#coachbetter
Building community in schools through instructional coaching. Wherever you are in your coaching journey, we can support you! Hosted by Kim Cofino, the #coachbetter podcast features inspiring interviews; case studies with coaches; real-life coaching calls; and quick strategic tips that you can put into practice immediately. We turn inspiration into practical reality so you get the clarity you need to move forward confidently - for you as an individual coach and for your coaching program in your school. New episodes every Wednesday!
info_outline
Celebrating Two Years of AAICIS
03/24/2026
Celebrating Two Years of AAICIS
In this #coachbetter episode, Kim chats with some members of the team from the (called AAICIS), where she is currently serving as the Executive Director. This episode is celebrating the two years of AAICIS! This episode was rexorded to share and celebrate some of their key achievements over this last year with you! They also wanted to highlight the many ways that the work of the AAICIS team is impacting international schools and educators around the world, and a little bit about the behind the scenes work with AAICIS - what it’s like to volunteer, and what our volunteers get out of the experience. Listen to this episode to hear from a few of the AAICIS A-Team members about their work over the past year, including: the ways that AAICIS is contributing to and serving the needs of the international school community how that work we have done with AAICIS have influenced the work in the individual schools of our community the developments over this last year that they are most excited about what it’s like to volunteer for AAICIS some of the learning has emerged for their team members as a result of our work Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Articles from Kim (Edutopia) (Edutopia) (The Learning Professional, Learning Forward) Books & Chapters from Kim: (book) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/40128990
info_outline
Recognizing Your Leadership, as an Instructional Coach with Dr. Chaunté Garrett
03/17/2026
Recognizing Your Leadership, as an Instructional Coach with Dr. Chaunté Garrett
This #coachbetter episode is about the ways that coaches can see themselves as leaders in their school community. This is a highlight from one of our favorite episodes from a previous season featuring Dr. Chaunté Garrett, former Instructional Coach, and currently Superintendent of a K12 Charter School in North Carolina. What we love about this clip is that so often instructional coaches struggle to recognize the informal leadership aspects of the role that they might be demonstrating - even without realizing it. Many coaches can feel a sense of imposter syndrome when we highlight the leadership work they’re doing - but it IS leadership work. Seeing yourself as a leader is one of the ways that you can make an even bigger impact in your school setting - but you have to recognize it first! This is why we frequently talk about the importance of understanding the macro view of your coaching program - embracing the big picture view is crucial to building a culture of coaching (alongside the work you’re doing at the micro level within your individual coaching practice). If you’re curious about the ways that you can embrace the leadership aspects of your role - and why your senior leaders truly value you at that level, this episode is for you! Find the show notes for this episode . Check out the original episode here: [Ep 158] Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Articles from Kim (Edutopia) (Edutopia) (The Learning Professional, Learning Forward) Books & Chapters from Kim: (book) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/40128950
info_outline
CASE STUDY: 6 Keys to Building a Coaching Culture with Coaches as Leaders Graduate, Tina Peji
03/10/2026
CASE STUDY: 6 Keys to Building a Coaching Culture with Coaches as Leaders Graduate, Tina Peji
This #coachbetter episode is another in our , with one of Kim's amazing clients, Tina Peiji. Tina is a highly experienced coach, a graduate of The Coach Certificate and Mentorship Program and Coaches as Leaders. At the time of recording, she had just graduated from Coaches as Leaders. Tina is also an essential member of the A-Team! These are designed to share the story of a coach, and the development of their coaching program and practice in their unique setting. Tina is currently digging into how to develop a coaching program at her school - from the leadership level. After developing strong coaching skills in her previous schools, she now has the opportunity to think about how she can embrace her leadership to build a school-wide coaching program. In this episode Tina and Kim talk about... The differences in the ways coaching has been implemented in the schools Tina has worked at The key elements schools coaches and leaders need to be aware of when building a coaching culture What coaches need to consider when starting in a new school How experienced coaches can continue to grow Her recommendations for all coaches Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Articles from Kim (Edutopia) (Edutopia) (The Learning Professional, Learning Forward) Books & Chapters from Kim: (book) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/40128910
