Ep 23 | George Couros on the 80/80 Rule: What Actually Moves Schools Forward

In Episode 23 of On the School Bus with Dr. Spates, I had the opportunity to sit down with George Couros to talk about what it really means to move from conflict to community in today’s schools.This conversation pushed my thinking as a leader. We talked about how shifting from “buy-in” to true ownership can transform a school community, and how creating space for people to contribute their ideas leads to stronger, more sustainable change.We also explored the role of AI in education—how it can create tension, but also opportunity when approached with intentionality and a focus on learning. George reminded me that innovation isn’t about the tools we use, but about the mindset we bring and the relationships we build.If you’re leading through change, resistance, or uncertainty, this episode will challenge you to reflect, listen, and lead in a way that moves your community forward while honoring relationships and staying grounded in what matters most—our students.Episode TakeawaysOwnership over buy-in leads to stronger, more sustainable changeThe best ideas in a school can come from anyone—leaders must create space for themAI should be introduced through experience and value, not mandates or fearLeadership starts with self-reflection—point at yourself firstInviting challenge builds trust and strengthens communitySpend time developing those who are ready to grow—the 80/80 mindsetListening to even one voice can move an entire organization forwardGrowth requires courage—don’t get used to environments that limit your potentialCelebrate your growth—clap for yourself and recognize progressPractical Leadership MovesReplace “buy-in” with co-creation and ownershipInvite dissent in the room, not in the parking lotStart AI conversations with concerns first, then possibilitiesModel learning—don’t mandate itCreate systems that elevate all voices, not just the loudestFocus your energy on those ready to grow—they will influence othersBe transparent when decisions are non-negotiable🚌 About the PodcastSo here we are. On the School Bus with Dr. Spates — a vehicle (a metaphorical school bus) for learning, growing, laughing, stretching our thinking, and being inspired together. This podcast is exclusively for two groups of people: the passionate school leaders who show up every day determined to improve student outcomes and transform TK–12 education, and the once-passionate leaders who just need a spark to find their way back.As the culture says: #WeAreNotForEverybody — and that’s perfectly fine with me.📬 Connect with George Couros Website & Blog: https://georgecouros.comPurchase the Books on AmazonBlog Post On Becoming a Writer: hhttps://georgecouros.com/want-to-write-a-book-start-a-blog/Email: [email protected]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgecourosim/The Innovators Mindset Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-innovators-mindset-podcast/id1155968930Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3UU0vQeUPnCEhZVUoZT76vSoundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-427776484📬 Connect with Dr. Krishna Darlene SpatesWebsite: ontheschoolbuswithdrspates.comWebsite: KrishnaSpates.comEmail: [email protected] • YouTube • TikTok • Facebook: @OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpatesLinkedIn: Krishna Spates, Ed.D.📸 Production StudioRecorded at 661 Creators SpaceWebsite: 661CreatorsSpace.comInstagram: @661CreatorsSpaceEmail: [email protected]🎼 MusicTheme Song: “Call of Duty” — MutanixInstagram: @mutanixsEmail: [email protected] with permission.💛 Support the WorkIf this episode inspired you, please like, comment, subscribe, and share with another school leader. Watch the playlist on YouTube while you're multi-tasking: Listen here. Our students, families, and communities are counting on us.