Shows
Blue Skies LeadershipE18 - Beyond the Transcript - Global Impact Diploma: Designing Diplomas for Real-World Impact - Blue Skies LeadershipSummaryOur Blue Skies Leadership conversation emphasizes the urgent need for education to adapt to the pressing global challenges faced by the next generation. This episode highlights the Global Impact Diploma and the importance of equipping young people with not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills and a problem-solving mindset to address issues like climate change, inequality, and economic uncertainty.How to Connecthttps://www.linkedin.com/company/global-impact-diploma/https://www.linkedin.com/in/corey-topf-0a062464/https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-bonnici-ba894b86/...
2025-11-1039 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE17 - Empathy in Action: Dr. Dan Long on Service, Wellness, and the Heart of International Education - Blue Skies LeadershipSummaryThis episode explores the vital role of international schools in fostering community engagement, service learning, and empathy among students. Dr. Dan Long discusses the importance of understanding cultural complexities, building meaningful partnerships, and prioritizing student wellness. This episode emphasizes a holistic approach to education, focusing on the development of well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to their communities.TakeawaysWe are guests in this country, and understanding our role is crucial.Community engagement is a two-way street that benefits both sides.Education should focus on preparing students to...
2025-10-1027 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE16 - Enhancing Our Humanity: AI's Role in Education - Jennie Magiera - Blue Skies LeadershipJoin hosts Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes as they dive into a thought-provoking conversation with Jennie Magiera, Google's Global Head of Education Impact. Discover how technology is transforming classrooms, championing equity, and enhancing student voice. Jennie shares insights on AI's role in education, the importance of belonging in schools, and the future of learning.Key Topics:The role of AI in education and its impact on learning. Strategies for fostering equity and inclusion in schools. Jennie's vision for the future of international education. The balance between academic achievement and holistic student development....
2025-08-0933 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE15 - The Human Heartbeat of International Education: A Conversation with Pauline O'Brien - Blue Skies LeadershipIn this episode, Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes engage with Pauline O'Brien from International School Services (ISS), a leader in global recruitment strategy for international schools. They discuss the evolving landscape of education, emphasizing the importance of building a culture of connection, rethinking recruitment strategies, and the role of coaching in leadership. Pauline shares insights on crafting a professional story, the significance of values-driven recruitment, and the attributes of effective leadership in the context of international education.Important LinksISS Contacts - https://www.iss.edu/who-we-are/team/paulineLinkedIn - Pauline O’Br...
2025-06-1433 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE14 - Dr. Devin Pratt - The Role of Relationships in Leadership Success - Blue Skies LeadershipIn this episode of the Blue Skies Leadership Podcast, Dr. Devin Pratt shares his insights on leadership in international schools, particularly during crises. He emphasizes the importance of relationships, mentorship, and community resilience. Dr. Pratt discusses the need for schools to be future-ready, especially in the context of rapid changes by technology like AI. He also highlights the significance of social and emotional well-being in educational settings and shares success stories from his school, including innovative initiatives in robotics education.TakeawaysRelationships are crucial for sustainable leadership.Navigating crises requires flexibility and community...
2025-05-2530 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE13 - Eblana Learning: Pioneering Ethical AI in Schools - Rita Bateson - Blue Skies LeadershipSummaryIn this episode of the Blue Skies Leadership Podcast, hosts Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes engage in conversation with Rita Bateson, an expert in AI and education, as they discuss the evolving landscape of educational leadership. They explore the importance of balancing courage and humility in leadership, the role of AI in education, and the need for ethical practices in technology integration. Rita shares insights from her work with Eblana Learning, emphasizing the importance of cautious trust in AI adoption and the need to foster relationships in an increasingly AI-driven world. The conversation also explores the...
2025-05-0732 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE12 - Ewan McIntosh - Bridging the Gap in Education Design - Blue Skies LeadershipIn this conversation, Ewan McIntosh discusses the importance of bridging the gap between educators and architects in designing effective learning environments. He emphasizes the need for a clear vision in international schools, focusing on strengths and community identity. The discussion also covers the evolution of educational strategies, the significance of learning spaces, and Notosh's journey in transforming educational practices.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ewanmcintosh/The Provocation, every Monday: https://mailchi.mp/notosh.com/the-provocation-from-notoshLearn more: https://notosh.comTakeawaysThe gap between educators and...
2025-04-2135 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE11 - Cultivating Character and Connection in Education - Gavin McCormack - UpschoolIn this enlightening conversation, Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes speak with Gavin McCormack and explore the transformative power of education through the lens of student potential, relationships, and innovative teaching methods. They discuss the importance of creating safe learning environments, the role of servant leadership, and the impact of initiatives like Upschool. The dialogue emphasizes the need for emotional engagement in learning and the significance of fostering connections between educators and students. Gavin shares his vision for a blue sky education that prioritizes character development and the cultivation of compassionate, capable individuals.TakeawaysWe underestimate...
2025-04-0837 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE10 - Unmasking Education: Bambi Betts on Harmful Practices and the Courage to Change - Blue Skies LeadershipSummaryIn this episode, Daniel Mendes and Dan Kerr engage with Bambi Betts, a prominent figure in international education, discussing the current state of international schools, the vision for their future, and the challenges educational leaders face. Bambi emphasizes the need for quality teaching, the importance of understanding how learning occurs, and the necessity of stopping harmful practices in education. The conversation also touches on the importance of leadership in driving change and the need to value dispositions alongside content knowledge in students. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolution of educational initiatives, the importance of...