info_outline
Navigating the Hidden Mental Load for Instructional Coaches with Kim Cofino and Diana Beabout
03/03/2026
Navigating the Hidden Mental Load for Instructional Coaches with Kim Cofino and Diana Beabout
In this #coachbetter episode Kim and Diana talk about the mental load that coaches carry - and may not recognize. This is a topic that came up during a previous #coachbetter episode with . This is something that, as coaches, we may feel, but may not recognize how it impacts our work - and the work that our coaching partners have the capacity for. In this episode, Kim and Diana will unpack what we mean by “mental load” or “cognitive capacity” and how and why understanding everyone’s (including our own) limited bandwidth has such a huge impact on our coaching practice and coaching culture. If you’re feeling like you, your colleagues or your coaching partners are at max capacity right now, we can relate - and this episode is for you! Find the show notes for this episode . Like this episode, you’ll enjoy this: Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Articles from Kim (Edutopia) (Edutopia) (The Learning Professional, Learning Forward) Books & Chapters from Kim: (book) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/40128890
info_outline
Stepping into Your Leadership with Fran Prolman
02/24/2026
Stepping into Your Leadership with Fran Prolman
In this #coachbetter episode Kim chats with Fran Prolman, author, educational leadership consultant and founder of . Fran brings a wealth of experience in educational leadership that is so relevant for coaches and middle leaders, and this episode is a deep dive into so many strategies, ideas and resources for all informal leaders! In this episode Fran and Kim talk about ... Sliding door moments - how to recognize them & what they can bring Recognizing your potential as a leader Key skills for all new leaders - in formal or informal leadership roles The difference between coaching and mentoring The importance of confidentiality in coaching Common barriers towards building a coaching culture This episode weaves together leadership and coaching in such an organic way. If you’ve been a long time subscriber, you know that as a coach, you are an informal leader in your school, and this episode really highlights that element of the role. If you’re working towards recognizing and building on your informal leadership, this episode is for you! Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Articles from Kim (Edutopia) (Edutopia) (The Learning Professional, Learning Forward) Books & Chapters from Kim: (book) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/39637745
info_outline
Making Instructional Coaching Sustainable with Ellen and Bruce Eisenberg
02/17/2026
Making Instructional Coaching Sustainable with Ellen and Bruce Eisenberg
This #coachbetter episode is about the enabling conditions for coaching success and is a highlight from one of Kim's favorite episodes from a previous season featuring Ellen and Bruce Eisenberg, Founders of . Ellen and Bruce highlight the importance of developing a school culture that supports a growth mindset and a coaching culture. If we don’t have the systems and structures to enable teachers to opt-in to coaching and we aren’t ensuring that coaches are focused on coaching work, it will be very challenging to build a coaching culture. All schools need the three elements of the Thrive Model for coaching to be successful and sustainable and most schools are missing at least one - is your school missing consistency? Watch this episode to find out! And if you want to learn more about the Thrive Model, access all of our resources at If you liked this clip, make sure to check out the full length episode from season 5: Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Articles from Kim (Edutopia) (Edutopia) (The Learning Professional, Learning Forward) Books & Chapters from Kim: (book) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/39637720
info_outline
CASE STUDY: Bridging the Gap Between Professional Learning & Classroom Action with Sarah Tudge
02/10/2026
CASE STUDY: Bridging the Gap Between Professional Learning & Classroom Action with Sarah Tudge
