Leading Out The Woods

Episode #136 is live! Check it out!Special Guest Patty McGee, nationally recognized literacy consultant, author, and educator, joins Dr. Woods on episode #136 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Giving Grammar Instruction a Glow Up. In this episode, they explore why grammar instruction matters, the limitations of traditional approaches, and the mindshifts educators can make to bring grammar learning to life. Patty also shares innovative strategies from her book Not Your Granny’s Grammar, including how grammar manipulatives can make learning more engaging and meaningful for students. 

🎙️ #ThrowbackThursday – Episode #103: Win the Morning!How we start the day can shape everything that follows. For this week's Leading Out The Woods Throwback Thursday, we're revisiting my conversation with Ryan Stein, principal and author of Lifeline 65: How Small Connections and Big Enthusiasm Can Change Education.In this episode, Ryan shares his inspiring “Win the Morning” philosophy and how intentionally starting each day with energy, connection, and purpose can have a lasting impact on students, staff, and school culture.We discuss:✅ The philosophy behind “Win the Morning”✅ How small, intentional connections can make a BIG difference✅ Strategies for cultivating a positive and engaging school culture✅ Why enthusiasm and relationships remain powerful tools for school leadersSometimes transforming a school doesn't begin with a new program or initiative. It begins with how we show up each morning.🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms! Take some time to revisit this conversation and ask yourself: How are you winning the morning? 🌲

☀️ Summer Leadership Recharge: Principal Edition 🌲🎙️ Leading Through Change: Managing Transitions & ChallengesLeadership is tested most during seasons of change. This week, I'm joined by Dr. Shameka Gerald, Managing Director at 2Revolutions, to discuss how school leaders can successfully navigate transitions, overcome challenges, and build resilient school communities.Together, we discuss:✔️ Leading with confidence during uncertainty✔️ Supporting staff through periods of change✔️ Avoiding burnout while sustaining momentum✔️ Building a culture of resilience and continuous growthAs another school year approaches, this conversation offers practical leadership strategies to help you navigate change with clarity, confidence, and purpose.🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms!

Episode #135 is up!  Check it out!!!Special Guest Jeff McCoy, Chief Education Officer for the Education Research & Development Institute (ERDI), joins Dr. Woods on episode #135 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss AI in K–12. In this episode, they explore the growing impact of artificial intelligence on education, discussing how school leaders can embrace innovation, navigate emerging challenges, and responsibly prepare students and educators for the future.

ThrowbackThursday! Episode #96: Games & Simulations in the ClassroomSpecial Guest Dr. Edmond Hally, Associate Professor of Political Science at Ferrum College, joins Matt to discuss the positive effects of games on student success.

☀️ Summer Leadership Recharge: Principal Edition 🌲🎙️ Meet Their Needs And They'll SucceedStudent success begins with understanding students as individuals.This week, I'm joined by Salome Thomas-EL—principal, nationally recognized speaker, and author of Meet Their Needs And They'll Succeed—for a conversation about creating schools where every student has the opportunity to thrive.Together, we explore:✔️ Meeting students' individual needs through intentional leadership✔️ Building school cultures rooted in relationships and belonging✔️ Practical strategies for supporting the whole child✔️ Creating environments where every student can reach their full potentialAs leaders, our greatest impact often begins with understanding the unique needs of those we serve.🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms!

☀️ Summer Leadership Recharge: Principal Edition 🌲🎙️ Creating Impactful Professional Development PlansProfessional development shouldn't be something educators attend—it should be something that transforms practice.This week, I'm joined by Dr. Stephanie Burroughs, Assistant Superintendent, to discuss how school leaders can design meaningful professional learning that empowers teachers and improves student outcomes.Together, we explore:✔️ Building professional development with purpose✔️ Aligning learning to school goals and teacher needs✔️ Creating opportunities for meaningful collaboration✔️ Moving beyond "one-and-done" professional developmentWhether you're planning PD for a new school year or looking to strengthen your leadership, this conversation offers practical strategies you can implement immediately.🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms!

