The Fearless Schools Podcast aims to address the timeliest challenges in education based on the research and writings of Dr. Douglas Reeves and his colleagues at Creative Leadership Solutions.
We will discuss and tackle timely topics from the field.
Listen on your favorite podcast platform today!
Episode 16: Fearless Instruction Part 3 - Finishing the Puzzle
In this episode of the Fearless School's podcast, we discuss Part 3 of the book, 'Fearless Instruction," entitled "FINISHING THE PUZZLE - Engaging Everyone" We ask the authors to talk about the impact of the 90-90-90 research on their writing for this section and discuss the concepts of literacy as a team sport, interdisciplinary thinking, and doing better when you know better to help all students achieve. The esteemed authors share their insights on the practical applications of the book and encourage school leaders to utilize its resources to foster a positive learning environment.
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Episode 15: Fearless Instruction Part 2 - Connecting the Pieces: Putting the 90/90/90 Research to Work
In this episode of the Fearless School's podcast, we discuss Part 2 of the book, 'Fearless Instruction," entitled "Putting It Together: Doing the Work that Matters." We focus on the 90-90-90 strategies that lead to high student achievement in diverse and economically challenged schools. The conversation emphasizes the importance of effective feedback, clarity, grading, and writing in education, and how these elements can be implemented to improve student outcomes. The panelists share their insights on the practical applications of the book and encourage educators to utilize its resources to foster a positive learning environment.
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Episode 14: Fearless Instruction Part 1 - Laying the Foundation: Building a Culture of Collaboration
The Fearless Schools podcast team talks to the authors of section 1 ("Laying the Foundation: Fostering a Culture of Collaboration") of the Creative Leadership Solutions book, Fearless Instruction--to learn about the critical information behind the book. In addition to examining the inspiration of Dr. Reeves' 90/90/90 research, they discuss how teachers and leaders can utilize the book to help all students achieve, help all teachers collaborate effectively, and help all school leaders move their schools forward.
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FS Podcast Shorts - Jen Schwanke
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Episode 13: The Best of 2025
In this reflective episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we review the highlights and key takeaways from our journey in podcasting--and make note of special moments, key quotes, great guests and key takeaways from all of the Fearless Schools 2025 episodes. Finally, we discuss the gratitude we feel towards our amazing international audience and Creative Leadership Solutions team.
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FS Podcast Shorts - Tony Flach
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Episode 12: Surviving the Superintendency
In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we engage with Dr. Nikki Woodson, the superintendent of the Metropolitan School District in Washington Township, Indianapolis. She discusses her journey to leadership, the challenges of the superintendency, and the importance of building a diverse and effective team.
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FS Podcast Shorts - John Hattie
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Episode 11: Surviving the Superintendency
In this episode of the Fearless Schools podcast, we engage with Dr. Peter Noonan, discussing the complexities of the superintendency, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and explore the qualities necessary for effective leadership in education.
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Episode 10: From Pandemic Students to Post Pandemic Teachers
In this episode, educators Kylie Thomas and Em Beeler share their unique experiences as students during the COVID-19 pandemic and how it shaped their teaching philosophies. They discuss the importance of adaptability, the significance of student-centered learning, and the need for effective grading practices that support student growth.
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FS Podcast Shorts - Cindy Tomlin: A Special Mother’s Day Tribute
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FS Podcast Shorts - Jessyca Lucero-Flores
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Episode 9: Family & Community Engagement - FACE
In this episode, educational experts Dr. Nino Collado and Dr. Alex Marrero explore the critical topic of family and community engagement (FACE) in schools. Listen in as we highlight strategies for collaboration and empowerment.
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FS Podcast Shorts - Lisa Almeida: Relationships in Leadership
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Episode 8: Fearless Leadership: Building Integrity & Trust
In this episode, Dr. Doug Reeves and Dr. Jymil Thompson explore the concept of Fearless Leadership by discussing the importance of integrity, courage, and confidence in leadership roles, the necessity of admitting mistakes, and the value of vulnerability in fostering a culture of openness.
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FS Podcast Shorts - Kim Marshall: The Marshall Memo
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Episode 7: Fearless Schools: Reimagining Alternative Education
In this episode, we talk with Dr. Melissa Stephanski and Alan Crawford about some of Alternative Education's toughest topics. Listen in to hear solutions to issues we see in schools today.
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FS Podcast Shorts - Anthony Muhammad: PLCs, Culture & Climate
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Episode 6: Fearless Schools: Solutions for Social Dynamics
In this episode, we talk with writer, speaker, and thought leader Rosalind Wiseman, who shares her expertise on social dynamics in schools. Listen in to hear solutions to issues we see in schools today.
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FS Podcast Shorts - Paul Destino: School Culture
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Episode 5: Fearless Leadership
In this episode, Dr. Rachael George and Dr. Cedrick Gray join us to discuss Fearless Leadership. With extensive experience in school and district leadership, these experts help to make sense of some of the toughest topics facing leaders today. Listen in to learn about leadership at any level and for tips to energize your staff and style.
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FS Podcast Shorts - Ken Williams: Ruthless Equity
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Episode 4: Fearless Environments: Leading with Psychological Safety
In this episode, join author, speaker, and educational leader Allyson Apsey to discuss the important topic of Leading with Psychological Safety. With extensive experience in the field of education, Allyson shares her wisdom on fostering the school environment for all to thrive. Listen in as we discuss key elements of leadership and give you strategies to nurture your school.
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FS Podcast Shorts - Josh Tovar: Love & Leadership
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Episode 3: Fearless Classrooms: Creating Psychological Safety
In this episode, Jonelle Massey, Elise Kenney-Caldwell, and Dr. Ann McCarty Perez discuss and break down the important topic of psychological safety. With extensive experience in school counseling and administration, these experts help to make sense of some of the toughest topics facing schools today. Listen in and get some take away strategies as you continue to welcome staff back in the new year and make your way through the second semester.
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FS Podcast Shorts - Ann McCarty Perez: Master Scheduling
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FS Podcast Shorts - Dave Burgess: Student Engagement
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Episode 2: Grading In The New Year
In this episode, Dr. Emily Freeland and Dr. Majalise Tolan tackle grading in the New Year. Listen in with our experts who discuss grading, feedback, and ensuring student success in the classroom. This episode provides quick takeaways from helping teachers and students as you think about grading in the second semester. The time is now!
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Episode 1: Getting Grading Unstuck
In this episode, Dr. Douglas Reeves and Dr. Terry Metzger tackle some of the barriers to grading reform. Listen in with our experts, who discuss barriers and strategies to get you started on your grading journey.