Leading Out The Woods

Summer Leadership Recharge

In this episode of Summer Leadership Recharge: Principal Edition, Dr. Woods sits down with Dr. Alex Carter, Vice President of Field Implementation at the Colorado Education Initiative, for an insightful conversation on the concept of the “Warm Demander.”Together, they unpack how school leaders can balance high expectations with genuine care, creating an environment where students and staff are both challenged and supported. Designed for current and aspiring principals, this episode offers practical approaches to strengthen relationships, build trust, and inspire success in the year ahead.

Episode #134 is up!  Check it out!!!

What if instructional improvement began by identifying what's working—not just what's missing?I'm excited to welcome Vicki Wilson—former principal, author, and consultant—to Leading Out The Woods for an engaging conversation on how strength-focused leadership can transform teaching, collaboration, and student achievement.

In this episode, we explore:
✨ How leaders can use strengths to foster sustainable growth
✨ What a strengths-focused Professional Learning Community (PLC) looks like
✨ How instructional rounds can become opportunities for celebration and continuous improvement
✨ The connection between strengths-based leadership and collective teacher efficacy
✨...

🎙️ #ThrowbackThursday – Episode #46: The Art of Delegation

This week, we're revisiting a leadership conversation with Dr. Marcus Belin, award-winning principal, speaker, and leadership expert, as we explore one of the most overlooked—but essential—skills of effective leadership: delegation.Strong leaders know they can't do it all. The real impact comes from developing others, building trust, and empowering your team to lead with confidence.

Key Takeaways:
✅ Dr. Belin explains why delegation is a foundational leadership skill—not simply a way to divide responsibilities.
✅ Learn how empowering colleagues to take ownership fosters trust, accountability, and long-term organizational su...

🎙️ #ThrowbackThursday – Episode #103: Win the Morning!

This week, we're revisiting an energizing conversation with Ryan Stein, principal and author of Lifeline 65: How Small Connections and Big Enthusiasm Can Change Education. Ryan shares his inspiring philosophy of "Win the Morning" and explains how intentional leadership at the start of each day can set the tone for a positive school culture.

Key Takeaways:
✅ Ryan shares the mindset and daily habits behind his "Win the Morning" philosophy.
✅ Practical strategies for cultivating a positive school culture through meaningful relationships, enthusiasm, and intentional leadership.
✅ A reminder that small, consistent actions can c...

🎙️ #ThrowbackThursday – Episode #36: Support(ing) Students Affected by Trauma

This week, we're revisiting an impactful conversation with Anthony Swann, school administrator and former Virginia Teacher of the Year (2021), as we discuss how educators can better support students affected by trauma.Drawing from both his professional experiences and personal journey, Anthony shares powerful insights into building relationships, creating supportive learning environments, and helping students overcome barriers that may impact their success.

Key Takeaways:
✅ Anthony shares how his personal experiences with trauma have shaped the way he supports students and leads with empathy.
✅ Practical strategies educators can implement t...

Anchor Chat #31: Calm is Contagious 

In this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on Calm Is Contagious, exploring how a leader’s demeanor can influence the culture, climate, and effectiveness of a school. He discusses the importance of remaining composed during challenging situations, modeling emotional regulation, and creating a sense of stability for staff and students. Dr. Woods encourages leaders to recognize that in moments of uncertainty, their calm presence can build confidence, strengthen trust, and help others navigate adversity with clarity and purpose.

🎙️ #ThrowbackThursday – Episode #3: Rural Education

We're taking it back to one of the early episodes of Leading Out The Woods featuring Dr. Jamon Flowers, Assistant Professor in the Department of Lifelong Education, Administration, and Policy at the University of Georgia

In this episode, Dr. Flowers shares valuable insights into the realities of rural education and why this important topic deserves more attention in today's educational landscape. 

Key Takeaways:
✅ What rural education looks like for educators, students, and communities.
✅ Why rural schools face unique challenges and opportunities that educational leaders must understand.
✅ The importance of...

Episode #133 is up!  Check it out!!!

Always a teacher: How to love your job even more after 40 years

Special Guest Mr. Don Bott, instructional coach, consultant, speaker, and veteran educator, joins Dr. Woods on episode #133 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Always a Teacher: How to Love Your Job Even More After 40 Years. In this episode, Mr. Bott reflects on lessons learned throughout his remarkable career in education, sharing strategies, stories, and insights that have fueled his passion for teaching, coaching, and leadership. Together, they explore the power of optimism, relationship-building, and maintaining a deep c...