Anchor Chat #32: The Middle MattersIn this episode, Dr. Woods challenges educators to rethink where they focus their attention by highlighting a group of students who often go unnoticed—the ones in the middle. While schools naturally devote time and resources to students who are struggling and those who are excelling, there is tremendous potential among students who are quietly meeting expectations but may not be reaching their full potential. Dr. Woods explores how intentional instruction, meaningful challenges, and a focus on growth can help these students move beyond simply being "on track" to truly thriving. This Anchor Chat encourages educators to look beyond proficiency and ask a more important question: How can we help every student maximize their potential?

☀️ Summer Leadership Recharge: Principal Edition 🌲🎙️ Strategic Goal Setting for School SuccessEvery successful school begins with a clear vision—and intentional goals to bring that vision to life.This week, I'm joined by Dr. Donetrus Hill, High School Principal, to discuss how school leaders can create strategic goals that inspire action, build accountability, and drive meaningful improvement.Together, we discuss:✔️ Developing goals that are focused and measurable✔️ Aligning daily work with long-term priorities✔️ Building staff ownership around school improvement✔️ Keeping momentum throughout the school yearAs you prepare for another school year, this episode provides practical insights to help you lead with clarity and purpose.🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms!

🎙️ #ThrowbackThursday – Episode #122: Teacher Recruitment & RetentionThis week, we're revisiting an important conversation with Dr. Lindsey Jensen, 2018 Illinois Teacher of the Year and Educators Rising Illinois State Coordinator, as we tackle one of the biggest challenges facing education today—recruiting, developing, and retaining great teachers. In this episode, Dr. Jensen shares practical insights on how we can strengthen the educator pipeline while creating the conditions that encourage talented educators to stay and thrive in our profession.Key Takeaways:✅ Strategies for building strong teacher recruitment pipelines.✅ Ways to better support and retain new educators throughout their careers.✅ The importance of advocating for policies and practices that strengthen the teaching profession.As schools continue preparing for another year, this conversation is a timely reminder that investing in educators is one of the most powerful investments we can make in student success.🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms!

Summer Leadership RechargeIn this episode of Summer Leadership Recharge: Principal Edition, Dr. Woods sits down with Dr. Alex Carter, Vice President of Field Implementation at the Colorado Education Initiative, for an insightful conversation on the concept of the “Warm Demander.”Together, they unpack how school leaders can balance high expectations with genuine care, creating an environment where students and staff are both challenged and supported. Designed for current and aspiring principals, this episode offers practical approaches to strengthen relationships, build trust, and inspire success in the year ahead.

Episode #134 is up!  Check it out!!!What if instructional improvement began by identifying what's working—not just what's missing?I'm excited to welcome Vicki Wilson—former principal, author, and consultant—to Leading Out The Woods for an engaging conversation on how strength-focused leadership can transform teaching, collaboration, and student achievement.In this episode, we explore:✨ How leaders can use strengths to foster sustainable growth✨ What a strengths-focused Professional Learning Community (PLC) looks like✨ How instructional rounds can become opportunities for celebration and continuous improvement✨ The connection between strengths-based leadership and collective teacher efficacy✨ Balancing accountability while building on educators' strengthsThis conversation is a powerful reminder that when leaders intentionally recognize and amplify the strengths of their teams, they create the conditions for lasting growth and meaningful change.

🎙️ #ThrowbackThursday – Episode #46: The Art of DelegationThis week, we're revisiting a leadership conversation with Dr. Marcus Belin, award-winning principal, speaker, and leadership expert, as we explore one of the most overlooked—but essential—skills of effective leadership: delegation.Strong leaders know they can't do it all. The real impact comes from developing others, building trust, and empowering your team to lead with confidence.Key Takeaways:✅ Dr. Belin explains why delegation is a foundational leadership skill—not simply a way to divide responsibilities.✅ Learn how empowering colleagues to take ownership fosters trust, accountability, and long-term organizational success.✅ Discover practical strategies for building leadership capacity while creating a culture where people are equipped to lead, even when you're not in the room.Whether you're a teacher leader, principal, district administrator, or aspiring leader, this episode offers timeless insights on growing your team by learning to let go.🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms!

