Keywords
leadership, mattering, significance, organizational culture, positive leadership, emotional intelligence, gratitude, community, engagement, personal development
Episode Summary
In this episode of Beards Book Club, Garth Nichols and Jason Rogers dig into a simple but powerful idea: mattering. Drawing from Zach Mercurio’s work, they explore what it really means for people to feel seen, valued, and significant—especially inside organizations and schools.
The conversation challenges the notion that mattering is abstract or fluffy. Instead, Jason and Garth unpack how mattering is something leaders do, not something they hope people feel. Through small, intentional actions—micro moments of attention, gratitude, and care—leaders can shape cultures where people know they belong and that their presence makes a difference.
This episode is a reminder that leadership isn’t about volume or authority, but about noticing, naming, and valuing the people right in front of us.
Take Aways
Leadership in society feels fragile right now
Many leadership truths are simple—and we learned them early
Mattering is not theoretical; it’s actionable
We can’t assume our voice automatically carries significance
Mattering isn’t a feeling—it’s an experience we create for others
Leaders must demonstrate mattering, not just talk about it
Micro moments shape culture more than we realize
Spaces are changed because of who is present
Articulated attention is at the heart of mattering
This may be the most valuable $20 investment in leadership learning
Sound Bites
“Leadership in society is in peril right now.”
“Mattering is actionable.”
“Articulated attention is key to mattering.”
Time Stamps
00:00 – Welcome to Season Three
06:34 – What does it mean to matter?
08:19 – Leadership, voice, and significance
10:55 – Micro moments, gratitude, and attention
13:40 – Practicing significance as a leader
17:02 – Final reflections and call to action
18:03 – Beards Book Club outro
Keywords
Leadership, resolutions, transparency, authenticity, education, trust, curiosity, joy, generosity, student experience, future of learning
Episode Summary
In this episode, Jason Rogers and Garth Nichols take time to pause, reflect, and look ahead—sharing their leadership resolutions for the year to come. The conversation centers on transparency, authenticity, and the kind of connection that builds real trust. Each host offers personal resolutions rooted in curiosity, love, generosity, and joy, while also wrestling with the realities of leadership in schools today. They reflect on the importance of staying close to the student experience and end with thoughtful predictions about the future of education, including the growing influence of AI and the rising importance of student agency.
Take Aways
Strong leadership starts with reflection—looking back before moving forward.
Transparency and authenticity are foundational to trust.
Curiosity reframes leadership from control to mentorship.
Being visible and present matters more than being perfect.
Love and connection belong at the center of leadership, not the margins.
Doing fewer things exceptionally well creates greater impact.
Protecting joy is not a luxury—it’s a leadership responsibility.
Small acts of generosity can ripple through an entire school culture.
AI will meaningfully reshape education, whether we’re ready or not.
Student agency will play an increasingly central role in learning.
Soundbites:
“Lead at the speed of trust.”
“Curiosity is kindness.”
“Do fewer things exceptionally well.”
Time Stamps
00:00 – Reflecting on Leadership Resolutions
07:04 – Garth’s Leadership Resolutions
10:01 – Jason’s Leadership Resolutions
12:57 – Growing Leadership Through Trust
16:01 – Staying Connected to the Student Experience
18:55 – Protecting Joy in Leadership
21:57 – Predictions for Education in 2026
40:38 – Beard’s Book Club Outro
Keywords
Leadership · Book Recommendations · Kindness · Compassion · Organizational Culture · Education · Creativity · Personal Development · Podcast · Holiday Spirit
Summary
In this special holiday episode of Lassoing Leadership, Jason Rogers and Garth Nichols slow things down, lean into the season, and turn the podcast into a kind of leadership book club.
Rather than chasing trends or quick fixes, Jason and Garth share the books that have actually shaped how they think about leadership — books about kindness, compassion, culture, courage, and the creative work of leading people well. Each brings their top five recommendations to the table, highlighting authors whose ideas continue to influence their thinking and, frankly, whose voices they’d love to sit down with on the podcast in the year ahead.
