Principal Pep Talks
Listen to feel inspired, validated, and appreciated in under 10 minutes. With wisdom, candor and humor, Sage B. Hobbs shares real stories from more than 20 years in education, coupled with current research and tools that you can actually use to improve your practice (and your happiness). Sage is an executive coach for school principals (and other do-good leaders), a retired school counselor, keynote speaker, author and facilitator. She’s an expert in communication and emotional intelligence, who leans into challenging topics and advocates for equity in education and beyond. As a lifelong educator, married to a lifelong educator, raising kids - this show is a big THANK YOU to tireless educators everywhere.
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Principal Pep Talks: How Vulnerable Leadership Transformed Trust in Education with Dr. Tiffany Rehbein
04/21/2026
Principal Pep Talks: How Vulnerable Leadership Transformed Trust in Education with Dr. Tiffany Rehbein
Ever since I started coaching school leaders, I’ve been inspired by their ability to juggle a million demands, build relationships with diverse constituents, and keep their focus on student learning as the primary goal through it all. I’ve been fortunate to work with Dr. Tiffany Rehbein for a few years and now I have the honor of sharing her journey in educational leadership here on the show! Dr. Rehbein openly discusses the challenges of feeling overwhelmed, the importance of self-care, and the power of vulnerability in building trust with staff. She emphasizes the need for effective communication and the significance of using one's voice in leadership roles. Dr. Rehbein also expresses hope for the future of school leadership, highlighting the importance of student voices and mentorship in shaping the next generation of educators. Listen to hear Dr. Rehbein talk about: Leadership often comes with feelings of overwhelm and how reflection can mitigate that feeling. Prioritizing tasks is essential for effective leadership and how she’s figured out how to do it when a million things are coming at you. Self-care habits are crucial for maintaining wellbeing. For her, it’s outdoor time, yoga, reading, journaling… even though she’s from “old school Montana, where yoga wasn’t a thing.” How admitting that she messed up changed everything with trust on her teams. Writing her story for her local newspaper and how sharing her story humanized her in the superintendent role. How she’s gotten out into the community to build relationships with the schools more actively…“Oh, it’s really you!” Why student voices are key to understanding educational needs. Rural schools and leadership - how it’s different. How she uses courage to try new things in her own growth and leadership. What gives her hope about the future of schools BIO Dr. Tiffany Rehbein is an accomplished educational leader with over 20 years of experience dedicated to student success and curriculum innovation. Currently serving as the Superintendent of the Anaconda School District in Anaconda, Montana, Dr. Rehbein's career includes roles as a teacher, instructional coach, district administrator, and principal. A proud Montanan, Dr. Rehbein was born and raised in Richey, Montana, (pop. 161) and earned degrees from the University of Montana, including bachelor's in Journalism and English Literature and an M.A. in English Teaching. Her doctorate is in Curriculum and Instruction. Beyond her commitment to education, she is passionate about the Montana Grizzlies and the Colorado Rockies, and she is a fan of poetry, books, and writing. Dr. Rehbein has a wife and two sons, both of whom are on college wrestling teams. Resources mentioned: Charlie Donlea, Guess Again Brene Brown, Strong Ground: The Lessons of Daring Leadership, the Tenacity of Paradox, and the Wisdom of the Human Spirit Silvia Moreno-Garcia, The Intrigue (* the author's name was incorrect in the interview) Laramie Dean, Haunt Me, Then (they went to high school together) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Overwhelm 03:01 Leadership Habits and Wellbeing 06:04 The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership 12:02 Building Trust Through Communication 17:51 Finding Your Voice as a Leader 21:04 Hope for the Future of School Leadership 24:02 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
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EP 15 “Reminder: Your Job Is Not Your Life” Pep Talk
04/04/2024
EP 15 “Reminder: Your Job Is Not Your Life” Pep Talk
“You will like your job more, and have more happiness in your life, if your life is bigger than your work.” - Sage In the concluding episode of our 15-part series, we delve into the theme of crafting an identity beyond our professional roles. I share insights from my own journey, transitioning from a decade-long career in school counseling, and the profound self-discoveries that came with it. To wrap up, I offer a reflective exercise designed to encourage you to contemplate your identity beyond work. Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk: Exploring the deep connection between our jobs and our sense of self Lessons learned from my personal shift in career paths and the impact on my identity A final, thought-provoking exercise to inspire and empower you Connect and find more resources: Let’s connect on ! Love the show? Please tell all your colleagues about it! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :)
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EP 14 “Your Communication Can Be a Superpower or a Toxin” Pep Talk
04/03/2024
EP 14 “Your Communication Can Be a Superpower or a Toxin” Pep Talk
“People are messy. Human beings are complicated. We're big balls of feelings and reactivity. So communication is really hard, it's nuanced. It has subtlety, it has artistry. But it also has skills that can be learned.” - Sage In this episode, we delve into the essence of communication and the art of doing it effectively. I share the tenets of the Communication for Connection framework so you can have a tangible tool to implement in your crucial roles. Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk: What it means to communicate for connection 5 key components of this powerful framework Why compassion is both critical and challenging Connect and find more resources: Let’s connect on ! Love the show? Please tell all your colleagues about it! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :)
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EP 13 "This Job Is Impossible!" Pep Talk
04/02/2024
EP 13 "This Job Is Impossible!" Pep Talk
