PODCAST · education
Fearless Schools Podcast
by Creative Leadership Solutions
The Fearless Schools Podcast explores the most pressing challenges in education, drawing on research and writing from Dr. Douglas Reeves and his colleagues at Creative Leadership Solutions. Each episode tackles timely topics from the field with honesty, expertise, and courage.Featuring nationally recognized educators and researchers.
Episodes
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Dynamism: The Missing Ingredient in School Leadership w Dr. Nancy Frey
In this Fearless Podcast episode, Dr. Nancy Frey shares insights on educational leadership, literacy, and the importance of relational trust, dynamism, competence, immediacy, and forward thinking in school leadership, all illustrated through engaging metaphors like pancakes. Key topics Five key...
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Fearless Leadership Part 2
In this episode, the Fearless Schools podcast crew talks to the authors of 'Fearless Leadership,' Dr. Christina Melton and Dr. Nikki Woodson, exploring leadership strategies for school success. They discuss building school culture, the power of listening, and practical leadership habits for...
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Fearless Leadership - The Origin Story
In this Fearless Schools podcast episode, we talk to Dr. Doug Reeves about fearless leadership in education, emphasizing the importance of creating psychologically safe environments where teachers and leaders can challenge each other for better student outcomes. The conversation explores the...
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Belonging: Leading Student Through Their Most Transformative Years w Dru Tomlin
Join the Fearless Podcast team as we chang up the roles and explore many sizzling topics, including middle school education with Dr. Dru Tomlin, a seasoned principal, educator, and your Fearless Schools podcast host. Listen in and discover insights on student development, leadership, and…
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Grading: Assessment, Feedback, and Student Learning w. Ken O'Connor
Join the Fearless Podcast team as we explore innovative grading practices, assessment strategies, and the importance of feedback with expert and educational researcher extraordinaire, Ken O'Connor. In addition to uncovering Mr. O'Connor's penchant for field hockey, we guarantee that you'll be...
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Agility: Adapting, Leading and Thriving in Complex Times with Dr. Rachael George
Join the Fearless Schools podcast crew as we talk to the one and only Dr. Rachael George! She shares her inspiring journey from firefighting (and pageants!) to educational leadership, highlighting the importance of resilience, networking, self-care, and embracing challenges to become an effective...
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Transformation: The Power of Technology & Student Voice in Education with DeWayne McClary
In this engaging interview, the Fearless Schools podcast team talks to Virginia Deputy State Superintendent, Innovation, Student Pathways & Opportunities DeWayne McClary, who shares his journey from a tech-savvy student to a state-level innovator. We discover his insights on fostering innovation,...
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Innovation: The Importance of Creating Memorable Learning Experiences with Dave Burgess
In this engaging episode, the Fearless Schools Podcast welcomes back renowned educator, pedagogical pirate, author and publisher Dave Burgess. We explore innovative teaching strategies, the importance of creating memorable learning experiences, and the evolving role of AI in education, all aimed…
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Culture: If It's Not Visible, It Doesn't Exist w. Jimmy Casas
In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast we are joined by Jimmy Casas where we explore leadership, school culture, and personal values, sharing insights from Mr. Casas' decades of experience in education. Mr. Cases highlights his own story and how that has impacted his work to ensure that...
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Possibility: Teaching in the Age of AI with Doug Reeves
In this episode of Fearless Schools, we chat with the legendary Dr. Doug Reeves about everything from the secrets of impactful teaching to the wild world of artificial intelligence in education. Plus, expect a masterclass on making research digestible, the real power of relationship-building, the...
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Empathy: Unlocking the Power of The Middle School Years
In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we welcome Phyllis Fagell, renowned licensed clinical counselor and author, to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in middle school education, her journey as a student, her passion for working with young adolescents, and the importance…
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Consistency: The Power of Showing Up The Same Way Everyday
In this episode of the Fearless Schools Podcast, we engage with Kim Campbell, a dynamic educator and middle school Dean of Students, and discuss the importance of consistency in education, building relationships with students, and the impact of technology on learning. Kim shares her journey as a...
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Evolution: Why School Leadership Must Grow to Stay Relevant
In this episode of the Fearless Schools Podcast, we engage with Tom Burton, a nationally recognized leader in education. We discuss the importance of community engagement, the challenges faced by educational leaders, and the evolution of leadership perspectives. Tom shares his personal journey,...
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Accountability: Why Punishment Doesn't Work
This is part two of our anniversary episode with Rick Wormeli. In this epside, Rick gives us strategies to give better feedback and help students be successful. Continued Takeaways Experiential learning can transform students' perspectives. Differentiation makes learning successful for both…
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Creativity: Why Compliance is Failing Schools
To mark the first anniversary of the Fearless Schools podcast, we're excited to share the first conversation in a special two-part series featuring renowned educator and author Rick Wormeli. In Part One, Rick reflects on his journey into education and challenges long-held assumptions about...
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Lead Like You Belong Here - Kass & Cornelius
In this episode of the Fearless Schools Podcast, we engage with educators Kass and Cornelius Minor, who discuss their experiences and insights on sustainable change in education. They emphasize the importance of community, relationships, and the collective efficacy of educators in driving...
