Best Nsightz Inc Podcasts (2025)

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How to Give and Receive Feedback at School with Clarity, Consistency and Care 36:50

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3d ago36:50

36:50

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Charlotte Pickett, Lead Facilitator at Nea Community Learning Center in Alameda, California, as they explore the art of giving and receiving feedback with care, clarity, and consistency in a diverse TK–8 project-based charter school. Charlotte shares her “Three Cs” leadership framework, emphasizing honest communication,…

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How a High School Principal Starts the School Year on a Strong Note 34:15

5d ago34:15

34:15

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Joseph Blasher, principal of Castlemont High School in Oakland, California, as they discuss how data-driven leadership prepares a diverse urban high school for a strong academic year. Joseph shares his six-week planning approach focused on attendance, literacy, and student engagement, aligning staff, students, and famil…

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People Work for People-Ensuring Students Have What They Need to Succeed is a Form of Caring for Staff 42:30

7d ago42:30

42:30

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Latora Baldridge, Head of Schools at Lodestar within the Lighthouse Community Public Schools in Oakland, California, as they dive into what it means to lead with intentional presence and foster a sustainable, student-centered culture across a TK–12 campus. This engaging conversation highlights Dr. Baldridge’s holist…

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Principals, Do This for a Huge Boost to Your School Culture -Walk Around 34:20

11d ago34:20

34:20

Summary: CT sits down with William Nee, principal of Oakland Unity High School in Oakland, California, for an in-depth discussion on “active supervision” in school leadership. Rather than adopting a traditional, office-bound approach, William spends most of his school days on his feet, actively engaging with students, staff, and the school environm…

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Teamwork Makes the Dreamwork in a California Middle School That Can't Stop Winning 49:08

19d ago49:08

49:08

Summary: Join C.T. and the team from Harvest Park Middle School in Pleasanton, California, as they explore the transformative journey that made Harvest Park a statewide model for inclusive education and student wellness. This insightful conversation delves into how Principal Russell Campisi, along with his dedicated team of administrators, counselo…

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Using Data to make Hard Choices to Turn Around an Elementary School 36:34

25d ago36:34

36:34

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Jeremy “Paco” Furlan, Principal of John Muir Elementary School in Berkeley, California, as they explore the remarkable turnaround that transformed a school deeply impacted by the challenges of COVID-19 into a nationally recognized model of excellence. This insightful conversation delves into how John Muir, a diverse, Ti…

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Right Isn't Always Right - Why Implementation Eats Strategy for Breakfast in Schools 42:41

1M ago42:41

42:41

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Russell Campisi, Principal of Harvest Park Middle School in Pleasanton, California, as they explore the organic, community-driven leadership approach that has earned the school multiple accolades, including the prestigious Golden Bell Award for transformative special education programming. Key Takeaways: Organic Leaders…

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Competency-Based Learning to Build a Growth Mindset for Students 42:28

1M ago42:28

42:28

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Miranda Thorman, Executive Director of East Bay Innovation Academy (EBIA) in Oakland, California, as they explore the transformative power of competency-based learning in a diverse, STEM-focused public charter school. This insightful conversation delves into how EBIA serves students from sixth through twelfth grade with…

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How to Help High School Students Want to Come to Class — Building a Safe and Welcoming Experience 27:26

1M ago27:26

27:26

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Clark Conover, principal of Granada High School in Livermore, California, as they explore the strategies behind maintaining a strong sense of belonging and high attendance rates at a large high school. With 26 years of experience at Granada, Clark shares how the school fosters student engagement through a wide variety o…

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Pizza Day and Attendance - Practical Data Analytics in Schools 47:08

1M ago47:08

47:08

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Seth Feldman, Executive Director of Bay Area Technology School (Bay Tech) in Oakland, California, as they explore the transformative leadership and data-driven strategies that have revitalized this 6–12 public charter school. This compelling conversation highlights Dr. Feldman’s journey from international teaching to le…

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From Small to Big: Unlocking Innovation in Large Schools with Agile Leadership Strategies 39:14

2M ago39:14

39:14

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Beth Silbergeld, principal of Branham High School in San Jose, California, as they explore the challenges and opportunities of leading a large, diverse high school within the Campbell Union High School District. This insightful conversation delves into Beth’s experience transitioning from small to large schools and how …

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The Three M’s Leaders Need to Nail- Mindset, Motivation and Monitoring 31:37

2M ago31:37

31:37

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Tauvia Harrigan, principal of Earl Frost Elementary School in San Jose, California, as they explore her inspiring philosophy centered on love, laughter, and learning that shapes a vibrant and inclusive school environment. With over three decades of experience in education leadership, Tauvia shares how her diverse school…

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On The Bathroom Floor Looking For Contraband - Authenticity and Values In Action As A Principal 40:47

