coaching model, the Peer Coaching Academy (empowering teachers to coach other teachers) and even how she has completely revamped the mentori...
2023-09-0520 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#53: Sustaining Your Energy Throughout the School YearSend us a text***[FULL EPISODE NOTES]***[FREE DOWNLOAD] Two Minute Stress RelieversCurious about how you can maintain your energy level and well-being throughout the school year? Tune in to this new episode as Becca Silver sits down with Carman Murray, an expert in empowering educators to physically and mentally thrive. Discover the vital connection between mind and body, and learn strategies to keep your momentum high throughout the school year (and help your educators do that same).The strategies you learn in this episode a...
2023-08-2716 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#51: "Noticing" and "Wondering:" A Coaching Conversation ToolSend us a textBecca Silver is back with a special guest, Dr. Christi Roberts, and they're unpacking an invaluable coaching tool: "Noticing and Wondering." Dive into a conversation that revolves around fostering genuine connections with educators and building a foundation of trust. Discover how "Noticing" and "Wondering" statements revolutionize coaching conversations, helping educators uncover their own solutions and ideas for improvement. Learn how this approach enhances coaching conversations, promotes collaboration, and cultivates a culture of continuous growth in the classroom. Becca and Christi demonstrate how to use Noticing and Wondering as they role play a...
2023-08-1319 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#49: Untold Secrets of Teacher Retention and School Culture: The Art of Listening For What's Not Being SaidSend us a textIn this captivating podcast episode, Becca dives into an intriguing conversation with Chanavia Patterson, affectionately known as Principal Patterson, on the powerful concept of "listening for what's not being said" in school culture. Discover the secrets behind understanding underlying messages, emotions, and nonverbal cues to foster a thriving school climate and increase teacher retention. From active and reflective listening techniques to creating open communication spaces and the game-changing impact of creating your very own advisory council, Principal Patterson shares invaluable insights to transform your leadership approach. Uncover the essence of school culture, far...
2023-07-3019 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#47: How to find time for impactful conversationsSend us a textJoin Becca as she chats with Kara Semtner, who embarked on an incredible journey through the depths of the pandemic as a coach. Kara shares her personal transformation from an unsure and inexperienced coach to the confident and impactful leader she is today.When Kara started coaching, she faced challenges and resistance, often feeling lost and unsure of her role. But she was determined to make an impact and sought guidance. Building trust and strong relationships became her priority, but she quickly realized the difficulty of the task at hand. As...
2023-07-1814 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#46: How Intentional Dialogue Changes Your BrainSend us a textIntentional dialogue helps create a safe container for discussing sensitive or challenging topics. We must retrain our brains and nervous systems to regulate negative reactions and think calmly. When we react defensively or place blame on others, it creates a lack of safety and trust.Intentional dialogue doesn't require vulnerability but allows for sharing that transforms team effectiveness, cohesion and resilience. It helps leaders become more effective coaches by helping them show up as their best selves and understand others without judgment (and we ALL have judgements). Dive into intentional dialogue...
2023-07-1119 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#45: Being busy can reduce your effectivenessSend us a textDid you know your leadership effectiveness is directly related to your ability to sit with discomfort? Sometimes, staying busy keeps us from being present with uncomfortable situations and thoughts. Here's the undeniable reality:You will face uncomfortable situations.You will get BUSY.You will have to make tough decisions.You will make mistakes.How can you still make an impact? In this episode, Becca shares about her recent "yoga incident" and the invaluable leadership lessons she learned from it. Learn more about how to grow your d...
2023-07-0217 minCoaching the Whole Educator#42: Where Unproductive Behaviors Come From: How to Address Limiting BeliefsSend us a textYou can’t focus on changing behaviors without addressing beliefs because beliefs influence behavior. Beliefs, ways of being, and behaviors are interconnected and hard to separate. Beliefs are powerful, personal, and shape our response to every situation. Acknowledging that beliefs and behaviors are connected is essential when attempting to disentangle beliefs from behaviors. Disentangling beliefs from behaviors is challenging. But, when we recognize the influence of beliefs on behaviors, the transformative possibilities are endless. We can learn to reflect on personal beliefs and utilize emotions as indicators. We can start with questions about te...
2023-06-1118 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#41: Don't treat people the way you want to be treated - EXPLAINED!Send us a textIn this episode, Becca and Candice Saxon dive into a discussion about treating others the way they want to be treated. They emphasize the importance of this concept as a cornerstone of coaching, extending beyond just the field of education. Candice’s background in coaching and organizational leadership brings a fresh perspective to the conversation. They explore how communication plays a vital role in how we leave others, highlight the need for intentionality and understanding individual differences, and give specific ways to improve communication. They challenge the common notion of treating others as we...
2023-06-0419 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#40: Reducing Resistance with Transformative LearningSend us a textIn this episode, Becca brings in Sierra Flores, an instructional coach and extraordinary professional development designer, to discuss her own experience using transformative learning to reduce resistance. They share strategies and steps for transforming yourself and your mindset to help teachers who are experiencing resistance. Through personal examples, they give you specifically how transformative learning impacts coaching and leadership. Tools and tips from the Whole Educator Academy are given throughout this episode to help you take action when what you’re doing isn’t working. Becca and Sierra discuss how to be self awar...
