Shows
What's The Point?Leading with Heart: Sarah Gray's Journey in School LeadershipIn this episode of What's the Point?, we reconnect with Sarah Gray, a high school assistant principal, as she reflects on her first semester in this new role. Sarah, our first repeat guest, brings her signature enthusiasm and positivity to the conversation, sharing insights and lessons learned from her experiences so far.Sarah shares with us how she navigates the fast-paced and dynamic world of school leadership. She talks about relying on her "why" to guide her decisions, actions, and mindset every single day. Sarah's passion for...2025-01-0746 minWhat's The Point?New Beginnings: Making the transition from Principal to Assistant SuperintendentIn this episode of "What's the Point?", we interview Dr. Dustin Bain, the new Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education in the Fox School District. Dr. Bain is stepping into this role after a nine-year tenure as an elementary school principal. Throughout our conversation, Dr. Bain shares his thought process behind applying for this new position, detailing the motivations and aspirations that guided his decision. Dr. Bain also discusses his hopes and dreams as he embarks on this new chapter in his professional journey. He elaborates on his vision for his new r...2024-10-3047 minWhat's The Point?Leading Beyond Borders: Dr. Justin Reynolds on Global Educational LeadershipIn this episode of "What's the Point?", we had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Justin Reynolds, an educational leader who made a significant career shift four years ago. Dr. Reynolds transitioned from his role as a middle school principal in St. Louis, Missouri, to the middle school principal position at Dubai American Academy in the United Arab Emirates. This episode delves into his experiences, the unique aspects of leading a school in a different cultural context, and the universal principles of effective leadership.Our conversation with Justin was both inspiring and informative. It highlighted...2024-09-1343 minWhat's The Point?A New Chapter: Sarah Gray's Journey from Instructional Coach to High School AdministratorIn this episode of "What's the Point?" we are excited to welcome Mrs. Sarah Gray to the show. Sarah is about to embark on her first year as an administrator in a high school setting, following two years as an instructional coach at the elementary school level. During our conversation, we delve into what motivated Sarah to pursue this new path in her educational career. Her insights and experiences offer a fascinating glimpse into the mindset and preparation required for such a significant transition.We are also thrilled to announce that...2024-08-0638 minWhat's The Point?Summer Reflections, Future Plans, and Favorite DonutsWelcome to Episode 1 of Season 2 of "What's the Point?"! We're thrilled to have you join us as we kick off another exciting season. In this episode, co-hosts Nathan and Patrick discuss their summer experiences and the process they use to reflect on the past school year. This conversation offers insights into their personal and professional growth and practical strategies for planning and setting goals for the upcoming year. But it's not all business! We also take a delightful detour into a lighter topic – our favorite donuts. From classic glazed to exotic fla...2024-07-1150 minWhat's The Point?Advocating for Education: A Conversation with J Anderson, Executive Director of MAESPIn the latest episode of "What's the Point?" podcast, we dive deep into education advocacy and leadership with J Anderson, the Executive Director of the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP). Throughout the episode, J shares invaluable insights into the pivotal role MAESP plays in advocating for elementary education, fostering connections, and empowering principals.From the outset, it's clear that J's passion for his work is contagious. His dedication to supporting principals and promoting excellence in elementary education shines through as he discusses the multifaceted responsibilities of MAESP. As the Executive Director, J...2024-05-1849 minWhat's The Point?Leadership Reflections: Why State Conferences MatterStep into the world of educational leadership with Nathan and Patrick, hosts of the 'What's the Point?' podcast. In their latest episode, recorded live from the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP) annual conference, they discuss the significance of conferences like MAESP for school leaders and share valuable insights and reflections from their experience.In this insightful episode, Nathan and Patrick offer a firsthand perspective on the importance of professional development opportunities and networking events for educators as they discuss the various sessions they attended and the knowledge gained...2024-04-1531 minWhat's The Point?Schoolhouse Memories: A Playground of NostalgiaEmbark on a journey down memory lane with the latest episode of the 'What's the Point?' podcast, recorded live from the EducationPlus Innovate Conference. Join us as we bring a touch of nostalgia and plenty of laughter to the conference floor, where we catch up with highly motivated educators between sessions at our podcast booth.In this special episode, we dive into the fondest memories of elementary school with our guests, exploring the simple joys and cherished moments that made those