2M ago40:47

40:47

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Sean Priest, Principal of Sequoia High School in Redwood City, California, as they explore how a historic school embraces diversity, tradition, and innovation to foster student growth. This insightful conversation delves into Sequoia’s rich legacy as one of the oldest high schools in the Bay Area, its stunning campus, a…

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Balancing Voice And Choice - Relationship And Systems Building In Complex School Environments 41:34

2M ago41:34

41:34

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Lisa Aguerria Lewis, Principal of Luigi Aprea Elementary School in Gilroy Unified School District, California, as they explore the challenges and opportunities of leading a large, diverse elementary school through times of change. This insightful conversation delves into Lisa’s approach to uniting two distinct communiti…

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No Quick Fixes To Raise Happy, Healthy 35yos: The Role of SEL In Building An Informed Society 37:37

2M ago37:37

37:37

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Julie MacArthur, Principal of Brewer Island Elementary School in Foster City, California, as they explore how a strong focus on social-emotional learning (SEL) shapes a joyful and inclusive school community. Key Takeaways: Diverse, Joyful Environment: Brewer Island is a small, culturally rich school with over 300 studen…

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How to run an Inclusive Special Education program and drive Whole Child Learning for Every Child 37:27

2M ago37:27

37:27

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Bryan Ballenger, Superintendent of Gustine Unified School District in California, as they explore the district’s journey to full inclusion for all students, K through 12th grade. This insightful conversation delves into Gustine’s innovative approach to special education, moving away from traditional pullout models t…

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Partnering with Parents to Help Students Grow: Learning from an Elementary School Principal 36:43

2M ago36:43

36:43

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Nathen Ramezane, Principal of Ponderosa Elementary School in Santa Clara Unified School District, California, as they explore leadership rooted in community connection and growth. This insightful conversation delves into Nathen’s approach to serving a diverse student body with over 30% English language learners and 15-2…

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Human-Centered Leadership And How One Middle School Principal Applies It Everyday 40:16

2M ago40:16

40:16

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Deedy Camanera, Principal of Brownell Middle School in Gilroy, California, as they explore the power of human-centered leadership in a diverse school community. This insightful conversation delves into Deedy’s approach to leading with empathy and deep listening, recognizing the unique challenges and strengths each staff…

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The 700 Conversations: How Deep Listening Transforms District Leadership 40:36

2M ago40:36

40:36

Summary: Join Dr. Jim and Dr. Eric Byrne, superintendent of the Rye City School District, as they unpack the intricacies of crafting an effective entry plan for new superintendents. Discover how to balance focusing on community stakeholders, operational challenges, and strategic relationship building. Dr. Byrne shares valuable insights from his ext…

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From the Philippines to the Principal’s Office: One Leader’s Story of Building Community in the U.S. 36:14

3M ago36:14

36:14

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Vern Caruz, Principal of Rancho Milpitas Middle School in California, as they explore how authentic leadership rooted in cultural identity can transform a diverse school community. This insightful conversation delves into Dr. Caruz’s personal journey as an immigrant and English learner returning to lead the very sch…

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Ensuring That Students With Disabilities Don’t Fall Through The Cracks - A Systematic Approach 38:04

3M ago38:04

38:04

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Franklin Day, Director of Student Support Services for Cheney School District in Washington, as they explore the district’s inclusive and systematic approach to supporting all students. This insightful conversation delves into Cheney’s focus on building an effective Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), balancing incl…

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Team-based Instruction: Innovating Learning Experiences that are Student-Centered 45:23

3M ago45:23

45:23

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Rebecca Hutchinson, Superintendent of Concord Community Schools in Michigan, as they explore innovative approaches that are transforming learning in a small rural district. This insightful conversation delves into Concord’s personalized learning journey, including team-based teaching models that replace the traditio…

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No Time or Money for PD? This Superintendent Shares Some Creative Solutions 44:13

3M ago44:13

44:13

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Brett Geithman, Superintendent of Larkspur-Corte Madera School District in California, as they explore how intentional leadership and innovative professional development are shaping a model for student and staff success. This insightful conversation delves into Dr. Geithman’s commitment to personalized learning thro…

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How To Lead a School In The Face Of Possible Closure 40:44

3M ago40:44

40:44

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Michelle Quilantang, Principal of Captain Jason M. Dahl Elementary School in San Jose, as they discuss how to lead a school in the face of possible closure. Michelle shares how focusing on social-emotional learning, strong family engagement, and robust after-school programs helps keep students supported and motivated. T…

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Building Future-Ready Schools: Lessons from the Fast-Growing Districts 36:57

3M ago36:57

36:57

Summary: Dr. Jim sits down with Dr. Jason Cochran, superintendent of Krum ISD, to explore how a school district triumphs after a failed referendum. Dr. Cochran shares his approach to creating a "future ready" district by engaging with community needs, managing growth, and fostering relationships with an emphasis on transparency and communication. H…

