2Principals Podcast

2P74: Finding Motivation in Challenging Leadership Moments

The latest episode of the 2Principals podcast focuses on "Finding Motivation in Challenging Leadership Moments." Jason and Kevin kick things off by discussing May being Mental Health Awareness Month and mentioning their special "Mental Health Awareness" merchandise available to support the cause. The random question sparks an amusing discussion about whether you'd rather eat bland but visually appetizing food or disgusting looking but delicious tasting food. 
The main topic dives into the complexities of being a school principal, requiring a blend of managerial, instructional leadership, and interpersonal skills. Principals play a crucial role in setting the vision, fostering a positive learning environment, and ensuring the overall success of their school community. Statistics are shared highlighting the need for motivated leaders in the education field.
Several barriers to finding motivation are examined, including feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities, isolation in the role, lack of resources, resistance to change from stakeholders, and the very real threat of burnout. To combat these barriers, practical strategies are offered such as setting clear, achievable goals, seeking inspiration from role models and mentors, practicing intentional self-care, celebrating small wins along the way, and continuous learning.
During the "Mental Health Minute" segment, the hosts remind listeners that it's okay to ask for help and take breaks when needed. Prioritizing one's well-being is key to navigating challenges with resilience. In closing, Jason and Kevin emphasize the importance of seeking support from trusted friends, family and mentors when struggling. They also advise practicing gratitude to shift perspective and boost mood during difficult times. Overall, the message is to stay motivated, resilient and lead with purpose through even the most challenging leadership moments.

2P73: Leading Through the Final Stretch of the School Year

For principals, the month of May is a whirlwind of activity as the academic year draws to a close. It involves finalizing teacher and student schedules, coordinating exams, and meticulously planning graduation ceremonies and recognizing the vital contributions of support staff. Clear communication of expectations to all stakeholders is paramount during this busy time.
Ensuring balanced and equitable teacher schedules is a key challenge. Open communication and collaboration with department heads is crucial, as is carefully considering teacher strengths, certifications, and balancing preparation periods and course levels fairly across staff. Not everyone will get their ideal schedule, but an inclusive process can foster understanding.
Several strategies can help principals navigate May and bring about a smooth school year conclusion. Establishing clear communication channels with staff, students and parents is vital. Graduation planning requires triple-checking all arrangements from photography to streaming logistics. Meeting with stakeholder groups like department chairs, student councils, support staff and others provides valuable feedback. Proactively addressing potential disruptive events and planning transition ceremonies for groups like 8th graders is also important.
Building and sustaining a positive school culture remains a priority even amidst the year-end busyness. Recognizing and appreciating the efforts of staff and students, keeping communication lines open, encouraging collaboration, and making time for personal reflection as a leader are all key components.
With immense responsibilities, principals must also prioritize their own mental health. Effective time management, setting boundaries, engaging in self-care practices like exercise or hobbies, seeking support from colleagues, delegating responsibilities, celebrating personal accomplishments, setting realistic expectations and disconnecting when needed can all help prevent burnout.
Looking ahead, professional development opportunities are on the horizon such as the MASSP Summer Conference, trauma-informed leadership training, the Secretary Conference and student leadership programs.
As the school year culminates, principals are advised to be present and enjoy the celebratory events, directly address any lingering frustrations before summerbreak, and ensure no key groups are left feeling unheard or unappreciated for their contributions.
MASSP

2P72: Cultivating Happiness and Joy

Kim Strobel, a motivational speaker, author, and happiness coach, joined Jason and Kevin on the latest episode of the 2Principals Podcast. They kicked things off by discussing Kim's walkup song choice, "Beast of Burden" by The Rolling Stones, and their shared love for running. Kim then opened up about her journey, sharing her struggles with panic disorder in her younger years and how it fueled her purpose to help others cultivate happiness and joy. She detailed her daily routine, emphasizing practices like meditation, gratitude journaling, and setting intentions to cultivate self-love and self-compassion.
A significant portion of the conversation centered around happiness habits. Kim highlighted the power of gratitude journaling and provided a downloadable resource for gratitude prompts. She also discussed the neuroscience behind happiness, recommending books like "The How of Happiness" by Sonja Lyubomirsky. Throughout the discussion, Kim emphasized the importance of prioritizing one's happiness and well-being, recognizing that it is not selfish but essential for thriving in all areas of life.
Mental health and vulnerability were also key topics. Kim shared her perspective on mental health, stressing the importance of creating safe spaces for vulnerability. She encouraged leaders to share their struggles and be authentic, as it fosters a sense of safety and connection within their communities. When asked about role models and resources, Kim cited her 23-year-old son as a significant source of inspiration and recommended books like "Hidden Potential" by Adam Grant.
As the episode wrapped up, Kim's final advice for listeners was to prioritize their happiness and well-being, recognizing that it is not selfish but essential for thriving in all areas of life. Jason and Kevin expressed their appreciation for Kim's insights and the positive energy she brings to the world. Kim also shared information about her book, "Teach Happy, Small Steps to Big Joy," and her social media handles for those interested in connecting with her further.
Where you can find Kim:
Website
Instagram
Her book, "Teach Happy, Small Steps to Big Joy"

