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PODCAST

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion | Educational Leadership, Principal Leadership, Teachers as Leaders

Dr. Mel Vandevort - Educational Leadership, Educational Consultancy, Teacher Transition Coach, Educational Administration, Educational Entrepreneurship

Are you a passionate educator stepping into leadership—or thinking about making that leap?</p><p>Maybe you just accepted your first admin role and feel the weight of leading well.</p><p>Or you’re a classroom teacher who feels the calling to lead with purpose and impact.</p><p><strong>The Empowered Educator Show</strong> is your space to grow as a leader without losing who you are.</p><p>I’m Dr. Mel—former administrator turned leadership and

education entrepreneurship

All Episodes

5:12

Power Surge⚡What if I Fail? But...What if You...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/07/18

Send us a textToo often, fear of failure keeps leaders stuck in comfort zones. But what if your greatest success is on the other side of one bold move? In this Power Surge, we’re reframing fear and helping you step into possibility with courage.This episode will empower you to:Recognize the hidden cost of playing it safeChallenge worst-case thinking with best-case visionTake one brave step toward your next level of leadershipThis is your invitation to try—even if it’s uncomfortable. Because what if

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4:44

Power Surge ⚡The Power of Listening: Talking Less,...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/07/16

Send us a textWhen leaders rush to speak, they often miss what matters most. In this episode of the Empowered Educator, we explore the power of pausing, listening, and learning—especially when you’re uncertain.Inside this Power Surge, you’ll discover:Why listening is one of your most powerful leadership toolsHow silence creates space for insight and trustThe leadership magic in asking, “Tell me more”If you’re ready to shift from leading with answers to leading with awareness, this episode is for

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37:54

From Community Engagement and Social Media to...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/07/11

Send us a textChuck Moss is back talking about community Engagement practices that breed a great school culture. Join me as I talk with Chuck about everything from Community Engagement and Social Media to Shredded Lettuce and Saturday Selfies. Connect with Chuck:X, FB, IG, Trends - @ChuckMossEDUDownload Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get 15¢ per gallon extra cash back on your first gas fill-up and 10% extra cash on your first food purchase! Download Fetch app using this link, submit a

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5:02

Are You Leading in a Comfort Zone? Get Clear and Lead...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/07/09

Send us a textIn this Power Surge episode of The Empowered Educator podcast, we’re kicking off the new school year with a challenge: lead with clarity, not comfort.With great opportunity comes great responsibility—and part of that responsibility is evaluating what you’re bringing into the new year. From outdated routines to legacy systems that no longer serve your mission, now is the time to pause and recalibrate.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why comfort can quietly stall leadership growthHow to

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8:22

Are You Leading from Freedom or Shrinking from Fear?...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/07/04

Send us a text In this Power Surge, Dr. Mel reflects on the deeper meaning of independence for educators.You’ll be challenged to name and claim the freedom you already have—freedom to lead, freedom to pivot, and freedom to follow God’s purpose for your career.Whether you’re heading into leadership or out of the classroom altogether, this episode will reignite your fire. Power Surge Affirmation: I am free to grow, lead, and build a life and career that honors my calling and purpose. Free Spir...

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3:28

Power Surge: Are You and Ambassador for Your School?...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/07/02

Send us a textEvery interaction you have as a leader tells a story about your school. In this Power Surge, we dig into what it means to lead like an ambassador—not just inside your building, but in your community, online, and everywhere your leadership reaches.In this episode, you’ll learn how to:Build trust through consistent leadership presenceRepresent your school’s values and vision with integrityShift from managing a building to embodying a missionYour leadership voice is powerful—make sure it

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15:23

Let’s Talk Work-Life Balance #166

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/06/27

Send us a textBurnout doesn’t serve your calling. If you’ve been running on empty or trying to balance all the things without leaving space for yourself, this is your nudge to pause, protect your peace, and lead from a place of wholeness.You’ll walk away with:A fresh mindset around rest and sustainabilityPermission to protect your work-life balanceA bold I Will statement to anchor your weekRest isn’t a reward—it’s a requirement. Let's reset and lead on purpose.Work Life Balance Summit

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5:05

Power Surge ⚡Ready to Let Go to Level Up? Ditch...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/06/25

Send us a textAs a new school year approaches, school leaders are faced with endless decisions, data, and demands—but clinging to what’s familiar can quietly stall progress. In this Power Surge episode, we’re naming the real culprit: analysis paralysis.Whether it’s outdated systems, overcomplicated routines, or fear of making the wrong move, the pressure to “get it right” can keep you stuck. But clarity is your superpower.Tune in as we unpack how to:Recognize habits that no longer serve your

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17:43

Why Good Teachers Are Still Struggling—And What We...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/06/20

Send us a textEmpowered Educator CommunityThe Confident ClassroomIn this enlightening episode of the Empowered Educator series, we tackle the pressing issues surrounding teacher struggles in today’s educational landscape. Despite their passion and commitment, many educators find themselves feeling overwhelmed and unsupported, leading to alarming rates of attrition and vacancies in our schools.By the end of the episode, listeners will have a deeper understanding of the systemic changes needed to

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5:57

Power Surge ⚡ From Teacher to Leader: The Mindset...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/06/18