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Implementing Technology in Education Deliberately in the Heart of Silicon Valley - One Principal’s Story 41:14

3M ago41:14

41:14

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Kip Glazer, Principal of Mountain View High School in Silicon Valley, as they discuss how thoughtful, student-driven technology leadership is shaping the future of public education. This conversation highlights Dr. Glazer’s “go slow to go fast” approach, her creation of student advisory and tech internship programs,…

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Plumbing Before Poetry: A Superintendent’s Story of Building Systems for Culture Change 37:18

3M ago37:18

37:18

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Ed Pelfrey, Superintendent of Sonora Union High School District in California, as they discuss how intentional systems and a focus on relationships have driven real improvement in this rural district. This conversation highlights how Sonora’s staff used data-driven goals, frameworks like the Four Disciplines of Executio…

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Student Voice Masterclass - Being Curious About Decisions 41:24

3M ago41:24

41:24

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Linda Rosenbury, Superintendent of Port Townsend School District in Washington, as they explore how Port Townsend is redefining what it means to truly listen and respond to students, families, and staff. This insightful conversation delves into the district’s innovative use of student and community voice to guide de…

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Revolutionizing Recruitment: Filling Hard-to-Find Roles with Existing Talent 34:07

3M ago34:07

34:07

Summary: Key Takeaways: Chapters: Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung Connect with Dr. Brian Kitchin: [email protected] Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. Thi…

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MTSS-in-Action #1: Foundations - Stop Treating Symptoms, Fix The Root Cause 38:05

3M ago38:05

38:05

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Moises Merlos, Director of Student Services at Banning Unified School District in California, as they explore the district’s comprehensive approach to supporting students through a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS). This insightful conversation delves into how Banning Unified addresses academics, behavior, atte…

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Educational Leadership - Model The Way, Walk The Talk 32:52

3M ago32:52

32:52

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Kirk Koennecke, CEO Superintendent of Indian Hill Exempted Village School District in Ohio, as they discuss how Indian Hill’s IH Promise shapes a culture of whole-child development and leadership. This conversation highlights how the district uses student voice, common leadership language, and industry best practices to…

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Beyond Test Scores: The Real Skills Our Kids Need for Future Success 39:24

4M ago39:24

39:24

Summary: Dr. Jim is joined by Dr. Paul Romanelli, Superintendent of West Islip Schools, discussing the need to shift from test score obsession to fostering real-world competencies in education. They explore how engaging students, families, and educators in a collaborative effort can lead to meaningful curriculum changes and enhanced student outcome…

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Unlocking the Secrets to Strategic Planning Success in Education 35:47

4M ago35:47

35:47

Summary: Dr. Jim digs into actionable strategic planning in K-12 education with Dr. Christopher Heilig, superintendent at Rancocas Valley Regional High School District. Together, they discuss how to effectively transform strategic plans into action by engaging stakeholders, breaking down objectives into manageable tasks, and ensuring alignment with…

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Authentic Leadership and Mental Health - Demonstrating Support for Students and the Community 32:29

4M ago32:29

32:29

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Kimberly Headrick, Superintendent of Medical Lake School District in Washington, as they explore the district's innovative approaches to supporting students and the community. This insightful conversation delves into Medical Lake's interconnected systems framework, which addresses the whole child through mental heal…

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The Secret to Leading a District You Grew Up In 35:54

4M ago35:54

35:54

Summary: Join Dr. Jim as he chats with Dr. Shaun McAlpin, superintendent of Orange Field ISD, about navigating leadership transitions. Drawing on 25 years of experience in the district, Dr. McAlpin shares insights on effective team alignment, gaining trust, and refining communication strategies within a close-knit educational community. Discover ho…

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Is the Traditional School Model Enough? One CEO's Bold Move. 37:26

4M ago37:26

37:26

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Jill Gildea, CEO of Colorado Early Colleges, as they explore the transition from a traditional public school system to a charter network and the unique challenges and opportunities of leading a state-wide charter network. This insightful conversation delves into the network's focus on rigorous academics, personalize…

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Four-day School Week, No Grades K-8 and Over 95% Graduation Rates: This Superintendent Shows How 40:32

4M ago40:32

40:32

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Derek Fialkiewicz Superintendent of Corbett School District in Oregon, as they explore the innovative approaches that have made Corbett a model for educational excellence. This insightful conversation delves into the district's use of multi-age classrooms, a four-day school week, and a no-grades policy for K-8 stude…

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Mentally Sound Before Academically Sound: Hard Talk About Social-Emotional Learning 40:11

4M ago40:11

40:11

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Michael Cardona, Superintendent of San Marcos CISD, as they delve into the critical importance of social-emotional learning and mental health in schools. This insightful conversation explores how San Marcos CISD addresses these challenges, particularly in the context of a rapidly growing and mobile community. Key Ta…

