This week on the No Name Paper Podcast, we sit down with George Couros — speaker, consultant, former principal, and author of The Innovator’s Mindset, Innovate Inside the Box, and his upcoming book Forward Together. George is one of the most influential voices in education today, known for his blend of practical innovation, storytelling, humor, and deep belief in what schools can become when we center people, relationships, and possibility.

In this episode, George gets real about change, leadership, student-centered learning, teacher well-being, technology, and the joy of creating new opportunities. He shares personal stories from his time as an educator, insights from his writing, and why sometimes the biggest innovations start with simply rethinking how we show up each day.

We also play a rapid-fire game called “Innovate It!”, where George reimagines classic classroom routines in creative and thoughtful ways. Spoiler: You're going to want to steal at least five of these ideas.

This is a funny, heartfelt, energizing episode filled with wisdom every educator will appreciate.

• George’s unexpected path into education (yes, Billy Madison is involved)

• How innovation is really about people — not tools

• Why it’s essential for educators to rethink their own habits and environments

• Creating student-led, community-centered schools

• The difference a strong leader can make in a teacher’s life

• Why teachers should not stay in places that make them miserable

• The importance of guiding students in digital literacy, social media, and AI

• How portfolios and public-facing work help students grow

• What inspired George’s new book Forward Together

• Using humor and storytelling to talk about heavy topics

• His best advice for teachers navigating change

• A rapid-fire round of “Innovate It!” rethinking:

  • Parent-teacher conferences

  • Seating charts

  • Substitute plans

  • School assemblies

  • Book reports

  • Classroom job charts
    …and more!

George Couros is a leading educator, speaker, and author who challenges schools to foster meaningful innovation rooted in relationships. His work centers on empowering students, honoring teacher expertise, and helping communities navigate change with curiosity and courage. You can learn more about George’s work and writing at:

👉 https://georgecouros.com

Follow the No Name Paper Podcast for more conversations with inspiring educators, leaders, and creators shaping the future of teaching and learning.

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