WEP 257: Lead From Who You Are, an Interview with Joe Sanfelippo

Hosted by Kelly Croy

Wired Educator Podcast Episode 257

Lead From Who You Are with Dr. Joe Sanfelippo

In Episode 257 of the Wired Educator Podcast, Kelly Croy interviews Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, nationally recognized speaker, former superintendent, and author of the new book Lead From Who You Are. It has been 122 episodes since Joe’s last appearance on the podcast, making this conversation both timely and meaningful.

Together, Kelly and Joe explore leadership identity, consistency, self-awareness, and what it truly means to show up for others during challenging seasons in education. This episode blends practical leadership insight with personal reflection and encouragement.

About the Guest

Dr. Joe Sanfelippo recently retired after 26 years in education, including 12 years as superintendent of the Fall Creek School District in Fall Creek, Wisconsin. Under his leadership, Fall Creek was named an Innovative District twice by the International Center for Leadership in Education. Joe was named Education Dive’s National Superintendent of the Year in 2019 and was selected by the U.S. Department of Education as a Future Ready Superintendent and Personalized Learning Leader.

Joe is widely known for his leadership reflection videos and is the author of multiple books, including Lead From Where You Are, The One Minute Walk to Work, Hacking Leadership, The Power of Branding, and his newest release, Lead From Who You Are.

Joe Sanfelippo’s website:
https://www.jsanfelippo.com/

Joe’s book, Lead From Who You Are: https://amzn.to/4a6HOiB

Episode Summary

This episode focuses on the idea that leadership begins with identity before position. Joe explains why consistency often matters more than charisma and introduces the concept of the “mirror test,” encouraging leaders to reflect on how others experience them.

Kelly and Joe also discuss repairing relationships after mistakes, the importance of vulnerability paired with follow-through, and how leaders can better support educators who are overwhelmed. Joe shares practical advice on meeting people in their space, offering help that is usable and timely, and maintaining steady leadership rhythms regardless of external pressures.

The conversation also touches on comparison, social media, and why late winter can feel isolating for educators. Joe offers a powerful reminder that connection, even with just one person, can make a significant difference.

Key Takeaways from Episode 257

  • Leadership starts with knowing who you are before focusing on where you lead
  • Consistency builds trust more than charisma alone
  • Vulnerability without action creates doubt, while follow-through builds credibility
  • Leaders support others best by meeting them where they are
  • Awareness and regulation help leaders remain steady in difficult moments
  • Comparison distracts from meaningful leadership work

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and overview
01:21 Joe Sanfelippo’s journey and the origin of the book
08:56 Awareness, the mirror test, and leadership consistency
11:55 Consistency versus charisma
17:23 Repairing relationships and rebuilding trust
22:42 Supporting overwhelmed educators
30:31 Comparison, social media, and leadership identity
35:56 A message for educators during a challenging season

About the Host

Kelly Croy is the host of the Wired Educator Podcast, a speaker, author, and Director of Innovation and Instruction. Kelly works with schools and districts across the country on leadership, culture, and growth.

Kelly Croy’s website:
https://kellycroy.com

Kelly’s book, Along Came a Leader

To learn more about having Kelly Croy speak at your event, visit his website to connect.


Thank you for listening and for being part of this community. It is always a great day to be a Wired Educator.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 

WEP 255: Rigor Through Relationships an Interview with Joe Miller

Welcome to SEL and The SEL and Mental Wellness Symposium

The Wired Educator Podcast, Episode 255: Rigor Through Relationships, an Interview with Joe Miller

Episode Guest: Joe Miller, Port Clinton High School ELA Teacher & Symposium Founder

Host: Kelly Croy

Episode Overview

“We learn for life, not for school.” In this episode of The Wired Educator, Kelly Croy sits down with Joe Miller, the driving force behind the 3rd Annual SEL and Mental Wellness Symposium.

Joe isn’t just a dedicated High School ELA teacher; he is a masterclass in leadership who leads from the classroom. Today, Joe and Kelly discuss the “heart of the work”—the transformative power of prioritizing student well-being to unlock academic excellence. If you believe that rigor is built through relationships, this conversation is for you.


Joe Miller:

Joe Miller is a teacher who continuously advocates for his students, district, and community. After earning his bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Dayton, Miller moved south to teach in Charlotte, North Carolina for six years.