The conversation moves easily between education, organizational culture, and personal growth, with a reminder that leadership isn’t just about strategy — it’s about how we treat people, how we tell stories, and how we keep learning. It’s a reflective, generous episode meant to leave listeners with a short reading list and a longer pause for thought.
Take Aways
Leadership is at its best when it’s rooted in kindness and compassion.
The right books don’t just inform us — they shape how we show up.
Culture is not an add-on; it’s the work.
Creativity isn’t optional in leadership — it’s how growth happens.
Learning deepens when we hear directly from authors and thinkers.
Radical Candor reminds us that clarity and care can coexist.
Technology is changing leadership — whether we’re ready or not.
Learning doesn’t stop at graduation or live only in classrooms.
Strong leadership is built on strong relationships.
The holiday season is an ideal time to reflect, read, and reconnect with what matters.
Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome to Beard’s Book Club
06:32 – Jason’s Top Book Picks
09:36 – Garth’s Top Book Picks
12:47 – Narrowing It Down: The Top Two
15:41 – Final Reflections and Holiday Wrap-Up
24:07 – Recording Wrap / Session End
Summary
Mentorship · Youth Development · Leadership · Education · High Expectations · Psychological Safety · Identity Formation · Communication · Respect · Agency
In this episode of Lassoing Leadership, Jason Rogers and Garth Nichols reflect on their recent conversation with psychologist and author David Yeager, and what it means for anyone leading, teaching, parenting, or mentoring young people today.
At the centre of the conversation is what Yeager calls the mentor mindset — the idea that young people don’t need less structure or fewer expectations, but better leadership. Leadership that combines high standards with deep respect, clarity with care, and authority with credibility.
Jason and Garth explore why mattering is such a powerful driver of motivation, how adolescence now stretches well beyond age 18, and why many of our leadership instincts — especially in schools — haven’t kept pace with that reality. The episode also tackles the often-tricky work of communicating change with parents and invites leaders to ask an uncomfortable but essential question: What if the work starts with us?
This episode is about raising the quality of leadership, not lowering the bar — and about creating environments where young people can grow into who they’re becoming, not just perform for today.
Key Take Aways
This may be the closest thing we’ve seen to an instruction manual for raising and leading teenagers.
Mentorship isn’t a title or a long-term relationship — it’s a mindset.
Young people thrive when high expectations are paired with high support.
Status, stability, and respect matter more than we often realize.
Mattering and purpose are deeply intertwined — one fuels the other.
Adolescence doesn’t end at 18, and our leadership models need to catch up.
The next generation doesn’t need softer leadership — it needs better leadership.
Change in schools lives or dies on how well we communicate with parents.
Students can be powerful advocates for growth — even at home.
If we want different outcomes, we have to raise the quality of our leadership and teaching.
The Mentor Mindset: Leading Young People Well
Soundbites:
“This isn’t about lowering the bar — it’s about raising the quality of leadership.”
“Coaching over commanding.”
“Mattering changes everything.”
“This is a virtuous cycle — when respect goes up, effort follows.”
Time Stamps
00:00 – Introduction & Recent Experiences
05:31 – The Mentor Mindset: What Yeager Gets Right
08:26 – Why High Expectations and High Support Matter
12:14 – Mattering, Respect, and Motivation
15:28 – Adolescence, Identity, and Who Young People Are Becoming
18:21 – Why Leadership Hasn’t Kept Up
21:08 – Communicating Change with Parents
23:47 – Final Reflections & Next Episode Teaser
Harnessing Adolescence: The Key to Effective Leadership
What does it really take to guide young people through the most formative years of their lives? In this episode, Jason Rogers and Garth Nichols sit down with psychologist David Yeager to explore leadership, psychology, and education through the lens of adolescence.