This #coachbetter episode is another in our , with one of Kim's amazing clients, Sarah Tudge, High School Curriculum Coordinator at the International School of Manila in the Philippines. At the time of recording, Sarah had just graduated from The Coach and completed her amazing Action Research around the impact of coaching - if you want to see the outcome of her research, make sure to check out on our website at We're excited to share this episode with Sarah with you because Sarah came to The Coach with a TON of coaching experience and she still learned and achieved so much, all of which was very specifically tailored for the needs of her school community because The Coach is so customizable for your individual needs. Sarah points out in this episode how valuable having a whole academic year to devote to developing her coaching skills was, and she truly made the most of it!. This episode is a deep dive into the ways that coaching can be the bridge between more formal professional learning experiences and actual impact in the classroom. Sarah’s experience and action research throughout her time in The Coach Certificate and Mentorship Program really uncover the ways that coaching empowers teachers to create tangible change in their practice - with support and without evaluation. Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Articles from Kim (Edutopia) (Edutopia) (The Learning Professional, Learning Forward) Books & Chapters from Kim: (book) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/39637680
info_outline
The Difference Between a Coaching Mindset & Coaching Program
02/03/2026
The Difference Between a Coaching Mindset & Coaching Program
This #coachbetter episode is about the difference between a coaching mindset and a coaching program. There is a HUGE difference between embracing a coaching mindset and building an intentional coaching program. However, because it’s quite hard to see all the layers that go into an intentional coaching program it might seem like if everyone has a coaching mindset, we have a coaching program. Although that’s a wonderful foundation, it’s not quite all it takes to create a thriving coaching program. Kim unpacks 5 key differences between embracing a coaching mindset and an intentional coaching program. If you’re curious about how to articulate all the pieces that go into a fully developed coaching program - and how that’s much more than having coaching conversations, this episode is for you! Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Articles from Kim (Edutopia) (Edutopia) (The Learning Professional, Learning Forward) Books & Chapters from Kim: (book) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/39637650
info_outline
Finding the Line Between Appraisal & Growth with Lindsay Prendergast
01/27/2026
Finding the Line Between Appraisal & Growth with Lindsay Prendergast
In #coachbetter episode, Kim chats with Dr. Lindsay Prendergast, who’s currently Assistant Director of the , and a best selling author. Lindsay was a teacher, administrator and a coach for many years before shifting to work with the Danielson Group. In this conversation, they talk about: Why appraisal and supervision is so important - and should be seen as a gift How appraisal has gotten twisted, and become so punitive Where coaching fits into this process Where the lines get blurry when administrators seek to bring coaching into appraisal How we can help draw a clearer distinction between supervision, appraisal, evaluation and coaching and growth Why the language and the naming of processes (like appraisal, feedback, and coaching) so important What schools (coaches & leaders) need to consider as they are working towards building plans for both appraisal and growth This conversation might be controversial because it unpacks so many challenging concepts that are a key focus in many senior leader conversations. It is absolutely essential that we have clarity on the difference between appraisal and growth. Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/39637625
info_outline
Creating a Culture of Coaching – Before Hiring Coaches with Leigh Miller
01/20/2026
Creating a Culture of Coaching – Before Hiring Coaches with Leigh Miller
In this #coachbetter episode we’re talking about building a culture of coaching. This is a highlight from one of Kim's favorite episodes from a previous season featuring Leigh Miller, Deputy Head of School at Munich International School. What we love about this clip is that Leigh describes what a culture of coaching looks and feels like from her time at a previous school. What’s especially interesting is that they developed a coaching culture even BEFORE they hired coaches. Even before they had coaches, they had a community where everyone (teachers, leaders, students, support staff) were encouraged to embrace a coaching mindset. And that coaching mindset created an open collaborative learning culture. And then they hired coaches. Find the show notes for this episode . Full episode with Leigh: Like this episode, you’ll enjoy these: I Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/39637600
info_outline
CASE STUDY: Growing as an Educator: Through Instructional Coaching with Getting Started and The Coach Graduate, Ana Cristina Lopez
01/13/2026
CASE STUDY: Growing as an Educator: Through Instructional Coaching with Getting Started and The Coach Graduate, Ana Cristina Lopez