🎙️ #ThrowbackThursday – Episode #103: Win the Morning!This week, we're revisiting an energizing conversation with Ryan Stein, principal and author of Lifeline 65: How Small Connections and Big Enthusiasm Can Change Education. Ryan shares his inspiring philosophy of "Win the Morning" and explains how intentional leadership at the start of each day can set the tone for a positive school culture.Key Takeaways:✅ Ryan shares the mindset and daily habits behind his "Win the Morning" philosophy.✅ Practical strategies for cultivating a positive school culture through meaningful relationships, enthusiasm, and intentional leadership.✅ A reminder that small, consistent actions can create lasting impact for students, staff, and the entire school community.Every school day presents a new opportunity to lead with purpose. Sometimes, winning the day starts by simply winning the morning.🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms!

🎙️ #ThrowbackThursday – Episode #36: Support(ing) Students Affected by TraumaThis week, we're revisiting an impactful conversation with Anthony Swann, school administrator and former Virginia Teacher of the Year (2021), as we discuss how educators can better support students affected by trauma.Drawing from both his professional experiences and personal journey, Anthony shares powerful insights into building relationships, creating supportive learning environments, and helping students overcome barriers that may impact their success.Key Takeaways:✅ Anthony shares how his personal experiences with trauma have shaped the way he supports students and leads with empathy.✅ Practical strategies educators can implement to better serve students from a variety of backgrounds and experiences.✅ The importance of understanding the whole child and creating environments where students feel safe, valued, and supported.This conversation serves as a reminder that every student carries a story, and our ability to connect, support, and respond with care can make a lasting difference.🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms!

Anchor Chat #31: Calm is Contagious In this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on Calm Is Contagious, exploring how a leader’s demeanor can influence the culture, climate, and effectiveness of a school. He discusses the importance of remaining composed during challenging situations, modeling emotional regulation, and creating a sense of stability for staff and students. Dr. Woods encourages leaders to recognize that in moments of uncertainty, their calm presence can build confidence, strengthen trust, and help others navigate adversity with clarity and purpose.

🎙️ #ThrowbackThursday – Episode #3: Rural EducationWe're taking it back to one of the early episodes of Leading Out The Woods featuring Dr. Jamon Flowers, Assistant Professor in the Department of Lifelong Education, Administration, and Policy at the University of GeorgiaIn this episode, Dr. Flowers shares valuable insights into the realities of rural education and why this important topic deserves more attention in today's educational landscape. Key Takeaways:✅ What rural education looks like for educators, students, and communities.✅ Why rural schools face unique challenges and opportunities that educational leaders must understand.✅ The importance of bringing greater awareness and support to rural education.Whether you serve in a rural district or simply want to better understand the diverse educational experiences across our country, this conversation remains as relevant today as when it first aired. Available now on all podcast platforms!

Episode #133 is up!  Check it out!!!Always a teacher: How to love your job even more after 40 yearsSpecial Guest Mr. Don Bott, instructional coach, consultant, speaker, and veteran educator, joins Dr. Woods on episode #133 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Always a Teacher: How to Love Your Job Even More After 40 Years. In this episode, Mr. Bott reflects on lessons learned throughout his remarkable career in education, sharing strategies, stories, and insights that have fueled his passion for teaching, coaching, and leadership. Together, they explore the power of optimism, relationship-building, and maintaining a deep commitment to students and educators across every stage of the journey.

Anchor Chat #30: Beyond Busy Work — Rethinking Student EngagementIn this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on Beyond Busy Work — Rethinking Student Engagement, challenging educators to move beyond compliance-driven activities and focus on authentic cognitive engagement. He discusses the difference between students being busy versus truly thinking, emphasizing the importance of discourse, problem-solving, reflection, and meaningful learning experiences. Dr. Woods encourages educators to examine who is carrying the cognitive load in the classroom and reminds listeners that real engagement happens when students are actively making meaning—not simply completing tasks.

Throwback Thursday! Win the Morning featuring Ryan SteinOriginally Released On: 2-9-2024This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods!In this episode:✅ Ryan shares his inspiring philosophy of "Win the Morning"✅ Ryan discusses his strategies to cultivate a positive school cultureWhether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Episode #132 is up! Check it out!!!Special Guest Dr. Darian Jones joins Dr. Woods on episode #132 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss From Trauma to Transformation: Healing-Centered Leadership in Schools. In this episode, they explore how leaders can move beyond trauma-informed practices to adopt healing-centered approaches that prioritize relationships, restoration, and resilience. Together, they share strategies for creating supportive school environments that empower students and staff to grow, heal, and thrive.

