PODCAST · education
PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning
by Magnify Learning
WHAT: PBL Podcast for School AdministratorsFREE RESOURCE: WhatisPBL.com for free PBL Resources for AdministratorsPBL Simplified for AdministratorsHelping School Leaders Launch Their PBL VisionProject Based Learning (PBL) isn’t just for classrooms—it’s a transformative school-wide approach that starts with leadership. Hosted by Ryan Steuer, founder of Magnify Learning, this podcast is designed exclusively for school administrators, principals, and district leaders who are ready to implement and sustain PBL in their schools.Each episode breaks down real-world leadership strategies to help you build a thriving PBL culture, from crafting a clear vision to supporting teachers and engaging your community. Tune in for solo episodes with Ryan packed with actionable insights, as well as guest interviews with top educational leaders who share their challenges, wins, and best practices in making PBL a success.If you're ready to shift from traditional instruction to authentic, learner-driven
Episodes
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Big Things Can Come From Small Schools | E274
In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast for Administrators, Ryan Steuer sits down with Dr. Will Darter, Superintendent of Everton School District in Southwest Missouri and author of The Empowered Rural Education Leader. Dr. Darter shares how rural school leaders can move beyond a scarcity...
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The Innovation Curve: Your Roadmap for Scaling PBL | E273
In this episode of the PBL Simplified podcast for administrators, Ryan Steuer dives deep into the challenges and strategies involved in rolling out project-based learning (PBL) across an entire district. Drawing on 15 years of experience, Ryan Steuer outlines why both top-down mandates and purely...
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From 10% to 95%: Building a Sustainable PBL Culture | E272
In this episode, host Ryan Steuer welcomes Rachel Crawford from Babcock Ranch Neighborhood School in Florida to discuss her journey and research around implementing Project Based Learning (PBL). As a Magnify Learning Model School in the nation's first solar-powered town, Babcock Ranch's...
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Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 5 | E271
In this episode, Ryan Steuer explores what truly makes project based learning (PBL) successful and sustainable in schools and districts. Drawing on over a decade of experience across a variety of school settings, Ryan emphasizes the critical role of systems—rather than just individual enthusiasm…
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Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 4 | E270
In this episode of the mini series, Ryan tackles the often-heard myth that Project Based Learning (PBL) "just doesn't work" for some schools. Rather than blaming teachers, training, or resources, Ryan dives into the need for a sustainable system and highlights why passion alone isn’t enough for...
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Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 3 | E269
In this episode, Ryan Steuer explores the misconception that resources and materials are the key factors in implementing effective project based learning (PBL). He addresses common reasons why PBL initiatives may fail in schools and explains why lasting change depends on more than just having the...
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Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 2 | E268
In this episode, Ryan delves into the common myth that failed Project Based Learning (PBL) implementations are simply the result of ineffective teacher training. He explores the deeper systemic and leadership factors that can make or break successful adoption of PBL in schools. Listeners will…
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Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 1 | E267
In this first episode of the miniseries, Ryan Steuer explores why Project Based Learning (PBL) may have failed in your school or district. Challenging the commonly held belief that teachers are the root cause, Ryan Steuer discusses the importance of system-level change, supporting teachers, and...
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Do you Really Need Full Buy-in for PBL Implementation? | E265
In this episode, Ryan Steuer challenges the conventional wisdom that leaders need full buy-in before initiating meaningful change. He explores how the quest for consensus often slows down momentum and argues that true buy-in develops from progress, not from waiting for unanimous agreement.…
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We Tried PBL… and It Didn’t Work With Our Kids (Here’s Why) | E264
In this episode of PBL Simplified for Administrators, Ryan Steuer, CEO of Magnify Learning, addresses the common challenges educational leaders face when implementing Project Based Learning (PBL). The episode explores why PBL can feel overwhelming for teachers and ineffective for students,...
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You’ve Already Done PBL… So Why Isn’t It Working? | E263
In this episode, Ryan Steuer addresses a common challenge faced by school leaders: “We’ve already done Project Based Learning (PBL), but it’s not working.” Drawing on real case studies and over a decade of experience, Ryan explores why initial PBL efforts often stall and what it takes to create a...