Together, they unpack why the years between ages 10 and 25 matter so much for identity, motivation, and resilience. From the pitfalls of outdated “incompetence” models of youth development to the transformative power of mentorship, Yeager shows how leaders in schools and beyond can empower rather than discourage.
The conversation also takes on timely issues like the role of AI in education, and closes with a familiar touchstone: Ted Lasso’s evolving leadership style—from protector to mentor—and what it teaches us about leading with care, curiosity, and high expectations.
Key Take Aways
Identity is formed most powerfully between ages 10–25.
Effective mentorship is about long-term growth, not short-term fixes.
High expectations + strong support = lasting success.
Shame and blame don’t motivate; care and standards do.
Crying in education can reflect deep care and commitment.
Rejecting the “incompetence model” empowers youth.
AI in education should be embraced cautiously and critically.
The best educators and leaders model a mentor mindset.
Ted Lasso reminds us: leadership evolves when we let go of control and focus on growth.
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction: Leadership and Empathy
04:59 – Understanding Adolescence: The Critical Years
07:43 – The Mentor Approach in Education
13:19 – Motivating Adolescents: High Expectations and Support
18:37 – Challenging the “Incompetence” Model
22:52 – Rehabilitating Adolescence: A New Perspective
24:38 – Exemplary Models in Education and Coaching
28:28 – The Promise & Peril of AI in Education
35:35 – Leadership Lessons from Ted Lasso
38:22 – Beard’s Book Club Outro
Soundbites
“It’s not about being a protector or enforcer.”
“AI in schools needs careful evaluation.”
“We should stop moralizing teenagers as lazy.”
Keywords
leadership, mentorship, adolescence, education, growth mindset, communication, David Yeager, Beards Book Club, youth development, parenting
Summary
In this episode of Beards Book Club, Garth Nichols and Jason Rogers explore the book '10 to 25' by Dr. David Yeager, which challenges traditional views on adolescence.
They discuss the importance of understanding the ages 10 to 25 as a period rich with opportunities for growth rather than a time to merely survive.
The conversation delves into three mindsets—enforcer, protector, and mentor—highlighting the significance of adopting a mentor mindset to foster better communication and development in young people.
The hosts emphasize the role of tone and communication in leadership, the utility of puberty, and the need for a supportive environment that encourages growth. They invite listeners to reflect on their own approaches to mentoring and leadership, encouraging a shift towards partnership and understanding in guiding adolescents.
Takeaways
Soundbites:
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Beards Book Club and Adolescence
03:35 - Understanding the 10 to 25 Age Range
06:22 - Mindsets in Education: Enforcer, Protector, and Mentor
09:10 - The Importance of Tone and Communication
12:04 - Metaphors and Analogies in Learning
14:26 - Reframing Puberty: A New Perspective
16:59 - The Utility of Puberty and Growth Mindset
17:42 - Challenges and Invitations for Growth
Keywords
leadership, education, innovation, portrait of a graduate, change management, lifelong learning, empathy, core values, school culture, student success
Summary
In this episode, Garth Nichols and Jason Rogers discuss the evolving landscape of leadership in education, focusing on the concept of the 'Portrait of a Graduate' and its significance in preparing students for future challenges. They explore the role of leaders in fostering innovation, the importance of core values, and how schools can create environments conducive to experimentation and growth. The conversation also touches on the need for leaders to adapt while maintaining a clear vision and purpose.
Takeaways
Sound bites
"How do we thrive?"
"Art lives here at MIT."
"The process is the product."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Change
07:15 Understanding the Portrait of a Graduate
10:29 The Role of Leadership in Education
13:22 Innovation and Change Management
16:25 The Process is the Product
19:18 Looking Ahead: Future Conversations
23:16 Beards Book Club Outro.mp3
Season Three of Lassoing Leadership kicks off with a bold new theme—Beard’s Book Club—where Garth and Jason dive deep into the minds of today’s most influential leadership authors.
