Best Dr. Mel Vandevort Educational Leadership Podcasts (2025)

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Power Surge⚡Listen First, Lead Second - Building Trust Before Making Big Changes #181 4:02

7d ago4:02

4:02

Send us a text As a new leader, the temptation is to prove yourself quickly by fixing problems. But lasting leadership isn’t about rushing to solutions—it’s about listening first. Listening builds trust, respect, and credibility. By pausing to understand your school’s story, you earn the relational capital to lead change effectively later. Key Poin…

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Create, Connect, Contribute: Leading with Authenticity with Robin Nathaniel #180 31:39

12d ago31:39

31:39

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Mel sits down with TEDx speaker, author, and Telly Award Gold Winner Robin Nathaniel for a real conversation about leadership that starts—and stays—with authenticity. From his days as a musician to his pivot into nonprofit leadership and marketing, Robin shares how human connection has shaped every stage of his j…

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Power Surge⚡How to Set the Tone From Day One #179 4:33

14d ago4:33

4:33

Send us a text The moment you step into your school as a new leader, the clock starts ticking. Those first 90 feet—from the front door to your office—can quietly shape how you’re perceived for months to come. This episode is all about making those first impressions intentional, strategic, and grounded in curiosity rather than assumption. In these c…

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Small School, Big Impact: Launching Micro Schools with David Richards *178 30:59

19d ago30:59

30:59

Send us a text In this powerful episode of The Empowered Educator, Dr. Mel chats with David Richards—founder of ChangemakerEDU and passionate advocate for micro schools. Together, they dig into the why, what, and how of this growing movement that's redefining what learning can look like when you strip it down to relationships, purpose, and personal…

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Power Surge⚡Own the Room: Leading with Presence, Not Just Position #177 8:21

26d ago8:21

8:21

Send us a text Back-to-school season isn’t just about what you say—it’s about how you show up. In this Power Surge, Dr. Mel unpacks how school leaders can deliver powerful pre-service messages and opening PD sessions by leading with presence, not just position. You’ll learn how to use body language, tone, and mindset to inspire trust, shift culture…

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Power Surge⚡From Reactive to Reflective: Start the School Year Strong Without Burning Out #176 5:36

28d ago5:36

5:36

Send us a text Welcome to the Empowered Educator podcast! In today’s Power Surge, we’re tackling the back-to-school stress head-on. As a leader, your mind is already spinning with tasks, responsibilities, and expectations—and it’s easy to fall into reactive mode. But here’s the truth: starting strong doesn’t mean starting busy. It means starting cl…

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Power Surge⚡Ready or Not! When God Promotes You Unexpectedly #175 6:04

1M ago6:04

6:04

Send us a text In this quick Power Surge episode, Dr. Mel shares a personal reflection on how spiritual gifts can unexpectedly lead us into new roles and responsibilities—just like her new journey as a superintendent. Even when you’re not looking, God is always positioning you when you're walking in alignment with your purpose. Get ready to explore…

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Part 2: Organizing Your School Around the 7 Correlates of Effective Schools with Erica Glenn and Kim Bradley #174 46:56

1M ago46:56

46:56

Send us a text Download 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 receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking…

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Part 1: Organizing Your School Around the 7 Correlates of Effective Schools with Erica Glenn and Kim Bradley #173 39:22

1M ago39:22

39:22

Send us a text This episode is the first in a two-part series, a workshop-style discussion on organizing schools for success. My guests, Erica Glenn and Kim Bradley draw from the research of Larry Lezotte, focusing on his work on the seven correlates of effective schools. Seven Correlates of Effective Schools Strong Instructional Leadership: Emphas…

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Power Surge⚡What if I Fail? But...What if You Succeed? #172 5:12

1M ago5:12

5:12

Send us a text Too 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 safe Challenge worst-case thi…

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Power Surge ⚡The Power of Listening: Talking Less, Learning More #171 4:44

1M ago4:44

4:44

Send us a text When 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 tools How silence creates space for insigh…

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From Community Engagement and Social Media to Shredded Lettuce and Saturday Selfies with Chuck Moss #170 37:54

2M ago37:54

37:54

Send us a text Chuck 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 - @ChuckMossEDU Download Upside and use my code MELINDA35278 to get…

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Power Surge ⚡ Are You an Ambassador for Your School? Represent with Positive Intention #169 3:28

2M ago3:28

3:28

Send us a text Every 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 presenc…

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Are You Leading in a Comfort Zone? Get Clear and Lead Boldly #168 5:02

2M ago5:02

5:02

Send us a text In 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…

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Are You Leading from Freedom or Shrinking from Fear? Boldly Declare Your Independence and Purpose #167 8:22