This #coachbetter episode is another in our , with one of Kim's amazing clients, Ana Cristina Lopez. Ana Cristina is a highly experienced educator (currently a HS & AP Spanish Teacher at Daegu International School in South Korea). At the time of recording, she had just graduated from , right after completing the year before. These are designed to share the story of a coach, and the development of their coaching program and practice in their unique setting. We are excited to share this episode with Ana Cristina with you because Ana Cristina has done an amazing job developing her coaching skills and putting them into practice right away - in her current role as a Spanish Teacher. In today’s episode Kim and Ana Cristina talk about... Why coaching is so valuable to her - as a classroom teacher What surprised her when she first started learning about coaching What she thinks classroom teachers need to know about coaching to opt-in How she’s been implementing her learning in her current role What she’s doing next to prepare for the move into a coaching role Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/39637580
info_outline
Coaching is Not Mandatory with Kaitlyn Pettinga
12/09/2025
Coaching is Not Mandatory with Kaitlyn Pettinga
This #coachbetter episode is about the importance of coaching being voluntary. This is a highlight from , who at the time of recording was Assistant Middle School Principal at the International School of Panama. In this clip, Kaitlyn clearly defines the structure of their divisional leadership team - and how the coach and administrators work together. There are clear distinctions between the roles so there is no confusion, and so teachers know exactly what kind of support they can get, and from whom. This is one of the reasons Clarity in the first step in the . For coaches and coaching to be successful, there needs to be clarity about the role and purpose of coaching. Clarity about coaching being confidential, voluntary and not tied to appraisal is essential. This is what ensures that coaching is a safe space to grow. Find the show notes for this episode . Full episode with Kaitlyn: Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203350
info_outline
Intentionally Inclusive Practices for Instructional Coaches and Educational Leaders with Margaret Park
12/02/2025
Intentionally Inclusive Practices for Instructional Coaches and Educational Leaders with Margaret Park
In this #coachbetter episode Kim talks with Margaret Park. Margaret is an education equity consultant and school leader and Kim attended one of her sessions at the EARCOS Leadership Conference last year. Her session was so insightful and Kim made so many connections to instructional coaching that Kim knew she would have so much more to share with you, too! In this episode Margaret and Kim talk about... What it means to be inclusive How coaches and leaders can recognize their positionality Engaging those who may not be interested in exploring their positionality How coaches and leaders can be intentional about bringing a lens of equity and inclusion into their daily practices How coaches and leaders can work together to create inclusive workplace cultures This episode is full of concrete strategies and practices that you can use immediately to powerfully impact your own practice and your school culture. We all have a responsibility to create inclusive spaces, and coaches can be a big part of creating that culture in our schools. Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203340
info_outline
Data Dashboards for a Strong Coach - Admin Partnership with Andrew Ranson
11/25/2025
Data Dashboards for a Strong Coach - Admin Partnership with Andrew Ranson
In this episode Kim talks with Andrew Ranson, High School Instructional Coach at Shanghai American School (and graduate of ) about how he got started using a coaching dashboard - and how it helped transform conversations with his school leaders! We know that leadership support is a critical aspect of the success of a coaching program and the idea is to share a birds-eye view summary of the coaching work that has been happening in their building or division. When the building or divisional leader knows that coaching work is happening - and helping them move forward on their strategic goals, it immediately sparks more curiosity about what is happening and how they can support it. Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203330
info_outline
A Case Study: Moving from Classroom to Coach with Angela Mee Lee
11/18/2025
A Case Study: Moving from Classroom to Coach with Angela Mee Lee
