Change Starts Here

Latest Episodes:

Redefining Student Success: Insights on CTE and Community Partnerships May 27, 2025

Show notes

How do you prepare students for jobs that don't even exist yet? In this episode of Change Starts Here, host Dustin Odham sits down with McLain Schaefer, Director of LIFT (Leaders Innovating for Tomorrow), a groundbreaking regional innovation and technology center in central Illinois that's redefining what Career and Technical Education can be.

McLain shares his journey from elementary principal to leading one of the most innovative CTE programs in the country. In this conversation, McLain unpacks how he completely redesigned their CTE program with LIFT, and how building future leaders has been at the centerpiece of his success with students. Whether you're an educator, business leader, or parent, this episode will challenge your thinking about what education can be when we stop putting students in boxes and start preparing them to lead in whatever field they choose. McLain's approach proves that when you combine world-class leadership development with career-ready programming, you don't just create graduates—you create leaders who are ready to change their communities.

Be sure to like, subscribe, and turn on bell notifications to ensure you don't miss our next episode.

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Host: Dustin Odham, Managing Director at Franklin Covey Education

Guests: McLain Shaefer (LIFT Director)

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 2:56) Intro

(2:57 - 3:49) What McLain loves about what he does

(3:50 - 5:44) Leaving the classroom and starting LIFT

(5:45 - 7:52) Traditional CTE or no?

(7:53 - 10:54) Defining modern CTE

(10:55 - 14:27) Evolution of the definition of student success with LIFT

(14:28 - 18:49) How do recruiters define success?

(18:50 - 20:42) Finding the right people

(20:43 - 24:41) What effect has the Leader In Me process had on kids?

(24:42 - 26:52) Paradigm shifts with LIFT

(26:53 - 30:34) How has the new curriculum elevated the existing?

(30:35 - 33:31) McLains vision for growth

(33:32 - 34:38) The people working at and with LIFT

(34:39 - 35:55) Student success story

(35:56 - 36:36) Recommendations for leadership book

(36:37 - 38:09) Song to put McLain in the right “vibe”

(38:10 - 40:15) Advise for a new leader

(40:16 - 41:06) Closing thoughts

(41:07 - 41:52) Outro

Bridging the Gap: How School & Business Partnerships Prepare Future Leaders May 20, 2025

Show notes

What does the future of workforce development look like—and how can education and business leaders work together to shape it? In this episode of Change Starts Here, host Dustin Odham sits down with Dean Faile, President and CEO of the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce, to explore how aligning education with evolving industry needs can empower the next generation of leaders.

Dean shares his personal mission of inspiring others to become more than they thought possible, and he dives deep into topics like bridging the skill gap, the power of micro-credentials, and the mutual benefits of helping students gain real-world experience. He offers practical advice for educators, policy makers, and students alike—emphasizing curiosity, proactive thinking, and servant leadership as key ingredients for long-term success.

Tune in for an energizing conversation packed with insights on how business and education can work hand in hand to cultivate leadership, purpose, and opportunity in our communities. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode!

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Host: Dustin Odham, Managing Director at Franklin Covey Education

Guest: Dean Faile, President/CEO of York County Regional Chamber of Commerce

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 03:10) Introduction

(03:11 - 05:02) Getting to Know Dean

(05:03 - 08:27) Living Out the Mission Along the Journey

(08:28 - 11:59) The Most Critical Skills to Develop

(12:00 - 18:03) Bridging the Skill Gap

(18:04 - 20:19) Mutual Benefits to Helping Students

(20:20 - 25:47) The Power of Micro-Credentials

(25:48 - 30:39) Advice for Educators and Policy Makers

(30:40 - 32:46) Having an Intense Curiosity

(32:47 - 34:46) Powerful Leadership Books

(34:47 - 35:40) Dean’s Walk Up Song

(35:41 - 36:36) Advice for High School Students

(36:37 - 39:31) Empowering the Future Generation

(39:32 - 40:06) Closing

The Four Essential Roles: Transforming Leadership in Learning Spaces May 13, 2025

Show notes

How do you create great leaders in the educational system? In this episode of Change Starts Here, host Dustin Odham is joined by Laurie Brooks and Lynne Fox to explore the 4 roles of Leadership within the school system and how to utilize those roles effectively.