2P71: Embracing Social-Emotional Learning and Finding Joy as a Principal

Show Notes:
Guest: Mindy Chevalier, 2023 Minnesota Middle School Principal of the Year from Belle Plaine, MN
Mindy discusses her educational journey, from teaching health and PE to becoming an assistant principal and then a 7-12 principal
She talks about the importance of balancing work and personal life, finding joy through activities like pickleball, softball, and karaoke
Mindy shares how her district has made social-emotional learning a priority, implementing programs like Move This World and the curriculum from Joe Beckman
She emphasizes the need to give teachers and staff the time and resources to properly implement SEL initiatives
Mindy talks about her approach to building a positive school culture, focusing on visibility, connecting with students and staff, and finding the joy in the day-to-day
When addressing burnout, she suggests looking for ways to reignite your passion, whether through trying new teaching strategies or getting involved in different committees
Mindy's advice for listeners is to embrace a growth mindset, find joy in education, and maintain a work hard/play hard mentality
You can find Mindy @MindyChevsBPHS

2P70: Navigating Stress and Mental Health for Principals

Show Notes:
- This episode features a conversation with therapist Jonathan Boorman, who provides insights on managing stress and mental health as school principals.- Jason and Kevin, discuss the unique challenges principals face at the end of the school year and how to support their own well-being as well as that of their staff.- Boorman shares strategies for creating plans and routines to mitigate anxiety, as well as the importance of building strong relationships and empathy with teachers and students.- The discussion covers the differences between healthy and unhealthy levels of stress and anxiety, and how principals can recognize signs of mental health issues in themselves and their team.- Boorman also emphasizes the value of self-compassion, resilience, and celebrating small wins to navigate demanding times.- We practical advice for principals on having proactive conversations with staff about how best to support them.- Overall, the episode offers valuable guidance for school leaders on prioritizing their own wellbeing while supporting the mental health of their entire school community.
You can connect with Jon via Healthwise Behavior Health & Wellness or through Instagram @therapist_reaction.

2P69 Sunday Edition: Unlocking Your Potential

Show Notes:
Introduction
Reminder that achieving greatness requires relentless effort and a burning desire to succeed, especially for those in leadership positions.
Potential is limitless when willing to put in the work.
The Making of a True Leader
True leaders are not born but made through dedication and perseverance.
Staying committed to the vision and goals, even in the face of adversity.
Embracing challenges and the grind to surpass expectations.
The Pursuit of Excellence
Leading with integrity, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Setbacks are stepping stones on the path to success, opportunities for growth and learning.
Making a positive impact in the lives of those we lead.
Continuous Growth and Self-Improvement
Leadership is a journey of continuous growth and self-improvement.
Challenging ourselves to push beyond comfort zones and inspire others.

2P68: Navigating the Principalship in the Month of April

This episode focuses on providing strategies for effective staff feedback, evaluation responsibilities, and future planning to empower educational leaders and nurture the growth of students. we discuss the crucial responsibilities principals face in April, including finalizing observation feedback and staff evaluations, reviewing evaluation duties, confirming testing schedules, anticipating staffing needs, planning for summer school and student transitions, and engaging in budget planning.
Practical strategies are shared, such as scheduling individual meetings with staff, reviewing evaluation responsibilities, communicating testing schedules, anticipating staffing needs, planning summer programs, organizing orientation days, and involving staff in budget planning. Building and sustaining a positive school culture is emphasized through recognizing staff efforts, fostering open communication, providing professional development, celebrating student achievements, organizing team-building activities, and supporting staff well-being.
The episode highlights the importance of prioritizing mental health for principals by effective time management, incorporating self-care practices, seeking support, reflecting and recharging, setting boundaries, and pursuing professional development opportunities. Upcoming professional development and growth opportunities for school leaders are also discussed.
Finally, we offer advice for principals navigating April, encouraging them to find humor, utilize available resources, and maintain a focus on students and staff well-being throughout the demanding month. Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the challenges and responsibilities of April while laying the groundwork for a successful transition into the next academic year.
MASSP

2P67: Learning About Positivity, Perspective, and Perseverance from a "Teaching Champion"