“Yes, you have to attend to this crazy job and all that comes up. But, how you attend to all the things matters.” - Sage In this episode, we look at what we can do to counter the endless things that get thrown at you as a principal. I emphasize the critical nature of HOW you tackle your various responsibilities and obstacles and why it’s essential to deliberately make time to embrace and appreciate the joy inherent in your role. Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk: The importance of HOW you address everything on your plate Cultivating your emotional intelligence skills Carving out time for the joy in your job Connect and find more resources: Let’s connect on ! Love the show? Please tell all your colleagues about it! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :)
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EP 12 "Leading Schools in Politically Charged Times" Pep Talk
04/01/2024
EP 12 "Leading Schools in Politically Charged Times" Pep Talk
“I've heard again and again [leaders] wondering how to manage supervising school events if it becomes legal for parents to carry guns to these events. Again, there's no training on this.” - Sage In this episode, I highlight the pressures of polarizing cultural events using a real example of a principal who navigated the controversy of a Black Lives Matter poster in a teacher's classroom. As we touch upon modern dilemmas faced by educators, I remind you that school leaders are tasked with dealing with WAY more than most graduate programs provide in terms of conflict resolution and de-escalation. AND, despite that, you've still got what it takes! Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk: The complex challenges of modern education The pressure for school leaders to maintain a productive learning environment despite unprecedented political circumstances How to navigate real time challenges when politics and strong beliefs enter the school culture Connect and find more resources: Let’s connect on ! Love the show? Please tell all your friends and colleagues about it! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :)
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EP 11 "I'm Drowning and Overwhelmed!" Pep Talk
03/31/2024
EP 11 "I'm Drowning and Overwhelmed!" Pep Talk
“...If you really were in danger and facing down a lion, you would be breathing heavily, probably out of your mouth. So, when we breathe deeply through our nose, we can automatically send a message to our body that we’re safe. We're okay.” - Sage In this episode we talk about what you can do right now to mitigate feeling like you're drowning in your job. I give three “nuggets” to try in your day- to-day and, as always, leave you with a reminder of how ridiculously important the work you do is! Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk: We reiterate the importance of breathing from episode three “Peeing Meditation.” Being resourced. When you feel like you're in over your head, who or what could help? The four D’s of productivity and seeing what's most urgent in a situation. Connect and find more resources: Let’s connect on ! Love the show? Please tell all your friends and colleagues about it! And rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :)
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Episode 10 "Non-Defensiveness: The 3rd Thing that Will Improve Your Leadership" Pep Talk
03/21/2024
Episode 10 "Non-Defensiveness: The 3rd Thing that Will Improve Your Leadership" Pep Talk
“Often folks just need to be heard, and oftentimes it's not about you or something you did wrong, or even something that's inside of your control.” - Sage In episodes 7 and 9 I talked about the first two themes I’ve noticed that will improve your ability to lead well. Today, we're tackling the third theme… and it’s a tricky one. Our focus is on non-defensiveness—mastering the art of receiving feedback without taking it personally. Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk: Being a “punching bag” for angry parents. How do you, as a leader, handle input? How do you give input? What if the feedback you are receiving is actually more of an attack? Connect and find more resources: Let’s connect on ! Love the show? Please tell all your friends and colleagues about it! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :)
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EP 9: "Recognition: The 2nd Thing That Will Make You a Better Leader" Pep Talk
03/21/2024
EP 9: "Recognition: The 2nd Thing That Will Make You a Better Leader" Pep Talk
“In my work with leaders, I make it a point to give them clear and specific recognition when I see them utilizing a new skill, like courageous communication or self-compassion.” - Sage In this episode we follow up on our theme from episode seven: This One Thing Will Make You a Better Leader. We discuss the importance of authentic recognition and what it means to you, your staff, and anyone you interact with in your role as a principal. Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk: The (evidence-based) importance of authentic recognition. Tailoring recognition to different needs. A story of how I helped a principal I worked with implement this in their work and an invitation for you to try it too. Connect and find more resources: Let’s connect on ! Love the show? Please tell all your friends and colleagues about it! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :) Resource mentioned:
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EP 8 "Remember to Have FUN!" Pep Talk
03/19/2024
EP 8 "Remember to Have FUN!" Pep Talk
“Something that a lot of educators enjoy inside of the classroom is creating things to do with their students and their learners. And then they get into administration and it doesn't always feel creative anymore.” - Sage In this episode we emphasize the transformative power of fun and discuss strategies for intentionally infusing enjoyment into our work. Moreover, we advocate for maintaining an open mind, embracing the potential to infuse elements of fun into various aspects of our professional lives. Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk Having fun isn't just an incentive to do something, it can actually make what you're doing better. Designing fun into your work. Having an open mind about what you get to make fun. Connect and find more resources: On Love the show? Please tell all your colleagues about it! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :) Resource:
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EP 7 "This One Thing Will Make You a Better Leader" Pep Talk
03/18/2024
EP 7 "This One Thing Will Make You a Better Leader" Pep Talk