In this episode, they welcome educational thought-leader Grant Lichtman, author of Thrive, #EdJourney, and the forthcoming Wisdom Road. Together, they explore what it takes for schools and leaders not just to survive—but to thrive—in a world where change is constant, and innovation is no longer optional.
From empathy to risk-taking, from value propositions to Ted Lasso, this conversation offers a roadmap for anyone who believes that education can (and must) evolve.
Keywordsleadership, education, innovation, change management, Grant Lichtman, Thrive, school leadership, empathy, continuous improvement, educational revolution
SummaryIn this episode of Lassoing Leadership, hosts Garth Nichols and Jason Rogers engage with educational leader Grant Lichtman, author of Thrive. They discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of education, why schools must be willing to adapt, and the core leadership qualities needed to guide innovation. Lichtman shares powerful insights on empathy, risk-taking, and how to measure meaningful change in schools. He also reflects on the deeper value proposition of education and offers a glimpse into his upcoming work, Wisdom Road. As always, the conversation wraps with leadership reflections inspired by none other than Ted Lasso.
Takeaways
The pace of change in our world demands a new mindset for schools.
Every student is unique; standardized approaches no longer serve.
Leadership is a skill that can be cultivated—not just inherited.
Innovation means introducing change that creates real value.
Empathy is not a soft skill—it’s a leadership cornerstone.
Schools must craft and deliver compelling, irresistible value propositions.
Risk-taking fuels growth, both for individuals and organizations.
The process of change matters just as much as the result.
Leaders must model the courage to take risks.
Ted Lasso reminds us that humor and humility are serious leadership assets.
Sound bites
“The world is changing rapidly.”
“Great learning is our shared goal.”
“Schools must become irresistible.”
Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Lassoing Leadership Podcast
05:52 – Meet Grant Lichtman: Author and Educational Leader
08:06 – The Need for Change in Education
12:52 – Qualities of Effective Educational Leaders
15:09 – Innovation and the Process of Change
18:39 – Key Skills for Modern Leadership
22:11 – Measuring Success in Educational Change
24:42 – Advice for Aspiring Leaders
27:13 – Empathy as a Foundation for Leadership
29:45 – The Importance of a Value Proposition
31:45 – Teasing the Next Book: Wisdom Road
33:14 – Ted Lasso: A Model for Leadership
Keywords
Thrive, educational innovation, leadership, value proposition, change management, strategic thinking, school leadership, Grant Lickman, Beards Book Club, unique value proposition
Summary
In this episode of Lassoing Leadership, hosts Jason Rogers and Garth Nichols discuss the book 'Thrive' by Grant Lickman, emphasizing the importance of innovation and strategic thinking in educational leadership. They explore how schools can adapt to changing demands, the significance of understanding unique value propositions, and the role of observation in effective leadership. The conversation highlights the connection between innovation, value, and strategy, and the need for leaders to adopt frameworks that foster distributed leadership. Overall, the episode serves as a call to action for school leaders to embrace change and continuously evolve their practices.
Takeaways
Sound bites
"We need to thrive now as leaders."
"Lead like an architect."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Thrive and Its Importance
07:00 The Evolution of Educational Innovation
10:25 Understanding Unique Value Propositions in Schools
13:08 The Role of Leadership in Change Management
16:15 Innovation as a Bridge Between Value and Strategy
19:17 Conclusion and Call to Action
20:48 Beards Book Club Outro.mp3
Keywords
Toronto Blue Jays, leadership, emotional optimism, team dynamics, community, resilience, authenticity, trust, interdependence, sports leadership
Summary
In this episode, Jason Rogers and Garth Nichols celebrate the Toronto Blue Jays' remarkable 2025 season, exploring the leadership lessons that can be drawn from their journey. They discuss themes of emotional optimism, bravery, and the importance of community and connection in leadership. The conversation highlights how the Blue Jays exemplified resilience, authenticity, and trust, creating a culture that inspired not only their team but also their fans across Canada. The hosts connect these insights to broader leadership principles applicable in various contexts beyond baseball.