Throwback Thursday! Building Molecular Literacy featuring Dr. Colleen KelleyOriginally Released On: 6-28-2024This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Kelley discusses molecular literacy and how it is an essential component for a variety of career fields for students.✅ Dr. Kelley shares how she is creating comic books to get children engaged with chemistry.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Anchor Chat #29: From Compliance to CommitmentIn this episode, Dr. Woods explores a critical shift in school leadership: moving from compliance-driven practices to building true commitment among staff.While compliance may produce short-term results, it rarely leads to lasting change. Sustainable improvement happens when educators understand the purpose behind the work, feel a sense of ownership, and see how their efforts connect to a larger vision.Dr. Woods unpacks how leaders can move beyond “just getting it done” by clearly communicating the why, creating space for voice, and reinforcing shared goals. When people believe in the work, not just the requirement, schools begin to see deeper alignment, stronger culture, and more consistent results

Throwback Thursday! Loving Your Neighbor featuring Chris SingletonOriginally Released On: 7-28-2023This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Chris shares his inspirational message of resilience, unity and forgiveness.✅ Chris discusses the way he works with schools, universities, and other organizations to promote love and acceptance of others.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Throwback Thursday! Teacher Efficacy: Reaching All LearnersOriginally Released On:11-6-2020This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Novak shares her work on implementing inclusive practices.✅ Dr. Novak offers tips on creating collective efficacy in learning environments.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.🎧👉 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform or at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-out-the-woods/id1507447161🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Episode #131 is up!  Check it out!!!Special Guest Ms. Jayme Braida, Elementary Principal and Special Education Director, joins Dr. Woods on episode #131 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Culture Isn’t an Accident: How Intentional Leadership Creates Effective Schools. In this episode, they explore how leaders can intentionally shape school culture through clarity, consistency, and purpose-driven actions. Drawing from her LEAD framework, Ms. Braida shares practical strategies for building trust, fostering belonging, and creating environments where both students and staff feel seen, heard, and empowered to thrive.

Throwback Thursday! Title: Art of In-School Suspension featuring Johnathan CranfordOriginally Released On: 6-16-2023This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Johnathan discusses his strategies on implementing a successful in-school suspension program at his school.✅ Johnathan details how the success led to his book, "The Art of In-School Suspension: A Discipline Program that Benefits Staff and Students."Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧

Throwback Thursday! 🎧Digital Leadership: The New Frontier featuring Dr. Eisa CoxOriginally Released: 1-10-2025This week we’re revisiting a forward-thinking conversation from Leading Out The Woods. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Eisa Cox, Superintendent of Ashe County Schools, as we explore what it truly means to lead in a digital age—and how leaders can leverage technology to strengthen systems, improve efficiency, and drive innovation in schools.Takeaways from this episode include:• How digital leadership extends beyond devices to decision-making and systems• Ways leaders can use technology to increase efficiency and problem-solving• The importance of innovation while staying grounded in strong instructional practicesWhether you're hearing this conversation for the first time or coming back to it, the message remains clear: effective leadership today requires both vision and adaptability in a rapidly evolving landscape.🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts! 🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes from the Leading Out The Woods vault.

Anchor Chat # 28: What Are We Tolerating?In this episode, Dr. Woods explores a challenging but essential leadership question: What are we tolerating in our schools that may be quietly shaping our culture? From inconsistent expectations to small behaviors that go unchecked, what leaders and educators allow (intentionally or unintentionally) often becomes the norm over time. Dr. Woods reflects on how the standards we uphold, the routines we reinforce, and the moments we address (or overlook) all contribute to the environment students and staff experience each day.

Throwback Thursday! When Calling Parents Isn’t Your Calling featuring Crystal FrommertOriginally Released On: January 12, 2024This week we’re revisiting another insightful conversation from Leading Out The Woods In this episode, I’m joined by Crystal Frommert, Deputy Head of Secondary at Awty International School and author of When Calling Parents Isn’t Your Calling. We discuss practical ways educators can build stronger partnerships with families—even when those conversations feel difficult.Takeaways from this episode include:• Strategies for building trust with families through communication• How educators can approach challenging parent conversations with confidence• Why strong school–family partnerships play a critical role in student successWhether you're hearing this conversation for the first time or revisiting it again, the message remains clear: strong communication with families strengthens the entire learning community.🕰️ Be sure to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes from the Leading Out The Woods vault.

