In this episode, I sit down with Alise Pulliam, Executive Director of Innovation and Technology at Comax Schools, to explore what it truly means to lead with a mindset of possibility rather than limitation.

Alise shares her journey from English teacher to a leadership role in innovation and technology, and how that experience shaped her belief that learning must always come before technology, not the other way around. We dive into the importance of moving away from a “culture of no” and instead creating environments where educators feel empowered to make thoughtful, positive decisions.

She discusses bridging instructional and IT teams, hands-on STEM and robotics for young learners, adapting to continuous change, and approaching AI and new tools from curiosity rather than automatic rejection.

A powerful part of our conversation centers on self-leadership, inspired by her favorite chapter, “Clap for Yourself,” from Forward, Together. Alise reflects on a question that continues to guide her thinking: What advice would you give to a friend, and are you willing to give that same grace to yourself?

This episode is a reminder that innovation is not just about new tools, it is about mindset, trust, and the courage to support both others and yourself.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why “learning first, technology second” is essential for meaningful innovation
• How to shift from a culture of compliance to a culture of empowerment
• The importance of self-reflection and self-support in leadership

Questions for Consideration:

1. How can you move from a culture of “no” to one that empowers thoughtful decision-making?
2. Are you giving yourself the same advice and grace you offer others?
3. In your context, are you prioritizing learning first, or letting technology lead the way?

👉 Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me on social media using #InnovatorsMindset

🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com

🎙 Full audio podcast: https://linktr.ee/gcouros

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📚 Books by George Couros:

Forward, Together:

https://a.co/d/99RGvl3

The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Music from Bensound - http://bensound.com/