• Episode 153: In AWE of Jennifer Womble
    Jun 3 2024

    Jennifer Womble believes in the value of education and leadership in today’s technological world. Her vision for transforming education includes creating high quality professional development for education in the technology space. Since 2010, she has served as the Conference Chair for the Future of Education Technology Conference (#FETC), the largest independent #edtech conference in North America, she specializes in developing innovative edtech events and hands-on experiences to engage education and leadership audiences and promote learning experiences, and implement modern pedagogy infused with technological tools. Host of FETC Webinar Series monthly and named Edtech and eLearning Top Influencers, and EdTech Digest Leadership Award, she serves as judge for the District Administration Top Edtech Products and Reimagine Education Awards. She demonstrates daily the value of community involvement, the pursuit of learning science and the role of innovative leadership. Whether leading, teaching or volunteering, she spreads her energetic spirit and inspires others to invest in our future—our children.

    In this episode, we discuss:

    • Importance of leadership in our schools to embrace technology innovation for our students’ futures

    • Jennifer’s journey from being a law school drop out as she says to finding her passion in education

    • Her passion for building community through the work she does in her role at FETC as well as more about the annual event so you can join that community in 2025,

    • Finally, Jennifer gives us a beautiful insight into her own resiliency as a leader in such a beautiful way after the experience of losing a spouse as well as building friendships and community.

    Jennifer on LinkedINJennifer on Facebook

    Jennifer on Twitter

    Jennifer on InstagramFETC Website

    Connect with Sarah Johnson:

    • Sarah's Website

    • Sarah on Twitter

    • Sarah on IG

    • Sarah on LinkedIn

    • Sarah on Facebook

    • In AWE Podcast

    • Subscribe to Sarah’s Podcast

    The ranking of this show is 100% tied to subscriptions and reviews. You can help amplify more women and reach more who need their messages by subscribing to the show and leaving an honest rating and review on your favorite podcast platform.




    Connect with Jennifer:
    Need a high-energy, authentic presenter for your organization? Contact Sarah Johnson for presentations on Going Beyond Balance, Leadership Foundations, Affirming Purpose, and many more.Review the Podcast

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    47 mins
  • Episode 152: Sponsorship Spotlight-In AWE of Tom Murray
    May 13 2024

    Tom serves as the Director of Innovation for Future Ready Schools®, a project of All4Ed, located in Washington, D.C. He has testified before the United States Congress and has worked alongside that body, the US Senate, the White House, the US Department of Education and state departments of education, corporations, and school districts throughout the country to implement student-centered learning while helping to lead Future Ready Schools® and Digital Learning Day. An ASCD best-selling author, Murray serves as a regular conference keynote, was named the "2018 National/Global EdTech Leader of the Year," by EdTech Digest, the "2017 Education Thought Leader of the Year," one of "20 to Watch" by NSBA in 2016, and the "Education Policy Person of the Year" by the Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2015. His best-selling book, Learning Transformed: 8 Keys to Designing Tomorrow’s Schools, Today, co-authored with Eric Sheninger and published by ASCD, was released in June 2017. His most recent book, Personal & Authentic: Designing Learning Experiences that Impact a Lifetime, was released in October of 2019.

    Prior to moving to his role in Washington, D.C., Murray served as an elementary teacher, middle school teacher, middle school principal, elementary principal, and at the district level in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. He is most passionate about creating cultures of innovation where teachers are empowered to create the types of learning experiences today's modern learners need to thrive. In addition to his role at Future Ready Schools®, Murray works directly with school and district leaders for administrative retreats, opening convocations, and professional learning days.

    In this episode, we discuss:

    • How our minds can open and grow as we learn and become exposed to other people’s stories

    • Tom’s passion for creating more inclusive spaces for all

    • And we dive into specific challenges female leaders face as well as ways Tom works to make an impact with his influence as well as shine light on the voices of underrepresented leaders.

    Connect with Tom:

    Thomas C. Murray Website

    Connect with Sarah Johnson:

    • Sarah's Website

    • Sarah on Twitter

    • Sarah on IG

    • Sarah on LinkedIn

    • Sarah on Facebook

    • In AWE Podcast

    • Subscribe to Sarah’s Podcast

    Review the Podcast:

    The ranking of this show is 100% tied to subscriptions and reviews. You can help amplify more women and reach more who need their messages by subscribing to the show and leaving an honest rating and review on your favorite podcast platform.


    Need a high-energy, authentic presenter for your organization?

    Contact Sarah Johnson for presentations on Going Beyond Balance, Leadership Foundations, Affirming Purpose, and many more.

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    48 mins
  • Episode 151: In AWE of Kim Strobel
    May 1 2024

    Kim Strobel is a renowned motivational speaker and author of Teach Happy: Small Steps to Big Joy, sought after by schools, businesses, and organizations worldwide. With her powerful message about the impact of happiness on well-being and the pursuit of fulfillment, she traverses the globe, sharing her insights. Kim specializes in empowering educators and professionals, equipping them with the necessary tools and strategies to shift their mindsets, reclaim their happiness, reignite their passion, and lead with purpose.