Anchor Chat #30: Beyond Busy Work — Rethinking Student Engagement

In this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on Beyond Busy Work — Rethinking Student Engagement, challenging educators to move beyond compliance-driven activities and focus on authentic cognitive engagement. He discusses the difference between students being busy versus truly thinking, emphasizing the importance of discourse, problem-solving, reflection, and meaningful learning experiences. Dr. Woods encourages educators to examine who is carrying the cognitive load in the classroom and reminds listeners that real engagement happens when students are actively making meaning—not simply completing tasks.

Throwback Thursday! Win the Morning featuring Ryan Stein

Originally Released On: 2-9-2024

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods!

In this episode:
✅ Ryan shares his inspiring philosophy of "Win the Morning"
✅ Ryan discusses his strategies to cultivate a positive school culture

Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.

🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Episode #132 is up! Check it out!!!

Special Guest Dr. Darian Jones joins Dr. Woods on episode #132 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss From Trauma to Transformation: Healing-Centered Leadership in Schools. In this episode, they explore how leaders can move beyond trauma-informed practices to adopt healing-centered approaches that prioritize relationships, restoration, and resilience. Together, they share strategies for creating supportive school environments that empower students and staff to grow, heal, and thrive.

Throwback Thursday! Building Molecular Literacy featuring Dr. Colleen Kelley

Originally Released On: 6-28-2024

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:
✅ Dr. Kelley discusses molecular literacy and how it is an essential component for a variety of career fields for students.
✅ Dr. Kelley shares how she is creating comic books to get children engaged with chemistry.

Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check ba...

Anchor Chat #29: From Compliance to Commitment

In this episode, Dr. Woods explores a critical shift in school leadership: moving from compliance-driven practices to building true commitment among staff.While compliance may produce short-term results, it rarely leads to lasting change. Sustainable improvement happens when educators understand the purpose behind the work, feel a sense of ownership, and see how their efforts connect to a larger vision.Dr. Woods unpacks how leaders can move beyond “just getting it done” by clearly communicating the why, creating space for voice, and reinforcing shared goals. When people believe in the work, not just...

Throwback Thursday! Loving Your Neighbor featuring Chris Singleton

Originally Released On: 7-28-2023

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:

✅ Chris shares his inspirational message of resilience, unity and forgiveness.

✅ Chris discusses the way he works with schools, universities, and other organizations to promote love and acceptance of others.

Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more...

Throwback Thursday! Teacher Efficacy: Reaching All Learners

Originally Released On:11-6-2020

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:
✅ Dr. Novak shares her work on implementing inclusive practices.
✅ Dr. Novak offers tips on creating collective efficacy in learning environments.

Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.🎧

👉 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform or at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-out-the-woods/id1507447161

Episode #131 is up!  Check it out!!!

Special Guest Ms. Jayme Braida, Elementary Principal and Special Education Director, joins Dr. Woods on episode #131 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Culture Isn’t an Accident: How Intentional Leadership Creates Effective Schools. In this episode, they explore how leaders can intentionally shape school culture through clarity, consistency, and purpose-driven actions. Drawing from her LEAD framework, Ms. Braida shares practical strategies for building trust, fostering belonging, and creating environments where both students and staff feel seen, heard, and empowered to thrive.

Throwback Thursday! Title: Art of In-School Suspension featuring Johnathan Cranford

Originally Released On: 6-16-2023

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:

✅ Johnathan discusses his strategies on implementing a successful in-school suspension program at his school.

✅ Johnathan details how the success led to his book, "The Art of In-School Suspension: A Discipline Program that Benefits Staff and Students."

Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate...

Throwback Thursday! 🎧Digital Leadership: The New Frontier featuring Dr. Eisa Cox
Originally Released: 1-10-2025

This week we’re revisiting a forward-thinking conversation from Leading Out The Woods. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Eisa Cox, Superintendent of Ashe County Schools, as we explore what it truly means to lead in a digital age—and how leaders can leverage technology to strengthen systems, improve efficiency, and drive innovation in schools.

Takeaways from this episode include:
• How digital leadership extends beyond devices to decision-making and systems
• Ways leaders can use technology to increase effi...

Anchor Chat # 28: What Are We Tolerating?

In this episode, Dr. Woods explores a challenging but essential leadership question: What are we tolerating in our schools that may be quietly shaping our culture? From inconsistent expectations to small behaviors that go unchecked, what leaders and educators allow (intentionally or unintentionally) often becomes the norm over time. Dr. Woods reflects on how the standards we uphold, the routines we reinforce, and the moments we address (or overlook) all contribute to the environment students and staff experience each day.

