Finding Joy in Leadership with Amy Balsbaugh | E248

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning

Content provided by Magnify Learning. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Magnify Learning or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

1M ago 25:00

MP3•Episode home

In this inspiring leadership episode, Ryan Steuer talks with Amy Balsbaugh, principal and researcher on joy and well-being in school leadership. Together, they unpack practical ways school leaders can protect their joy, model balance, and lead with gratitude—even in high-demand environments.

Amy shares her research on the 10 strategies that help principals sustain joy despite the challenges of modern education, and she dives into her favorites—gratitude, relationships, and strength-based leadership. Whether you’re a veteran administrator or just starting out, this conversation reminds you that joy isn’t optional—it’s essential to long-term impact.

🧭 Key Topics

Why joy is essential in education, not optional
The connection between well-being and leadership longevity
Top 3 practices from Amy’s dissertation:

Gratitude — daily reflection or notes of appreciation
Relationships — surrounding yourself with uplifting peers
Strength-based leadership — leaning into your natural gifts

How to establish healthy boundaries that fit your lifestyle
Creating a culture of celebration with ideas like “Bonnie the Bee”
The power of micro-steps to shift mindset and reclaim joy
Protecting joy during tough seasons—without toxic positivity
Ideas for embedding joy and wellness into principal preparation programs

🛠️ Practical Takeaways

✅ Write down 3–5 things you’re grateful for daily
✅ Schedule “no work” zones (like no emails after 8 PM)
✅ Start team meetings with a quick celebration
✅ Identify your top strengths and use them intentionally
✅ Find your “people” — mentors or peer leaders who understand the work
✅ Create joy rituals that fit your school culture (bells, notes, mascots, etc.)

📚 Resources Mentioned

Amy’s Instagram: @joyfulprincipalship
Website: amybalsbaugh.com

251 episodes

#Magnify Learning #Training #Leadership #Higher Education #Podcasting Education #Self-Improvement #Project Based Learning #PBL #Project #Facilitator