    Drawing from her extensive background as a teacher and curriculum director, Kim’s ultimate aim is to inspire her audience. Through her engaging talks, she presents captivating research, heartwarming anecdotes, and practical steps for achieving life-altering results.

    In addition to her professional pursuits, Kim is a devoted animal rescuer, having rescued 187 dogs. She is also an avid runner and has an unwavering love for life.

    In this episode, we discuss:

    • Kim’s incredible story about how she found her passion for serving educators from a dark space in her own life and how she began her own business,

    • Her passion for positive psychology and the content she provides in her recently published book, Teach Happy: Small Steps to Big Joy,

    • And you’ll gain some very specific strategies for boosting your own joy right here on the podcast with a happiness habit!

    Strobel Education Website

    Kim on FacebookTeach Happy Facebook Group

    Kim on Instagram

    Kim on LinkedIN

    Twitter: @strobeledKim’s Book: Teach Happy

    Connect with Sarah Johnson:

    • Sarah's Website

    • Sarah on Twitter

    • Sarah on IG

    • Sarah on LinkedIn

    • Sarah on Facebook

    • In AWE Podcast

    • Subscribe to Sarah’s Podcast

    The ranking of this show is 100% tied to subscriptions and reviews. You can help amplify more women and reach more who need their messages by subscribing to the show and leaving an honest rating and review on your favorite podcast platform.


    Connect with Kim:
    Need a high-energy, authentic presenter for your organization? Contact Sarah Johnson for presentations on Going Beyond Balance, Leadership Foundations, Affirming Purpose, and many more.Review the Podcast

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    34 mins
  • Episode 150: Sponsorship Spotlight-In AWE of Jim Wichman
    Apr 4 2024
    Throughout his 25 year career, Jim has demonstrated a deep commitment to fostering collective efficacy within each school he has served. Having grown up in poverty and even experiencing homelessness, Jim is acutely aware of the challenges that students and educators face every day. His innovative and dedicated approach, focused on "Respecting, Supporting, and Valuing," has led to ongoing improvements for students, staff, parents, and systems. As the former principal of a middle school serving 1100 students, Jim left an indelible mark on the institution, "shaking the world as he went by." In addition to his exemplary work as an education administrator, Jim has also established himself as a highly sought-after speaker and leadership coach, with engagements across the country. His expertise in organizational culture and employer/employee relationships has been instrumental in transforming school cultures and improving educational outcomes. Jim's commitment to education is evident in his service as Iowa's NASSP State Coordinator for four years, where he worked with elected officials to advance education policies. Jim and his wife, Amy, who is also a lifelong educator, have three children. Together, they form a family dedicated to supporting education and improving outcomes for all students. In this episode, we discuss: Jim’s passion for supporting leaders at all levels in educational organizations, His influences from female leaders in his own life that have helped shape his philosophies and leadership style, And we hear Jim’s energy for growth, learning, and supporting female leaders as he grew along his own journey to understanding the unique challenges females face in the profession. Connect with Sarah Johnson: Sarah's Website Sarah on Twitter Sarah on IG Sarah on LinkedIn Sarah on Facebook In AWE Podcast Subscribe to Sarah’s Podcast The ranking of this show is 100% tied to subscriptions and reviews. You can help amplify more women and reach more who need their messages by subscribing to the show and leaving an honest rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Connect with Jim: Inspired Edification Jim on Twitter Jim on Instagram Need a high-energy, authentic presenter for your organization? Contact Sarah Johnson for presentations on Going Beyond Balance, Leadership Foundations, Affirming Purpose, and many more. Review the Podcast
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    42 mins
  • Jolt 104: Awe-Inspiring Moments-Imperfect Consistency
    Mar 22 2024

    Sarah shares insight around how we can live our own history and the legacy we want through imperfect consistency. Leaning away from the idea of striving for perfection and moving toward self development in increments boosts our own sense of satisfaction and success.


    Maybe this is the jolt you need right now to begin living your own legacy with imperfect consistency.


    Sarah Johnson:

    • Sarah's Website

    • Sarah on Twitter

    • Sarah on IG

    • Sarah on LinkdIN

    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahsajohnson

    • In AWE Podcast: www.inawetorise.com

    • Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-awe-podcast/id1446046418


    The ranking of this show is 100% tied to subscriptions and reviews. You can help amplify more women and reach more who need their messages by subscribing to the show and leaving an honest rating and review on your favorite podcast platform.



    Need a high-energy, authentic presenter for your organization?


