The Elemental Educator Podcast

What does it really mean when someone says, “What you do matters”? William D. Parker shares the truth behind legacy, leadership, and the moments that shape school culture forever. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@ElementalEducator?sub_confirmation=1 📎 Connect with William D. Parker: Website – https://www.williamdparker.com Books – https://www.williamdparker.com/books Podcast (Principal Matters)...

What happens when a teacher refuses to stay silent and starts creating change—online and in real life? Brandon Jenkins shares how humor, authenticity, and servant leadership transform classrooms and communities. In this episode of The Elemental Educator, host Tyler Comeau talks with Brandon Jenkins—educator, content creator, and host of Teaching in Color. They explore: Servant leadership vs. transactional leadership Why representat...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, Steven Saad—host of The Mr. Saad Show—shares his journey from classroom chaos to content creation with purpose. Steven dives into how he connects with students, why education must evolve, and how humor, storytelling, and unapologetic truth-telling are reshaping how we lead and teach. If you’re a leader who values connection over perfection—this one’s for you. ➡️ Subscribe for weekl...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, Will opens up about leading while still learning. From navigating uncertainty to balancing pressure and purpose, this conversation is packed with insights for any leader trying to stay grounded during growth. Whether you're building something new, leading for the first time, or figuring it out as you go—this one’s for you. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.yo...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, educational leader Rick shares raw, reflective insight on burnout, leadership culture, and the lessons learned from nearly leaving education altogether. From rediscovering joy to prioritizing what really matters, this episode is a bold and healing conversation for leaders and teachers alike. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, full-time creator Tom Buck shares his incredible journey from high school teacher to YouTube success. From camera gear to creative burnout, and bold life pivots to hilarious teaching moments—this one is packed with real talk and practical insight. If you're a leader, educator, or creator, this is a masterclass in chasing joy, taking risks, and finding your purpose. ➡️ Subscribe for...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, Jess shares her journey from law school to school leadership, uncovering how unexpected turns led her to become a school principal during the height of the COVID pandemic. She opens up about leading through conflict, embracing change, and the bold decision to transition into conflict coaching and podcasting. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elem...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, Phil Januszewski shares why he's leaving the classroom after 20 years—and how he's helping educators rediscover joy, purpose, and motivation through positive psychology and dynamic keynote coaching. This high-energy chemistry and physics teacher-turned-speaker reveals how bold values, reflection, and reinvention can transform burnout into impact. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership ...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, district leader Lauren Kaufman shares how to ignite teacher passion and prevent burnout through mentorship, literacy, and bold leadership. With nearly 20 years in education, Lauren discusses how grounded values, mentorship, and reflection can empower teachers to lead.

➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1

📎 Reso...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau speaks with Sam Demma, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and founder of Elite Speaker Coaching. Sam shares his journey from athlete to educator, his powerful approach to mental health, leadership, and taking small actions that create lasting change.

Discover how resilience, mentorship, and taking responsibility for your path can unlock opportunities you never ...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau speaks with Dr. Ty Arnold, an experienced principal and education leader, about how trust, visibility, and community partnerships can transform school culture. Ty shares his journey through education, the power of mentorship, and how embracing change has allowed him to lead boldly and build meaningful relationships in schools.

Discover strategies for staying prese...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau speaks with Dave Burgess, New York Times bestselling author of Teach Like a Pirate, international keynote speaker, and founder of Dave Burgess Consulting. Dave shares his journey from educator to entrepreneur, the power of betting on yourself, and how passion, risk-taking, and creativity can transform the classroom.

Discover how educators and leaders alike can rej...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau speaks with Katherine Hamilton, VP of Programs at Ensemble Learning, about how leaders and educators can create inclusive, equitable environments for multilingual learners. With years of experience in curriculum design, federal grant implementation, and coaching educators, Katherine shares powerful insights into supporting language development, building classroom ...

How to Support Burnt-Out Teachers and Build a Thriving School Culture

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau welcomes Brittany Thompson, an experienced administrator from East Texas, to discuss burnout, school culture, and the challenges of leadership. With over 16 years in education, including 8 years in administration, Brittany shares her insights on transforming struggling schools, building teacher...

The Ultimate Guide to Conflict Management for School Leaders

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau welcomes Dr. Jen Schwanke—deputy superintendent, author, and educational leadership expert—to explore how empathy, grounded values, and bold decision-making shape strong school leaders. Jen shares her journey from teaching to leadership, discusses the power of quotes and wisdom in leadership, and offers ...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau welcomes Vernon Wright—speaker, mentor, consultant, and leadership expert—to explore how values-driven leadership, massive action, and empathy shape high-performing leaders. Vernon shares his journey from corporate work to education and how building relationships, taking action, and leading with integrity have allowed him to impact leaders globally.

Learn how to n...

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau speaks with Phil Willott, the Director of Education at the Raleigh Education Trust, about the power of trauma-informed practices, inclusive leadership, and values-driven decision-making. Phil shares his journey from criminology to education and how his core values of kindness, courage, and relationships have shaped his approach to leadership. Discover how trauma-i...

How Will AI and Technology Shape the Future of Education?

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau sits down with Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth—an award-winning educator, EdTech consultant, and author—to dive into the intersection of AI, emerging technologies, and education. Rachelle shares insights on fostering meaningful student engagement, navigating AI’s ethical implications, and preparing for the future of...

How Can Building Relationships Improve School Culture? 

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau sits down with Lucas Clarke, an academic support teacher and podcast host, to discuss the importance of fostering strong relationships among educators and students. Lucas shares how his experiences navigating personal adversity, supporting colleagues, and embracing collaborative teaching practices have shaped...