2Principals Podcast

2P88: Radical Wellness . . . Nurturing Happiness in Education with Kim Strobel

In this enlightening episode of the 2Principles Podcast, hosts Jason and Kevin welcome back Kim Strobel, the renowned Happiness Coach, for a deep dive into nurturing joy and wellbeing in education. Kim shares invaluable insights on the importance of acknowledging struggles and avoiding toxic positivity in school leadership. The conversation explores strategies for managing perfectionism and negative self-talk, including the intriguing concept of naming your inner critic. Kim discusses her impactful book "Teach Happy: Small Steps to Big Joy" and its resonance with educators. The power of vulnerability in leadership is emphasized, with Kim and the hosts sharing personal experiences. Practical tips for "radical wellness" are offered, including setting digital boundaries and utilizing phone settings to limit screen time. Kim also recounts her fascinating experience speaking to the FBI about happiness, highlighting its relevance even in high-stress professions. The episode concludes with a tease of future discussions on addressing toxicity in school environments. Listeners are encouraged to explore Kim's book and the accompanying downloadable study guide at strobeleducation.com. For those inspired by Kim's message, she is available for speaking engagements at schools and educational organizations.
If you are interested in purchasing "Teach Happy: Small Steps to Big Joy", please visit this LINK.

2P87: Sweat Equity . . . Boosting Leadership Through Physical Fitness

In this energizing episode of the 2Principals Podcast, hosts Jason and Kevin dive into the critical yet often overlooked topic of physical fitness for school leaders. As they kick off the new school year, the duo emphasizes the importance of prioritizing personal wellness amidst the demanding role of a principal.
Drawing from research and personal experiences, Jason and Kevin highlight how regular physical activity can significantly boost productivity, decision-making capabilities, and overall resilience in leadership. They address common barriers that principals face in maintaining fitness routines, such as lack of time, competing priorities, and burnout, offering practical strategies to overcome these challenges.
The hosts stress the importance of consistency and finding enjoyable activities that can be sustainably integrated into busy schedules. They suggest starting small, scheduling workouts like non-negotiable appointments, and leveraging technology to stay motivated. The episode also touches on the benefits of involving support systems and celebrating small victories along the fitness journey.
Throughout the discussion, Jason and Kevin emphasize that prioritizing physical wellness isn't just about personal health—it's about setting a powerful example for the entire school community. They encourage listeners to take that first step towards incorporating regular physical activity into their leadership routines, reminding principals that their own well-being is crucial for effective school leadership.
This episode serves as an inspiring call to action for school leaders to prioritize their physical fitness as they embark on the new academic year, promising benefits that extend far beyond personal health to enhance their overall leadership effectiveness.

2P86: Back-to-School Blitz

In the latest episode of the 2Principals Podcast, titled "Back-to-School Blitz", hosts Jason Paurus and Kevin Jost tackle the crucial topic of preparing for the new school year. As summer fades and August looms, the duo discusses the "end of July scaries" and the growing anticipation for the upcoming academic term. They share compelling statistics, including that 97% of principals consider back-to-school preparation essential for success, and that the average principal dedicates over 220 hours to this process. The hosts explore common barriers to effective preparation, such as time constraints and resource limitations, while also delving into fun facts about back-to-school traditions. Paurus and Jost offer practical strategies for overcoming preparation challenges, including creating detailed timelines, breaking tasks into manageable chunks, and delegating responsibilities to staff members. They emphasize the importance of building strong, genuine relationships with the school community and prioritizing personal well-being to maintain energy and motivation throughout the year. The episode serves as a reminder that effective back-to-school preparation is not just about organization, but about setting the stage for a smooth and successful academic year ahead.

2P85: Summer Sunshine and School Leadership . . . Balancing Work and Play

In this episode of the 2Principals Podcast, hosts Jason Paurus and Kevin Jost dive into the importance of balancing work and play during the summer months for school leaders. They discuss the challenges principals face in finding time for relaxation while managing administrative tasks and planning for the upcoming school year. The hosts share interesting statistics, including that 44% of working adults feel more stressed during summer, and emphasize the importance of taking breaks to improve job performance and overall wellbeing.
Jason and Kevin explore common barriers to relaxation, such as guilt and lack of time, especially for new principals. They offer practical advice on how to overcome these obstacles, stressing the importance of prioritizing self-care and integrating it into daily routines. The conversation then shifts to the benefits of sunlight, touching on its positive effects on bone health, mood enhancement, improved sleep, and immune function.
The hosts provide practical strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance during the summer, including setting schedules, creating boundaries, and prioritizing self-care activities. They introduce the concept of "micro self-care," encouraging listeners to incorporate small moments of relaxation throughout their day. The episode concludes with advice on disconnecting from technology to reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing, reminding school leaders that taking care of themselves is necessary for effective leadership.