Takeaways
The Toronto Blue Jays' 2025 season was a masterclass in leadership.
Emotional optimism is crucial for team resilience and success.
Authenticity and emotional bravery foster a strong team culture.
Clarity of purpose and roles enhances team dynamics.
Trust and interdependence are foundational for high-performing teams.
Community and connection are vital in leadership.
Joy in the workplace enhances performance and engagement.
Leadership is about nurturing relationships and fostering care.
Great leaders balance results with empathy and optimism.
The lessons from the Blue Jays can be applied across various leadership contexts.
Sound bites
"Emotional optimism is to see what could be."
"Joy is a performance enhancer."
Chapters
00:00 Celebrating the Toronto Blue Jays' 2025 Season
05:30 Leadership Lessons from the Blue Jays
08:31 Emotional Optimism and Team Resilience
11:40 Emotional Bravery and Authenticity in Leadership
14:21 Clarity of Purpose and Team Dynamics
17:33 The Role of Trust and Interdependence
20:31 Creating Joy and Connection in Leadership
25:53 Beards Book Club Outro.mp3
Summary
In this episode of Lassoing Leadership, co-hosts Jason Rogers and Garth Nichols discuss leadership insights from their recent podcast with Danny Bauer and Glenn Robbins. They explore the concept of 'space' in leadership, emphasizing the importance of creating environments where faculty and students feel valued. The conversation also touches on the balance between serious work and maintaining a human touch, referencing Rule Number Six: 'Don't take yourself too seriously.' The episode concludes with a teaser for upcoming guest Grant Lichtman, who will discuss innovation in education.
Take Aways:
Soundbites
'Leadership is about creating a space worth showing up for.'
'True leadership exists between stimulus and response.'
'Don't take yourself too seriously.'
'Trust in organizations is at an all-time low.'
'Optimistic leadership is needed now more than ever.' 'Feedback should be timely and effective.'
'Innovation in education is essential for growth.'
'Balancing serious work with a human touch is crucial.'
'The importance of listening and responding to feedback.' 'Creating environments where faculty and students feel valued.'
Lassoing Leadership – Beard’s Book Club
Episode Title:
Calm in the Chaos: Leadership Insights
Keywords:
leadership, education, ruckus making, mindset, humility, feedback, psychological safety, Ted Lasso, school leadership, Calm in the Chaos
Summary:
In this episode of Beard’s Book Club, hosts Jason Rogers and Garth Nichols sit down with Danny Bauer and Glenn Robbins, the co-authors of Calm in the Chaos. Together, they unpack what it means to lead with calm, courage, and humility in today’s schools. The conversation explores how to create psychologically safe environments, embrace feedback, and develop the mindset of a “ruckus maker” who challenges tradition in the service of growth.
Drawing parallels to Ted Lasso, the group reflects on the importance of authenticity, belief, and humor in leadership—reminding us that leading with heart is just as important as leading with vision.
Key Take Aways:
Ruckus makers in education challenge traditional methods.
Creating a school environment worth showing up for is essential.
Leaders must remove their ego to foster collaboration.
Feedback is a vital tool for growth and trust.
Psychological safety allows for honest, courageous communication.
Humility is the hallmark of effective leadership.
Every year presents a fresh opportunity for renewal.
Leaders should never take themselves too seriously.
The number one job of a leader is to inspire belief.
Great leaders learn from—and share—their mistakes.
Soundbites:
“You have to remove your ego.”
“Every year is a new opportunity.”
“Leadership is not easy.”
Chapters:
00:00 - Welcome to the Book Club
06:00 - Meet the Authors: Danny and Glenn
07:05 - Ruckus Making in Education
11:03 - Mindset Shifts in Leadership
14:42The Importance of Humility
16:02 - Creating Space for Leadership
19:43 - The Challenge of Feedback
29:43 - Ted Lasso: A Leadership Analysis
Summary
In this episode, I sit down with Grace McCallum from Branksome Hall for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, mentorship, and the power of community. Grace shares her journey through education and leadership, offering wisdom on how we can better support young women stepping into leadership roles. We talk candidly about imposter syndrome, the value of authentic leadership, and the importance of building a “personal board of directors” to guide and ground us. Along the way, we reflect on insights from the recent Heads and Chairs Conference and explore how connection, collaboration, and courage shape the educational landscape we all share.