Throwback Thursday! Supporting the Whole Child featuring Dr. Sarah KirkOriginally Released On: 12-15-2023This week we’re revisiting another powerful conversation from Leading Out The Woods. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Sarah Kirk, CEO of Yoga 4 Classrooms and Oklahoma’s 2018 School Counselor of the Year, to discuss how schools can better support the academic, social-emotional, and overall well-being of students. Takeaways from this classic:How wrap-around supports strengthen student successThe role of social-emotional practices within daily instructionPractical ways educators can support the whole child inside the classroom and across the school communityWhether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Episode #130 is up!  Check it out!!!Special Guest Dr. Brandi Kelly, Speaker, Author, Leadership Coach, and Founder of Spark HOPE Edu, joins Dr. Woods on episode #130 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Bringing Joy Back: Why H.O.P.E. Is a Leadership Strategy. In this episode, Dr. Kelly shares her leadership journey and the inspiration behind her H.O.P.E. System—Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, and Excellence. Together, they explore how leaders can combat burnout, strengthen their beliefs, and intentionally “hold hope” for others while building resilient school communities grounded in joy, purpose, and excellence. 

Throwback Thursday! Inside the Schoolhouse: What Great Principals Know and Do featuring Dr. John GrattoOriginally Released On: 8-13-2021This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:Takeaways from this classic:Dr. Gratto shares an overview of his book, “Inside the Schoolhouse: What Great Principals Know and Do.”Dr. Gratto discusses the key concepts that assistant principals and principals can take away from the book.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Throwback Thursday! Inside the Schoolhouse: What Great Principals Know and Do featuring Dr. John GrattoOriginally Released On: 8-13-2021This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:Takeaways from this classic:Dr. Gratto shares an overview of his book, “Inside the Schoolhouse: What Great Principals Know and Do.”Dr. Gratto discusses the key concepts that assistant principals and principals can take away from the book.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Throwback Thursday! Rethinking Black History featuring Dr. LaGarrett KingOriginally Released On: 2-12-2021This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode. Takeaways from this classic:Dr. King discusses the importance of black history and how to properly reframe its instruction in k12. Dr. King provides strategies on how to incorporate black history education in your daily history/social studies instruction.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Anchor Chat #27: Clarity Is the StrategyIn this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on Clarity Is the Strategy, emphasizing that clear expectations, focused priorities, and consistent communication are the foundation of effective leadership and instruction. He discusses how a lack of clarity often leads to confusion, misalignment, and stalled progress—while intentional clarity accelerates results.

Episode #129 is up! Check it out!!!Special Guest Ryan Tillman, Speaker, CEO, and Founder of Breaking Barriers United, joins Dr. Woods on episode #129 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Teaching Peace in a Divided Time. In this episode, Ryan draws from his experiences as a former School Resource Officer to explore the root causes of conflict among students and share practical, relationship-driven strategies educators can use to foster empathy, unity, and belonging. Together, they discuss how schools can proactively address division, navigate moments of tension, and build more compassionate and connected learning environments. 

Throwback Thursday! Teachers of Promise featuring Wade WhiteheadOriginally Released On: 9-9-2022This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:Takeaways from this classic:Wade discusses what the Teachers of Promise Institute is and the impact it has made on education.As a Milken Award Winner and National Teachers Hall of Fame Inductee, Wade shares proven classroom practices and strategies that enhance student achievement and foster a positive, engaging learning environment.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Throwback Thursday! Unpacking Collaborative Leadership featuring Pam EhnleOriginally Released On: 4-4-2025This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Pam shares the inspiration behind the book, Leading Out The Woods: Collaborative Leadership.✅ Pam discusses why collaboration is essential for effective leadership.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Anchor Chat #26: The Feedback Loop — What Happens After the Walkthrough?In this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on The Feedback Loop — What Happens After the Walkthrough?, emphasizing the critical role feedback plays in instructional growth. He discusses how timely, actionable follow-up after walkthroughs transforms observations into meaningful coaching conversations, strengthens practice, and drives continuous improvement. Dr. Woods challenges leaders to be intentional about closing the loop so feedback leads to impact—not just documentation.