Throughout his time in North Carolina, Miller knew his heart was in Ohio. When an opportunity arose near his hometown, he excitedly accepted a position at Port Clinton High School in the Port Clinton City School District, where he has 15 years of classroom experience and is currently teaching sophomore English and Foundations of Education. Mr. Miller also serves as advisor for Educators Rising and the head tennis coach. He continues to empower educators through his roles as the Vice President of OH-NNSTOY and event coordinator for the SEL & Mental Wellness Symposium in Port Clinton each year. Miller is an innovative educator with a passionate commitment to student engagement, data-driven instruction, and social-emotional learning.
Mr. Miller strongly believes that growth begins at the end of one’s comfort zone, so he routinely promotes productive discomfort by asking his students to participate in poetry slams, classroom podcasts, and a series of TED-styled talks called RED Talks.
Joe is an Ohio Teacher-of-the-Year, Runner-up, and a Teacher of the Year for Ohio, Region 2.
Joe’s top recommended book: The Power of Moments

The 3rd Annual SEL & Mental Wellness Symposium

When: Friday, March 20th | Where: Port Clinton, Ohio

Theme: Rigor Through Relationships

Joe and Kelly preview the incredible lineup for this year’s event, including:

  • Morning Keynote: Casey Cuny (2024 California Teacher of the Year) on SEL and AI.

  • The Wired Educator Live: A live podcast recording during the event with Casey Cuny!

  • Afternoon Keynote: Kurt Russell (2022 National Teacher of the Year) on student-centered learning.

  • Featured Speakers: Paul LaRue (President of the State Board of Ed) and Ohio Teachers of the Year Chris Monsour, Daneé Pinckney, and Mark Lowrie.


Key Takeaways from Joe Miller

  • The “Engine” of Advocacy: How Joe transitioned from a classroom teacher to the visionary behind a major regional symposium.

  • Educators Rising: Why we must empower students today to become the teachers of tomorrow.

  • Rigor vs. Relationship: Why academic excellence cannot be reached through curriculum alone; it requires a foundation of trust.

  • AI & The New Era: How technology like AI changes the landscape, but increases the need for grounded human connection.

  • Core Memories: The importance of creating moments in education that students carry with them forever.


Resources & Essential Links


Chapter Markers

  • [00:00] Intro: Joe Miller’s Impact and the Vision for the Symposium.

  • [05:53] Why Relationships Matter: Moving beyond the daily grind.

  • [11:05] Inspiring the Future: The Educators Rising program.

  • [14:06] Symposium Preview: Rigor Through Relationships.

  • [19:36] The Role of SEL in Academic Success.

  • [29:36] AI in the Classroom: Opportunities and Challenges.

  • [32:40] Creating Memorable Moments: Learning for life.


Memorable Quotes

“When we prioritize the well-being of our students and ourselves, we unlock a level of academic excellence that simply cannot be reached through curriculum alone.”

“Joe Miller is a true example of what it means to lead from the classroom.”

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.


Visit the SEL Symposium Website to see the full list of speakers and Register for the Symposium today to take advantage of the early bird rates.

I look forward to seeing you in Port Clinton on March 20th as we continue to build a culture of rigor through the power of relationships.


You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 

Wired Educator Podcast Episode 253: The Business of You, An Interview with Authors Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio

An Interview with Authors Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio with Host, Kelly Croy

Wired Educator Podcast Episode 523: The Business of You — An Interview with Authors Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio

In this episode of the Wired Educator Podcast, I interview Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio, co-authors of The Business of You—a guide to treating yourself as the most important project you’ll ever work on.

Marnie went from being a high school math teacher to becoming an EdTech leader before teaming up with Nick to run a software company. Nick started as a programmer, became an executive early in his career, and later jumped into entrepreneurship with Marnie. Together, they sold their company, co-authored the award-winning Lead it Like Lasso, and now bring their experiences and lessons to students, educators, and leaders through their newest book.

Listen to our interview by clicking here or in the embed link or wherever good podcasts live.

In our conversation, Marnie and Nick share stories and strategies to help students and educators turn leadership lessons into real-life results.

 

 

Links to Learn More About Marnie and Nick

Follow Marnie and Nick’s impact on their social media platforms and website:

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

  1. Lots of laughs and fun stories!
  2. Leadership.
  3. Why they needed to write this book – what they are hearing about high school and college students and their struggles.
  4. Why people need to run their lives like a business (not in a corporate way).
  5. The importance of storytelling (in interviews, college essays, and networking).
  6. The value of building a personal board of advisors.
  7. The key question you need to ask yourself—and your own CFO.

