In this episode of the Teacher Leader Podcast, Nicole Salinas shares her powerful journey into education—from growing up in a Spanish-speaking immigrant family to becoming a first-generation college graduate and special education teacher. Nicole reflects on the challenges she overcame, the mentors who believed in her, and the experiences that shaped her commitment to advocating for students from marginalized communities. With honesty, optimism, and a deep sense of purpose, Nicole Salinas reminds listeners why representation, resilience, and inclusive education matter—and why the next generation of educators is ready to lead.

For books, resources, and events, visit: theteacherleader.org Thank you to our sponsor(s): Math and Movement Teacher Leader Summit

In this episode of the Teacher Leader Podcast, veteran educator Lori Ranney shares her inspiring journey from the legal field to the middle school classroom, revealing how true teacher leadership grows from curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to students. Through stories of launching innovative programs, mentoring new teachers, and designing lessons that connect learning to real-world issues, Lori shows how classrooms can become spaces where students find their voice and educators rediscover their purpose. The conversation highlights the power of supportive school culture, creative risk-taking, and joyful teaching—reminding listeners that some of the most impactful leadership in education happens not in offices, but right alongside students every day.

For books, resources, and events, visit: theteacherleader.org Thank you to our sponsor(s): Math and Movement Teacher Leader Summit

Educational leader John McCluskey joins the Teacher Leader Podcast to discuss why "we're not making widgets—we're creating human beings." From his early days teaching on the Navajo reservation to leading at Jefferson County's Open School and New Vista High School, John shares how centering student voice and authentic relationships transform school culture. He explores the power of four-year advisory programs, practical community-building strategies like CCCs (Cares, Concerns, Celebrations), and why teaching presence matters as much as lesson plans. John's leadership philosophy is rooted in the circle metaphor: no front, everyone in it together. He challenges educators to move beyond compliance-based schooling, offering real talk about balancing systemic demands with genuine human connection, creating space for teacher leadership, and remembering that both students and teachers need to show up as whole people.

For books, resources, and events, visit: theteacherleader.org Thank you to our sponsor(s): Math and Movement Teacher Leader Summit