2P84: Vacay Your Way . . . A Principal's Guide to Summer Recharge

In this episode of the 2Principals Pod, we dive into the importance of summer vacations and spending time in nature for school leaders. We kick things off with a fun "would you rather" about travel preferences - plane or road trip? We share some personal anecdotes about family vacations and discuss why taking time off is crucial for principals' well-being.
We explore some interesting facts about summer vacations, including their historical origins and average costs. Did you know that 37% of Americans plan their summer vacations at least six months in advance? We also touch on the benefits of vacation planning and how it can boost happiness even before the trip begins.
We offer practical strategies for principals to ensure they take much-needed breaks, such as scheduling time off in advance and delegating responsibilities to team members. We emphasize the importance of trusting your staff and allowing them opportunities for growth.
No summer discussion is complete without mentioning bonfires! We share some fun facts about this timeless tradition and debate the best marshmallow roasting techniques.
We wrap up the episode with key pieces of advice: set boundaries between work and personal time, and prioritize your well-being. Remember, taking care of yourself isn't a luxury - it's a necessity for becoming a better leader and creating a positive impact in your school.
So grab your sunscreen, pack your bags, and join us for this summer-themed episode that'll help you recharge your principal battery!

2P83: Summer Shenanigans and Recharging Your Leadership Batteries

In our latest episode of the 2Principals Podcast, we dive into the importance of summer break for school leaders. As principals, we recognize the need to unwind and recharge after a whirlwind school year. We discuss our personal plans for the summer, ranging from vacations to the North Shore and Sedona to local adventures like bike rides and hikes.
We emphasize the significance of disconnecting from work and finding creative ways to rejuvenate. Photography, gardening, and even bird watching are some of the activities we're looking forward to. We also touch on the importance of social connections, whether it's through backyard barbecues or spending time with family near water.
The conversation shifts to the broader concept of self-care and how it's crucial for school leaders to prioritize their well-being. We discuss the ripple effect of showing up refreshed and energized, and how it positively impacts our staff and students. We also highlight the importance of modeling self-care for our teams.
As we wrap up, we offer advice to our listeners on making the most of their summer break. We encourage trying new activities, stepping out of comfort zones, and not feeling guilty about taking time for oneself. We remind fellow educators that this break is a gift and embracing it wholeheartedly will lead to a more positive and energized return to school in the fall.
Overall, this episode serves as a reminder for school leaders to prioritize their own recharging during the summer months, setting the stage for a successful and vibrant new school year.

2P82: Cultivating Joy & Kindness . . . Leadership Insights with Greg Martin

In our latest episode of the 2Principals Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Greg Martin, Principal at Chaska Middle School East. Our conversation, titled "Cultivating Joy and Kindness: Leadership Insights from Greg Martin," was filled with valuable insights on leadership, mental health, and creating a positive school culture. Greg shared his journey from teacher to principal, starting with his walk-up song "This Is Me" from The Greatest Showman, which reflects his philosophy on bringing people together and embracing individuality.
Throughout the episode, Greg emphasized the importance of intentional leadership and creating a culture where staff feel comfortable providing feedback and interrogating practices. He offered strategies for combating burnout, including setting boundaries and finding ways to build joy into daily routines. We also delved into the challenges of technology in schools, particularly the impact of smartphones on student mental health and social interactions.
Greg's passion for continuous learning and staying curious was evident as he encouraged leaders to seek out mentors and new experiences. He shared his practice of writing gratitude journals to strengthen relationships and recommended books like "The Ideal Team Player" by Patrick Lencioni and "The Culture Code" for building strong team dynamics. The episode concluded with Greg's powerful daily mantra: "Be kind, have fun, and learn something" – a simple yet effective approach to life and leadership.
Greg's insights offer valuable lessons for educators at all levels looking to create positive, thriving school environments. His passion for education and commitment to personal growth shone through, making this episode a must-listen for anyone in the field of education. Don't forget to visit our website at 2principals.com for more resources and information. Remember, a better you makes for a better today!
Where can you find Greg? marting@district112.org
LinkedIn

