The Smart Thinking Podcast

Episode 287: Two Future Educators and Their Dad (Reflection)

I thought I’d turn on the mic and sit down with my kids and ask them to describe their experiences as college students and why they want to be teachers.
 
 

Episode 286: Hope: Because It All Works Out (Reflection and Process)

It is the time of the year for us to focus on belief. Belief in ourselves, our abilities and the future. That is - hope. Take a listen as we explore the research behind hope and utilize two great people and two great coaches to frame hope for this season! 
Describe your hope strategies
List people that need to know they matter
Describe a process you can employ to utilize this learning
 

Episode 285: Are you Coachable? (Leadership & Reflection)

Are you good at being coached? Do you have the courage and vulnerability needed to improve to be the best version of yourself? This episode offers reflections, tips, and looks at specific ways to become more coachable as well as be a better coach for others. 
Describe your willingness to be coached.
List the people in your life that you would want coaching from.
Describe how you have traditionally responded to being coached.

Episode 284: The Neuroscience of Thanks (Reflection and Tool)

What happens to your brain when you're grateful? It send hormones through your body and supports joy!
Gratitude supports mental fitness and your overall well-being. Good news - we have a holiday called Thanksgiving and we'll help you in this episode learn the benefits of being grateful. 
Describe how you can build a stronger frontal lobe through gratitude
List those you need to thank
Describe your process for making gratitude front of mind

Episode 283: Managing “The Kids.” Reflections for Parents and Teachers (Tactics)

Kids can be challenging and adults can sometimes make it harder on themselves as a result of inconstant behaviors. Take a listen as we discuss what needs to happen in order to have strong kids. 
Clarity creates predictability.
Predictability creates consistency in behaviors and relationships.
Consistency builds trust and reinforces love and concern.
 
List the strategies you’ll employ.
Describe what you will now do different.
List the ways in which you can recover from losing it.

Episode 282: Take Note: The power of the note! (Reflection and Tactics)

Be intentional about demonstrating gratitude in writing. Not always texts - but cards and paper! Take a minute to see how others are leading and recognize it and share it with them and even their family!
 
 

Episode 281: What is your brand and are you a great teammate? (Reflection and Tactics)

How are you described when you're not in the room? Are you paying attention to your brand? Take a listen as Ted describes five different brands on a team and reflect upon which you are most like:
Captain
Cheerleader
Therapist 
Nurse
Detective 
This is a great episode to share with teams you support, serve on or alongside.
Describe your favorite teammates brand
List the qualities of your brand
Describe how your teammates describe your brand to others
 

Episode 280: Unspoken Expectations Can Never Be Met (Process and Leadership)

In your life and leadership, how many unwritten rules do you have? Take a listen to a process that will support you getting a clearer set of working expectations for those you love and serve.
We too often have expectations for people that they are not even aware of. Let's get them out and increase success. 
 
List the person you need to try "should or shouldn’t" with
Describe your unwritten rules for others
List the places this needs to be employed

Episode 279: Five Books For Fall 2023 (Leadership)

Leaders are readers and readers lead by sharing their learning. Here are five books for you for this fall. One to help with decision making, one to help with perspective, one to help develop as a leader, one to help your mindset, and one to build your capacity to support others through reflection. 
 
The Art of Clear Thinking (Leadership and Decision Making)
The Noticer (Empathy and Leadership)
The Leap to Leader (Leadership, Leadership, & Strategy)
Yes to Life (Mindset & Leadership)
Just Because (Life and Leadership) 

Episode 278: Leaders Are The Biggest Fan (Reflection)

Being a fan of those around you is a leadership quality. Join us for a reflection of the key characteristics of great fans. Great fans are constantly cheering for you, promoting you and guiding you. 
 
List the people you’re a fan of.
Describe how you are as a fan for others.
List who’s in your fan club.