logo
episode-header-image
Jul 2024
32m 16s

299. Simplifying the Journey of Leadersh...

Joshua Stamper
About this episode
In this compelling episode of Aspire to Lead, we delve into the creative process and inspiration behind the influential book "Simplifying the Journey." Discover the story behind why Bob felt it was essential to share his insights on educational leadership and we break down the six pivotal action steps outlined in the book, offering clear guidance for those seeking to navigate their leadership roles with confidence and purpose. We also explore the defining qualities that contribute to the success of effective teams, schools, and district leadership, highlighting the importance of fostering a positive and collaborative environment. Additionally, we dive into the concept of intellectual humility—an often overlooked but critical trait for leaders seeking to encourage growth and adaptability within their organizations. This episode provides a unique look into the principles and practices that can transform leadership from good to great, offering fresh perspectives and practical advice for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their educational communities.

About Bob Sonju: 

Bob Sonju is an award-winning educational leader, author, and speaker who is nationally recognized for his energetic commitment to coaching teacher teams and educational leaders in simple, doable processes and systems that create the conditions for lasting success. Bob has led two separate schools to National Model PLC at Work® status, and one of his schools also received the prestigious National Breakthrough School Award from the National Association of Secondary School Principals. As a district leader, Bob led the implementation of the professional learning communities (PLC) process in a district composed of over 50 schools. He is committed to making the work of collaborative teams and school leaders both simple and doable, as evidenced in his book, Simplifying the Journey. Bob was named Principal of the Year by the Utah Association of Secondary School Principals and was selected as one of three finalists for National Principal of the Year by the National Association of Secondary School Principals. He’s been published in various Solution Tree titles, including It’s About Time, Best Practices at Tier 2, and Help Your Team. His work has also been featured in the magazine Principal Leadership. Bob earned a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, and an endorsement in school leadership from Southern Utah University.

Follow Bob Sonju:


https://www.amazon.com/Simplifying-Journey-Schoolwide-Collaboration-Consistency/dp/195859007X?crid=HNIBZZBKDVNX&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.eKQeVWWeC10gZYrTkYmUTSVFxLp5PbkqYsXdZzr7iApasdTbgi4LC9Aw7ntaZGnxzYa7nfGfXd9MkzqNJNvrmq3Pew1T4laTHxuvQskEqvk.MmGWPZO7BEokjy211xW6z7HnSZNGorQf_CqvIF8CDOU&dib_tag=se&keywords=bob+sonju+book&qid=1722199524&sprefix=bob+sonju+bo%2Caps%2C193&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=ebf4f4ebf53ce5aefc6bf8ba1eadf887&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl —  Magic Mind If you are a long time listener, an ASPIRE Leader, You know I only work with brands that I believe in myself and I integrate in my everyday life, so I’m super happy to talk to you guys about Magic Mind! I started drinking Magic Mind a while back as I was looking for several things, specifically in the afternoon.
  1. A boost of energy
  2. Healthy Ingredients
  3. Easy to drink throughout the day

EXCITING FREE OFFER Try Magic Mind for free here: https://magicmind.com/ASPIRETOLEADTRIAL Use my code ASPIRETOLEADTRIAL in the checkout **Shipping is not included   Magic Mind Subscriptions Experience the power of productivity with Magic Mind subscriptions! Packed with natural ingredients like matcha, adaptogens, and nootropics, Magic Mind is designed to boost your focus, energy, and creativity. With a convenient subscription, you’ll never run out of this magical elixir. Say goodbye to afternoon slumps and hello to sustained, healthy energy. Subscribe today and discover why so many people love starting their day with Magic Mind! https://magicmind.com/ASPIRETOLEAD20  – 20% off for one-time purchases and subscriptions
  • Use code ASPIRETOLEAD20 at checkout for 20% off!

Are you a superfan of the Aspire podcast? Well, now you can show off your support with the new Aspire swag, featuring tee shirts, hoodies and a variety of drinkware. You can find all your Aspire Swag at www.teachbetter.com/swag Use Discount Code: ASPIRE for 25% OFF Tee-Shirts, Hoodies, and Drinkware: ASPIRE: The Leadership Development Podcast

Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD?

Contact Joshua Stamper  for presentations on Leadership Capacity, Mental Health Strategies, Alternative Behavior Practices, Leadership Development, and Innovative campus systems. [caption id="attachment_5128" align="alignnone" width="300"] Joshua Stamper, Speaking, Keynote, Leadership Capacity, Mental Health, Conference[/caption]

Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper:

Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2  

Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award!