In a conference style setting, Dustin dives into Laurie and Lynne's process of creating great leaders, both on the playground and not. They unpack Franklin Covey's framework of four essential leadership roles—inspiring trust, creating vision, executing strategy, and coaching potential—and demonstrate how these principles can revolutionize afterschool programs and summer learning experiences.They speak about not only creating great leaders with their teachers, but how to help the “kiddos” become leaders as well. Both guests give incredible advice on how to coach, but also let your teachers be coaches themselves.

Be sure to like, subscribe, and turn on bell notifications to ensure you don't miss our next episode.

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Host: Dustin Odham, Managing Director at Franklin Covey Education

Guests: Laurie Brooks (Client Partner, Franklin Covey); Lynne Fox (Global Educational Developer)

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 1:26) Intro

(1:27 - 2:40) Laurie's story

(2:41 - 3:50) Lynne’s story

(3:51 - 5:02) The 4 Roles of Leaders

(5:03 - 7:44) Role 1: Trust

(7:45 - 10:12) Role 2: Creating Vision

(10:13 - 12:23) Afterschool Care in Schools

(12:24 - 13:16) Role 3: Executing Strategy from Vision

(13:17 - 15:12) 4 Key Elements of Execution

(15:13 - 20:34) Role 4: Coaching Potential

(20:34 - 22:51) Advice from Laurie and Lynne

(22:52 - 25:40) Extended Learning Opportunities

(25:41 - 25:43) Outro

Ownership Unlocked: Trust as the Ultimate Shift Apr 30, 2025

Show notes

What happens when we shift from controlling outcomes to empowering people? In the season finale of Change Starts Here, host Dustin Odham explores how trust isn't just a leadership trait—it's the foundation of real, lasting impact in schools.

Dustin dives into the essential shift from micromanagement to meaningful collaboration, showing how extending trust helps build stronger teams, deeper relationships, and a culture where innovation thrives. Whether you're a classroom teacher or district leader, this episode offers a clear path toward creating the kind of environment where others grow, lead, and thrive.

If you've missed any episodes this season, now’s the perfect time to revisit them and continue the journey of leading with purpose. Be sure to like, subscribe, and turn on bell notifications so you don’t miss what’s coming next.

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Host: Dustin Odham, Managing Director at FranklinCovey Education

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 01:18) Introduction

(01:19 - 03:08) Moving from Control to Empowerment

(03:09 - 06:39) The Power of Extending Trust

(06:40 - 10:19) Applying this Personally

(10:20 - 11:07) Season in Review

(11:08 - 11:38) Closing

A Path to Purpose: Redefining Education & Empowering Change Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

Leadership in education means empowering every student to recognize their unique strengths and potential. When we shift our mindset from "special education" to "students with exceptionalities," we transform how we view, support, and include all learners in our schools.

In this episode of Change Starts Here, host Dustin Odham sits down with Kimberly Gardner, the first-ever Assistant Superintendent of Students with Exceptionalities and Federal Programs for St. Tammany Parish Public Schools. Kimberly shares her journey from gifted educator to district leader, her passion for student voice, and how she's implementing the Leader in Me process across 55 schools to build inclusive cultures where every student can thrive. From prioritizing early childhood intervention to transforming classroom paradigms, discover how Kimberly's student-first approach is reshaping education in Louisiana.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about authentic leadership, creating opportunities for all students, and the power of being the author of your own story.

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Host and Guest:

Host: Dustin Odham, Managing Director at FranklinCovey Education

Guest: Kimberly Gardner, Assistant Superintendent of Students with Exceptionalities and Federal Programs for St. Tammany Parish Public Schools

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 01:50) Introduction

(01:50 - 03:40) Kimberly's Background and Journey

(03:40 - 05:20) "Students with Exceptionalities" vs. "Special Education"