This #coachbetter episode is another in our , with one of Kim's amazing clients, Angela Mee Lee, Early Years Performing Arts teacher at UNIS Hanoi, Vietnam. At the time of recording Angela had just graduated from . These are designed to share the story of a coach, and the development of their coaching program and practice in their unique setting. We are excited to share this episode with Angela with you because Angela has been on a year and a half journey to coaching with Kim and she has grown so much! She started in the course and discovered that coaching is so aligned with her educational values, so she wanted to dig even deeper, and then she joined The Coach Certificate and Mentorship Program. Angela is already applying so much of her learning in her current role (at the time of recording) and in her future role in a brand-new startup school in India. In this conversation Angela and Kim talk about... How Angela started her journey to instructional coaching What makes coaching valuable to Angela as a classroom teacher - and her early experiences with coaching with The Coach Mentor, Maggie Hos-McGrane when they both worked at the American School of Bombay! The surprises she uncovered about coaching as she was learning more What Angela was able to accomplish in just one academic year in The Coach Certificate and Mentorship Program How Angela is applying her learning in multiple contexts What she wishes she knew before she started coaching This episode highlights the ongoing journey that we take when we begin learning about coaching. Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203310
info_outline
The Importance of Creating a Coaching Culture with Steve Barkley
11/11/2025
The Importance of Creating a Coaching Culture with Steve Barkley
This #coachbetter episode is about creating a coaching culture. This is a highlight from y. This clip highlights how important it is for coaching to become a culture embedded in the school. This can not be work that coaches are doing on their own. We need to empower others to learn more about the practice of coaching so that as many people as possible have access to the amazing support that coaching provides. If you’ve been following the show for a while, you might have seen the episode from last season about the . If this episode resonates, make sure to go back and check that one out. too! Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203290
info_outline
Coaching the Person, Not the Problem with Reem Labib Tyson
11/04/2025
Coaching the Person, Not the Problem with Reem Labib Tyson
In this #coachbetter episode Kim talks with Reem Labib Tyson, experienced teacher, instructional coach, principal, and district administrator; now CEO and Founder of EDspired Coaching and Consulting where she primarily works with leaders as an executive coach. Reem’s extensive background and experience in so many different contexts gives a powerful lens to view coaching from multiple perspectives. And the focus of their conversation today is so important for coaches and leaders at all levels of experience! In this episode they talk about... How coaches can use mindfulness and a human-centered approach to slow down the pace of a very busy school day How to coach the person not the problem How and why leaders benefit from coaching, too How coaches and leaders can find presence, joy and novelty in their work This episode highlights a key aspect of coaching that can help all coaches - new and experienced coaches alike - think a little bit differently about the way we can create space for our coaching partner and focus on the person, not the problem. Find the show notes for this episode. Like this episode, you’ll enjoy this: Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203285
info_outline
Confidentiality with Transparency: Separating Growth from Evaluation with Kim Cofino
10/28/2025
Confidentiality with Transparency: Separating Growth from Evaluation with Kim Cofino
In this #coachbetter episode, Kim address what she means by "confidentiality with transparency". As coaches, we know that coaching experiences need to be confidential so we can create a safe space for teachers to be vulnerable, take risks and set authentic goals. However, sometimes we worry that because coaching is confidential we can never share anything that happens within a coaching relationship. So, what happens when: A coaching partner has success and sees an impact on student learning? Our administrators are curious about what we’re doing in our coaching cycles? Work that we’re doing with one coaching partner might be relevant or supportive to another one of our coaching partners? When we’re seeing trends across a division or subject area that would be helpful for leaders to know? We want to build interest in the impact of coaching by sharing coaching stories with the school community? We need to demonstrate the impact that coaching has made with people who manage the budget or the board? Listen to this episode to find out how to approach these situations. Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203270
info_outline
A Case Study: Finding Her Path to Instructional Coaching with Andrea Goodrich
10/21/2025
A Case Study: Finding Her Path to Instructional Coaching with Andrea Goodrich
