#171: How AI Can Spark (Not Replace) Your Leadership 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

#171: How AI Can Spark (Not Replace) Your Leadership

January 11, 2026 • Becca Silver • Season 4 • Episode 171

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This episode dives straight into the conversation every educator and leader needs right now: How AI is reshaping coaching, leadership, and the way we build an Innovator’s Mindset in schools.

Becca sits down with George Couros, world-recognized educator and author of The Innovator’s Mindset, to unpack how AI can support real human-centered leadership instead of replacing it. Together, they explore how AI can fuel curiosity, deepen critical thinking, and expand teacher and student agency when used with intention.

You’ll hear George break down:

Why innovation is not about technology, but about creating “new and better” ways of learning
How leaders can build ownership by giving real choice and voice
How AI tools like ChatGPT can save hours of time while strengthening reflection, planning, and connection
Why discernment is now a core skill for educators
How teachers and leaders can model meaningful AI use before bringing it to students
What the rise of AI search means for school leadership, professional learning, and even hiring

This conversation mixes practical AI strategies, mindset shifts, and real talk about the skills educators and students need in a world where information is easy... but wisdom isn’t. If you’re a coach, teacher leader, or administrator wanting to use AI without losing the human heart of your work, this episode is your new favorite.

Check out more about what George is up to on his website!
Download the FREE Human BINGO card, here!

Start with connection, and everything gets easier from there!