“You've heard about active listening. BUT, knowing something vs. doing something are different. You know this as an educator… our knowledge and behaviours don't always match” - Sage In this episode we discuss the importance of honing the skill of genuine listening, offering practical tips to bridge the gap between comprehension and application. Additionally, we examine techniques for tangibly demonstrating that you've truly heard someone. Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk The world is distracting! Really listening to what people are saying can be hard, but it's possible and beneficial for everyone. How “getting it” can be a game changer for conflict resolution and deescalation. How to show that you have heard someone. Connect and find more resources: On Love the show? Please tell all your friends and colleagues about it! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :)
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EP 6 "I Have to Find Coverage, AGAIN!" Pep Talk
03/17/2024
EP 6 "I Have to Find Coverage, AGAIN!" Pep Talk
“Don't go it alone and reinvent the wheel… The more constrained we feel, the more we think we just need to double down and figure it out.” - Sage In this episode we talk about a situation that's likely all too familiar: the challenge of finding coverage. What are ways that you can work through this issue not only in the moment, but in future situations as well? Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk The teacher shortage is REAL. What you can do to navigate a coverage issue (for the school’s sake and for your own wellbeing) How can fostering great colleague relationships help fight the challenges facing education? Connect and find more resources: On Love the show? Please tell all your friends and colleagues about it! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :)
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The "2 Minute Reminder" Pep Talk
03/05/2024
The "2 Minute Reminder" Pep Talk
"Pause whatever you're doing. Take 3 deep breaths. The work you do is essential. It matters. You matter." - Sage In this episode you get a burst of rejuvination (hopefully!) and a much needed reminder of your value. We also discuss the myriad challenges you're facing and how to regroup. Connect and find more resources: Let’s connect on too! Love the show? Please tell all your friends! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :)
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The "Get Out of Your Office!" Pep Talk
03/05/2024
The "Get Out of Your Office!" Pep Talk
The “Get Out of Your Office!” Pep Talk “We're not looking for perfection, we’re not looking for some dreamy pie in the sky, that's not what the pep talks are about. The pep talks are about reminding you what you already know is important.” - Sage “Rally support. I don't suggest doing anything in leadership alone. So rally your resources in your community. Rally support.” - Sage In this episode, we explore the idea of stepping outside your office to reinvigorate and draw inspiration from the diverse individuals and resources within your educational community. Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk: Challenges of being TRAPPED to your desk and emails How to break free and get out of your office How to enlist support (and counter isolation) Create principal peer groups Bookend your day with an “out of your office” habit Connect and find more resources: Let’s connect on too! Love the show? Please tell all your friends! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :)
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The "Peeing Meditation" Pep Talk
03/05/2024
The "Peeing Meditation" Pep Talk
“There're bodies of evidence around the power of intentional breathing and how mindful breathing practices can make you more able to be in any situation without jumping to reactivity (and decrease stress.)” - Sage In this episode we discuss the importance of incorporating intentional breathing into our daily routines, emphasizing its role in fostering responsiveness over reactivity. Drawing from these insights, we delve into the concept of cultivating small, yet powerful habits that promote resilience and enhance our overall well-being. Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk: How one school used habit stacking to bring mindfulness into their work day in a playful way Remember to breathe! (and why it matters) Learning to be responsive, rather than reactive How to form small, simple, and effective habits Connect and find more resources: Let’s connect on ! Love the show? Please tell all your colleagues about it! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :) Resource mentioned: James Clear
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The " You've Got This!" Pep Talk
03/05/2024
The " You've Got This!" Pep Talk
“The role of the principal in the US school systems has become increasingly complex and requires you to function both as managers and visionary leaders - moving between facilities issues, student learning, staff development, safety system - often without the time and support needed to improve your skills in these complicated roles.” - Sage In this episode we talk about the significance of consistently showing up across all levels of your job. We emphasize the importance of balancing the big vision with the daily details. Additionally, I share stories from the field that demonstrate how every moment presents an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk: You’re resourceful, competent, and capable. Research based practice that will improve your experience as a leader. You get to make a difference, daily! The power of listening as a leader. Balancing BIG, systemic change with the daily moments. Connect and find more resources: Let’s connect on too! Love the show? Please tell all your friends! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :)
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Introducing Principal Pep Talks...Let's go!
02/26/2024
Introducing Principal Pep Talks...Let's go!
“Educators are some of the most dedicated, heart-centered people that I have ever known. Working with school principals is an unbelievable honor.” - Sage Key takeaways from today’s Pep Talk Why do we need a show like this in challenging times? What’s in it for YOU? Support, resources, and humor. How Sage’s school counseling career informed her work in educational leadership. Connect and find more resources: On Love the show? Please tell all your colleagues about it! And rate it and review it on Apple Podcasts. Just a few short words really helps folks to find the show. Thank you :)
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