This #coachbetter episode is another in our , with one of Kim's amazing clients, Andrea Goodrich, grade 4 classroom teacher at Concordia International School in Hanoi, Vietnam. At the time of recording Andrea had just graduated from . These are designed to share the story of a coach, and the development of their coaching program and practice in their unique setting. We're excited to share this episode with Andrea with you because this episode is such a great example of the ways that classroom teachers can embrace a coaching mindset and start building a coaching culture - from the team to the whole division - in one academic year. Andrea took everything she learned in The Coach and directly applied it in her school setting and it’s already created significant momentum towards coaching. In this conversation Andrea and Kim talk about... How Andrea started her journey to instructional coaching What makes coaching valuable to Andrea as a classroom teacher The surprises she uncovered about coaching as she was learning more What Andrea was able to accomplish in just one academic year in The Coach Certificate and Mentorship Program What Andrea is considering as she moves forward in her professional growth What she wishes she knew before she started coaching Find the show notes for this episode . Like this episode, you’ll enjoy these: Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203265
info_outline
Why Hire Coaches with Jim Laney & Sara Brodhead
10/14/2025
Why Hire Coaches with Jim Laney & Sara Brodhead
In this #coachbetter episode we’re talking about why schools hire coaches. This is a highlight from one of Kim's favorite episodes from last season featuring Head of School Jim Laney and Director of Curriculum Sara Brodhead. Jim and Sara define the benefits of coaching on so many levels: what the Board needs to hear, what motivates leaders, and the benefits of coaching to improve student learning. There are so many reasons for schools to invest in coaching, but it is a big investment. Understanding the value of coaching from multiple perspectives can help you advocate for coaching too! Understanding the “why” behind coaching is part of Phase 1 of the Finding Clarity. We know from our research that the clarity of a coaching program is the biggest factor in teachers and leaders reporting positive benefits to coaching. Without clarity it’s hard for us to recognize the impact and value of coaching. Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203245
info_outline
Coaching for Impact, Not Activity with Donna Spangler
10/07/2025
Coaching for Impact, Not Activity with Donna Spangler
In this #coachbetter episode Kim talks with Donna Spangler, who spent the majority of her career working in US public schools as a teacher, then coach, then chair of a team of coaches, then assistant principal and president of her teacher’s union. She also served as President of the Pennslyvania chapter of Learning Forward, and now works as a coach through Sibme and Executive Director of Edjacent, which is a company that supports educators and change makers. All of these experiences center around Donna’s passion for professional learning for adults, and this episode focuses on one of her key areas of expertise: coaching for impact (not activity). In this episode Donna and Kim talk about: what makes coaching so impactful for schools How coaches create meaningful change in teachers’ instruction and positively impact the school building and system the difference between measuring coaching impact vs coaching activity and why coaching impact is so important Why coaches might consider creating a coaching impact report How can coaches can ensure they are retaining focus on impact - rather than activity, especially when they might feel pressure to demonstrate "activity" How coaches can create sustainable structures for ongoing data collection. the systems and structures need to be in place for international schools who are building coaching programs the common pitfalls that schools (and school leaders) often fall into when building coaching programs This episode is a GOLD MINE of practical advice and strategies for instructional coaches who not only want to make an impact but want to be able to document and share that impact with others. (for this episode by Donna Spangler) Find the show notes for this episode . Like this episode, you’ll enjoy this: Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203220
info_outline
8 Red Flags to Avoid When Building a Coaching Program with Diana Beabout
10/01/2025
8 Red Flags to Avoid When Building a Coaching Program with Diana Beabout
In this #coachbetter episode, Diana is going to share 8 Red Flags to Avoid When Building a Coaching Culture - and What TO DO Instead. As coaches and leaders we are doing our best to build a positive and inclusive coaching culture, but sometimes we can be making some big mistakes without even realizing it. When you look back on your own coaching experience - as a coach or as an educator or leader, you can probably remember a time when something didn’t quite go as planned, or wasn’t received the way we expected. Sometimes, even with the best of intentions we end up making a crucial mistake. So what are these red flags when building a coaching culture - and what do you do instead? Find the show notes for this episode . Like this episode, you’ll enjoy these: Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203210
