The Elemental Educator Podcast

Episode 60: What Burnout Taught Me: An Educator's Powerful Pivot (With Phil Januszewski)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, Phil Januszewski shares why he's leaving the classroom after 20 years—and how he's helping educators rediscover joy, purpose, and motivation through positive psychology and dynamic keynote coaching. This high-energy chemistry and physics teacher-turned-speaker reveals how bold values, reflection, and reinvention can transform burnout into impact. ➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1 📎 Resources & Links Mentioned: Website: https://philjanuszewski.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilJanuszewskiSpeaks Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philjanuszewski YouTube: https://youtube.com/@philjanuszewski LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philjanuszewski TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@philjanuszewski X (Twitter): https://x.com/philjanuszewski Join the Positive Growth Lounge: https://mailchi.mp/efbb1914fa7b/join-the-positive-growth-lounge-email-list Email: Phil@PositiveGrowthLounge.com 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes with education leaders! 📩 Share with a colleague who needs this. 💼 Ways to Work with Tyler: Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses 🔗 Connect with Tyler: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator Email – tyler@elementaleducator.com 💬 Question for You: What bold change are you being called to make right now? Drop it in the comments 👇 Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator ⏰ Chapters: 0:00 Intro 4:50 Grounded Moments 11:52 Headwinds and Tailwinds 22:10 Ripples of Change 32:19 Spark or Burn 37:50 Listener Questions #EducationalLeadership #TeacherBurnout #PositivePsychology #SchoolLeadership #MotivationalSpeaker #ElementalEducator Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some links are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Episode 59: How to Inspire Teachers Without Burning Out Yourself (with Lauren Kaufman)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, district leader Lauren Kaufman shares how to ignite teacher passion and prevent burnout through mentorship, literacy, and bold leadership. With nearly 20 years in education, Lauren discusses how grounded values, mentorship, and reflection can empower teachers to lead.
➡️ Subscribe for weekly leadership insights: https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator?sub_confirmation=1
📎 Resources & Links Mentioned:
Lauren’s Book – The Leader Inside
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-kaufman-088576246/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenmkaufman/
X: https://x.com/LaurenMKaufman 👍
Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes with education leaders!
📩 Share with a colleague who needs this.
💼 Ways to Work with Tyler:
Website – https://www.elementaleducator.com
Leadership Coaching, Keynotes, & Courses
🔗 Connect with Tyler:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@elementaleducator
Email – tyler@elementaleducator.com
💬 Question for You: What’s one grounded value that guides your leadership?
Drop it in the comments
👇 Affiliate Links:
Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau
SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU
Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Podbean:
Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
⏰ Chapters:
0:00 Intro
7:30 Grounded Moments
19:11 Headwinds and Tailwinds
31:07 Ripples of Change
45:55 Spark or Burn
53:25 Listener Questions
#EducationLeadership #TeacherLeader #LiteracyCoach #SchoolLeadership #Podcast
Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some links are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Episode 58: How to Empty Your Backpack and Lead with Purpose (with Sam Demma)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau speaks with Sam Demma, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and founder of Elite Speaker Coaching. Sam shares his journey from athlete to educator, his powerful approach to mental health, leadership, and taking small actions that create lasting change.
Discover how resilience, mentorship, and taking responsibility for your path can unlock opportunities you never imagined.
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly leadership insights!
Affiliate Links:
Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau
SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU
Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Podbean:
Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/
📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sam_demma
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-demma/
Website: https://samdemma.com/tour-dates/
Email: sam@samdemma.com
Engagement Question:
What’s one small action you can take today to create a ripple of change in your life? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Timecodes:
0:00 – Introduction & Meet Sam Demma
7:15 - Grounded Moments
13:35 - Headwinds and Tailwinds
24:10 - Ripples of Change
37:20 - Spark or Burn
45:40 - Listener Questions
#LeadershipDevelopment #Resilience #MentalHealthAwareness #OvercomingAdversity #PublicSpeaking #StudentSuccess #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #SamDemma #Inspiration
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact.
🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions
Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions.
Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.
 

Episode 57: How to Lead with Trust and Build Strong School Communities (With Ty Arnold)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau speaks with Dr. Ty Arnold, an experienced principal and education leader, about how trust, visibility, and community partnerships can transform school culture. Ty shares his journey through education, the power of mentorship, and how embracing change has allowed him to lead boldly and build meaningful relationships in schools.
Discover strategies for staying present, leading through adversity, and making decisions that truly serve students, staff, and families.
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly leadership insights!
Affiliate Links:
Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau
SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU
Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Podbean:
Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/
📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources:
X: @Dr_Tyler_Arnold
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tyler-arnold-44b5a5b4
Instagram: el_jefe_de_ty
Engagement Question:
How do you build trust and connection in your school or workplace? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction
6:30 - Grounded Moments
17:30 - Headwinds and Tailwinds
26:15 - Ripples of Change
36:45 - Spark or Burn
45:50 - Listener Questions
#SchoolLeadership #TrustInEducation #PrincipalLife #BuildingCulture #EducationMatters #LeadershipDevelopment #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #TyArnold #StudentSuccess
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact.
🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions
Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions.
Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.