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How Clarity and Process Drive Educational Success 38:37

4M ago38:37

38:37

Summary: Join Dr. Jim and Michael Ben-David, superintendent of Tenafly Public Schools, as they unpack the journey from good to great in K-12 education through systematized approaches. Discover how a focus on organizational clarity, role definition, and accountability can transform educational outcomes. With insights drawn from Michael's transition …

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Solving the Rural Educator Talent Crunch 29:56

5M ago29:56

29:56

Summary: Dr. Jim chats with Adam Bisenius, superintendent of Galva Holstein and Shaylor Cressland Community School Districts in Iowa, to explore strategies for building a talent pipeline in rural education. They discuss the unique challenges faced by rural districts, emphasizing early recruitment from local colleges, leveraging community ties, and …

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How to Run a School District with Straight ‘A’s - and it’s not what you think 34:17

5M ago34:17

34:17

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Michael Lamb, Superintendent of Little Elm Independent School District in Texas, as they explore the strategies behind running a school district with "straight A's." In this engaging conversation, Michael shares insights into managing growth, fostering relationships, and balancing quantitative rigor with human connectio…

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Engaging Young Minds for Limitless Futures 38:52

5M ago38:52

38:52

Summary: Join CT and guest Dr. Jennifer Root, Superintendent of Menifee Union School District, as they explore how her district is living up to its vision of "engaging young minds for limitless futures." This insightful conversation delves into building job-specific pathways for TK-8 students and developing soft skills (or core skills) to prepare t…

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Disruptive Innovation in Schools: A Roadmap for Superintendents 37:47

5M ago37:47

37:47

Summary: Explore the inspiring story of transforming a struggling K-12 district with Dr. Jim and his guest, Justin Wagner, superintendent of the Woodbine Community School District. Discover how Justin's innovative and disruptive strategies, grounded in military structure and community engagement, led to a dramatic turnaround. Learn about the pivota…

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Let Go of Your Legos: Transformative Lessons for First-Time Superintendents 33:29

5M ago33:29

33:29

Summary: Join Dr. Jim as he chats with Dr. Aaron Pena, Superintendent of Burnett Consolidated Independent School District. Explore the challenges and insights involved in transitioning to a superintendent role, emphasizing the necessity of delegating responsibilities for organizational growth. Dr. Pena shares his experiences of aligning district pr…

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Unleashing Future-Ready Learners: Integrating Technology and Financial Literacy in Classrooms 38:31

5M ago38:31

38:31

Summary: Dr. Jim chats with Dr. Marc Baiocco, superintendent at Clarkstown Central School District, to explore innovative education strategies for the 21st century. They dig into building learning ecosystems emphasizing global perspectives, financial literacy, and technology integration. Dr. Baiocco shares insights on overcoming technology challeng…

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Solving Teacher Shortages with Apprenticeships, and Finding the Funds To Do So 39:33

5M ago39:33

39:33

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Cara Malone, Chief of Schools for Hutto Independent School District (ISD) in Texas, as they delve into tackling the teacher shortage with an innovative apprenticeship program. Explore strategies for cultivating future teachers from within the community, providing employment, support in higher education, and practica…

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Kids Don’t Care How Much You Know, Until They Know How Much You Care 35:44

5M ago35:44

35:44

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Brad Hunt, Superintendent of Coppell ISD, as they explore connecting with over 13,000 students and fostering strong relationships. Explore strategies for staying close to students, hearing their voices, and building engagement through various communication channels. Discover how Dr. Hunt uses student advisory groups…

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The Power of Purpose: Building a High-Performance Educational Organization 34:45

5M ago34:45

34:45

Summary: Join Dr. Jim as he explores the role of Cooperative Educational Service Agency (CISA) 7 with Dr. Colleen Timm. Serving 38 school districts in Northeast Wisconsin, Dr. Timm shares insights on supporting rural superintendents, overcoming high turnover, and fostering communication and purpose-driven leadership. Delve into strategies for embed…

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Transformative Partnerships: How Schools and Businesses Can Thrive Together 36:55

5M ago36:55

36:55

Summary: Explore the vital role of economic development in enhancing district performance as Dr. Jim discusses with Dr. Kathy Dinger, a seasoned school superintendent. Kathy shares her journey from affluent to challenging districts and the impactful strategies that foster community and business support. Learn how breaking down silos and forming par…

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Riding for the Brand: School Culture and Climate and its Impact on Student Outcomes 39:17

5M ago39:17

39:17

Summary: Join CT and Dr. Jason Cochran, Superintendent of Krum ISD, as they explore how strong school culture drives student success. Learn how transparency, servant leadership, and community engagement help schools grow while staying true to their values. This insightful conversation offers practical strategies for leaders to enhance student outco…