Best Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB Podcasts (2025)

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Beyond the Horizon: Legal Highlights from ALC 42:48

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7d ago42:48

42:48

We're coming to you from the 2025 Annual Leadership Conference in beautiful Traverse City! One of the most anticipated ALC sessions each year is the Michigan Council of School Attorneys Fall Conference. In this episode, we're joined by MASB's Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations and Policy, Brad Banasik, J.D., to share highlights from the …

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Making Connections With Them 36:12

22d ago36:12

36:12

When Corey Rosser decided to lead by being his authentic self, everything changed. Now, as the 2025–26 Michigan Teacher of the Year, the North Branch Area Public Schools educator joins MISoundBoard to share how connection, honesty, and heart have shaped his journey.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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Innovate to Overcome 50:38

1M ago50:38

50:38

As the 2025 Annual Leadership Conference approaches, we're excited to share a conversation with one of our keynote speakers who will be joining us in Traverse City. In this episode, leadership consultant and author George Couros discusses practical ways to foster innovative mindsets in public education—and how to bring everyone along on the journey…

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MASB Board President Changeover 29:20

2M ago29:20

29:20

Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, sits down with MASB's newest board president, Dale Wingerd, a President's award-winning board member who serves both Clinton Community Schools and Lenawee Intermediate School District. With a lifelong passion for learning, Dale shares what he's looking forward to most this year.…

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An Opportunity for Every Student 34:27

2M ago34:27

34:27

The Michigan College Access Network joins the podcast with its Executive Director, Ryan Fewins-Bliss, to discuss how the organization works to ensure all Michigan students understand the opportunities available to them for education beyond high school, as well as the current state of college graduates in the state.…

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Settling Retirement 39:32

3M ago39:32

39:32

The long-running lawsuit against the Office of Retirement Services (ORS) over superintendent compensation may be settled, but the implications are still unfolding. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Tina Kerr, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators, and Bob Schindler, attorney at Miller Johnson and l…

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On a Budget 44:32

4M ago44:32

44:32

The 2025–26 school year is already off to a rocky start, with state budget delays leaving districts in limbo. In this episode of MISoundBoard, we talk with MASB Deputy Director Kent Cartwright, Ed.D., CPA, about the challenges school leaders face when funding is uncertain. Drawing on his deep experience in school finance, Kent shares practical insi…

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Curbing Conflict 37:29

4M ago37:29

37:29

At MASB, one of our core missions is helping school boards work more effectively—regardless of who's at the table. A key tool in achieving that goal is the DISC assessment, a proven method for understanding behavioral styles and improving communication. In this episode, we're joined by MASB's own Education Programming Manager, MacKenzie Feldpausch,…

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Big Results Come From Small Details 43:51

5M ago43:51

43:51

On this episode of MISoundboard, we sit down with Doug LeFleur, Vice President of Business Development at Munetrix, to dive into the often-overlooked world of school data. What insights—and opportunities—can districts uncover when they truly invest in understanding their data?By Michigan Association of School Boards

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Swapping Seats 36:52

5M ago36:52

36:52

In this episode of MISoundBoard, we're turning the tables once again. Yasmeen Youngs, the MASB Board of Directors' Member-At-Large, joins us as the interviewer rather than a guest. MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, takes the guest seat to share his personal insights on the state of public education, MASB's mission and his experiences within…

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AI, Here to Stay 35:53

6M ago35:53

35:53

AI is evolving fast—and reshaping the way we live, learn, and teach. In this episode, we welcome back Justin Bruno, AI Strategist at Michigan Virtual, to explore the latest trends in artificial intelligence and what they mean for the future of education.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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Civil Discourse 45:58

6M ago45:58

45:58

In today's often polarized climate, even school governance isn't immune to political tension. That's why fostering civility among school board members is more important than ever. Join David Dulio, Ph.D.—political science professor and Director of the Center for Civic Engagement at Oakland University—for a thoughtful conversation with MASB Executiv…

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The Dream Team 38:40

7M ago38:40

38:40

On this episode of MI Soundboard, we dive into the most critical relationship influencing the success of any school district—the one between the board and the superintendent. Tina Kerr, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators (MASA), joins MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba for a candid conversat…

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Innovation Formation 41:20

8M ago41:20

41:20

Investing in professional development is key to fostering meaningful change in education. In this episode, we're joined by School Design Strategist Tovah Sheldon, Ph.D., from Michigan Virtual, to explore their transformative coaching program. Discover how this initiative helps district leaders ignite innovation, drive progress, and create lasting i…

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One Team, Together 48:14

8M ago48:14

48:14

Effective onboarding for newly elected board members can mean the difference between smooth, strategic governance and dysfunction. In this episode, we sit down with Kelli Horst and Amanda Love to discuss how they transformed a contentious election into a collaborative, high-functioning board in Clarkston Community Schools. Tune in to hear their jou…

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Safe and Sound 38:26

8M ago38:26

38:26

Kent ISD's Director of Safety and Security, Sean Burns, returns to the podcast to share insights on the district's proactive approach to school safety. Discover how reunification drills prepare schools for emergencies and why a shared language between first responders and the district is crucial for effective communication and response.…