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Real World Learning That Actually Leads to Jobs | E262
In this leadership guest episode, Frank Oldani and Matt Fry from Belvidere School District 100 in Illinois share their insight on doing school differently and advancing career readiness in K-12 education. The conversation covers building strong community partnerships, redefining career pathways...
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The Energy Bus for Schools With Dr. Jim Van Allan | E261
In this episode of PBL Simplified, host Ryan welcomes Dr. Jim Van Allan, co-author of Energy Bus for Schools, to explore how school culture drives meaningful transformation. Jim shares the origin story behind adapting Jon Gordon’s Energy Bus framework for education and explains why culture—not...
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The Power of PBL Networks for Leaders | E260
This episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast centers on the transformative power of professional networks in driving successful Project Based Learning (PBL) implementation. Host Ryan Steuer introduces the launch of PBL Networks, a platform designed to connect innovative educational leaders who are...
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How One District Built a Waitlist for CTE With Dr. Jeremy Qualls | E259
This episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast for Administrators features Dr. Jeremy Qualls, Director of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center in Williamson County, Tennessee. Jeremy shares how his district is redefining Career and Technical Education (CTE) by blending workforce readiness,...
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Mind Shifting for School Leaders With Mitch Weisburgh | E258
In this leadership episode, Ryan sits down with Mitch Weisburgh to explore Mind Shifting — a brain-based framework designed to help educators and leaders develop resourcefulness, resilience, and constructive collaboration. If you lead a school or district, this episode digs into: Emotional...
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Project Based Learning and Brain Science With Dr. Lisa Riegel | E257
What if student behavior problems, burnout, and disengagement aren’t discipline issues… but brain issues? In this powerful leadership episode, Ryan sits down with Dr. Lisa Riegel—author, neuroscientist, and education innovator—to explore how brain science, motivation, and belonging intersect with...
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Reimagining CTE Through Partnerships and Purpose With Jason Lucia | E256
What happens when Career and Technical Education stops operating in silos and starts acting like a true regional partner? In this leadership conversation, Jason Lucia shares how he is redesigning CTE to expand access, strengthen district collaboration, and connect students directly to meaningful,...
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A Simple Reflection Protocol Every School Leader Should Use | E255
As the year comes to a close, great leaders don’t just move on—they pause, reflect, and intentionally prepare for what’s next. In this episode, Ryan Steuer shares a powerful four-bucket reflection protocol used at Magnify Learning to help leadership teams identify what’s working, what’s broken,...
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What Great Leaders Do When School Is Quiet | E254
When the building is quiet but the work isn’t done, what should leaders actually be doing? In this episode, Ryan Steuer breaks down how top-tier school leaders use those “in-between” days—when students and teachers are gone, but administrators are still on contract—to create clarity, momentum…
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How to Plan a PBL Movement | E253
In this episode of PBL Simplified for Administrators, Ryan Steuer breaks down how school and district leaders can intentionally plan and sustain a Project Based Learning (PBL) movement—without waiting for the “perfect time” or burning out their staff. This is a practical, leadership-focused…
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How to Be a Top 10% School | E252
What separates a top 10% school from the other 90%? In this episode, Ryan lays out the habits, systems, and mindsets that high-performing, innovative schools share—and the traps they refuse to touch. You’ll hear why visiting model PBL schools is a game-changer, what visionary principals actually…
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5 Reasons People Don't Do PBL | E251
In this episode, Ryan shares the honest, often-overlooked reasons school leaders struggle to launch Project Based Learning—even when everyone knows it works. Whether you’re wrestling with teacher buy-in, traditional systems, or shifting school culture, this episode breaks down the five biggest...
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Innovations Within Education With Simon Holzapfel | E250
Simon Holzapfel, the CFO and Co-founder of Leaf Lab, joins the podcast to share his experience in education, leadership, and business, describing himself as a "PBL fanboy". Simon asserts that PBL was the heart of education because it caused the learning to bond to something other than just the...
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CTE and PBL: Real-World Learning at Its Best | E249
In this episode, Ryan shares his firsthand experience visiting Calvert County’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, where Project-Based Learning (PBL) and hands-on technical education intersect to create incredible outcomes for students. The visit highlights how authentic projects,...
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Finding Joy in Leadership with Amy Balsbaugh | E248
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...