Episode 56: What Can Pirates Teach Us About Leadership and Learning (with Dave Burgess)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau speaks with Dave Burgess, New York Times bestselling author of Teach Like a Pirate, international keynote speaker, and founder of Dave Burgess Consulting. Dave shares his journey from educator to entrepreneur, the power of betting on yourself, and how passion, risk-taking, and creativity can transform the classroom.
Discover how educators and leaders alike can reject the status quo, embrace bold decisions, and ignite learning through innovative strategies.
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly insights!
Affiliate Links:
Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau
SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU
Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Podbean:
Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/
📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Dave:
Website: https://www.daveburgess.com 
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/BurgessDave 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dbc_inc 
Podcast: The Dave Burgess Show https://thedaveburgessshow.buzzsprout.com/1635715 
Engagement Question:
What’s one bold action you can take this week to build your risk-taking muscle? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Time Codes:
0:00 - Introduction
5:55 - Grounded Moments
17:10 - Headwinds and Tailwinds
28:10 - Ripples of Change
40:20 - Spark or Burn
47:40 -Listener Questions
 
#TeachLikeAPirate #EducationalInnovation #SchoolLeadership #EngagingStudents #CreativeTeaching #EducationMatters #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #DaveBurgess #LeadershipInEducation
 
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact.
🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions
Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions.
Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.

Episode 55: How to Create Inclusive Classrooms for Multilingual Learners (with Katherine Hamilton)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau speaks with Katherine Hamilton, VP of Programs at Ensemble Learning, about how leaders and educators can create inclusive, equitable environments for multilingual learners. With years of experience in curriculum design, federal grant implementation, and coaching educators, Katherine shares powerful insights into supporting language development, building classroom culture, and making bold decisions that drive meaningful impact.
Discover how schools can shift from surviving to thriving by embracing student voice, multilingualism, and equity-focused leadership.
🚀 Want more strategies for leading inclusive schools? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly insights!
Affiliate Links:
Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau
SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU
Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Podbean:
Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/
📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources:
Website: https://www.ensemblelearning.org
Email: khamilton@ensemblelearning.org
Engagement Question:
What’s one change your school has made—or could make—to better support multilingual learners? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction
6:53 - Grounded Moments
18:00 - Headwinds and Tailwinds
28:40 - Ripples of Change
37:50 - Spark or Burn
47:20 - How to get Buy In
 
#MultilingualLearners #InclusiveEducation #SchoolLeadership #EquityInEducation #BilingualEducation #EnsembleLearning #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #KatherineHamilton #LanguageDevelopment

Episode 54: How to Support Burnt-Out Teachers and Build a Thriving School Culture (With Brittany Thompson)

How to Support Burnt-Out Teachers and Build a Thriving School Culture
In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau welcomes Brittany Thompson, an experienced administrator from East Texas, to discuss burnout, school culture, and the challenges of leadership. With over 16 years in education, including 8 years in administration, Brittany shares her insights on transforming struggling schools, building teacher morale, and fostering student success. Learn how to lead through adversity, support struggling teachers, and create a culture that inspires students and staff alike.
🚀 Want to grow as a leader? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly leadership insights!
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/
📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at:
tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepreoccupiedprincipal
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepreoccupiedprincipal
Email: thepreoccupiedprincipal@gmail.com
Affiliate Links:
Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau
SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU
Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau
Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator
Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator
#TeacherBurnout #SchoolLeadership #BuildingCulture #EducationMatters #LeadershipDevelopment #TeacherSupport #SchoolImprovement #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #BrittanyThompson
TimeCodes:
0:00 - Introduction
5:57 - Grounded Moments
11:33 - Headwinds and Tailwinds
22:52 - Ripples of Change
32:08 - Spark or Burn
42:18 - Listener Questions
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact. 🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions. Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.

Episode 53: The Ultimate Guide to Conflict Management for School Leaders (with Dr. Jen Schwanke)

The Ultimate Guide to Conflict Management for School Leaders
In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau welcomes Dr. Jen Schwanke—deputy superintendent, author, and educational leadership expert—to explore how empathy, grounded values, and bold decision-making shape strong school leaders. Jen shares her journey from teaching to leadership, discusses the power of quotes and wisdom in leadership, and offers insights on navigating adversity and implementing change in schools. Learn how to lead with calm and intentionality, support educators through conflict management, and build a culture where values and collaboration drive success.
🚀 Want to deepen your leadership skills? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly leadership insights!
Affiliate Links: Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?via=tyler-comeau SavvyCal: https://www.savvycal.com/?via=tyler-comeau Keychron: https://www.keychron.com/?ref=TYLERCOMEAU Toggl: https://www.toggl.com/?via=tyler-comeau Podbean: Unlimited Hosting: https://www.podbean.com/elementaleducator Business Plan: https://www.podbean.com/pro/elementaleducator Connect with Me: Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elementaleducator LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-comeau-961a49310/ 📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources: X: @jenschwanke instagram: @drjenschwanke website: jenschwanke.com email jen@jenschwanke.com https://www.ascd.org/people/jen-schwanke https://www.amazon.ca/stores/Jen-Schwanke/author/B0B6MZ1T28
Engagement Question: What’s your go-to strategy for staying grounded during challenging times? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction
8:05 - Grounded Moments
18:40 - Headwinds and Tailwinds
30:45 - Ripples of Change
43:05 - Spark or Burn
52:45 - Listener Questions
#LeadershipInEducation #SchoolCulture #ConflictManagement #EmpathyInLeadership #GroundedValues #TeacherSupport #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #JenSchwanke
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact. 🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions. Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.