2M ago8:22

8:22

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 …

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Let’s Talk Work-Life Balance #166 15:23

2M ago15:23

15:23

Send us a text Burnout 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 sustainability Permission to protect your work-life bal…

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Power Surge ⚡Ready to Let Go to Level Up? Ditch Analysis Paralysis and Lead with Clarity #165 5:05

2M ago5:05

5:05

Send us a text As 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 …

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Why Good Teachers Are Still Struggling—And What We Can Do About It #164 17:43

2M ago17:43

17:43

Send us a text Empowered Educator Community The Confident Classroom In 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…

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Power Surge ⚡ From Teacher to Leader: The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything #163 5:57

2M ago5:57

5:57

Send us a text You’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. L…

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Part 2 - Culture First Classrooms: Leadership, Relationships, and Practices that Transform Schools with Dr. Darrin Peppard and Katie Kinder #162 25:47

2M ago25:47

25:47

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 fo…

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Part 1 - Culture First Classrooms: Leadership, Relationships, and Practices that Transform Schools with Dr. Darrin Peppard and Katie Kinder #161 27:14

2M ago27:14

27:14

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 fo…

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☀️🎧 Summer Sound Track Series: Track 5: Build Your Band – Reconnect Before You Re-Lead #160 5:38

3M ago5:38

5:38

Send us a text Before 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 Circle Son…

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☀️🎧 Summer Sound Track Series: Track 4: Drop the Beat – Connect Before You Direct #159 8:18

3M ago8:18

8:18

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 …

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☀️🎧 Summer Soundtrack Series Track 3: Hit Repeat – Grow Through Professional Development #158 7:02

3M ago7:02

7:02

Send us a text You 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…

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☀️🎧 Summer Soundtrack Series Track 2: Mark the Beat – Set Your Schedule with Intention #157 7:42

3M ago7:42

7:42

Send us a text Before 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 planne…

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☀️🎧 Summer Soundtrack Series Track 1: Turn the Page – Read to Refuel #156 7:54

3M ago7:54

7:54

Send us a text Books 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…

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Being Brave on Purpose with Samantha Hamilton #155 22:07

3M ago22:07

22:07

Send us a text Today’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 pro…

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Power Surge⚡From Busy to Productive: Leading with Purpose #154 3:16

3M ago3:16

3:16

Send us a text Main 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,…

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🎙️ From AP to Principal: How to Own the Interview When It’s Your Own School #153 11:11

3M ago11:11

11:11

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. …

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💥Power Surge: Finish Strong, Start Clear #152 4:25

3M ago4:25

4:25

Send us a text Main 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…

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Real Talk on Leading, Retaining, Growing, & Starting Before You’re Ready with Dr. Jana Haywood #151 31:27

3M ago31:27

31:27

Send us a text Dr. 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 …

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Power Surge⚡The 3-Minute Reset: Leading with Intention #150 4:22

3M ago4:22

4:22

Send us a text Pause. 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 alig…

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No Permission Needed: Building a Culture of Trust and Innovation with Chuck Moss #149 33:19

4M ago33:19

33:19

Send us a text In 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…

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💥 Power Surge: The Ripple Effect of a Thank You #148 4:01

4M ago4:01

4:01

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 tea…

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Creating a Culture of Care: Practical Advice for School Leaders with Dr. Chris Culver #147 31:29

4M ago31:29

31:29

Send us a text This episode dives deep into the real challenges and responsibilities of school leadership. From chaotic tornado drills to the emotional weight of imposter syndrome, we hit on what it really means to lead with clarity, communication, and care. 🔥 Key Takeaways: Culture trickles down: When the culture’s bad for teachers, it's just as b…

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Power Surge ⚡Leading in the Waiting *146 2:49

4M ago2:49

2:49

Send us a text Feeling stuck in the in-between? Whether you’re still in the classroom dreaming about leadership or already in a role but waiting for that next open door, this episode is for you. We’re talking about how to lead well in the waiting season—because growth doesn’t stop just because the title hasn’t changed. The way you show up now is sh…

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Power Surge ⚡Is Your Leadership Following the Clock or the Compass❓*145 2:40

4M ago2:40

2:40

Send us a text Are you rushing through your day like a ticking clock, or are you moving with purpose like a compass? This episode helps you pause and reflect on how you're leading—especially when urgency tries to run the show. Aspiring and new leaders, this is your reminder that leadership isn't about how busy you are, but how aligned you are. Let’…

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Part 2: Ignite Your Leadership Shine w/LaVonna Roth *144 23:59