This is a powerful episode for anyone interested in helping students, educators, and themselves reframe leadership and personal growth in a practical, meaningful way.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Conferences Kelly Croy will  Be Speaking At in in the next few months:
•October:  OASFEP Conference, October 2025
• November: OSBA Capital Conference

• December: Ohio Association of Secondary School Administrators (Administrative Assistants Conference), December 2025

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to listen to the show, level up, and make a difference in the lives of students, and remember, it’s always a great week to be a Wired Educator!

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 

 

The Wired Educator Podcast Episode 252: The Leader You’re Not… an interview with Scott Borba on

The Leader You’re Not… and Why It’s Just as Important as the Leader You Are an Interview with Scott Borba & Kelly Croy

Welcome to episode 252 of The Wired Educator Podcast!

In this episode, I interview Scott Borba, an inspiring education leader and author of The Leader You’re Not… and Why It’s Just as Important as the Leader You Are. This conversation will speak to your heart, sharpen your mind, and give you what you need to lead with more awareness this year. Scott and I connected deeply, and the wisdom he shares will benefit every educator committed to growth.

Listen by clicking here or wherever awesome podcasts live.

About Scott Borba

Scott is principal and superintendent of Le Grand Union Elementary School District in California. A recognized leader in education, he was named the NAESP National Distinguished Principal and the ACSA Superintendent/Principal of the Year.

Scott also serves on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Elementary School Principals. His book, The Leader You’re Not… and Why It’s Just as Important as the Leader You Are, focuses on self-awareness, growth in leadership, and building strong school communities.

Mentioned in the Podcast
The Leader You’re Not… and Why It’s Just as Important as the Leader You Are — Find it on Amazon
• Scott’s website: https://www.connectedd.org/scottb

Conferences Kelly Croy will  Be Speaking At in in the next few months:
• OASFEP Conference, October 2025
• Ohio Association of Secondary School Administrators (Administrative Assistants Conference), December 2025
• Click here to Subscribe to My Newsletter: Wired Educator Newsletter for a VERY special announcement coming this weekend!

Listen to episode 252 of The Wired Educator Podcast and discover how Scott’s work can transform your leadership this year!

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to listen to the show, level up, and make a difference in the lives of students, and remember, it’s always a great week to be a Wired Educator!

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 

 

WEP 251: The Language of Behavior an Interview with Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper

A Framework to Elevate Student Success, Hosted by Kelly Croy

This is the Wired Educator Podcast Episode 251, my interview with Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper, co-authors of The Language of Behavior: A Framework to Elevate Student Success. Charle and Joshua bring incredible insight, passion, and practical strategies to help educators and leaders transform the way we view behavior, student success, and school culture.

Listen to our interview by clicking here or wherever awesome podcasts live! 

Our conversation covers practical strategies for addressing behavior through trauma-responsive practices, creating healthier school cultures, and empowering educators to better support students.

This discussion was energizing, enlightening, and inspiring. I laughed, I learned, and I left with new tools I can put into practice right away. I know you’ll feel the same. Buckle up and enjoy this incredible conversation with Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper!

Meet Charle Peck

Charlie Peck is a global keynote speaker, educator, and co-author of The Language of Behavior as well as Improving School Mental Health: The Thriving School Community Solution. With over 20 years in education and dual master’s degrees in Education and Social Work, Charlie offers a powerful perspective as both a teacher and a clinical therapist.

Her work with adolescents and families in crisis, combined with her extensive experience in K-12 education, makes her stories both relevant and captivating. She delivers impactful professional learning sessions and keynotes that provide educators with tools they can implement immediately in their practice.

Meet Joshua Stamper

Joshua Stamper is a dedicated educator, speaker, author, and the creator of Aspire to Lead. With a rich background in teaching and school administration, Joshua draws on his own experience as a struggling student and nine years as a middle school administrator. His journey fuels his passion for creating supportive, transformative learning environments.

 

Order their book today!

Joshua’s new book, The Language of Behavior, equips educators with trauma-responsive strategies and alternative practices to support student success. He empowers professionals to lead with empathy, implement innovative approaches, and make meaningful change in schools and communities everywhere.

Mentioned in this Interview:

Purchase a copy of their book, The Language of Behavior: A Framework to Elevate Student Success

Charle’s website: https://www.thrivingeducator.org/

Joshua’s website: https://joshstamper.com/

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to listen to the show, level up, and make a difference in the lives of students, and remember, it’s always a great week to be a Wired Educator!

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 

 

WEP 250: Designing a Life of Purpose, an Interview with Mark Trumbo

The Dream Factory, An interview with Mark Trumbo and Kelly Croy

This is the Wired Educator Podcast episode 250, my interview with Mark Trumbo, author of The Dream Factory: Designing a Life of Purpose. Mark and I talk about how he wrote an entertaining fable to teach memorable lessons on leadership and living an awesome life. My conversation with Mark hit so many levels of awesomeness, this is an amazing interview with amazing takeaways for everyone.