Takeaways:
Imposter syndrome isn’t a flaw—it’s part of the growth journey.
Strong communities are the heartbeat of great schools.
Perceptions of women in leadership still need active, intentional change.
Authenticity is more powerful than perfection.
Mentorship isn’t optional—it’s essential for empowering future leaders.
Quiet leadership styles can be just as powerful as loud ones.
Intersectionality matters—our experiences shape how we lead and how we’re seen.
A “personal board of directors” can provide clarity, courage, and accountability.
Listening to young women means acting on what they tell us.
Collaboration and connection remain our most powerful leadership tools.
Sound Bites:
“I felt massive imposter syndrome.”
“We need more women leading schools and shaping the future.”
“I sleep like a baby—because I know I’m doing meaningful work.”
Chapters:
00:00 — Introduction and Setting the Stage
05:00 — Grace McCallum’s Journey in Education
07:49 — The Importance of Women in Leadership
11:05 — Supporting Young Women in Leadership
13:59 — Reflections from the Heads and Chairs Conference
16:51 — Authenticity, Mentorship, and Taking Action
20:43 — Closing Thoughts
Lassoing Leadership – Beard’s Book Club
Episode Title: Navigating Leadership Through Chaos
Keywords: leadership, education, ruckus making, stoicism, calm in chaos, personal development, emotional intelligence, mindfulness, gratitude, teaching
Summary:
In this reflective episode of Lassoing Leadership, hosts Garth Nichols and Jason Rogers explore the intersection of leadership, education, and personal growth through Danny Bauer and Glenn Robins' inspiring book Calm in the Chaos.
They unpack the idea of being a “ruckus maker” — someone who thoughtfully disrupts the status quo in education — while also examining how stoicism, gratitude, and mindfulness can help leaders stay centered amidst turbulence. The conversation blends practical wisdom with personal reflection, emphasizing that calmness isn’t passivity; it’s the discipline of choosing thoughtful responses over reactive ones.
Listeners will walk away with actionable tools to build emotional intelligence, deepen their presence, and lead with both strength and serenity.
Take Aways:
Ruckus making challenges educational systems for meaningful change.
Stoicism offers timeless guidance for effective leadership.
Calmness empowers leaders to make better, wiser decisions.
Journaling, mindfulness, and gratitude help manage daily chaos.
Presence and engagement are essential to authentic leadership.
Disruption in education should be intentional, not impulsive.
Leadership requires space for thoughtful, values-driven responses.
Soundbites:
“Innovation is essential to education.”
“Do less, or do what is essential.”
“How you show up really matters.”
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Calm in the Chaos
06:37 - Ruckus Making in Education
09:22 - The Role of Stoicism in Leadership
12:22 - Practices for Staying Calm in Chaos
15:14 - The Importance of Presence and Engagement
In this special preview episode of Lassoing Leadership, hosts Jason Rogers and Garth Nichols kick off a new season dedicated to the books that shape how we lead, teach, and grow. From stoic calm to student motivation, from innovation to emotional intelligence, this season explores the ideas that help leaders navigate complexity with clarity and care.
Each featured title offers a unique lens on leadership—helping educators, school heads, and aspiring change-makers think more deeply about resilience, curiosity, and purpose. Jason and Garth connect the dots between powerful ideas and practical application, reminding listeners that great leadership is less about control and more about connection.
Get ready to read, reflect, and lead. This season, Jason and Garth bring together wisdom from the world’s most inspiring thinkers to help you stay grounded, purposeful, and bold—no matter the chaos around you.