4M ago23:59

23:59

Send us a text LaVonna Roth is a keynote speaker, author, and founder of Ignite Your S.H.I.N.E.® who supports leaders like you in uncovering your inner strengths, leading with greater alignment, and building genuine connection with those you lead and serve. Blending brain sciences, emotional intelligence, leadership development, and well-being, she…

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Part 1: Ignite Your Leadership Shine w/LaVonna Roth *143 28:32

4M ago28:32

28:32

Send us a text LaVonna Roth is a keynote speaker, author, and founder of Ignite Your S.H.I.N.E.® who supports leaders like you in uncovering your inner strengths, leading with greater alignment, and building genuine connection with those you lead and serve. Blending brain sciences, emotional intelligence, leadership development, and well-being, she…

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Power Surge ⚡Leaving a Legacy with Your Leadership Today *142 2:37

5M ago2:37

2:37

Send us a text What kind of leader do you want to be remembered as? Not someday—right now. In this episode, we’re unpacking what it means to leave a legacy through the daily moments: how you encourage, how you show grace, how you handle hard conversations. If you're an aspiring or new building leader, you don’t have to wait to make your mark. You'r…

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Power Surge⚡Lead Well, Live Well *141 2:55

5M ago2:55

2:55

Send us a text Spring in schools is no joke. It’s testing season, hiring season, behavior spikes, and burnout all rolled into one. In this Power Surge, I’m encouraging you to stop pushing wellness to the bottom of your list. As an aspiring or new building leader, you are building the habits that will carry you through this career—and prioritizing y…

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Crush Your Leadership Interview: 5 Must-Know Strategies to Speak with Confidence *140 12:40

5M ago12:40

12:40

Send us a text Stepping into a leadership role? Whether it's your first time or you're making a move to a new position, the interview is your moment to own your expertise and show why you're the best fit. In this episode, I’m breaking down five powerful strategies to help you speak with confidence, handle tough questions like a pro, and leave the h…

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Power Surge ⚡Called to Serve, Equipped to Act *139 3:10

5M ago3:10

3:10

Send us a text Leadership isn’t just a title—it’s a calling. If you feel pulled toward building-level leadership, this episode is your reminder that the call to serve comes with the responsibility to act. God doesn’t just call the qualified—He equips those who are willing. Whether you're still in the classroom or just stepping into leadership, now …

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💪🏽 The Power of Student Engagement: Unlocking the Path to Achievement *138 18:47

5M ago18:47

18:47

Send us a text In this episode, we’re getting to the heart of what really drives student success—engagement. As a school leader, you have the power to shift your entire building by helping your staff focus on what matters most: connecting students to their learning in meaningful ways. We’ll explore how student engagement impacts achievement, why it…

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Power Surge ⚡Iron Sharpens Iron *137 3:20

5M ago3:20

3:20

Send us a text Did you know that iron can’t sharpen itself? It takes another piece of iron—something just as strong—to refine its edges and make it sharper. The same is true for leadership. You weren’t meant to grow in isolation. If you want to be a better leader, you need to surround yourself with people who challenge you, refine you, and push you…

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🏀March Madness & Leadership: Coaching Your Team to Victory *136 21:28

5M ago21:28

21:28

Send us a text March Madness isn’t just about basketball—it’s a masterclass in leadership. The way championship coaches build their teams, develop talent, and make in-game adjustments mirrors the way strong school leaders create thriving school cultures. In this episode, we’re breaking down five powerful leadership lessons from March Madness that c…

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Power Surge ⚡Bouncing Back From a Tough Day *135 4:45

5M ago4:45

4:45

Send us a text Download 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 receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking…

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Firm, Fair, and Calm: Leading Student Discipline with Confidence *134 15:57

6M ago15:57

15:57

Send us a text As a first-year principal, I’ve quickly realized that not everyone interprets calm leadership the same way. Some staff feel that if a student isn’t being yelled at, they haven’t really been “disciplined.” But I believe in following the handbook, enforcing fair consequences, and creating a culture where discipline is about learning—no…

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Power Surge: The 2-Minute Gratitude Boost *133 5:21

6M ago5:21

5:21

Send us a text Download 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 receipt and we'll both score bonus points. Calling All Educators! I started a community with resources, courses, articles, networking…

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Lead Your School Into the Ai Future with Gruvy Education *132 26:06

6M ago26:06

26:06

Send us a text William Grube is the founder of Gruvy Education. Through Gruvy Education, he partners with over 200 schools and several state-level organizations to provide AI training. He equips educators with the skills and knowledge to use AI effectively in their specific roles. Freebie: Gruvy Education Ai Prompts Website YouTube Instagram X Link…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Dr. Mel Vandevort Educational Leadership Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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