2P81: Leadership Lessons from the World of Sports Psychology

Sports psychology has seen tremendous growth in recent decades as elite athletes recognize its impact on performance and overall well-being. Studies show that incorporating sports psychology techniques can lead to a 10-15% improvement in athletic performance. The benefits extend beyond the playing field, including stress management, anxiety reduction, goal setting, confidence building, emotional regulation, mental toughness, teamwork, and communication skills. While acknowledging the potential barriers principals face, such as mindset shifts, time constraints, lack of awareness, and organizational culture, Kevin and Jason outlined four practical strategies leaders can implement.
First, commit to continuous learning about sports psychology through reading, attending workshops, or consulting experts. Second, carve out daily time for visualization, mentally rehearsing challenging scenarios and preparing for positive outcomes. Third, enhance a growth mindset by embracing challenges, celebrating learning opportunities, and empowering staff to stretch beyond perceived limits. Fourth, identify accountability partners, mentors, or trusted colleagues who can support your leadership growth journey through regular check-ins and feedback.
In closing, Kevin advised listeners to embrace failure as an opportunity for growth and learning, recognizing that setbacks are an essential part of the journey to greatness. Jason emphasized the importance of understanding and growing emotional intelligence to navigate interpersonal dynamics with empathy, adaptability, and emotional control.
Ultimately, Kevin and Jason encouraged exploring the lessons of sports psychology to unlock full potential, cultivate resilience, and lead with greater confidence and effectiveness. The journey to becoming a more impactful leader is continuous, but the rewards are immense.

2P80: Summertime Rejuvenation for Principals

In this episode, Kevin Jost and Jason Paurus are joined by Bob Driver, the Executive Director of MASSP (Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals), to discuss how principals can leverage the summer months for rejuvenation, strategic planning, and professional development.
The hosts begin by framing the discussion around the shift in focus that principals experience during the summer, from managing daily operations to long-term planning and preparation for the upcoming school year. They highlight several strategies principals can implement, including developing a comprehensive summer plan, engaging in professional development opportunities, reviewing and refining policies and procedures, strengthening school culture, overseeing facility improvements, and analyzing data to identify areas for improvement.
The conversation then turns to the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being during the summer. Bob, Kevin, and Jason emphasize the need for principals to take breaks and vacations, practice intentional self-care through activities like exercise, healthy eating, and mindfulness practices, nurture relationships and support systems, and consider seeking professional support if needed.
Bob Driver provides a detailed overview of the upcoming MASSP Summer Conference, scheduled from June 24th to 27th at Breezy Point. The conference promises a comprehensive lineup of keynote speakers, concurrent sessions, a dedicated middle-level experience, team-building and wellness activities, and opportunities for networking and celebration.
In closing, the hosts offer final pieces of advice for principals navigating the summer months. Jason challenges principals to work on themselves and prioritize inner work, whether through seeking professional support, starting a new routine, or implementing strategies for better work-life integration. Bob encourages principals to practice disconnecting from their phones and embracing moments of digital detachment. Kevin emphasizes the importance of having fun and finding ways to laugh, as laughter can be a powerful source of rejuvenation.
Overall, the episode underscores the unique opportunity that the summer presents for principals to prioritize their mental health, engage in strategic planning, and prepare themselves for a successful and impactful school year ahead.

2P79: Maintaining Boundaries and Achieving Work-Life Integration as a Principal

The latest episode of the 2Principals Podcast hosted by Kevin Jost and Jason Paurus is titled "Maintaining Boundaries and Achieving Work-Life Balance as a Principal." In the introduction, Kevin and Jason discuss the importance of work-life balance for principals and school leaders, sharing statistics that highlight the prevalence of burnout and poor work-life balance among principals.
The hosts delve into the barriers that principals face in achieving work-life balance, including the "always on" mentality and guilt for not being available 24/7, lack of prioritization and constant reactive mode, and difficulty disconnecting from work and setting boundaries.
To address these challenges, Kevin and Jason offer strategies for maintaining work-life balance, such as prioritizing tasks and responsibilities, delegating when necessary, scheduling regular breaks and time off (treating them as sacred), developing routines and rituals to transition between work and personal life, and embracing imperfection and letting go of the need for perfection.
As advice for principals, the hosts recommend embracing imperfection and accepting that you can't be everything to everyone. They also encourage principals to prioritize intentional self-care during the summer months, engaging in activities that nourish their well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or quality time with loved ones.
Throughout the episode, Kevin and Jason emphasize the importance of prioritizing personal well-being to be effective leaders and serve their schools and communities better. By maintaining boundaries and achieving a healthy work-life balance, principals can thrive in their roles while avoiding burnout and promoting overall well-being.