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Authentic Leadership - The Importance of Nurturing Relationships w. Principal EL
In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we engage with Principal Salome Thomas-El (aka Principal El), who shares his insights on authentic leadership, the importance of nurturing relationships in education, and the role of joy and resilience in school culture. Principal El emphasizes the...
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The Power of Educators: Writing, Reading and Teachers Who Create Possibility with Brad Meltzer
In this episode of the Fearless Schools Podcast, we engage with bestselling author Brad Meltzer, exploring the profound impact of educators on students' lives. Meltzer shares his personal journey from a struggling student to a successful writer, highlighting the pivotal role of teachers who...
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Creativity, Care, and Differentiation: Supporting Teachers, Seeing Students.
In this episode of the Fearless Schools Podcast, we welcome Katie Powell, a passionate advocate for middle school education. We discuss Katie's journey from a curious student to a dedicated educator, her insights on engaging students through creative teaching strategies, and the importance of...
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The Heart-Brain Connection of Great School Leadership
In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we interview Mr. Ernest Clinkscale, an experienced and passionate elementary school principal. We discuss the importance of educational leadership, the heart-brain connection in teaching and leading, and the need for empathy and understanding in...
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From Reluctant Student to Fearless Educator
In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we welcome back educational leader and author, Allyson Apsey. We discuss Allyson's journey from a reluctant student to a passionate educator, the importance of building relationships in the classroom, and the concept of serendipity in education.…
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Hope, Innovation, and the Future of Education with former Secretary of Education Cardona
In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we interview Dr. Miguel Cardona, the 12th U.S. Secretary of Education. We discuss Dr. Cardona's journey in education, the importance of mentorship, the power of bilingualism and biculturalism, and the challenges facing public education today. Dr....
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Closing Attitude Gaps - Principal Kafele
In this engaging Fearless Schools podcast episode, we converse with Principal Kafele, an educational leader with a remarkable journey from student, to celebrated teacher, to renowned principal and educational thought leader. We explore themes of leadership, the importance of support systems, the...
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Fearless Schools Podcast: Dr. Michael Fullan
In this insightful episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we talk to educational researcher and reformer, Dr. Michael Fullan, who delves into the critical role of failure in the learning process and educational reform. He reflects on his career transition from studying change and failure to...
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Fearless Instruction Part 3 - Finishing the Puzzle
In this episode of the Fearless School's podcast, we discuss Part 3 of the book, 'Fearless Instruction," entitled "FINISHING THE PUZZLE - Engaging Everyone" We ask the authors to talk about the impact of the 90-90-90 research on their writing for this section and discuss the concepts of literacy…
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Fearless Instruction Part 2 - Connecting the Pieces: Putting the 90/90/90 Research to Work
In this episode of the Fearless School's podcast, we discuss Part 2 of the book, 'Fearless Instruction," entitled "Putting It Together: Doing the Work that Matters." We focus on the 90-90-90 strategies that lead to high student achievement in diverse and economically challenged schools. The...
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Fearless Instruction Part 1-Laying the Foundation: Building a Culture of Collaboration
The Fearless Schools podcast team talks to the authors of section 1 ("Laying the Foundation: Fostering a Culture of Collaboration") of the Creative Leadership Solutions book, Fearless Instruction--to learn about the critical information behind the book. In addition to examining the inspiration of...
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FS Podcast Shorts - Jen Schwanke Leadership
In this episode of the Fearless Schools Podcast, we talk to Dr. Jen Schwanke and we explore the journey of educational leadership, emphasizing the importance of kindness, creativity, and human connection in education. In addition to blueberries, we also discuss the challenges faced by educators,...
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The Best of 2025
In this reflective episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we review the highlights and key takeaways from our journey in podcasting--and make note of special moments, key quotes, great guests and key takeaways from all of the Fearless Schools 2025 episodes. Finally, we discuss the gratitude we...
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Surviving the Superintendency: Dr. Nikki Woodson
In this episode of the Fearless Schools Podcast, we talk to Dr. Nikki Woodson, the superintendent of the Metropolitan School District in Washington Township, Indianapolis. We discuss Dr. Woodson's journey to leadership, the challenges of the superintendency, and the importance of building a…
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FS Podcast Shorts - John Hattie
In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, Dr. Dru Tomlin and Dr. Ann McCarty engage in a conversation with renowned educational researcher Dr. John Hattie. In addition to exploring Hattie's origin story and his journey through education, they also discuss how failure, curiosity, and...
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Surviving the Superintendency
In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we engage with Dr. Peter Noonan, discussing the complexities of the superintendency, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and explore the qualities necessary for effective leadership in education. Dr. Noonan shares insights on…
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From Pandemic Students to Post Pandemic Teachers
In this episode of the Fearless Podcast, we engage with educators Kylie Thomas and Em Beeler, who share their unique experiences as students during the COVID-19 pandemic and how it shaped their teaching philosophies. They discuss the confusion and challenges faced during the transition to online...