Beard's Bookshelf:
Calm in the Chaos: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Leaders by Tim Arnold
Thrive: How Schools Will Win the Education Revolution by Grant Lichtman
The Innovator’s Mindset: Empower Learning, Unleash Talent, and Lead a Culture of Creativity by George Couros
The Power of Mattering: Why a Human-Centered Culture Is the Key to Company Success by Zach Mercurio
Kids These Days: A Game Plan for (Re)Connecting with Those We Teach, Lead, & Love by Dr. Jodi Carrington
10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People by David Yeager
This Is Day One: A Practical Guide to Leadership That Matters by Drew Dudley
Leading Through Strategy: A Framework for School Leaders by Tom Olverson
Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara
Modern Achievement: A New Approach to Timeless Lessons for Aspiring Leaders by Asheesh Advani
Key Take Aways:
Resilience is the foundation of effective leadership in uncertain times.
Motivation in young people thrives when they experience meaning and belonging.
Innovation starts when leaders model curiosity and continuous learning.
Leadership is a daily discipline, not a performance.
Connection and empathy must come before curriculum and compliance.
A culture of mattering sustains healthy, high-performing organizations.
Strategic thinking should empower people, not constrain them.
Calm is a superpower—anchoring leaders amid chaos and change.
Time:
00:00 – Introduction to the Season Ahead
06:44 – Calm in the Chaos: Stoic Wisdom for Leadership
09:29 – Thrive: Winning the Education Revolution
12:43 – 10 to 25: Motivating Young People
15:38 – The Innovator’s Mindset: Fostering Curiosity
18:31 – This Is Day One: Daily Leadership Practices
21:42 – The Power of Mattering: Creating Significance
24:27 – Kids These Days: Connection and Empathy
26:55 – Unreasonable Hospitality: Enhancing User Experience
26:58 – Beard’s Book Club Outro
Campuses, Caring & Cresting... Trauma-Informed Leadership Practices
Keywords: leadership, campus culture, trauma-informed care, mental health, authentic leadership, psychological safety, grassroots movements, higher education, student affairs, wellness
SummaryIn this episode, Jason Rogers and Garth Nichols sit down with Dr. Adam Jussell, Managing Director of Student Affairs at the University of British Columbia, for an open and heartfelt conversation about leadership, well-being, and campus culture. Drawing on his experience in higher education and trauma-informed care, Adam shares how authenticity and psychological safety can transform both individuals and institutions. The discussion touches on the stress faculty and staff experienced during the pandemic, the vital role of grassroots initiatives in shaping a caring campus culture, and the importance of leaders modeling vulnerability. Together, they explore what it means to lead with compassion, build meaningful work, and create environments where people feel seen, supported, and safe.
Takeaways
Authenticity in leadership reduces stress and builds trust.
Grassroots initiatives can meaningfully reshape campus culture.
Self-care is essential for leaders who care for others.
Collaboration and engagement form the foundation of a caring campus.
Psychological safety empowers individuals to express stress openly.
Meaningful work acts as a protective factor against burnout.
Faculty and staff experienced unprecedented stress during the pandemic.
Support systems are critical to sustaining wellness in education.
Vulnerable leaders create cultures of connection and trust.
Trauma-informed care is vital to leadership in higher education.
Sound Bites
“It’s okay to say, I’m stressed too.”
“We need to foster meaningful work.”
“This might be your worst day at work.”
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Leadership and Campus Culture
05:09 – Adam Jussell’s Journey to UBC
09:17 – Understanding Stress in Higher Education
13:05 – The Importance of Support Systems
16:05 – Leadership Mindset and Authenticity
22:03 – Building a Caring Campus Culture
27:14 – Grassroots Movements in Education
28:37 – Reflections on Leadership from Ted Lasso
32:08 – Beard’s Book Club Outro
Summary:
In this episode of Lassoing Leadership, hosts Garth Nichols and Jason Rogers sit down with Myke Healy, a leading expert on the intersection of AI and education. The conversation navigates the complex landscape of generative AI and its impact on academic integrity, exploring the idea of a "post-plagiarism" world. They also discuss the value and challenges of pursuing doctoral studies, Myke’s journey to headship, and the importance of compassionate leadership in the age of AI. The episode offers a deep dive into how educators can embrace new technologies while upholding ethical standards and focusing on the essential human elements of teaching and learning.