I’m happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio!  It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175

Review the Podcast

I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. [caption id="attachment_3022" align="alignnone" width="712"] Teach Better Podcast Network, Aspire: The Leadership Development Podcast[/caption] This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.  
Up next
Oct 5
352. Empowering the Next Generation of Girls: Featuring Jill Peterson and Mary Frances
In this inspiring episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper is joined by Jill and Mary, the powerhouse co-founders of Girls Mentorship, an Arizona-based organization helping tween and teen girls unlock their confidence, build emotional intelligence, and navigate life’s challenges ... Show More
39m 25s
Sep 27
351. Leading with Relational Intelligence: Featuring Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket
In this powerful episode of Aspire to Lead, Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket, co-author of Relational Intelligence, joins me to explore how trust, empathy, and authentic connection transform school leadership. Together, we discuss how leaders can shift from transactional to transformational ... Show More
28m 19s
Sep 21
350. Finding Your Spark to Redefine Leadership: Featuring Danny Steele
In this inspiring episode of Aspire to Lead, I sit down with Danny Steele, veteran principal and author of The Instructional Leader in You. Together, we dive into what it truly takes to build a thriving school culture, stay inspired as an educator, and sustain longevity in leader ... Show More
23m 38s
Recommended Episodes
Aug 2022
Episode 34: Teaching Champions with Brian Martin
Brian Martin is a second grade teacher and has taught for 20 years in a rural district in Western New York. He is a former assistant coach for his school’s boys varsity basketball team and veteran of the United States Army having served in Iraq. He is the Host of the Teaching Cha ... Show More
57m 26s
Jun 2024
How to Become a Great Leader with David Novak
Unlock the Secrets of Leadership Mastery with Ed Mylett and David Novak! Leadership isn't just a role; it's a journey of constant learning and adaptation. This week, I'm excited to host David Novak, the legendary co-founder and former CEO of Yum! Brands, on a deep dive into the d ... Show More
1h 5m
Jan 2025
359: Traditional Leadership Is Failing and How High-Performing X Teams Innovate and Excel
🔥 What used to work in leadership doesn’t anymore. Learn what kind of leadership communication actually yields innovative results and growth.As a high-performing leader, you’re constantly juggling responsibilities while navigating rapid change. But what if the key to staying ahe ... Show More
28m 15s
May 2022
Episode 16: Actually, I CAN with Dr. Lori Koerner
Dr. Lori Koerner has been in the field of education for three decades. She spent the first 26 years of her career as an elementary school teacher, having taught every grade.  She is a Fulbright Specialist Scholar, and served as an adjunct professor of special education at several ... Show More
50m 22s
Feb 2025
How to Develop Leaders
It’s one thing to have a lot of followers, but it’s much better to develop leaders! In this episode, John Maxwell is sharing a lesson on how to successfully create other leaders in your business or organization. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede discuss what John has sh ... Show More
37m 40s
Feb 2025
Become a World-Class Leader
In this episode, John Maxwell dives into how he became a world-class leader and offers practical steps for you to become one too! After his lesson, Mark Cole and Traci Morrow sit down to talk about what John has shared and help you to apply it to your own life and leadership. Key ... Show More
37m 30s
Apr 2025
730: How to Take Initiative, with Tom Henschel
Tom Henschel: The Look & Sound of Leadership Tom Henschel of Essential Communications supports senior leaders and executive teams. An internationally recognized expert in the field of workplace communications and self-presentation, he has helped thousands of leaders achieve excel ... Show More
36m 16s
Aug 2024
Are You Ready to Be a Leader?
What distinguishes a leader? How do you know if you’re ready to lead? And how do you make the transition into a leadership role? The shift from being part of a team to leading one isn’t like flipping a switch. It’s a process, and it can be awkward. It can be especially difficult ... Show More
59m 7s
Nov 2024
Leaning into Leadership
This week, we're looking at leadership. What does it truly mean to be a good leader? Maybe you're actively seeking leadership roles, or perhaps it's something you’ve never considered before. Leadership, after all, isn't just about holding a title—it’s about how we influence and i ... Show More
32m 27s
Oct 1
What Happens When You Help Others Win
The first step toward helping someone become their best is to help them believe that they can. In this week’s episode, John Maxwell shares the influential power of giving others a win! After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson unpack his insights so you can apply them direct ... Show More
33m 18s