2023-05-2919 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#39: Where Feelings Belong in CoachingSend us a textIn this episode of Coaching the Whole Educator, Dutchess Maye and Becca discuss feelings and where they belong in coaching. They talk about strategies to self-regulate emotions, how to express feelings in healthy ways, and the importance of expressing and processing emotions. Dutchess and Becca explain how burnout is related to self regulation and give practical tips for getting through cycles of burnout. They also discuss where feelings belong in coaching and leading; specifically where feelings belong in the relationship between coaches and leaders with their educators. This episode leaves you with clear...
2023-05-2217 minCoaching the Whole Educator#38: The Most Important Skill of a CoachSend us a textIn this episode, Becca and Melanie Matthews-Calhoun (Literacy at Work) discuss different ways of listening and how they’re helpful. They discuss the differences between listening and hearing and give key tips and strategies for how to actively listen. In addition, tips and tricks for keeping the right mindset and refraining from judgment while practicing recursive listening. The benefits of active listening and how to create ownership with teachers is discussed along with specific phrases to help you paraphrase when recursively listening. This is a must hear episode that will help you build he...
2023-05-1517 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#37: Understanding Human MotivationSend us a textIn this episode, Becca and Charlie Lyons discuss human motivation. They clearly explain the reasons why we should care about human motivation when working with educators. Causes of human motivation and exactly how it impacts teachers are discussed along with practical tips on how to use motivation to increase teacher retention and reduce resistance. Specific needs all humans have and strategies to figure out and respond in healthy ways to these needs for teachers are given. This episode leaves you with meaningful self evaluation questions you can use to broaden your impact as...
2023-05-0714 minCoaching the Whole Educator#36: Toxic Positivity Damages Your School Culture and RelationshipsSend us a textIn this episode, Dr. Orbé-Austin is back with Becca to discuss something rampant in schools: toxic positivity. Dr. Orbé-Austin and Becca define toxic positivity, discuss myths of toxic positivity, and give strategies for facing your feelings instead of using toxic positivity to cover them up. They share specifically how to ask for help in healthy ways. External and internal circumstances that cause toxic positivity are discussed as well as practical tips and tools for you to use to respond to others who are having difficulties. Becca and Dr. Orbé-Austin give spe...
2023-05-0119 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#35: Do You Experience Imposter Syndrome?Send us a textIn this episode, Becca and Dr. Orbé-Austin discuss the details of imposter syndrome. They talk about imposter syndrome as a cycle, what it looks and feels like, and how to identify imposter syndrome in yourself. Becca and Dr. Orbé-Austin give examples of triggers and specifically what to do when you are triggered and fall into feeling like you are a fraud. They are discuss what this looks like in schools as well as questions to help you self reflect and discover the root of your own imposter syndrome. After this episode, yo...
2023-04-2220 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#34: Why You're Not Completing Your Coaching CyclesSend us a textIn this episode, Becca and Nicole S. Turner (Founder of Simply Coaching and Teaching) discuss steps to implement a simple coaching cycle for instructional coaches. Becca and Nicole talk about how to be intentional when reflecting in coaching cycles and specifically what to reflect on as a coach to increase your effectiveness. Barriers to completing coaching cycles are discussed and a specific framework is given that you can implement immediately to strengthen your impact during coaching cycles. This episode will also leave you empowered with a checklist model and increase your confidence in...
2023-04-1617 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#33: Navigating the Ups and Downs of Building Authentic RelationshipsSend us a textIn this episode, Becca and Nita Creekmore (LoveTeachBless) discuss the nature of adult relationships and how to authentically build connections with others. Becca and Nita give insight through their own personal coaching experiences and the relationships they have built along the way. Through this discussion, they give you specific ways to build your own relationships and connections with teachers. Tips for shifting your mindset to allow for better relationships along with examples of what successfully building relationships looks and feels like are specified. You will be left with practical tips for building a...
2023-04-0929 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#32: The 6 Coaching Focus Areas to Address Different Barriers to GrowthSend us a textIn this episode, Becca and Kenny McKee discuss basic keystones of effective coaching. They dive into the types of conversations to have and give you specific language to use and not to use when working with teachers. They also discuss areas where you can intentionally focus your energy on where it will make the greatest positive impact in your coaching. Becca and Kenny explore 6 common barriers of effective coaching and give you specific skills and strategies to address each barrier. After hearing this discussion, you will gain tools to use along with practical...
2023-04-0216 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#31: Being helpful can be harmfulSend us a textIn this episode, Becca and Chrissy Beltran (aka Buzzing with Ms. B) discuss how the need to be helpful in instructional coaching can have a negative impact on your success as a coach. They clearly define the problem-solver/helper issue that instructional coaches can have and give specific tips to avoid falling into the pattern of being overly helpful. Becca and Chrissy get real with their discussion of how hard this can be with personal examples along with specific strategies to help you shift f...
2023-03-2819 min
Coaching the Whole Educator#30: How to advocate for your time and moneySend us a textIn this episode, Becca and Angela Kelly Robeck discuss how to maximize your time and money for professional development resources. They tackle the problem of professional development funding being often overlooked for instructional coaches by giving you strategies to overcome 4 common objections a school leader might have to give you PD funding. This episode will leave you with concrete steps and specific language to use to get on the same page and create buy-in with your school leadership when advocating the value professional development has for you as an instructional coach to impact yo...
2023-03-2021 min