Listen to my interview with Mark.

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Mark Trumbo is the author of The Dream Factory: Designing a Life of Purpose, a nationally recognized leader, speaker, and creator of The Purpose Design, a framework dedicated to helping people discover, define, and live out their true purpose. A devoted child of God, husband to Kristy, and proud father of Avery Grace, Grant Hampton, and Payton Joy, Mark’s greatest joy comes from his faith and family.

Mark’s journey to discovering his “why” began in January 2017, shortly after the birth of his son, during a season of professional demands and personal reflection. Confronted with questions about his goals, identity, and impact, he embarked on a mission to develop his most valuable asset–his purpose. Inspired by Simon Sinek’s belief that “People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it,” Mark created The Purpose Design not only to clarify his own direction but to empower others to live with intentionality and meaning.

Since then, he has shared The Purpose Design with thousands of students, coaches, professionals, and organizations, guiding them to align their actions with their deepest values. Through his work, Mark challenges audiences to reflect on one powerful question: What does your Purpose Design say about you?

Mentioned in this Episode: 

Kelly Croy on The Interview Chair Podcast with Jimmy Casas

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Purchase a copy of Mark’s awesome book, The Dream Factory: Designing a Life of Purpose

Mark Trumbo’s website: https://www.connectedd.org/marktrumbo

Follow Mark Trumbo on social media: www.x.com/MarkHTrumbo

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to listen to the show, level up, and make a difference in the lives of students, and remember, it’s always a great week to be a Wired Educator!

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 

 

WEP 249: Becoming an Instructional Leader an Interview with Danny Steele

The Wired Educator Podcast: Episode 249 – “Becoming an Instructonal Leader” My Interview with Danny Steele

Click here to listen to this podcast.

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This is The Wired Educator Podcast, Episode 249: My conversation with Danny Steele on instructional leadership—and so much more.

Danny is a phenomenal leader, an inspiring author, and an all-around incredible human being. In this episode, we dive into his new book, explore what great instructional leadership really looks like in schools, and unpack the wisdom he’s sharing with educators everywhere. You’re going to love this episode.

About Danny Steele

Danny Steele worked for 31 years in education as a principal, assistant principal, teacher, coach, and assistant professor of Instructional Leadership. In 2005, Steele was recognized as the “Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year” for the state of Alabama. And in 2016, he was recognized as Alabama’s “Secondary Principal of the Year.”

He has written five books, including two with Todd Whitaker, presented at numerous state and national conferences, and spoken in school districts across the country. Steele has an undergraduate degree in History from Covenant College, a Master’s in History from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and both an Educational Specialist and an Educational Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Samford University.

He is the father of three (mostly grown) children and resides with his wife in Birmingham, Alabama.

Mentioned in This Podcast

Danny Steele’s Website: https://www.leadershiplearningandculture.com/

Follow Danny on X: https://x.com/SteeleThoughts

Danny Steele’s Books:

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to listen to the show, level up, and make a difference in the lives of students, and remember, it’s always a great week to be a Wired Educator!

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 

WEP 248: Building Authenticity, an Interview with Todd Nesloney

Kelly Croy Interviews Todd Nesloney About His New Book, Building Authenticity: A Blueprint for the Leader in You

Building Authenticity, an Interview with Todd Nesloney

Listen to The Wired Educator Podcast, Episode 248.

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In this episode of The Wired Educator Podcast, I sit down with one of my favorite education leaders and storytellers, Todd Nesloney. Todd returns to the show to share powerful insights from his newest book, Building Authenticity: A Blueprint for the Leader Inside You.

Todd currently serves as the Director of Culture and Strategic Leadership for the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA). He is a nationally recognized educator who has been honored by the White House, John C. Maxwell, and the National School Board Association, among many others. From leading a PreK–5 campus of 775 students to co-authoring bestsellers like Kids Deserve It, Todd continues to inspire and challenge educators to lead with heart, honesty, and boldness.

In this conversation, we talk about what it really means to lead authentically, how to stay rooted in your values, and why storytelling is essential for building meaningful school culture. Whether you are a teacher, administrator, or just passionate about education, this episode will fuel your leadership journey.