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Why 21st Century Skills Matter More Than Ever | E247
In this episode, Ryan Steuer breaks down why employability skills—communication, collaboration, problem solving, and agency—are what truly prepare students for life beyond school. Drawing from his business background and classroom experience, Ryan connects how PBL builds the exact skills…
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Building Changemaker Micro Schools with David Richards | E246
In this leadership episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast for Administrators, host Ryan Steuer sits down with David Richards — founder of Growth Public Schools, Changemaker Micro Schools, and host of the Changemaker EDU podcast. David shares his journey from corporate banking to education...
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Is PBL Too Hard? | E245
In this episode, Ryan tackles a question that’s been floating around education circles: “Is Project Based Learning too hard?” Spoiler: No—it’s not too hard when done the right way. Drawing from over a decade of work in schools across the country, Ryan breaks down why some districts struggle to...
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Building a School That Changes Lives with Matt DeHart | E244
In this powerful leadership episode, host Ryan Steuer sits down with Matt DeHart, founder of Teach from DeHart Academy and Teach from DeHart Foundation, to explore what it looks like to build a school model that transforms both students and families. Matt shares how his personal “why” is rooted…
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Prevent Random Acts of STEM With Project Based Learning | E243
In this episode, Ryan Steuer unpacks the concept of “random acts of STEM” and explains how Project Based Learning (PBL) provides the structure, authenticity, and engagement needed to make STEM meaningful. Instead of relying on flashy experiments to capture attention, Ryan shows how PBL connects...
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3 Solutions PBL Brings to CTE | E242
Today's podcast discusses three solutions that Project-Based Learning (PBL) brings to Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Key Resources & Connections PBL Networks: Administrators and staff members fired up about PBL should check out pblnetworks.com. This platform investigates issues…
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Fostering Independent Thinkers in Higher Education With Marsha Enright | E241
In this conversation, Marsha Enright discusses her journey from Montessori education to founding Reliance College, emphasizing the importance of independent learning and the development of autonomous, self-directed individuals. She shares insights on how Montessori principles can be adapted for...
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5-year Plan for Successfully Implementing Project Based Learning | E240
In this episode, Ryan Steuer of Magnify Learning details a five-year implementation plan for launching a Project-Based Learning (PBL) movement in a large district, specifically focusing on 13 middle schools. While the example is niche, the process is designed to be customizable and scalable for...
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Empowering Future Leaders: The Weight Behind the Spear With Dr. Josh McConkey | E239
In this conversation, Dr. Josh McConkey discusses the importance of leadership in education, emphasizing the need for accountability, resilience, and mentoring in preparing youth for the future. He shares insights from his experiences in the military and healthcare, highlighting the significance…
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Optimism Is Radical: Leading Change with Jill Reilly | E238
In this episode, Ryan Steuer sits down with Jill Reilly, author of the book, "10 Permissions." Jill shares her journey and insights on navigating profound change, both personally and within organizations, offering a fresh perspective for school leaders looking to innovate. This conversation is...
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A District Wide Project Based Learning Movement With Ashley Curtin | E237
Today on the PBL Simplified for Administrators podcast we have Ashley Curtin. Ashley is a district coach in Calvert County Maryland working with PBL teachers. The PBL initiative started in social studies to increase engagement and has spread across the district. Ashley is now under Career…
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How to Increase Student Engagement School-Wide | E236
Key Moves to Increase Student Engagement: Appreciate Teachers' "Why" and Connect to Your Vision: ◦ Leaders should share their vision often and loudly, connecting it with teachers' personal "why". Your teachers look to you for vision. Celebrate Small Wins Loudly and Often: ◦ Publicly acknowledge...
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The Future of Education: Integrating Technology and Hands-On Learning With Vanessa Myers | E235
In this episode of PBL Simplified, host Ryan Steuer interviews Vanessa Myers, Senior Director of Education and Workforce Development at Interplay Learning. They discuss the transformative power of Project Based Learning (PBL) in vocational education, particularly through the integration of…
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Top Three Mistakes School Leaders Make in PBL | E234
In this episode, Ryan Steuer discusses the importance of Project-Based Learning (PBL) and outlines three common mistakes that leaders make when implementing PBL in schools. He emphasizes the need to start with the 'why' of PBL, the significance of cultural change, and the importance of empowering...
