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In this episode of the Lead Learn Laugh Grow podcast, host Randy Gooch converses with Josh Varner, a nationally recognized trauma-informed speaker and author. Josh shares his extensive experience working with individuals affected by childhood trauma, emphasizing the importance of connection in leadership. He discusses practical strategies for leaders and educators to support trauma-impacted individuals, including the significance of humor and storytelling in fostering trust. The conversation also explores the prevalence of trauma in society, the brain's response to trauma, and the need for resilience and perseverance. Josh introduces the 'relax, reconnect, reteach' approach, offering actionable insights for managing stress and digital addiction. This episode is packed with valuable advice for anyone looking to make a significant impact in their professional and personal lives.

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In this episode of Lead Learn Laugh Grow, host Randy Gooch continues his conversation with Dr. Scott Spurgeon, Superintendent of West-MEC. Dr. Spurgeon shares his insights on building organizational capacity through modeling behavior, fostering relationships, and demonstrating effective leadership. He discusses his bold vision for West-MEC, aiming to double its size and become a national leader in career and technical education. Dr. Spurgeon also touches on the importance of pursuing excellence, adapting to change, and his faith's role in guiding his leadership journey. Key takeaways focus on leading with purpose, learning continuously, and growing both personally and professionally.

More about Scott. CTE educational leader with 19+ years of senior district-level administration and 9 years of building leadership across diverse educational settings. Currently serving as Superintendent/CEO of WEST-MEC, a public CTE district in Arizona serving 45,000+ students across 12 districts. Previous leadership roles include superintendencies in Riverview Gardens (urban, 5,750 students), Belleville TWP (metropolitan, 5,000 students), and interim leadership of Rockwood School District (suburban, 22,700 students, Missouri's third-largest). Additional experience as Associate Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, and principal at all levels in districts ranging from 2,500 to 15,000 students. Demonstrated expertise spanning urban, suburban, and rural communities with proven results in student achievement and district improvement. Skilled independent educational consultant collaborating with districts to drive continuous improvement initiatives.

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Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Scott Spurgeon on the Lead Learn Laugh Grow podcast! Discover how Dr. Spurgeon's innovative vision is empowering students and pioneering new partnerships in the semiconductor and healthcare industries. Learn about the role of self-reflection, technology, and faith in driving leadership success. Catch part one of this insightful series and explore how you can lead with purpose and impact. 🔍👩‍🏫 #CTE #LeadershipInsight #EducationalInnovation

More about Scott. CTE educational leader with 19+ years of senior district-level administration and 9 years of building leadership across diverse educational settings. Currently serving as Superintendent/CEO of WEST-MEC, a public CTE district in Arizona serving 45,000+ students across 12 districts. Previous leadership roles include superintendencies in Riverview Gardens (urban, 5,750 students), Belleville TWP (metropolitan, 5,000 students), and interim leadership of Rockwood School District (suburban, 22,700 students, Missouri's third-largest). Additional experience as Associate Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, and principal at all levels in districts ranging from 2,500 to 15,000 students. Demonstrated expertise spanning urban, suburban, and rural communities with proven results in student achievement and district improvement. Skilled independent educational consultant collaborating with districts to drive continuous improvement initiatives.

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