Mentioned in this Episode: 

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Wow! I interviewed Todd 200 episodes ago! If you want to hear that episode go here: https://wirededucator.libsyn.com/2016/07

Todd’s website: www.toddnesloney.com
Todd’s Course: https://todd-s-site-963e.thinkific.com/products/courses/culture-unleashed
A few of Todd’s favorite reads: Audible, Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir, kids chapter books: Mercy Watson Series, and Bad Guy Series.

Listen to Episode 248 now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to listen to the show, level up, and make a difference in the lives of students, and remember, it’s always a great week to be a Wired Educator!

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

WEP 244: Empowering Educators: How MagicSchool Al Helps Teachers! An Interview with Adeel Khan, Founder of Magic School Al

An Interview with Adeel Khan, Founder of Magic School Al

In this episode of the Wired Educator Podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Adeel Khan, the visionary founder of MagicSchool AI. Adeel, a former teacher and principal, has created what I believe to be the most powerful tool currently available to help educators and educational leaders. Adeel’s team has shared with me what an amazing leader he is as well. If you’re an educator looking to save time, reduce stress, and focus more on what matters most—your students—this episode is a must-listen.

About MagicSchool AI

MagicSchool AI’s mission is simple yet profound: to lighten the load for teachers so they can dedicate their energy to building relationships and delivering impactful instruction. Here are some highlights of what makes MagicSchool AI a game-changer for educators:

  • Time-Saving Efficiency: MagicSchool AI can save teachers up to 10 hours per week by streamlining tedious tasks.
  • Teacher-Centric Design: The platform is intuitive, customizable, and designed to address the realities of teaching. Teachers can start using it immediately without extensive training.
  • Empowering Educators: MagicSchool AI focuses on freeing up teachers’ time to enhance their direct interactions with students and families, emphasizing that great teaching is irreplaceable.

Since its launch, MagicSchool AI has seen remarkable success, with over 4 million educators signing up in just 18 months. This rapid growth underscores the platform’s effectiveness and the demand for innovative tools in education.

Insights from My Conversation with Adeel Khan

During our discussion, Adeel shared the inspiring story behind MagicSchool AI, its mission, and its incredible growth. Here are some key takeaways:

  • The Vision: Adeel’s passion for education and his understanding of the challenges teachers face inspired him to create a platform tailored to their needs.
  • Practical Applications: MagicSchool AI helps educators with everyday tasks, from lesson planning to administrative duties, giving them more time to focus on teaching and student engagement.
  • Looking Ahead: Adeel shares exciting plans for MagicSchool AI in 2025, including new features and updates designed to further empower educators and enhance student outcomes.
  •  The Book Adeel’s read 10-20 times! We also learn the most influential book in Adeel’s life, and he’s read it more than ten times! essentialism and he is currently using the essentialism planner, both by Greg McKeown. I am adding both to my cart and reading and using this year! Wow! And of course you could listen to it on Audible.

Try MagicSchool AI

If you’re intrigued by the possibilities MagicSchool AI offers, I encourage you to explore it for yourself. Visit MagicSchool.ai to learn more and sign up for a free trial. Experience firsthand how this transformative tool can revolutionize your teaching practice.

Final Thoughts

This episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical advice for educators. Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or educational leader, MagicSchool AI is a tool you need to know about.

Thank you, Adeel, for sharing your journey and the magic behind MagicSchool AI. Teachers and administrators, now is the time to discover why this platform is reshaping education.

As always, thank you for listening to the Wired Educator Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a colleague, leave a review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Let’s make 2025 a transformative year for education.

For more episodes, resources, and tools, visit WiredEducator.com.

Looking for a dynamic speaker to inspire your school or organization? Visit KellyCroy.com and let’s make it happen.

Thanks for taking time out of your busy week to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

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WEP  243: The Importance of Vision and Goal-Setting for a New School Year

Kicking off a NEW season of The Wired Educator Podcast!

Welcome to episode 243 of The Wired Educator Podcast! This episode is all about the importance of vision and goal-setting as we embark on a new school year. If you’re an educator, administrator, or school leader, this is the perfect time to set your sights on the goals that will make this year extraordinary.

Click here to listen to this episode. 

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In this episode, I reflect on how critical it is to establish clear goals for yourself and your students. Whether you’re guiding a classroom or leading a team of teachers, a well-defined vision will ensure that you start the year with a sense of purpose. Here’s what you can look forward to:

I am going to give you six keys to setting your goals for the school year, achieving them, and having your best year, yet!

Your leadership and commitment to education make a difference every single day. I’m so excited for this season of The Wired Educator Podcast filled with amazing interviews, insights, and inspiration. Let’s make this school year the best yet!

 

Thanks for taking time out of your busy week to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?