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The Power of Your Words 38:39

9M ago38:39

38:39

This episode of MI SoundBoard celebrates one of the annual achievements in Michigan public education. Tune in to hear from the inspiring 2025-26 Michigan High School Principal of the Year, Adam Lancto, as he shares his journey and the lasting impact he's made on the students of Grandville High School.…

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Your Voice, Our Priorities 39:19

9M ago39:19

39:19

After every election year, MASB's Government Relations team collaborates with members to shape a focused set of priorities for the upcoming two-year legislative session. In this episode, join Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith as we explore how MASB members contribute to this critical decision-making process and delve into the key prio…

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A New Year for Superintendents 39:15

10M ago39:15

39:15

Kick off the new year with insight and inspiration! In our regular State of the Superintendency episode, we explore the latest trends shaping Michigan's school superintendent landscape. Join us as we sit down with Greg Sieszputowski, M.Ed., Director of Leadership Development and Executive Search Services, and Jay Bennett, M.Ed., Assistant Director …

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Supercharged Leadership: Michigan's Superintendent of the Year 39:53

11M ago39:53

39:53

Our annual conversation with the Superintendent of the Year is back, and it's one you won't want to miss! Join us as Bangor Township Schools Superintendent Matthew Schmidt shares the creative ways he's helping students reach their potential and creating a productive school culture.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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Taking the Next Steps 36:36

11M ago36:36

36:36

The elections are over, and you have a few new faces at the board table. What now? Our guest on this episode of MISoundBoard is none other than MASB's own Brad Banasik to answer common questions you may have.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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The Bottom Line is Students 37:19

12M ago37:19

37:19

In this episode, we talk with Steve Colón, CEO of Bottom Line, a national organization that helps students from under-resourced communities succeed in college. Steve explains Bottom Line's mission and shares how they support students in reaching their goals.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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Excellence in Assistance 31:44

1y ago31:44

31:44

Since 2005, the SET SEG Foundation has been making a positive impact on Michigan students through a variety of charitable initiatives and grants. As a proud partner of the Foundation, we're excited to welcome their Executive Director, Molly Mellema, to this episode of MI SoundBoard. Molly shares about the foundation's current programs and talks to …

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The Importance of Succession Planning 41:33

1y ago41:33

41:33

In addition to the shortage of teachers, districts are also experiencing a lack of applicants for business official positions. Bob Dwan, Executive Director of the Michigan School Business Officials, joins Don to discuss how current district employees can take proactive steps in succession planning.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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Being Schooled by AI 45:12

1y ago45:12

45:12

AI has become a central topic in conversations about not just public education but all aspects of our lives, and it's a discussion that's here to stay. On today's episode, we're joined by Aaron Baughman, Northville Public Schools' Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, who has been integrating new AI tools into the district's classroom…

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Board Elections 101 30:45

1y ago30:45

30:45

With school board elections just around the corner, what should you be paying attention to? MASB's Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. returns for this episode of MI SoundBoard to answer some of the most pressing questions he's been fielding and offer crucial insights to navigate this important period.…

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Principal Principles 43:32

1y ago43:32

43:32

In this episode of MI SoundBoard, we sit down with Jon Wilcox, Principal of Petoskey Middle School and the 2024 Michigan Principal of the Year. Discover the journey and impactful experiences that led to his recognition. Tune in to hear firsthand why Jon is celebrated as a leader in education.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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Life Lessons from the President 30:01

1y ago30:01

30:01

In this episode, Don sits down with James Johnson, the newly appointed president of the MASB Board of Directors and a key figure from Carman-Ainsworth Community Schools. A dedicated advocate for public education and lifelong learning, James shares his insights and experiences from his long-standing commitment to education in his community.…

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A Cautionary Budget 35:26

1+ y ago35:26

35:26

The 2024/2025 School Aid Budget has been signed into effect, and it's creating a lot of questions. Join Director of Government Relations, Jennifer Smith, as she dissects the details and explores the background leading to this point.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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A Leader Inspiring New Leaders 41:11

1+ y ago41:11

41:11

In this episode, meet Kelley Cusmano, the 2024-25 Michigan Teacher of the Year and Student Leadership Teacher at Rochester High School. Discover the passions that drive her classroom and learn why her community nominated her for this prestigious award.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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A New Age of Evaluation 43:13

1+ y ago43:13

43:13

The Michigan legislature has spoken and there are new laws surrounding how you evaluate your superintendents. Hear from MASB's own Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. along with Assistant Director of Executive Search Services Jay Bennett, M.Ed. about what you can expect from these changes.…

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Proactive Choices, Safe Schools 33:23

1+ y ago33:23

33:23

School safety is a crucial topic that requires our constant attention to enable proactive measures against violence. In this episode, we welcome back Kim Root, Manager of the Office of School Safety, to discuss the current state of school safety and the valuable resources her department provides to school districts.…