(05:20 - 07:30) Personal Stories of Inclusion

(07:30 - 10:10) Kimberly's Path to Education

(10:10 - 12:00) Building Strong Foundations

(12:00 - 14:40) Key Paradigm Shifts Needed in Education

(14:40 - 17:30) Creating Space for Student Voice

(17:30 - 20:30) Student Lighthouse Teams and Leadership Opportunities

(20:30 - 23:00) Goal Setting and Empowering Students

(23:00 - 25:50) Going Slow to Go Fast with Implementation

(25:50 - 28:40) Addressing Pushback and Supporting Staff

(28:40 - 31:50) Supporting Individual Needs vs. Top-Down Approaches

(31:50 - 34:00) The Speedboat, Tugboat, and Row Boat Analogy

(34:00 - 38:10) Hopes for the Future of Education

(38:10 - 41:40) The Path to Purpose

(41:40 - 47:40) Rapid Fire Questions

(47:40 - 50:31) Closing Thoughts

Hashtags:

#EducationLeadership #StudentsWithExceptionalities #StudentVoice #InclusiveEducation #LeadershipDevelopment #LeaderInMe #PathToPurpose #SchoolCulture #EarlyIntervention #StudentLighthouseTeams

Connecting Students with Community Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

What happens when students step beyond the classroom walls and into the communities they live in? Meaningful connection. Real-world perspective. And a powerful sense of purpose. In this final episode of Change Starts Here: Research Conversations, Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education, and Kim Yaris, M.Ed., Associate Director of Research, explore how community partnerships, mentorships, and internships can enrich learning and help students see their place in the world more clearly.

From skill development to deepened empathy, Jennifer and Kim break down the mutual benefits of bridging school and community. They offer practical ideas for creating “windows of connection” that help students engage with local organizations, professionals, and mentors—gaining confidence, agency, and real-life experience along the way. Whether you're a teacher, leader, or policymaker, this episode is packed with insights on building a future-ready learning environment that extends far beyond the bell.

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this series with your network. Thank you for joining us on Change Starts Here: Research Conversations.

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at

https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Starring:

Kim Yaris, M.Ed, Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education

Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 01:10) Introduction

(01:11 - 04:38) Connecting Students to the Community

(04:39 - 06:50) Different Ways of Bridging Connections

(06:51 - 09:28) Mutual Benefits of Mentorship and Internships

(09:29 - 11:41) Unique Benefits of Being Connected to the Community

(11:42 - 13:26) Creating Windows of Connection

(13:27 - 18:55) Creating Positive Impacts for Students

(18:56 - 19:29) Reflecting on Series Highlights

(19:30 - 19:59) Closing

Fostering a Student's Sense of Belonging Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

What does it really mean to belong? It’s more than just being present in a room—it’s about feeling seen, heard, and valued. In a school setting, belonging plays a critical role in shaping students’ motivation, engagement, and success. When students know they’re a meaningful part of their environment, everything from their academic performance to their social well-being improves.

In this episode of Change Starts Here: Research Conversations, Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education, and Kim Yaris, M.Ed., Associate Director of Research, dive into the science and significance of belonging in education. They explore how classroom environments, teacher-student relationships, and “pockets of greatness” across schools can create spaces where students thrive. Through real-world insights and research-backed strategies, you’ll learn how fostering a sense of belonging can lead to deeper engagement and better learning outcomes—for every student.

Don't forget to like and subscribe, and turn on those bell notifications so you don't miss our next episode on fostering a sense of belonging in schools!

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at

https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Starring:

Kim Yaris, M.Ed, Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education

Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 01:44) Introduction

(01:45 - 05:12) The Impact of the Classroom Environment

(05:13 - 10:29) How Schools can Create a Sense of Belonging

(10:30 - 13:07) “Pockets of Greatness”

(13:08 - 20:38) Cultivating Strong Student Relationships

(20:39 - 21:14) Closing

Busy Isn’t Better: Investing Time Where it Counts Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

Ever feel like your day is running you instead of the other way around? In this episode of Change Starts Here, host Dustin Odham explores one of the most powerful tools for effective leadership: the Time Management Matrix. Learn how shifting from spending time to investing time can unlock long-term success—for your team, your students, and yourself.

Dustin unpacks why quadrant two (important but not urgent) is where the most impactful leaders thrive—focusing on reflection, planning, and relationships. He shares practical, high-leverage ways to invest time in teacher development, school culture, and personal well-being to create a ripple effect of positive change. If you're ready to stop reacting and start leading with purpose, this episode is for you.

Be sure to like, subscribe, and turn on bell notifications to ensure you don't miss our next episode.

