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PODCAST

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning

Magnify Learning

WHAT: PBL Podcast for School Administrators FREE RESOURCE: WhatisPBL.com for free PBL Resources for Administrators PBL Simplified for Administrators Helping School Leaders Launch Their PBL Vision Project Based Learning (PBL) isn’t just for classrooms—it’s a transformative school-wide approach that starts with leadership. Hosted by Ryan Steuer, founder of Magnify Learning, this podcast is designed exclusively for school administrators, principals, and district leaders who are ready to implement and

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All Episodes

00:27:51

The Innovation Curve: Your Roadmap for Scaling PBL |...

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/09/29

In this episode of the PBL Simplified podcast for administrators, Ryan Steuer dives deep into the challenges and strategies involved in rolling out project-based learning (PBL) across an entire district. Drawing on 15 years of experience, Ryan Steuer outlines why both top-down mandates and purely organic approaches often fall short, and explains how applying the innovation curve leads to sustainable, successful implementations. Real-world examples, including a case study from Perry Township in

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00:44:11

From 10% to 95%: Building a Sustainable PBL Culture |...

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/09/22

In this episode, host Ryan Steuer welcomes Rachel Crawford from Babcock Ranch Neighborhood School in Florida to discuss her journey and research around implementing Project Based Learning (PBL). As a Magnify Learning Model School in the nation's first solar-powered town, Babcock Ranch's instructional model and culture have evolved over a decade of growth and learning. Rachel Crawford delves into the school's challenges and successes, sharing her action research on overcoming barriers to

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00:09:49

Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 5 | E271

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/09/08

In this episode, Ryan Steuer explores what truly makes project based learning (PBL) successful and sustainable in schools and districts. Drawing on over a decade of experience across a variety of school settings, Ryan emphasizes the critical role of systems—rather than just individual enthusiasm or resources—in embedding PBL at a structural and leadership level. The discussion unpacks the key elements of building a strong PBL system, from leadership alignment to ongoing coaching and teacher

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00:09:46

Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 4 | E270

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/08/25

In this episode of the mini series, Ryan tackles the often-heard myth that Project Based Learning (PBL) "just doesn't work" for some schools. Rather than blaming teachers, training, or resources, Ryan dives into the need for a sustainable system and highlights why passion alone isn’t enough for lasting change. Listeners are guided through building leadership teams, establishing support structures, and making PBL truly scalable and durable.Myths About PBL: Failing PBL initiatives are

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00:09:09

Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 3 | E269

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/08/11

In this episode, Ryan Steuer explores the misconception that resources and materials are the key factors in implementing effective project based learning (PBL). He addresses common reasons why PBL initiatives may fail in schools and explains why lasting change depends on more than just having the right tools. By highlighting the essential roles of skills, mindset, and systems, Ryan Steuer provides insights for administrators and educational leaders looking to create authentic and sustainable PBL

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00:06:42

Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 2 | E268

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/07/28

In this episode, Ryan delves into the common myth that failed Project Based Learning (PBL) implementations are simply the result of ineffective teacher training. He explores the deeper systemic and leadership factors that can make or break successful adoption of PBL in schools. Listeners will gain insight into why training often fails to make lasting change, what distinguishes authentic PBL from surface-level projects, and the critical role of leadership alignment in creating a culture of

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00:07:30

Why PBL Didn't Work for You Part 1 | E267

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/07/14

In this first episode of the miniseries, Ryan Steuer explores why Project Based Learning (PBL) may have failed in your school or district. Challenging the commonly held belief that teachers are the root cause, Ryan Steuer discusses the importance of system-level change, supporting teachers, and building sustainable models for PBL. The episode introduces a multi-part series aimed at uncovering the primary reasons PBL initiatives don't stick—and how to do it better.Main PointsPBL struggles are

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00:12:03

Do you Really Need Full Buy-in for PBL...

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/06/23

In this episode, Ryan Steuer challenges the conventional wisdom that leaders need full buy-in before initiating meaningful change. He explores how the quest for consensus often slows down momentum and argues that true buy-in develops from progress, not from waiting for unanimous agreement. Drawing from real-life examples and experience guiding educational leaders, Ryan outlines actionable strategies for moving schools toward student-centered, project-based learning—even in the face of hesitation and

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00:10:08

We Tried PBL… and It Didn’t Work With Our Kids...