info_outline
The True Impact of Coaching: A Coach & Coaching Partner Case Study with Nikki Hume & Amber
09/24/2025
The True Impact of Coaching: A Coach & Coaching Partner Case Study with Nikki Hume & Amber
This #coachbetter episode is another in our , with one of Kim's amazing clients, Nikki Hume, an elementary art specialist, and her coaching partner Amber Shortridge, a kindergarten teacher, both at the in the Philippines. While Nikki was in she coached Amber as one of the steps in Phase 3: Grow Community. These are designed to share the story of a coach, and the development of their coaching program and practice in their unique setting. In this conversation they talk about How Nikki started her journey to instructional coaching What made Amber interested in being coached as a classroom teacher What their work together looked like and why it was impactful for Amber The coaching skills that Nikki developed throughout this process The outcome of their work together What Nikki and Amber think teachers and leaders need to know about coaching How Nikki grew so much in her coaching practice during The Coach Certificate and Mentorship Program Coaching and structured professional growth are very different, and this episode deeply unpacks the power and outcome of a true coaching experience. If you want to better understand the impact of coaching and see and feel what that looks like in person, this episode is for you! Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203195
info_outline
3 Tips to Make Coaching Successful with Diane Sweeney
09/16/2025
3 Tips to Make Coaching Successful with Diane Sweeney
In this episode we’re looking at three tips to make coaching successful. This is a highlight from one of . What we appreciate about this clip is that Diane highlights all three elements of the Thrive Model within her three tips. She touches on Clarity, Consistency and Community in this short clip. As you’re watching or listening, we invite you to identify which of Diane’s tips fits in which phase of the Thrive Model: Clarity, Consistency or Community. If you want to learn more about the Thrive Model after this episode, head over to our website at to get all the details. Find the show notes for this episode . Like this episode, you’ll enjoy these: Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203180
info_outline
Building Communities of Hope Through Instructional Coaching with Elin Kelsey & Ivy Yan
09/09/2025
Building Communities of Hope Through Instructional Coaching with Elin Kelsey & Ivy Yan
In this #coachbetter episode Kim talks with Elin Kelsey and Ivy Yan. Elin is an author, researcher and leader in the solutions-focused environmental and climate justice movement. Her mission is to spread wild contagious hope. Ivy is an experiential learning designer and facilitator advocating for the happiness and well-being of human beings and nature as a whole. Together they bring so much hope, joy and happiness to their work, that it is truly contagious! In this episode they talk about ... The ways emotions are contagious and how we, as educators and coaches can bring hope into our school contexts. How the world works in cycles and seasons, and how important it is for us to understand what season we are in, and how we can recognize that within our school communities. The importance of breaks, of being in nature, being vulnerable and recognizing the ways that we need to find space and time to heal Why emotions are important - even when we’re talking about facts How we are connected - and how important embracing that connection is. How and why we need to be shifting the narrative to one of hope. Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203155
info_outline
Building Teacher Agency Through Coaching Conversations with Kim Cofino
09/02/2025
Building Teacher Agency Through Coaching Conversations with Kim Cofino
In this episode Kim talks about how we can build teacher agency during coaching conversations - by providing structure to their thoughts. This episode was inspired by a conversation with one of Kim's clients in The Coach Certificate and Mentorship Program when they were going through the “In Practice” module of the course. They were starting to have coaching conversations for the first time and realized that even though their conversations with Kim during the Office Hours in the program felt so natural, there was actually a structure and a process that she was following, even though it felt so seamless in the moment! If we want our coaching conversations to feel seamless and natural, we need to create space for unpacking a lot of ideas, while at the same time providing structure - this is part of the art of coaching. Being able to make a complex conversation feel “easy”. Find the show notes for this episode . Like this episode, you’ll enjoy these: Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203125
info_outline
Season 7 Intro: Hot Topics in Instructional Coaching Across the Globe
08/26/2025
Season 7 Intro: Hot Topics in Instructional Coaching Across the Globe