school days unforgettable. From reminiscing about favorite games at recess to sharing...2024-04-0145 minWhat's The Point?Leading Equity in Education: A Conversation with Dr. Sheldon L. EakinsIn this episode of 'What's the Point?', we interview Dr. Sheldon L. Eakins, a renowned educator and author of the book Leading Equity: Becoming an Advocate for All Students. Dr. Eakins shares his expertise on advocacy in education, drawing from his extensive experience as a school principal and his work with the Leading Equity Center and the Leading Equity podcast.Throughout the episode, Dr. Eakins provides invaluable insights into the importance of advocacy in education, offering practical advice and strategies for listeners. He discusses the fundamental definition of advocacy...2024-03-1823 minWhat's The Point?Shaping Success with Dr. John McCabeIn this episode of the "What's the Point?" podcast, we embark on a journey with Dr. John McCabe, a distinguished high school principal whose dedication to education and his students has shaped his career and the lives of countless young minds. Throughout our conversation, we delve deep into his personal and professional journey, gaining invaluable insights into school leadership at the high school level.In the episode, Dr. McCabe underscores the importance of nurturing students' well-being. Students face many pressures and emotional hurdles in today's complex and challenging world. As a school leader, Dr...2024-02-0458 minWhat's The Point?Empowering School Leadership: A Conversation with Dr. Bo RickerIn this episode of the "What's the Point?" podcast, hosts Nathan and Patrick sit down with Dr. Bo Ricker, an elementary school principal and the President of the St. Louis Suburban Elementary Principals Association. In this episode, Dr. Ricker offers listeners a glimpse into his journey as a school administrator while shedding light on the significance of joining principal organizations.The episode starts as Dr. Ricker shares the story of his path to becoming a school principal. With passion and dedication as his guiding forces, he embarked on a career in...2023-12-1542 minWhat's The Point?What's The Point Gets Grateful!In this episode of the "What's the Point?" podcast, hosts Nathan and Patrick discuss the top five things they are grateful for in education. Listen in as Nathan and Patrick reflect on the many positives in education and the many things they are grateful for this Thanksgiving season. They will discuss the many ways that students, staff, principals, and parents positively impact education and the culture of each school. No Thanksgiving episode would be complete without a spirited discussion about the best sides and pies to eat on Thanksgiving Day. Spoiler Alert: They couldn't pick jus...2023-11-2351 minWhat's The Point?The Power of Friendship: Navigating the Island of School Administration.In the fast-paced world of education, the role of a school administrator is often described as one of the most demanding and isolated positions. Administrators are responsible for being instructional leaders, supporting staff, and juggling the numerous challenges that come with the job. Despite being constantly surrounded by people, it can be a lonely journey. In this upcoming episode of "What's the Point?," we delve into the world of school administration and the significance of friendship among administrators who have also been teachers early in their careers.Our podcast features a...2023-10-1942 minWhat's The Point?Learning from Ted Lasso: Unveiling Insights for School LeadersGet ready for an exciting new episode of "What's the Point?" as hosts Nathan and Patrick sit down with the incredible Assistant Principal, Michael Wheeler, to explore a captivating professional development series that made waves in the education community!Join us as we delve into the origins of the thought-provoking series "10 Things Educators Can Learn from Ted Lasso," co-hosted by Michael and Patrick during the past school year. Discover the inspiration behind this innovative PD initiative and its powerful impact on educators and school leaders alike.In...2023-08-2358 minWhat's The Point?Rising to the Challenge: First-Year Principals Reflect and AspireWelcome to another enlightening episode of "What's the Point?" the podcast where we dive deep into conversations with educators making a positive difference. In this episode, we sit down with two remarkable administrators who have just completed their first year in their respective roles as high school assistant principal and elementary school principal.Join us as we engage in a candid and insightful conversation with these dynamic leaders, exploring the triumphs and trials they faced throughout their first year on the job. Together, we unravel the unique challenges administrators confront and the strategies they...2023-07-3154 min
What's The Point?Women In Educational LeadershipJoin us as we discuss women in educational leadership on the latest episode of "What's the Point?" In this insightful conversation, Dr. Mellisa Hellwig and Dr. Jodi Oliver share their wealth of leadership experience, offering invaluable tips, profound insights, and personal anecdotes. Discover the unique perspectives and empowering strategies that have shaped their journeys as we explore the inspiring stories of women making a difference in education. Don't miss out on this enlightening episode!2023-07-1447 min