Throwback Thursday! When Calling Parents Isn’t Your Calling featuring Crystal Frommert

Originally Released On: January 12, 2024

This week we’re revisiting another insightful conversation from Leading Out The Woods In this episode, I’m joined by Crystal Frommert, Deputy Head of Secondary at Awty International School and author of When Calling Parents Isn’t Your Calling. We discuss practical ways educators can build stronger partnerships with families—even when those conversations feel difficult.

Takeaways from this episode include:
• Strategies for building trust with families through communication
• How educators can approach challenging parent conversations...

Throwback Thursday! Supporting the Whole Child featuring Dr. Sarah Kirk

Originally Released On: 12-15-2023

This week we’re revisiting another powerful conversation from Leading Out The Woods. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Sarah Kirk, CEO of Yoga 4 Classrooms and Oklahoma’s 2018 School Counselor of the Year, to discuss how schools can better support the academic, social-emotional, and overall well-being of students. Takeaways from this classic:
How wrap-around supports strengthen student successThe role of social-emotional practices within daily instructionPractical ways educators can support the whole child inside the classroom and across the scho...

Episode #130 is up!  Check it out!!!

Special Guest Dr. Brandi Kelly, Speaker, Author, Leadership Coach, and Founder of Spark HOPE Edu, joins Dr. Woods on episode #130 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Bringing Joy Back: Why H.O.P.E. Is a Leadership Strategy. In this episode, Dr. Kelly shares her leadership journey and the inspiration behind her H.O.P.E. System—Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, and Excellence. Together, they explore how leaders can combat burnout, strengthen their beliefs, and intentionally “hold hope” for others while building resilient school communities grounded in joy, purpose, and excellence. 

Throwback Thursday! Inside the Schoolhouse: What Great Principals Know and Do featuring Dr. John Gratto

Originally Released On: 8-13-2021

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:Takeaways from this classic:
Dr. Gratto shares an overview of his book, “Inside the Schoolhouse: What Great Principals Know and Do.”Dr. Gratto discusses the key concepts that assistant principals and principals can take away from the book.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that sti...

Throwback Thursday! Rethinking Black History featuring Dr. LaGarrett King
Originally Released On: 2-12-2021

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode. Takeaways from this classic:
Dr. King discusses the importance of black history and how to properly reframe its instruction in k12. Dr. King provides strategies on how to incorporate black history education in your daily history/social studies instruction.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check...

Anchor Chat #27: Clarity Is the Strategy

In this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on Clarity Is the Strategy, emphasizing that clear expectations, focused priorities, and consistent communication are the foundation of effective leadership and instruction. He discusses how a lack of clarity often leads to confusion, misalignment, and stalled progress—while intentional clarity accelerates results.

Episode #129 is up! Check it out!!!

Special Guest Ryan Tillman, Speaker, CEO, and Founder of Breaking Barriers United, joins Dr. Woods on episode #129 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Teaching Peace in a Divided Time. In this episode, Ryan draws from his experiences as a former School Resource Officer to explore the root causes of conflict among students and share practical, relationship-driven strategies educators can use to foster empathy, unity, and belonging. Together, they discuss how schools can proactively address division, navigate moments of tension, and build more compassionate and connected learning environments.

Throwback Thursday! Teachers of Promise featuring Wade Whitehead
Originally Released On: 9-9-2022

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:Takeaways from this classic:
Wade discusses what the Teachers of Promise Institute is and the impact it has made on education.As a Milken Award Winner and National Teachers Hall of Fame Inductee, Wade shares proven classroom practices and strategies that enhance student achievement and foster a positive, engaging learning environment.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conv...

Throwback Thursday! Unpacking Collaborative Leadership featuring Pam Ehnle

Originally Released On: 4-4-2025

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:

✅ Pam shares the inspiration behind the book, Leading Out The Woods: Collaborative Leadership.

✅ Pam discusses why collaboration is essential for effective leadership.

Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more Throwback episodes!

Anchor Chat #26: The Feedback Loop — What Happens After the Walkthrough?

In this episode of Anchor Chats, Dr. Woods reflects on The Feedback Loop — What Happens After the Walkthrough?, emphasizing the critical role feedback plays in instructional growth. He discusses how timely, actionable follow-up after walkthroughs transforms observations into meaningful coaching conversations, strengthens practice, and drives continuous improvement. Dr. Woods challenges leaders to be intentional about closing the loop so feedback leads to impact—not just documentation.

Episode #128 is up!  Check it out!!!

