#146: Stop Hoping, Start Coaching For It: Why Optimism Isn’t Optional Artwork

Coaching the Whole Educator

Coaching the Whole Educator is a podcast for instructional coaches, teacher leaders, and school leaders who want to strengthen their educators’ effectiveness and resilience, especially the ones who need it most. Each week, you’ll hear quick tips, proven strategies, and coaching mindsets designed to keep you on top of your coaching game.

This show is rooted in a human-centered approach, where we get things done through people’s humanity, not around it. Whether you’re new to instructional coaching or a seasoned instructional coach or leader looking for fresh perspective, you’ll learn how to focus on the mindsets and motivations driving unproductive behaviors. By getting to the root of resistance, you’ll discover how to build stronger relationships, lead with clarity, and create lasting impact in your school.

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Coaching the Whole Educator

#146: Stop Hoping, Start Coaching For It: Why Optimism Isn’t Optional

July 20, 2025 • Becca Silver • Season 3 • Episode 143

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**Check out The Resistance Remedy HERE!**

Can you lead with optimism without slipping into toxic positivity? In this episode, Jason Adair from Southern Regional Education Board and I unpack what real optimism looks like in schools—and why it’s a critical ingredient in the Ownership Mindset.

We explore the difference between sugarcoated cheerleading and grounded, actionable hope. Drawing on the work of Simon Sinek and Martin Seligman, they highlight how coaches can model optimism, build agency, and support accountability—especially when the system feels heavy.

Because without optimism, coaching becomes blind compliance.

**Check out The Resistance Remedy HERE!**

To Learn more about Jason's organization, SREB (Southern Regional Education Board), check it out here: https://www.sreb.org/