Takeaways:
Titles:
Sound Bites:
Chapters:
Summary:
Welcome back, leaders! In this episode, Jason Rogers and Garth Nichols conclude their discussion of Phoebe Trotman's inspiring book, Never Quit on a Bad Day. They unpack crucial leadership lessons on building resilience, staying authentic, and finding joy and purpose even when the going gets tough. The hosts highlight the importance of being a supportive presence for others and share practical advice on curating your own "personal board of directors" to help you navigate challenges with perseverance.
Top Takeaways:
Character is a Daily Choice: Leadership isn't about one big win, it's about the daily decisions that define your character and how you show up for your team.
Setbacks Are Stepping Stones: Viewing challenges as "setups for what's next" can change your entire perspective and foster a growth mindset in yourself and your team.
Find Your "Why": Connecting with your purpose is a direct path to finding joy in your work and providing a strong foundation to lean on during difficult times.
The Power of Your Inner Circle: You don't have to go it alone. Building a personal board of directors—a curated group of mentors and trusted advisors—is a critical tool for guidance and support.
Sound Bites:
"Setbacks are setups for what's next."
"You're not alone in this."
"Who's at your board table?"
Chapters:
00:00 - The Final Chapter: Leadership Lessons from a Bad Day
06:03 - Authenticity, Resilience, and the Daily Grind
09:04 - The Joy and Purpose of Leadership
11:49 - Navigating Bad Days and Holding Space for Others
14:39 - Your Personal Board of Directors: A Leader's Secret Weapon
16:50 - The Beards Book Club Outro (and what's next!)
Summary:
This week, we're thrilled to welcome back Phebe Trotman, author of Never Quit on a Bad Day. Join us as we dive into a powerful conversation on leadership, resilience, and the invaluable lessons learned from the world of sports. Phebe shares her personal journey, highlighting the importance of a strong support system, the power of vulnerability, and how the "bad days" are often the most significant catalysts for personal growth. We'll also explore the leadership model of Ted Lasso and discuss how the perseverance and community spirit found in sports can be applied to all areas of your life.
Top Takeaways:
Sound Bites:
Chapters:
Summary:
Join Jason Rogers and Garth Nichols for a deep dive into Phebe Trotman's book,
Never Quit on a Bad Day.
They explore the crucial role of resilience and showing up in leadership, particularly during difficult times. The discussion highlights the value of building a personal board of directors for mentorship and guidance, and the power of vulnerability in connecting with others. This episode is about leading with purpose, overcoming challenges, and finding joy in the journey.
Top Takeaways:
Showing Up Is Everything: A leader’s presence, especially during tough times, is a powerful signal of support and commitment.
Grit Is a Combination of Habits: Perseverance, positivity, and a commitment to continuous learning are the key components of true grit.
The Power of Mentorship: A personal board of directors—a diverse group of mentors—provides invaluable perspectives and guidance for navigating challenges.
Vulnerability Creates Connection: Leaders who are willing to be vulnerable foster trust and empower others to embrace their own struggles.
Character Is Built Daily: Leadership and strong character are not inherent traits, but rather habits that are cultivated through consistent, daily effort.
Sound Bites:
"Character is a habit."
"Keep leading and reading."
"This book is an incredible gift."
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Leadership and Bad Days
05:01 - The Importance of Showing Up
08:22 - Personal Board of Directors
11:14 - Resilience and Overcoming Challenges
13:09 - Leading with Joy and Authenticity
13:37 - Beards Book Club Outro (and a look at next week's book!)