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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

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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4:25

💥Power Surge: Finish Strong, Start Clear #152

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/05/21

Send us a textMain Message (2–3 min): Use these last few weeks to: ✅ Celebrate the wins—no matter how small. Growth happened. ✅ Gather reflections—from your team, your students, and yourself. What worked? What didn’t? ✅ Set your foundation—don’t wait until August. Anchor one or two key priorities for next year now so your team has clarity over the summer. “I Will” Statement:"I will lead the end of the year with reflection and intention—so my team feels valued, seen, and ready for what’s

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31:27

Start Before You’re Ready: Real Talk on Leading,...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/05/16

Send us a textDr. Jana Haywood drops truth and strategy for every aspiring leader, burned-out teacher, and game-changing educator ready to make a move. From tackling the teacher shortage to rethinking onboarding, Dr. Haywood shares how authentic relationships, daily visibility, and intentional leadership can transform your school culture—and your career.We dig into:Why building culture starts with your body languageHow to retain great teachers through daily connection and recognitionThe power of

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4:22

Power Surge⚡The 3-Minute Reset: Leading with...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/05/14

Send us a textPause. Breathe. Ask yourself three quick reflection questions:What leadership move did I make this week that aligned with my vision?What’s draining me or my staff that needs my attention?What’s one intentional shift I can make before Friday to refocus my energy or support my team better?This isn’t about perfection—it’s about alignment. When you lead on autopilot, you drift. When you pause, you re-center.Empowered Educator CommunityCalling All Educators! I started a community with

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33:19

No Permission Needed: Building a Culture of Trust and...

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/05/09

Send us a textIn this episode of The Empowered Educator, Dr. Mel sits down with veteran educator Chuck Moss to unpack what it really takes to build a thriving school culture—one that fuels student achievement and inspires educators to lead from where they are. With over three decades in education as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, principal, and now director, Chuck brings a grounded, real-world perspective to school leadership.He shares practical, actionable strategies for creating space for

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4:01

💥 Power Surge: The Ripple Effect of a Thank You #148

Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion |... ·

2025/05/07

Send us a text✅ A heartfelt, specific thank you hits deeper than a donut. ✅ Recognize effort, not just outcomes. "I saw the way you deescalated that student in third period—your calm presence made a big difference." ✅ Appreciation fuels retention. Teachers who feel seen and valued are more likely to stay and serve.Action Surge (1 min): Pick 3 teachers today. 📩 Send a voice memo. ✍🏽 Write a sticky note. 📞 Pop into their room for 60 seconds.Empowered Educator CommunityCalling All

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