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FS Podcast Shorts - Cindy Tomlin: A Special Mother's Day Tribute
In this heartfelt conversation on the Fearless Schools Shorts podcast, Dr. Dru Tomlin interviews his mother, Cindy Tomlin, exploring her journey as a student, her motivations, and her career in nursing. Cindy shares her experiences growing up, the influence of her family, and the challenges she...
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Fearless Podcast Shorts: Jessyca Lucero-Flores
In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we speak with Jessyca Lucero-Flores, educational leader and consultant. We discuss Jessica's journey in education, her experiences living and working in various countries, and the influential teachers who shaped her path. The conversation explores...
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Family & Community Engagement - FACE
In this episode of the Fearless Schools Podcast, we engage with educational experts Dr. Nino Collado and Dr. Alex Marrero to explore the critical topic of family and community engagement (FACE) in schools. They discuss the definitions, importance, and strategies for effective engagement,...
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FS Podcast Shorts - Lisa Almeida: Relationships in Leadership
In this engaging conversation on the Fearless Schools Shorts podcast, Creative Leadership Solutions CEO, Lisa Almeida shares her journey from a passionate student to a leader in education, emphasizing the importance of relationships, mentorship, and creating a fearless culture in schools. Not…
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Fearless Leadership: Building Integrity & Trust
In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we engage with educational leaders Dr. Doug Reeves and Dr. Jymil Thompson, superintendent of Dorchester County Public Schools in MD to explore the concept of Fearless Leadership. We discuss the importance of integrity, courage, and confidence in...
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Fearless Podcast Shorts: Kim Marshall, The Marshall Memo
In this episode of the Fearless Shorts podcast, we talk to Mr. Kim Marshall, author of the enriching weekly research memo called (unironically) the "Marshall Memo" which has thousands of readers across the globe. Listen to Mr. Marshall not only talk about his own intriguing and international...
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Reimagining Alternative Education
In this episode we are joined by Dr. Melissa Stephanski and Alan Crawford to discuss Alternative Education. With extensive experience in alternative school and district leadership, these experts help to make sense of some of the toughest topics facing alternative schools today. Listen in to learn...
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FS Podcast Shorts - Anthony Muhammad: PLCs, Culture & Climate
In this episode we talk with author and international thought leader Dr. Anthony Muhammed. He provides insight into his story from working in middle school to being an international speaker and leader about all things PLCs at work and School Culture & Climate.
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Dynamic Solutions for Social Dynamics
In this episode we talk with writer, speaker, and thought leader Rosiland Wiseman who shares her expertise on social dynamics in schools. Listen in to hear solutions to issues we see in schools today.
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FS Podcast Shorts - Paul Destino School Culture
In this episode we talk with Paul Destino, proud principal at Mayfield Middle School in Ohio about his origin story and his path to educational Fearlessness.
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Fearless Leadership
In this episode we are joined by Dr. Racheal George and Dr. Cedrick Gray to discuss Fearless Leadership. With extensive experience in school and district leadership, these experts help to make sense of some of the toughest topics facing leaders today. Listen in to learn about leadership at any...
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FS Podcasts Shorts - Ken Williams Ruthless Equity
In this episode we talk with Ken Williams about his origin story and his path to educational Fearlessness and Ruthless Equity.
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Fearless Environments: Leading with Psychological Safety
Welcome to S1 E4 of the Fearless Schools Podcast! In this episode join author, speaker, and educational leader Allyson Apsey to discuss the important topic of Leading with Psychological Safety. With extensive experience in the field of education, Allyson shares her wisdom on fostering the school...
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Fearless Podcast Shorts: Josh Tovar Love & Leadership
In this episode we talk with Josh Tovar about his origin story and his path to educational Fearlessness.
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Fearless Classrooms: Creating Psychological Safety
Welcome to S1 E3 of the Fearless Schools Podcast! In this episode Jonelle Massey, Elise Kenney-Caldwell, and Dr. Ann McCarty Perez discuss and break down the important topic of psychological safety. With extensive experience in school counseling and administration, these experts help to make…
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Fearless Podcast Shorts: Ann McCarty Perez Master Scheduling
In this episode we talk with Dr. Ann McCarty Perez about her origin story and her path to educational Fearlessness.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
The Fearless Schools Podcast explores the most pressing challenges in education, drawing on research and writing from Dr. Douglas Reeves and his colleagues at Creative Leadership Solutions. Each episode tackles timely topics from the field with honesty, expertise, and courage.Featuring nationally recognized educators and researchers.
HOSTED BY
Creative Leadership Solutions
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Fearless Schools Podcast have?
Fearless Schools Podcast currently has 52 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Fearless Schools Podcast about?
The Fearless Schools Podcast explores the most pressing challenges in education, drawing on research and writing from Dr. Douglas Reeves and his colleagues at Creative Leadership Solutions. Each episode tackles timely topics from the field with honesty, expertise, and courage.Featuring nationally...
How often does Fearless Schools Podcast release new episodes?
Fearless Schools Podcast has 52 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Fearless Schools Podcast?
You can listen to Fearless Schools Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Fearless Schools Podcast?
Fearless Schools Podcast is created and hosted by Creative Leadership Solutions.
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