Tune in for an uplifting conversation with Brian Martin, the positivity-radiating second-grade teacher and host of the Teaching Champions podcast. Brimming with infectious energy, Brian shares his morning routine of gratitude, self-awareness practices, and tips for incorporating movement throughout the day. He drops some serious wisdom on managing mental health and combating burnout in the education field. Brian's approach to leadership is all about influence through authenticity and building a positive school culture by celebrating wins and checking in on colleagues. From role models like his 72-year-old substitute teacher mom to podcasting mentors, Brian reveals the sources that inspire his relentless pursuit of growth. Get ready to embrace his parting advice - practice gratitude, find joy in the little things, and live with an outlook that raises the frequency all around you.
Where you can find Brian:
twitter.com/bmartinreal
Teaching Champions Podcast
Instagram

2P66: Optimizing Your Leadership and the Impact of Sleep on Principals

As school principals, the demands of educational leadership are immense. From managing staff and student needs to navigating complex decisions and ever-changing policies, the role requires a level of physical, mental, and emotional stamina that can often be overlooked. However, one crucial aspect that significantly impacts a principal's ability to lead effectively is frequently neglected: the importance of quality sleep. In this insightful episode of the 2Principals Podcast, hosts Jason and Kevin delve into the profound effects sleep can have on a school leader's performance. Through thought-provoking discussions, enlightening statistics, and practical strategies, they explore how prioritizing restful sleep can optimize cognitive function, emotional regulation, and decision-making prowess – ultimately enhancing your capabilities as an educational leader. Join them on this journey to unlock the power of quality sleep in elevating your leadership impact.
Key Statistics:
Humans are the only mammals that willingly delay sleep.
People who sleep less than 7 hours a night are more likely to be overweight or obese.
70 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep problems.
Sleep consolidates memories, improving learning and problem-solving skills.
Barriers to Optimizing Sleep:
Heavy workload and responsibilities
Stress and pressure from the job
Work-life integration challenges
Unexpected events and emergencies
Constant connectivity through technology
Lack of awareness about the importance of sleep
Unhealthy habits like poor diet and excessive caffeine consumption
Positive Impact of Adequate Sleep:
Enhanced cognitive function, memory retention, and problem-solving skills
Improved emotional regulation and stress management
Increased productivity and focus
Overall improved health and well-being
Negative Impact of Sleep Deprivation:
Impaired decision-making and critical thinking
Reduced alertness and reaction time
Increased stress levels and emotional reactivity
Potential health risks like obesity, cardiovascular problems, and weakened immune function
Practical Strategies for Optimizing Sleep:
Establish a consistent sleep schedule
Create a relaxing bedtime routine
Prioritize a sleep-conducive environment
Limit screen time before bed
Practice mindfulness or meditation
Incorporate regular physical activity
Mental Health Minute:
Emphasizing the direct influence of sleep quality and quantity on leadership capabilities.
Prioritizing adequate rest for effective decision-making and emotional regulation.
Takeaways:
Develop a calming bedtime ritual to signal your body it's time to wind down.
Maintain a consistent sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time.
Conclusion:
Prioritizing sleep optimizes cognitive abilities, emotional resilience, and decision-making skills for educational leaders.
Investing in quality sleep enhances leadership effectiveness and overall well-being.

2P65: Promoting Positive Mental Health in the Workplace

In this episode, Jason and Kevin,  delve into the topic of workplace wellness and promoting positive mental health for school leaders, educators, and staff members. They discuss the importance of prioritizing mental well-being in the educational environment and share insights, strategies, and expert advice to foster a positive and supportive work culture.
Key Points:
The Impact of Mental Health on Productivity and Well-being:
Statistics highlighting the significant financial and productivity costs associated with mental health issues in the workplace.
The prevalence of stress, anxiety, and mental health conditions among employees.
Barriers to Promoting Positive Mental Health in Schools:
Lack of resources (funding, training programs, mental health support services)
Stigma surrounding mental health issues
Time constraints and busy schedules
Resistance to change and implementing new policies or programs
Positive Impacts of Promoting Positive Mental Health:
Improved well-being and job satisfaction
Enhanced leadership skills and better relationships with staff
Increased productivity and overall performance
Negative Impacts of Neglecting Mental Health:
Burnout and decreased morale
Physical health issues (chronic stress, insomnia, fatigue, weakened immune system)
Practical Strategies for School Principals:
Lead by example: Prioritize your own mental health and work-life integration
Create a supportive work environment: Promote open communication and provide mental health resources
Offer professional development opportunities on mental health awareness and stress management
Encourage work-life integration and implement wellness programs
Promote positive communication and constructive feedback
The 2P Mental Health Minute:
Prioritize your own mental health to effectively lead and support others
Practice intentional self-care and set boundaries
Foster a supportive culture that values mental health and well-being
Jason and Kevin emphasize the crucial role school principals play in creating a healthy and productive work environment by prioritizing mental health and well-being. They encourage listeners to take care of themselves, seek support when needed, and implement practical strategies to promote positive mental health in their school communities.