    Contact Sarah Johnson for presentations on Going Beyond Balance, Leadership Foundations, Affirming Purpose, and many more. Review the Podcast

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    23 mins
  • Episode 149: In AWE of Michele Webb
    Mar 14 2024

    Michele Webb has over 27 years of experience in education to include: teaching, administration and division-wide leadership experience. Having a business and marketing background, Michele has extensive experience in various industries including athletics, private education and K-12 public education spanning across four large school divisions. She has multiple credentials in facilitating workshops, keynote presentations, and coaching individuals to maximize their purpose. Her certifications include Maxwell presenter/coach; Gallup Strengths coach; Fierce Conversations and Covey facilitator. Michele has a passion to support individuals maximize their full potential. She has pioneered school and divisionwide initiatives that have resulted in sustained impact.


    Currently, Michele leads the leadership development program in Prince William County Public Schools. She continues to be an advocate to educate our children in order to make a difference in our society. She strives to develop leadership by instilling life skills, resiliency and how to be goal-driven and reflective.


    Overall, Michele strives to inspire individuals to realize and achieve their ultimate purpose.

    In this episode, we discuss:

    • Michele’s journey from business and marketing into the classroom and what has led her to leadership development work

    • Her insightful thoughts about keeping current in leadership topics and what it takes to lead today,

    • And her dynamic upbringing helped inform her purposed leadership beyond the scope of her leadership titles.


    Connect with Michele:

    Michele on Twitter

    Make a Difference Network–Book Michele and her team!

    Connect with Sarah Johnson:

    • Sarah's Website

    • Sarah on Twitter

    • Sarah on IG

    • Sarah on LinkedIn

    • Sarah on Facebook

    • In AWE Podcast

    • Subscribe to Sarah’s Podcast

    The ranking of this show is 100% tied to subscriptions and reviews. You can help amplify more women and reach more who need their messages by subscribing to the show and leaving an honest rating and review on your favorite podcast platform.

    Need a high-energy, authentic presenter for your organization?


    Contact Sarah Johnson for presentations on Going Beyond Balance, Leadership Foundations, Affirming Purpose, and many more.

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    46 mins
  • Jolt 103: Awe-Inspiring Moments International Women's Day 2024
    Mar 8 2024

    Let's celebrate International Women's Day 2024! Sarah provides a brief history of International Women's Day as well as Women's History Month in the US. You may be intrigued by the timeline and we hope you are inspired by the call to action!


    Source: https://www.un.org/en/observances/womens-day/background


    Connect with Sarah Johnson:

    • Sarah's Website

    • Sarah on Twitter

    • Sarah on IG

    • Sarah on LinkedIn

    • Sarah on Facebook

    • In AWE Podcast

    • Subscribe to Sarah’s Podcast

    The ranking of this show is 100% tied to subscriptions and reviews. You can help amplify more women and reach more who need their messages by subscribing to the show and leaving an honest rating and review on your favorite podcast platform.

    Need a high-energy, authentic presenter for your organization? Contact Sarah Johnson for presentations on Going Beyond Balance, Leadership Foundations, Affirming Purpose, and many more.Review the Podcast

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    11 mins
  • Episode 148: Sponsorship Spotlight- In AWE of Ted Neitzke
    Feb 29 2024

    Ten minutes with Ted, and you will be energized by his optimism and passion for leadership. You will also have an understanding of why the people who know him the best say that he is "contagiously energetic, insanely curious, service-oriented, and passionate about the young people of our world."

    Chief Executive Officer and Agency Administrator for CESA 6, Ted is a motivational keynote speaker who has presented to thousands of educators around the country. He demonstrates the power every individual carries to influence other people through optimism and cognizant leadership. Ted has been a teacher, principal, and superintendent. Ted is also the host and creator of "The Smart Thinking" podcast which is dedicated to supporting leadership in the classroom, the boardroom, and in life by sparking reflection, action, collaboration, and empathy.

    In this episode, we discuss:

    • Ted’s focus on family and his most important influences throughout his journey in education

    • His sponsorship of female leaders through the Women Leading Wisconsin conference through CESA 6 as well as his desire to grow a more equitable leadership landscape for female leaders

    • And we hear wonderful insights into Ted’s passion for education, service, and roots of his podcast as well as several powerfully reflective moments

    Ted on LinkedIn

    The Smart Thinking Podcast and more connections with Ted on CESA 6 Page

    Women Leading Wisconsin 7th Annual Conference

    Connect with Sarah Johnson:

    • Sarah's Website

    • Sarah on Twitter

    • Sarah on IG

    • Sarah on LinkedIn

    • Sarah on Facebook

    • In AWE Podcast

    • Subscribe to Sarah’s Podcast

    The ranking of this show is 100% tied to subscriptions and reviews. You can help amplify more women and reach more who need their messages by subscribing to the show and leaving an honest rating and review on your favorite podcast platform.


    Connect with Jimmy:Need a high-energy, authentic presenter for your organization? Contact Sarah Johnson for presentations on Going Beyond Balance, Leadership Foundations, Affirming Purpose, and many more.Review the Podcast

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    47 mins