Episode #128 is up!  Check it out!!!Special Guest Dr. John Craig joins Dr. Woods on episode #128 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Growth Mindset. In this episode, they explore what it truly means to cultivate a growth mindset in schools, how leaders and educators can model it in practice, and why embracing continuous learning is essential for both personal and organizational growth. Together, they highlight strategies that support resilience, reflection, and sustained improvement in educational settings.

Throwback Thursday! Learning from Mistakes & Failure in the Classroom featuring Dr. Julie WarnerThis week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Warner discusses why she believes self-reflecting on mistakes and failure in your instructional practice is vital for improving your teaching.✅ Dr. Warner shares ​​several examples from her book, “Failure Before Success: Teachers Describe What They Learned from Mistakes.”Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Throwback Thursday! Loving Your Neighbor featuring Chris SingletonOriginally Released On: 7-28-2023This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Chris shares his inspirational message of resilience, unity and forgiveness.✅ Chris discusses the way he works with schools, universities, and other organizations to promote love and acceptance of others. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

In this episode, Dr. Woods explores how the first moments of the school day shape everything that follows. From adult presence at arrival to clear routines and instructional warm starts, effective start-of-day systems create consistency, calm, and connection for both students and staff.Rather than leaving mornings to chance, Dr. Woods highlights how intentional structures—predictable arrival procedures, positive greetings, reinforced expectations, and aligned staff systems—reduce chaos and increase readiness to learn. When leaders and teachers are purposeful about the start of the day, they establish a tone that supports strong behavior, engagement, and instruction.This Anchor Chat reminds educators that the school day doesn’t begin with the first lesson—it begins the moment students walk through the door.

Throwback Thursday! Authentic Literature featuring Dr. Donyall DickeyOriginally Released On: 5-7-2021This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Dickey shares what authentic literature and how it should be used in teaching and learning.✅ Dr. Dickey discusses his book, Mitigating Curricular Chaos, which shares strategies on constructing and procuring core content curricula that addresses and mitigates the achievement gap.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧👉 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform or at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-out-the-woods/id1507447161🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Episode #127 is up!  Check it out!!!Special Guest Vernon Wright joins Dr. Woods on episode #127 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Connect. Impact. Scale. In this episode, Vernon shares his instructional leadership philosophy and the intentional ways he builds connections, empowers educators, and scales meaningful impact across school communities. Together, they explore practical strategies leaders can use to strengthen relationships, elevate instructional practice, and drive long-term success for both students and staff.

Throwback Thursday! Episode #64: I Choose to StayOriginally Released On: 7-29-2022This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Dr. Thomas-EL discusses why 'he chose to stay' in education.✅ Dr. Thomas-EL shares strategies on improving staff morale and capacity.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.🎧👉 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform or at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-out-the-woods/id1507447161🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Throwback Thursday! Student Content Creator featuring Rachelle Dene PothOriginally Released On: 3-12-2021This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Rachelle shares her thoughts on students having input on the content they create in classrooms.✅ Rachelle discusses the paradigm shift from teachers being the “gatekeepers” of knowledge to more a facilitator of learning.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.🎧👉 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform or at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-out-the-woods/id1507447161🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Throwback Thursday! Started from the Bottom, Now I'm Here Originally Released On: 6-18-21This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:✅ Darrion discusses how he motivates and inspires his students and school community.✅ Darrion shares advice with other educators trying to make a positive impact with students at-risk.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.🎧👉 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform or at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-out-the-woods/id1507447161🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Episode #126 is up!  Check it out!!!Diversifying the Educator PipelineSpecial Guest Dr. Shaylyn Marks, Assistant Professor of Teacher Education at California State University, Bakersfield, joins Dr. Woods on episode #126 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Diversifying the Educator Pipeline. In this episode, they explore Dr. Marks’ research and her book, Diversifying the Educator Pipeline: Supporting Black Educators through Recruitment, Preparation, and Retention. Together, they unpack the historical impact of Brown v. Board of Education, the challenges Black preservice teachers have faced and the urgent need to recruit, support, and retain more Black educators in today’s schools.