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Host: Dustin Odham, Managing Director at FranklinCovey Education

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 01:16) Introduction

(01:17 - 04:53) Time Management Matrix

(04:54 - 08:04) Spending Time Vs Investing Time

(08:05 - 09:19) Making the Most of Your Time

(09:20 - 09:45) Closing

The Power of Words Mar 25, 2025

Show notes

Language is more than just communication—it’s a powerful tool that shapes how we think, feel, and experience the world. In this episode of Change Starts Here: Research Conversations, Kim Yaris, M.Ed., Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education, and Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education, dive into the deep connection between language and learning. They explore how small shifts in the way educators and students speak can impact confidence, motivation, and resilience in the classroom.

From the influence of strength-based language to the power of the word “yet” in fostering a growth mindset, this discussion highlights the science behind how words shape student potential. Kim and Jennifer also provide practical strategies for educators to reframe language, reinforce positive self-talk, and empower students to develop a mindset that leads to lifelong learning and success. Tune in to discover how changing the way we speak can change the way we learn!

Don’t forget to like and subscribe, and turn on those bell notifications so you don’t miss our next episode!

Download the Staff Booster for Developing Student Self-Efficacy!

https://resources.franklincovey.com/c/csh_ral_k12?x=uMEpy3

Starring: Kim Yaris, M.Ed, Associate Director of Research at FranklinCovey Education

Dr. Jennifer Chevalier, Director of Funding at FranklinCovey Education

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 00:59) Introduction

(01:00 - 06:44) The Deeper Power of Words

(06:45 - 11:27) How Language Impacts Teaching and Learning

(11:28 - 18:26) Reinforcing Feelings with Language

(18:27 - 20:06) Motivating Students to use Strength-Based Language

(20:07 - 21:17) “Yet” is a Mindset

(21:18 - 23:47) Gradually Reframing Language

(23:48 - 26:32) Responding to Student Resistance

(26:33 - 27:31) Closing

How CTE Programs Strengthen Communities Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

Leadership in education isn’t just about policies and procedures—it’s about putting students first. When school leaders shift their mindset to serve students and staff rather than simply oversee them, they create an environment where everyone can thrive.

Welcome to Change Starts Here. Join host Dustin Odham as he sits down with Dr. Toriano Holloway, Superintendent of Vicksburg Warren School District, to discuss his student-first leadership philosophy. Dr. Holloway shares the lessons he’s learned throughout his journey in education, the values that drive his district, and how he helps students recognize their unique strengths. From Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs to fostering community partnerships, he offers insights into how Vicksburg Warren School District is preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, mentorship, and shaping the future of education in Mississippi. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes!

If you want to learn more about FranklinCovey, visit us at https://www.franklincovey.com/solutions/education/

Host: Dustin Odham, Managing Director at FranklinCovey Education

Guest: Dr. Toriano Holloway, Superintendent of Vicksburg Warren School District

Time stamps:

(00:00 - 02:32) Introduction

(02:33 - 04:03) The Best “Worst” Decision

(04:04 - 05:33) Dr. Holloway’s Calling to Education

(05:34 - 06:41) Vicksburg Values

(06:42 - 08:57) Lessons Learned Along the Way

(08:58 - 11:23) Growing as a Leader

(11:24 - 14:31) Helping Students Find Their Voice

(14:32 - 17:47) Resources to Help Students Be Great

(17:48 - 22:09) CTE in Vicksburg Warren School District

(22:10 - 24:56) Comparing CTE and College

(24:57 - 26:52) Upcoming Priorities for Vicksburg Warren School District

(26:53 - 29:45) The Progress Happening in Vicksburg Warren School District

(29:46 - 31:40) Shaping Education in Mississippi

(31:41 - 38:23) Advice and Encouragement for Superintendents

(38:24 - 42:27) Building Community Partnerships and Special Shoutouts

(42:28 - 43:57) Hope for Legacy

(43:58 - 49:19) Rapid Fire Questions

(49:20 - 50:31) Learn More About the Vicksburg Warren School District

(50:32 - 52:41) Closing

Hashtags:

#EducationLeadership #FutureLeaders #BuildingLeaders #StudentSuccess #LeadershipDevelopment #TrustAndGrowth #EducationMatters #Mentorship #SchoolLeadership #SuperintendentInsights

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