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/06/09

In this episode of PBL Simplified for Administrators, Ryan Steuer, CEO of Magnify Learning, addresses the common challenges educational leaders face when implementing Project Based Learning (PBL). The episode explores why PBL can feel overwhelming for teachers and ineffective for students, identifying system gaps and mindset issues as main causes. The discussion emphasizes the importance of sustainable systems, internal supports, and a shift in culture to achieve lasting success with PBL.Main

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00:11:07

You’ve Already Done PBL… So Why Isn’t It Working? | E263

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/05/26

In this episode, Ryan Steuer addresses a common challenge faced by school leaders: “We’ve already done Project Based Learning (PBL), but it’s not working.” Drawing on real case studies and over a decade of experience, Ryan explores why initial PBL efforts often stall and what it takes to create a sustainable, high-quality PBL system. He discusses the difference between surface-level implementation and authentic, empowering PBL practice, and offers actionable guidance for leaders to build systems

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00:37:13

Real World Learning That Actually Leads to Jobs | E262

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/05/12

In this leadership guest episode, Frank Oldani and Matt Fry from Belvidere School District 100 in Illinois share their insight on doing school differently and advancing career readiness in K-12 education. The conversation covers building strong community partnerships, redefining career pathways beyond traditional college, and practical steps for sustainability in student programs. Listeners will find actionable tips, real-world stories, and best practices that can be applied in districts across the

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00:32:43

The Energy Bus for Schools With Dr. Jim Van Allan | E261

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/04/28

In this episode of PBL Simplified, host Ryan welcomes Dr. Jim Van Allan, co-author of Energy Bus for Schools, to explore how school culture drives meaningful transformation. Jim shares the origin story behind adapting Jon Gordon’s Energy Bus framework for education and explains why culture—not programs—is the foundation of successful schools. The conversation dives into the difference between authentic positivity and “toxic positivity,” emphasizing the importance of acknowledging real challenges

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10:17

The Power of PBL Networks for Leaders | E260

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/04/21

This episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast centers on the transformative power of professional networks in driving successful Project Based Learning (PBL) implementation. Host Ryan Steuer introduces the launch of PBL Networks, a platform designed to connect innovative educational leaders who are actively working to reshape schools through PBL. He emphasizes that while conferences provide valuable knowledge, it is the relationships and ongoing collaboration that truly move initiatives

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46:33

How One District Built a Waitlist for CTE With Dr....

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/04/14

This episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast for Administrators features Dr. Jeremy Qualls, Director of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center in Williamson County, Tennessee. Jeremy shares how his district is redefining Career and Technical Education (CTE) by blending workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and real-world problem solving into a dynamic, student-centered model. Moving beyond outdated perceptions of “vo-tech,” Jeremy highlights how modern CTE programs can prepare students

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49:38

Mind Shifting for School Leaders With Mitch Weisburgh...

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/03/03

In this leadership episode, Ryan sits down with Mitch Weisburgh to explore Mind Shifting — a brain-based framework designed to help educators and leaders develop resourcefulness, resilience, and constructive collaboration.If you lead a school or district, this episode digs into: Emotional regulation under pressure Conflict resolution styles Brain science behind stress and decision-making How to create long-term engagement and agency in staff and students The conversation connects

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35:46

Project Based Learning and Brain Science With Dr....

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/02/03

What if student behavior problems, burnout, and disengagement aren’t discipline issues… but brain issues?In this powerful leadership episode, Ryan sits down with Dr. Lisa Riegel—author, neuroscientist, and education innovator—to explore how brain science, motivation, and belonging intersect with Project Based Learning. Lisa explains why today’s students seem “different,” how stress shuts down learning, and why schools must shift from compliance to psychological safety, relevance, and

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40:57

Reimagining CTE Through Partnerships and Purpose With...

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2026/01/06

What happens when Career and Technical Education stops operating in silos and starts acting like a true regional partner? In this leadership conversation, Jason Lucia shares how he is redesigning CTE to expand access, strengthen district collaboration, and connect students directly to meaningful, high-wage career pathways. From innovative shared-campus programs to deep industry partnerships, this episode offers a bold vision for what CTE can become when leaders put kids first and challenge

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11:55

A Simple Reflection Protocol Every School Leader...

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2025/12/30

As the year comes to a close, great leaders don’t just move on—they pause, reflect, and intentionally prepare for what’s next. In this episode, Ryan Steuer shares a powerful four-bucket reflection protocol used at Magnify Learning to help leadership teams identify what’s working, what’s broken, what’s confusing, and what truly mattered most.This simple but effective structure can be used at the end of a school year, quarter, or major initiative—and it creates clarity, trust, and momentum

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10:54

What Great Leaders Do When School Is Quiet | E254

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2025/12/23

When the building is quiet but the work isn’t done, what should leaders actually be doing? In this episode, Ryan Steuer breaks down how top-tier school leaders use those “in-between” days—when students and teachers are gone, but administrators are still on contract—to create clarity, momentum, and renewal.Rather than reacting to email or busywork, high-performing leaders use this rare space to plan long-term, reconnect with key relationships, and rest in ways that genuinely refuel them

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18:04

How to Plan a PBL Movement | E253

PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning ·

2025/12/16

In this episode of PBL Simplified for Administrators, Ryan Steuer breaks down how school and district leaders can intentionally plan and sustain a Project Based Learning (PBL) movement—without waiting for the “perfect time” or burning out their staff. This is a practical, leadership-focused roadmap for turning PBL from a few isolated classrooms into a lasting system-wide shift.🔑 Key Topics Covered 1. Don’t Wait for Summer PBL momentum doesn’t have to wait for summer professional

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