Send us a textYou’ve landed the leadership role—now what? In this week’s Power Surge, Dr. Mel breaks down the real mindset shifts new administrators must make after stepping out of the classroom and into leadership. If you’re still thinking like a teacher but expected to lead like a visionary, this 5-minute episode is the clarity check you need. Learn the top three shifts that will help you delegate with confidence, lead people instead of tasks, and build trust over popularity.Whether you’re a

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25:47

Part 2 - Culture First Classrooms: Leadership,...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/06/13

Send us a text In this episode, Mel Vandevort dives into a captivating discussion with Katie Kinder and Dr. Darrin Peppard about their book "Culture First Classrooms" and their extensive experience as education consultants and speakers. The book, originally conceived as a guide to classroom management, evolved into a comprehensive exploration of fostering positive classroom cultures. With insights from 24 educators, Katie and Darrin explore essential topics such as leadership, relationship-bu...

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27:14

Part 1 - Culture First Classrooms: Leadership,...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/06/13

Send us a textIn this episode, Mel Vandevort dives into a captivating discussion with Katie Kinder and Dr. Darrin Peppard about their book "Culture First Classrooms" and their extensive experience as education consultants and speakers. The book, originally conceived as a guide to classroom management, evolved into a comprehensive exploration of fostering positive classroom cultures. With insights from 24 educators, Katie and Darrin explore essential topics such as leadership,

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5:38

☀️🎧 Summer Sound Track Series: Track 5: Build Your...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/06/11

Send us a textBefore the school year even starts, it’s time to rehearse your leadership mindset. In this episode, I’ll walk you through a simple reflection practice to mentally prepare for the kind of leader you want to be this year. Grab a journal, find a quiet space, and let’s get your mind in tune. Theme: Social Recharge + Leadership CircleSong Connection: Good Day - ForrestLeadership Book ListSummer Soundtrack Series Companion GuideEmpowered Educator CommunityCalling All Educators! I started a

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8:18

☀️🎧 Summer Sound Track Series: Track 4: Drop the Beat...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/06/06

Send us a text The strongest leaders start the school year with relationships already in motion. This episode is all about how to build connection before you even step foot back into the building. From welcome messages to family outreach to community love, you’ll learn how to cultivate trust early—so when it’s time to lead, your people are already with you. Let’s build culture on purpose, not by chance. Song Connection: "Lean On Me” – Bill Withers Leadership Book List Summer S...

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7:02

☀️🎧 Summer Soundtrack Series Track 3: Hit Repeat –...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/06/05

Send us a textYou don’t need to do all the things—you just need to grow in one right area. In today’s episode, we’re focusing on how to grow through professional development that actually fuels your next level. Whether it's a micro-course, a virtual summit, or a deep dive into data or equity, summer PD is your chance to sharpen your skills without the pressure. Let’s talk growth that sticks. Song Connection: Rise Up – Andra DayEmpowered Educator CommunityCalling All Educators! I started a

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7:42

☀️🎧 Summer Sound Track Series Track 2: Mark the Beat...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/06/04

Send us a textBefore your calendar fills up with other people’s priorities, let’s take a beat to plan with purpose. In this episode, we’ll talk about how to set your leadership rhythm before the year starts—so you're leading, not just reacting. I’ll walk you through what to prioritize, how to make space for what matters, and how to use your planner as a leadership tool. It’s time to lead on purpose, not autopilot. Song Connection: Time Is On My Side – The Rolling StonesLeadership Book

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7:54

☀️🎧 Summer Sound Track Series Track 1: Turn the Page...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/06/03

Send us a textBooks can change your mindset, your momentum, and your mission. In today’s episode, I’m inviting you to read with intention—not out of obligation, but as a way to fuel the leader you're becoming. Whether it’s instructional leadership, school culture, or personal mindset, there’s a book that will stretch and strengthen you this summer. Tune in for a powerful 5-minute reset and walk away with an action step to keep your leadership lit.Song Connection: Read All About It (Pt. III) by

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22:07

Being Brave on Purpose with Samantha Hamilton #155

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/05/30

Send us a textToday’s guest is Samantha Hamilton—an award-winning principal, national education consultant, and the author of Brave On Purpose. With over two decades in education, Samantha is known for leading with heart, turning chaos into culture, and helping school leaders build joyful, resilient communities—without losing themselves in the process.thebarefootprincipal@gmail.comLinkedInFacebookBrave on Purpose on AmazonEmpowered Educator CommunityCalling All Educators! I started a community with

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3:16

Power Surge⚡From Busy to Productive: Leading with...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/05/28

Send us a textMain Message (2–3 min): Grab your top three tasks for this week and ask:Does this drive instructional excellence?Does this build a stronger school culture?Does this empower or develop someone on my team?Delegate-Delay-Delete“I Will” Statement:"I will align my actions with my purpose—so every step I take strengthens instruction, culture, or people."Empowered Educator CommunityCalling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking, and more

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11:11

🎙️ From AP to Principal: How to Own the Interview...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/05/23

Send us a text🎧 Stepping into the principalship at the school where you already serve as an assistant principal? That internal interview process can feel personal, political, and pressure-packed. In this episode, Dr. Mel coaches you through how to confidently prepare for that high-stakes moment—especially when your interview panel knows you well.You’ll learn:The mindset shift that changes everything when interviewing internallyThe four core areas to anchor your leadership vision: school vision,

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217 results

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