The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast

The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast

I am a learner, author, speaker, and sometimes I make podcasts talking about any and all of these things. One day, I will rap in my podcasts officially making me a SoundCloud rapper.

Episodes

June 12, 2025 17 mins

In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros explores why people resist change—even when it’s clearly for the better—and offers three practical strategies to foster emotional connections that lead to meaningful transformation.

Drawing on stories from education and beyond (including the infamous “New Coke” story), George shares actionable ideas for leaders, educators, and changemakers to:

  • Build a shared vi...

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In this heartfelt episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros reflects on the critical importance of taking intentional breaks, setting healthy boundaries, and putting your own well-being first. With the school year winding down across North America—and winter breaks beginning in Australia and New Zealand—Couros offers a powerful reminder: taking time off is not indulgent, it’s essential.

Drawing from both personal ex...

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In this inspiring episode of The Innovator's Mindset Podcast, George Couros chats with Dr. Susan Leach, superintendent of Riverview School District in Washington. Dr. Leach shares her powerful journey from stay-at-home mom to district leader, opening up about pivotal career moments, mentorship, and what it truly means to lead with purpose.

The conversation delves into effective leadership strategies, including how Dr. Leach impleme...

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In this powerful solo episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros shares his personal transformation story—losing over 120 pounds and keeping it off for four years. But this journey wasn’t just about the physical—it reshaped his mental health, deepened his empathy, and helped him build lasting confidence.

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You can read the full newsletter here!

George opens up about how his health journey started during the COVID-19...

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Hopes for Schools Book - http://tiny.cc/HopesForSchool 

 

In this May 2025 highlight episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros reflects on powerful conversations around student voice, innovation in education, and creating impactful school experiences. Couros shares a personal reflection from Hopes for School, co-authored by Jennifer Casa-Todd and student Karen Phan, raising the...

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In this special episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros highlights the release of a powerful new book co-authored by student Karen Phan and renowned educator Jennifer Casa-Todd. This inspiring conversation centers on how student voice can drive real educational transformation.

Karen offers a rare and authentic student perspective on learning, leadership, and innovation in schools—while Jennifer shares how communit...

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In this solo episode of The Innovator's Mindset Podcast, George Couros dives into the transformative power of being present and how it shapes both personal and professional growth.

 

Drawing from experiences in education and leadership, George shares how focusing on the moment can open doors to unexpected opportunities. Learn how self-growth, innovation, and intentional presence can lead to meaningful change and long-term success....

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In this episode of The Innovator's Mindset Podcast with George Couros, Dr. Rick Surrency, the superintendent of Putnam County School District, discusses the unique role he has taken on by being an elected education leader. Dr. Surrency shares insights from his extensive career in education, spanning over 47 years while emphasizing the importance of making education relevant to students' futures by integrating innovativ...

In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros explores 3 powerful ways to become more coachable—from embracing feedback to acting on it with intention. Inspired by a post from performance coach Justin Su’a and co-written with ChatGPT, George shares personal stories from education, parenting, and even basketball refereeing to illustrate how coachability is a key to personal and professional growth.

This episode i...

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In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset, George Couros welcomes another fantastic guest, Grace McCallum, who is the principal of Branksome Hall in Toronto, Ontario. The two discuss McCallum’s impressive journey from teaching in China and Frankfurt to her current role as principal/director. Check out this episode for details on how Branksome Hall combines tradition with innovation by maintaining state-of-the-art faci...

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In this episode, I explore how great leaders can empower others to unlock their potential and instill what I call "irrational confidence." 

I share personal stories, including a powerful moment with my principal, Kelly Wilkins, and how she helped me find confidence in myself. Learn 3 key strategies you can use to help others believe in their abilities and become better versions of themselves.

I'll also share a special thank you to ...

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In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros welcomes Dr. Paul Romanelli, who hosted a truly inspiring staff professional development which included a tshirt launcher and an inspirational student. Dr. Romanelli shares some great insight about how his district has implemented an AI vision statement that follows a red/yellow/green activity guide - check the links below for the more details about the ...

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This podcast is based on George's weekly email found here: https://mailchi.mp/d212c40ada24/something-personal-professional-and-profound-email-15554863

 

In this episode of the Innovator's Mindset podcast, George Couros explores three common fallacies that can hinder personal and professional growth.

Once identified, these misconceptions can be overcome, allowing for more effective decision-making and progress.

Two of these falla...

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Check out Ellen's book here:https://www.amazon.co capm/Teacher-Time-Management-Prioritize-Strategies/dp/1958590398/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2P9S1SZ5H4ZII&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.n5jp7olTwekEWt77VCFU5qTdAkSChoq8nJ3yFrzUG5KD_Zbu3ZgWepjDdCE7vYayXFQ6fvYBHXPlIm3eZk3gG8aQRbKz7-yuv5y4-rlIfxU.dXyt5vMiulUW4HxYyCoOLuuF1Hmhf4oOEPwP4ZUIixM&dib_tag=se&keywords=ellen+linnihan&qid=1744819193&sprefix=ellen+lin%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1

 

In this ...

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In April 2025, host George Couros turned 50 and saw it as an opportunity to continue learning and improving. 

 

In this intro to the month-end highlights, Couros reflects on how this podcast began 5 years ago. By trying something new, Couros got this podcast going. 

 

One of Couros' reflections from one of his Something Personal, Something Professional, and Something Profound blog posts: “The things you regret not learning when you...

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In this episode of the Innovators Mindset Podcast, George Couros explores the impact of how rejection is communicated, emphasizing the importance of leading with respect and grace. Broadcasting from the serene outdoors, George discusses a personal experience that inspired him to ponder the often harsh and impersonal way job rejections are conveyed in education and business.

George shares insights from his time as an administrator, ...

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Check out Jaime's new book here: https://www.amazon.com/Grow-Grow-Right-Right-Now/dp/B0DPR914HN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=20895LHSV1Q5X&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.bND78RSNbKOn_HTZCU0H5DCJRQ4aTOCrXbDcxaHzVtCwyjCzQqGwqE4AQYexRA7OT4-YAeE5yiZdNJAQ43YOc856oXNi6J2FDDpUqgGwHfA.awV-l4_Qapod4dMRMridyfr9eg6d5sqc1XIGEDlm534&dib_tag=se&keywords=grow+right+jaime&qid=1743268336&s=books&sprefix=grow+right+jaime%2Cstripbooks%2C137&sr=1-1

 

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Join George Couros in the final episode of his enlightening podcast series, "Stories," where he shares deeply personal experiences from his career. In this installment, George opens up about a critical period in his life when he had to take a stress leave, a decision that ultimately transformed his career and personal well-being.

Discover how George navigated the challenges of mental health in the workplace, the invaluable support ...

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In this eye-opening episode, host George invites his friend and seasoned educator AJ Juliani, who has just released a thought-provoking book titled "Meaningful and Relevant: Engaging Learners in an Era of Distraction." The conversation dives deep into the challenges educators face in keeping learners engaged amidst the continuous partial attention brought on by modern technology.

AJ shares his insights from over two decades of expe...

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Read the entire newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/b293bb992e13/something-personal-professional-and-profound-email-15554817

 

Join George Couros on this special edition of the Innovator's Mindset podcast as he reflects on turning 50 and shares profound life lessons he's learned over the years. Emphasizing the importance of elevating others to find success, George offers heartfelt advice on focusing your energy on positive relation...

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