Special Guest Dr. John Craig joins Dr. Woods on episode #128 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Growth Mindset. In this episode, they explore what it truly means to cultivate a growth mindset in schools, how leaders and educators can model it in practice, and why embracing continuous learning is essential for both personal and organizational growth. Together, they highlight strategies that support resilience, reflection, and sustained improvement in educational settings.

Throwback Thursday! Learning from Mistakes & Failure in the Classroom featuring Dr. Julie Warner

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:

✅ Dr. Warner discusses why she believes self-reflecting on mistakes and failure in your instructional practice is vital for improving your teaching.
✅ Dr. Warner shares ​​several examples from her book, “Failure Before Success: Teachers Describe What They Learned from Mistakes.”

Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧

🕰️ Don’t...

Throwback Thursday! Loving Your Neighbor featuring Chris Singleton

Originally Released On: 7-28-2023

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:

✅ Chris shares his inspirational message of resilience, unity and forgiveness.

✅ Chris discusses the way he works with schools, universities, and other organizations to promote love and acceptance of others. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 🎧

🕰️ Don’t forget to check back every Thursday for more...

In this episode, Dr. Woods explores how the first moments of the school day shape everything that follows. From adult presence at arrival to clear routines and instructional warm starts, effective start-of-day systems create consistency, calm, and connection for both students and staff.

Rather than leaving mornings to chance, Dr. Woods highlights how intentional structures—predictable arrival procedures, positive greetings, reinforced expectations, and aligned staff systems—reduce chaos and increase readiness to learn. When leaders and teachers are purposeful about the start of the day, they establish a tone that supports strong behavior, engagement, and instruction.

This...

Throwback Thursday! Authentic Literature featuring Dr. Donyall Dickey
Originally Released On: 5-7-2021

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:
✅ Dr. Dickey shares what authentic literature and how it should be used in teaching and learning.
✅ Dr. Dickey discusses his book, Mitigating Curricular Chaos, which shares strategies on constructing and procuring core content curricula that addresses and mitigates the achievement gap.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today. 

Episode #127 is up!  Check it out!!!

Special Guest Vernon Wright joins Dr. Woods on episode #127 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Connect. Impact. Scale. In this episode, Vernon shares his instructional leadership philosophy and the intentional ways he builds connections, empowers educators, and scales meaningful impact across school communities. Together, they explore practical strategies leaders can use to strengthen relationships, elevate instructional practice, and drive long-term success for both students and staff.

Throwback Thursday! Episode #64: I Choose to Stay

Originally Released On: 7-29-2022

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:

✅ Dr. Thomas-EL discusses why 'he chose to stay' in education.
✅ Dr. Thomas-EL shares strategies on improving staff morale and capacity.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.

🎧👉 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform or at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-out-the-woods/id1507447161

🕰️ D...

Throwback Thursday! Student Content Creator featuring Rachelle Dene Poth

Originally Released On: 3-12-2021

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:
✅ Rachelle shares her thoughts on students having input on the content they create in classrooms.
✅ Rachelle discusses the paradigm shift from teachers being the “gatekeepers” of knowledge to more a facilitator of learning.

Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.

🎧👉 Tune in now on your favorit...

Throwback Thursday! Started from the Bottom, Now I'm Here 

Originally Released On: 6-18-21

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode:

✅ Darrion discusses how he motivates and inspires his students and school community.
✅ Darrion shares advice with other educators trying to make a positive impact with students at-risk.Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.

🎧👉 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform or at https://podc...

Episode #126 is up!  Check it out!!!

Diversifying the Educator Pipeline

Special Guest Dr. Shaylyn Marks, Assistant Professor of Teacher Education at California State University, Bakersfield, joins Dr. Woods on episode #126 of Leading Out The Woods to discuss Diversifying the Educator Pipeline. In this episode, they explore Dr. Marks’ research and her book, Diversifying the Educator Pipeline: Supporting Black Educators through Recruitment, Preparation, and Retention. Together, they unpack the historical impact of Brown v. Board of Education, the challenges Black preservice teachers have faced and the urgent need to recruit, support, and retain more Black educators in tod...

Throwback Thursday!

Title: Episode #107: Mindfulness Awareness for Educators featuring Danielle Nuhfer

Originally Released On: 5-31-24

This week, we’re revisiting one of our timeless episodes from Leading Out The Woods! In this episode, we:- Danielle shares her three tips for bringing mindfulness awareness into the classroom for educators.- Danielle discusses her book, " The Path of the Mindful Teacher."Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting a classic, this conversation is packed with insights that still resonate today.

🎧👉 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform or at http...