This is the first #coachbetter episode for season seven of the podcast and Kim highlights 5 key themes that have been percolating to the surface in her work over the past academic year. All of these topics have been a big feature of the in-person work Kim has been doing, our global cohorts of The Coach, and the long term consulting work she does with schools. The themes are: Maintaining confidentiality (with transparency) in coaching relationships (and the importance of separating coaching from any aspect of evaluation, supervision and appraisal) The power of data as a pathway to understanding the impact of coaching The importance of case studies & sharing your impact within your school community; and Developing a coaching mindset and coachability on staff; Finding hope, joy and presence in our work in schools Kim is sharing these because so many of the coaches that she works with, particularly in our global cohort of The Coach, feel like they are alone in these conversations. They wonder if they are the only one who is thinking about and trying to start conversations about these topics in their school. If that sounds like you, you are not alone. Find the show notes for this episode . Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/37203105
info_outline
Refresh Your Coaching Practice Series (10): Looking Back to Move Forward 2025
08/19/2025
Refresh Your Coaching Practice Series (10): Looking Back to Move Forward 2025
For the tenth and final episode in the series, the topic is Looking Back to Move Forward as an Instructional Coach - a collaborative #coachbetter quick tips with Kim and Diana together . This episode focuses on the importance of reflection to help you prepare for the next academic year. The whole series has been about reflecting on your practice and this one will set you up for an annual process every academic year. If you enjoy this episode, and you’re curious about the others, please go back and listen to the rest of the series to learn about the Thrive Model for Sustainable Instructional Coaching so you can reflect on the Clarity, Consistency and Community you have in your coaching practice and program. This series is designed to be an annual refresh of your coaching practice - even if you’ve heard some of the episodes before, every time you listen, when you reflect back on your growth over the last academic year, you’ll be able to take something new away to apply in your practice in the next academic year. Download our free companion guide & workbook that aligns with this series at Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/36504150
info_outline
Refresh Your Coaching Practice Series (09):Mindset: Embracing Your Informal Leadership as an Instructional Coach 2025
08/12/2025
Refresh Your Coaching Practice Series (09):Mindset: Embracing Your Informal Leadership as an Instructional Coach 2025
The topic for the ninth episode in this series is Embracing Your Informal Leadership as an Instructional Coach. This episode focuses on the essential mindset shift that educators need to make when moving into an instructional coaching role. If you enjoy this episode, you’ll love the previous episodes. Go back and listen so you can refresh your coaching practice following the three phases of the Thrive Model: Clarity, Consistency and Community. This series is designed to be an annual refresh of your coaching practice - even if you’ve heard some of the episodes before, every time you listen, when you reflect back on your growth over the last academic year, you’ll be able to take something new away to apply in your practice in the next academic year. Download our free companion guide & workbook that aligns with this series at Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/36504125
info_outline
Refresh Your Coaching Practice Series (08): 5 Reasons Instructional Coaches are so Essential in Schools 2025
08/05/2025
Refresh Your Coaching Practice Series (08): 5 Reasons Instructional Coaches are so Essential in Schools 2025
For the eighth episode in this series, the topic is 5 Reasons Instructional Coaches are Essential in Schools. This episode focuses on the essential mindset shift that educators need to make when moving into an instructional coaching role. If you enjoy this episode, you’ll love the previous episodes. Go back and listen so you can refresh your coaching practice following the three phases of the Thrive Model: Clarity, Consistency and Community. This series is designed to be an annual refresh of your coaching practice - even if you’ve heard some of the episodes before, every time you listen, when you reflect back on your growth over the last academic year, you’ll be able to take something new away to apply in your practice in the next academic year. Download our free companion guide & workbook that aligns with this series at Let’s Connect: Our website: EduroLearning on EduroLearning on EduroLearning on Subscribe to our Join our Learn with Kim Read more from Kim: (book) (chapter)
/episode/index/show/eduro/id/36504090