2025-03-2142 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE09 - Richard Boerner - Revolutionizing Education: A TruFit Blue Sky VisionIn this episode of the Blue Skies Leadership Podcast, hosts Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes engage with Richard Boerner, the superintendent of Graded, the American School of Sao Paulo. They discuss the importance of embracing change in education, the vision for international schools, and innovative practices at Graded, including the Learning Lab. Richard shares insights from a recent global think tank focused on educational innovation and introduces his new venture, TrueFit Talent, aimed at revolutionizing talent acquisition in education. The conversation emphasizes the urgency for schools to adapt and the potential for positive change in the educational landscape.
2025-03-1139 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE08 - Angela Meikle - IBO - The Future of International Baccalaureate ProgramsSummaryIn this episode of the Blue Skies Leadership Podcast, hosts Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes engage with Angela Meikle, head of IB World Schools at the International Baccalaureate. They discuss the future of education, focusing on the importance of well-being, the need for innovative educational systems, and the ongoing evolution of IB programs. Angela shares insights from her extensive experience in international education, emphasizing the significance of action research and the role of teachers as curriculum designers. The conversation also touches on upcoming events and the IB's commitment to adapting to the changing educational landscape.
2025-02-2728 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE07 - Brooke Fezler - ISCA - Elevating SEL, Mental Health and Counseling: ISCA’s LeadershipElevating SEL, Mental Health and Counseling: ISCA’s Leadership
In this episode of the Blue Skies Leadership Podcast, hosts Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes engage with Brooke Fezler, co-founder and director of the International School Counselors Association (ISCA). They discuss the evolving landscape of international education, emphasizing the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) and mental health in schools. Brooke shares insights on ISCA's innovative training programs, the need for cohesive counseling frameworks, and the upcoming conference on mental health and inclusive practices. The conversation highlights the dedication of educators to support student well-being and th...
2025-02-0433 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE06 - Homa Tavangar - Leading into the Future with Fearless Inquiry: The Big Questions InstituteLeading into the Future with Fearless Inquiry: The Big Questions Institute
Summary
In this episode of the Blue Skies Leadership Podcast, hosts Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes engage with Homa Tavangar, a renowned education, leadership, and global citizenship expert. They discuss the evolving vision for education, emphasizing the need for relevance, mental wellness, and joy in learning. Homa shares insights from her work at the Big Questions Institute and their newest ebook edition, “12 Big Questions Schools Must Answer To Imagine Irresistible Futures,” highlighting the importance of asking critical questions to guide educational prac...
2025-01-2233 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE05 - Jane Larsson - CIS - Blue Skies LeadershipIn this episode of the Blue Skies Leadership Podcast, hosts Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes engage with Jane Larsson, Executive Director of the Council of International Schools (CIS). They discuss the evolving landscape of international education, the importance of socially responsible leadership, and the innovative initiatives implemented by CIS to enhance educational practices.
Key topics include the moral responsibility of schools to provide international education, the need for empathy in leadership, and the introduction of competency-based assessment frameworks. The conversation highlights the significance of adapting educational practices to meet the diverse needs of global communities and the...
2024-12-2331 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE04 - Nancy Lhoest-Squicciarini - ECIS - Blue Skies LeadershipSummary
In this episode of the Blue Skies Leadership Podcast, hosts Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes engage with Nancy Lhoest-Squicciarini, who shares her extensive experience in middle-level leadership within international schools. The conversation explores the importance of teacher efficacy, the need for intentional collaboration, and cultivating a healthy school culture. Nancy emphasizes the significance of psychological safety, trust-building, and the role of middle leaders in fostering a positive educational environment. The discussion also highlights practical advice for aspiring leaders and the key traits that effective middle-level leaders should possess.
Takeaways
Teacher efficacy is the...
2024-12-1033 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE03 - Dr. Derrick Gay - Reframing Diversity to Foster Cultures of Dignity and Respect in International Schools- Blue Skies LeadershipIn this episode of the Blue Skies Leadership Podcast, hosts Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes engage in a profound conversation with Dr. Derek Gay, a global expert on diversity and inclusion. They explore the complexities of understanding diversity, the critical role of belonging in educational settings, and the importance of cultural context in implementing diversity initiatives. Dr. Gay emphasizes that creating a culture of belonging requires strategic change management and active engagement from all community members. The discussion also highlights the need for representation within international schools and the vision for a future where belonging is integral to the...
2024-11-1729 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE02 - Kevin Bartlett - Common Ground Collaborative - Blue Skies LeadershipIn this episode of the Blue Skies Leadership Podcast, Dan Kerr, Daniel Mendes and Kevin Bartlett discuss the future of education, focusing on the importance of defining learning, the vision for schools, and the journey of the Common Ground Collaborative. They explore the need for systemic change in education, the challenges of teacher evaluation systems, and the significance of building a learning culture that empowers both teachers and students. The conversation emphasizes clarity, simplicity, and the importance of collective efforts in transforming educational practices.
Takeaways
Defining learning is crucial for effective education.
Education...
2024-11-0635 min
Blue Skies LeadershipE01 - Sheena Nabholz - AISH -Blue Skies LeadershipSummary
In this Blue Skies Leadership Podcast episode, Dan Kerr and Daniel Mendes interview Sheena Nabholz, the Deputy CEO of the Academy for International School Heads (AISH.) They discuss the evolving landscape of international education, the importance of connectedness, the integration of AI in schools, and the critical need for equity and inclusion. Sheena shares her blue sky vision on how schools can leverage data to personalize learning and the role of AISH in fostering collaboration among educational leaders worldwide.
Organizations and Resources mentioned
https://www.academyish.org/ - The...
2024-09-2920 min