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Filling Board Seats 38:17

1+ y ago38:17

38:17

As it's an election year, will all of your seats be filled? Join Executive Director Don Wotruba and Assistant Director of Leadership Development Debbie Stair as they discuss the current state of boards of education in Michigan and why it's crucial to bring civic-minded individuals to the table.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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Re-envisioning Michigan's Public Education System 38:27

1+ y ago38:27

38:27

Join our Executive Director, Don Wotruba as he talks to Venessa Keesler, self-proclaimed data nerd and President and CEO of Launch Michigan, about the ways data, policy and advocacy can help Michigan students succeed.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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Preschool to Postsecondary to Prosperity 35:59

1+ y ago35:59

35:59

Learn more about the goals of the new MiLEAP Department with Acting Director Michelle Richard.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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Behind the Curtain 38:29

1+ y ago38:29

38:29

In this episode, Rick Dernberger, who serves on the MASB Board of Directors, Ottawa ISD board, and Zeeland Public Schools board, takes on the role of interviewer, putting MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, in the guest seat. They discuss the various services and benefits offered by MASB, the importance of ongoing education for board members,…

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Shaping Special Education 37:25

1+ y ago37:25

37:25

Join us for a discussion on the evolving landscape of special education with Abby Cypher, the Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education. We will cover topics such as funding changes and their impacts on both special and general education budgets, the role of paraeducators, and training programs.…

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Game On: Podcasting in Schools 42:02

1+ y ago42:02

42:02

In this episode, we welcome Cedar Springs Superintendent Scott Smith along with high school students Evan Mattson and Ian VanderLugt. They provide an inside look at their unique podcast and video gaming collaboration, which bridges the gap between students and administration. We also explore the impact of social media and content creation on today'…

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From Local to National Impact 39:29

1+ y ago39:29

39:29

Discover the crucial role that national organizations play in shaping public education. In this episode, we're joined by Don Hubler, who shares his journey from serving on a local school board to being a member of the Macomb ISD board, MASB Board of Directors, and president-elect of the National School Boards Association.…

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Your Questions, Our Answers 39:47

1+ y ago39:47

39:47

Join Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, as he addresses insightful questions on a range of topics, including the MASB Board of Directors nomination process, the protocol for hiring superintendents, and more.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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Bizarre Bargaining Season 41:04

2y ago41:04

41:04

We sit down with Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. to talk about the changes happening to labor relations and what you can expect this bargaining season.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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New Year, New MELG 38:58

2y ago38:58

38:58

With a new calendar year underway, we look ahead to what 2024 may bring for Michigan public education. Joining us are Executive Directors Tina Kerr, Ph.D. from the Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators, Robert Dwan, CFO, SFO from Michigan School Business Officials and Wendy Zdeb from the Michigan Association of Secondary School P…

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Michigan Superintendent of the Year 2024 45:15

2y ago45:15

45:15

Join Don as he sits down with the 2024 Michigan Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Jeffrey Collier from Saginaw ISD to discuss how it feels to be the first ISD superintendent to receive this award and about the important services and support ISDs can provide to their communities.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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AI Evolution in Education: A Boardroom Odyssey 38:59

2y ago38:59

38:59

In this episode, join Executive Director Don Wotruba, as he engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Jamey Fitzpatrick, President and CEO of Michigan Virtual, and Ken Dirkin, their Senior Director of MVLRI. Together, they delve into the implications of AI on public schools and student education. The conversation unravels the potential shifts,…

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Conversations With Michigan's Teacher of the Year 37:36

2y ago37:36

37:36

Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with the 2023-24 Michigan Teacher of the Year, Candice Jackson to discuss the crucial role of involving parents in their children's education and gain a firsthand perspective on the experiences of a minority teacher in the state.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood 52:16

2y ago52:16

52:16

Take a listen to what you can expect at ALC 2023 when Executive Director Don Wotruba sits down with keynote speakers Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski. They talk about their book, When You Wonder, You're Learning, and how the lessons from Mister Rogers are still valid today. You can also listen to their own podcast, Remaking Tomorrow, about engaging an…

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Building a Safer Tomorrow 38:36

2y ago38:36

38:36

Join Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE as he speaks with the superintendent of Kent ISD Ron Koehler along with their Director of Safety and Security Sean Burns about the importance of planning ahead and sharing resources to keep our schools safe.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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Literacy First 41:18

2y ago41:18

41:18

Listen as MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE talks to Kevin Stotts, President of Talent First about how they are encouraging communities to work collectively on building literacy and not leaving it all on the shoulders of educators.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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The Business of Schools 35:16

2y ago35:16

35:16

Join MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba CAE as he speaks to new Michigan School Business Officials Executive Director Bob Dwan CFO SFO about the importance of school business offices and how MSBO works to support them.By Michigan Association of School Boards

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New MASB Board of Directors President Kathleen Moore 30:44

2y ago30:44

30:44

Join Don to learn more about our 2023-2024 MASB Board of Directors President Kathleen Moore.By Michigan Association of School Boards

Michigan Association Of School Boards (MASB Podcasts