In this episode, I sit down with Julia Bialeski to explore what it means to lead with authenticity, sustain hope, and focus on people in today’s schools. Drawing from her book Leading With Grace, Julia shares practical insights for leaders at every stage, from new principals navigating imposter syndrome to experienced educators working through burnout.

Our conversation highlights why authenticity matters in leadership, how hope helps school communities navigate challenge and change, and what leaders can do differently to support recruitment and retention in teacher education. Julia offers real examples and actionable strategies for building trust, strengthening communication, and leading with empathy, even in high-pressure moments.

This episode is especially valuable for principals, district leaders, teacher educators, and aspiring administrators who want to grow their leadership practice while keeping relationships, culture, and purpose at the center of their work.

Topics include:

• Why authenticity builds trust and credibility

• The role of hope in sustaining educators and school communities

• Practical strategies for teacher recruitment and retention

• Supporting new leaders through self-doubt and uncertainty

• Leading people with clarity, empathy, and confidence

Connect with Julia Bialeski on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-bialeski-7a4a122a9/

Find her book, Leading With Grace, on Amazon: https://a.co/d/016m48U

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🌐 More at: https://georgecouros.com

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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/