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Emotional Intelligence in Education: A New Approach With Doug Noll | E233
In this episode of the PBL Simplified podcast, host Ryan Steuer talks with Doug Noll, a former trial lawyer turned peacemaker, to discuss effective strategies for de-escalating conflicts with angry parents, students, and teachers. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding…
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Turn Grant Funding into PBL Success | E232
In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, Ryan Steuer discusses how district leaders can effectively use grant funds to establish a sustainable project-based learning (PBL) culture that extends beyond the life of the grant. He emphasizes the importance of investing in people rather than...
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Becoming Epic: A Leadership Journey with Dr. Matt Kutz | E231
In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, host Ryan Steuer talks with leadership expert Matt Kutz to discuss the essence of leadership, the importance of inspiration, and the framework outlined in Kutz's upcoming book, Becoming Epic. They explore the concepts of excellence, perception, and…
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Building Sustainable PBL in Your School | E230
In this episode of the PBL Simplified podcast, Ryan Steuer discusses the importance of making project-based learning (PBL) sustainable within school cultures. He outlines a three-year model for implementing PBL that emphasizes leadership, teacher training, and community involvement. Through...
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The Power of Meditation for Busy School Leaders With Jeff Patterson | E229
Jeff Patterson has been practicing martial arts for 36 years. He has trained with masters from seven countries and has achieved a black belt equivalency in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Eskrima, Muay Thai, Kenpō, Tai Chi, and Qigong. Patterson believes in the power of meditative arts to enhance life...
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Empowering Education Through Community Partnerships | E228
In this episode of the PBL Simplified podcast, host Ryan Steuer discusses the critical role of community partners in Project Based Learning (PBL) for school administrators. He outlines strategies for identifying, engaging, and building relationships with community partners to enhance student...
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Data Visualization for PBL Administrators With Jon Schwabish | E227
Episode Summary: This episode features Jon Schwabish, an economist and data visualization expert, who discusses how school administrators can use data visualization to better understand and communicate data to improve their schools. Key Takeaways: Data visualization can help school administrators...
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How Do We Help You Love Your Job Every Day? | E226
In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, host Ryan Steuer discusses the transformative power of Project Based Learning (PBL) in schools. He shares insights on how educators can empower themselves and their teams to create thriving educational environments. Through the success story of...
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Emotional Intelligence and Project Based Learning With Matt Taylor | E225
This episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast features guest Matt Taylor, who leads the Noble Story Group, a consulting firm that focuses on emotional intelligence-based leadership development in education and nonprofits. Matt’s “Why” He had an epiphany while observing both urban district schools…
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How to Help Your Teachers Love Teaching Again | E224
This episode focuses on practical ways administrators can address teacher burnout and reignite their passion for teaching. Burnout is characterized by a disconnect from the joy of teaching, often stemming from a lack of autonomy and meaningful teaching opportunities. Project Based learning (PBL)…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
WHAT: PBL Podcast for School AdministratorsFREE RESOURCE: WhatisPBL.com for free PBL Resources for AdministratorsPBL Simplified for AdministratorsHelping School Leaders Launch Their PBL VisionProject Based Learning (PBL) isn’t just for classrooms—it’s a transformative school-wide approach that starts with leadership. Hosted by Ryan Steuer, founder of Magnify Learning, this podcast is designed exclusively for school administrators, principals, and district leaders who are ready to implement and sustain PBL in their schools.Each episode breaks down real-world leadership strategies to help you build a thriving PBL culture, from crafting a clear vision to supporting teachers and engaging your community. Tune in for solo episodes with Ryan packed with actionable insights, as well as guest interviews with top educational leaders who share their challenges, wins, and best practices in making PBL a success.If you're ready to shift from traditional instruction to authentic, learner-driven
HOSTED BY
Magnify Learning
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning have?
PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning currently has 272 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning about?
WHAT: PBL Podcast for School AdministratorsFREE RESOURCE: WhatisPBL.com for free PBL Resources for AdministratorsPBL Simplified for AdministratorsHelping School Leaders Launch Their PBL VisionProject Based Learning (PBL) isn’t just for classrooms—it’s a transformative school-wide approach that...
How often does PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning release new episodes?
PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning publishes regularly with 272 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning?
You can listen to PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning 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 PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning?
PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning is created and hosted by Magnify Learning.
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