The Wired Educator Podcast, Episode 262: "Answering Why" with Mark Perna

I first heard Mark Perna speak at Kalahari in Sandusky a few months back, and I'll be honest. I counted him out at first because he didn't come from a traditional educator's background. Five minutes in, I realized I was listening to one of the greatest educators I've ever met.

This conversation is a game changer. We dig into the engagement gap, the real role of AI in preparing students for the future, and how to give hope and opportunity to the bottom half of the class, the top half, and everyone in between. You're going to walk away with a fresh framework for helping students find their "want to" and build a competitive advantage that carries them for life.

About Mark Perna

Mark Perna is the founder and CEO of TFS Results, a weekly contributor at Forbes, and the multi-award-winning author of Answering Why: Unleashing Passion, Purpose, and Performance in Younger Generations. His book has gone through 14 printings in seven years and won eight national book awards, including the prestigious Nautilus Award. Mark is the creator of the Career Tree and Skill Tree strategies and speaks to tens of thousands of students, educators, and employers across North America every year.

What We Talked About

• Why Mark was in "the half of the class that made the top half possible," and why that makes him uniquely qualified to reach today's students
• The massive engagement gap, and why we keep treating Gen Z and Gen Alpha like previous generations
• The three parts of competitive advantage: academic knowledge, technical competencies, and professional and life skills
• Why a 4.0 student and a 2.5 student can both be wildly successful, or both fail, and what actually makes the difference
• The employer question Mark asks every audience, and the near 100% response he gets every time
• How to frame the importance of education so every learner sees the payoff
• What AI and the smart machine age mean for career decisions, and why adaptability matters more than picking the "right" field
• Why younger generations are not a problem to be solved, but an asset to be unleashed
• The power of creating space to think and reflect

Favorite Quote

"Younger generations are not a problem to be solved. They're actually a tremendous asset to be unleashed within your home, your classroom, and your place of business."

Books Mentioned

• Answering Why by Mark Perna
• Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill (Mark's most influential read)

Resources and Links

• Mark's website and everything TFS Results: markcperna.com
• Mark's Forbes column: forbes.com/sites/markcperna
• Career Tree and Skill Tree resources for schools
• The Calm app (Mark's daily mindfulness tool)

A Few Updates From Kelly

• Honored to be keynoting the Miami County ESC Opening Day this August. Welcoming teachers and leaders back to the classroom is my favorite thing to do.
• Big announcement: the relaunch of kellycroy.com is live. Everything is finally under one roof. Speaker, author, educator, podcast, all of it.
• Coming soon on the podcast: Bobby Dodd and Ben Johnson on Intentional Influence, and Frank Poland from Buckeye Career Center on leadership and organizational excellence.
• Four online presentations for the Ohio Leadership Advisory Council (OLAC) are on the calendar for next school year.

Connect With Kelly

• Website: kellycroy.com
• Join the KnockAbout Newsletter: https://chipper-teacher-8587.kit.com/
• Kelly's books: Along Came a Leader, Unthink Before Bed, Meditations of the Nativity, and Santa Every Day

Subscribe and Share

If this episode moved you, share it with a teacher, a principal, or a parent who needs to hear it. Subscribe to the Wired Educator Podcast wherever you listen so you don't miss what's coming next. And come check out the new kellycroy.com, sign up for the KnockAbout Newsletter, and let's stay connected.

Go out there, stay positive, and make a difference in the lives of others. You're awesome.

A quick note on the Amazon links: those are affiliate links, which means if you grab a book through them it helps support the podcast at no extra cost to you. Thank you.

Episode 260: Leading with Heart, Hustle, and Pride" with Mark Bagley

By Kelly Croy

This is the Wired Educator Podcast, Episode 260! I am so excited for you to hear this conversation. I’m sitting down with a good friend, a colleague, and a truly great leader in Ohio: Mark Bagley, the Superintendent of Van Wert City Schools.

In this episode, we learn exactly what it takes to lead a district with authenticity and how to make a real difference in the lives of both colleagues and children. Mark is a "servant leader" in the truest sense of the word. Whether it’s picking up trash, helping in a classroom when there are no subs, or standing out at the bus hub every single morning, Mark leads from the trenches.

You are going to love this interview. Buckle up!

A Great Week to be a Wired Educator

Before we dive into the interview, I have to tell you—it has been an amazing week.

I was recently invited to Gibsonburg Schools to share my book, Unthink Before Bed, for their Literacy Night. It was a blast. I shared the books I loved as a kid, talked about the "why" behind reading, and even did some live drawing of the characters. But the real star was my dog, Jedi. He showed up in a tie, met the kids, and did a few tricks! Gibsonburg even pre-ordered copies for the families. It’s moments like these that remind me why we do what we do.

I also want to give a huge shout-out to Joe Miller for organizing the third annual SEL Symposium at Port Clinton City Schools. We had world-class speakers, and the energy was incredible. If you haven't heard it yet, go back a few episodes and listen to my interview with Joe about how he built that event.

Coming Soon to the Podcast:

• Casey Cooney: We recorded a live broadcast about Rigor and Relationships in the Age of AI.

• Mark Perna: Author of Answering Why, talking about career and life skills.

• Ben Johnson & Bobby Dodd: Discussing their book Intentional Influence and cultural mapping.

Key Takeaways from Mark Bagley

Mark and I covered a lot of ground in this interview. Here are a few "nuggets" that every educator needs to hear:

• The Power of "E + R = O": Mark is a firm believer in the Focus 3 system: Event + Response = Outcome. We can’t always control the events, but we can control our response. That response dictates the outcome for our students and staff.

• "What Happened to You?": Instead of asking "What is wrong with you?", we must ask "What happened to you?" Understanding trauma is the first step toward regulation and learning.

• The CEO Program: Van Wert is doing something revolutionary with their seniors through the Career Education Opportunities program, getting kids into the workforce to learn real-world skills.

• The "Thankfulness Walk": Mark starts his day with gratitude. In a job that is 24/7, finding that space to be grateful is essential for longevity.

"The culture of your school will never be higher than the highest adult. We have to make sure we keep on raising our adults." — Mark Bagley

Work with Kelly Croy

Leadership matters, and let’s give the world something worth following! If you enjoyed what you heard today and would like to bring some of these conversations to your campus, I am available to speak at your next event, your kickoff, or your opening day. I love working directly with teachers, staff, and administrators to help you level up.

Reach out to me at: kelly@kellycroy.com or visit www.KellyCroy.com

Support the Show

• Partnerships: If you’d like your book, product, service, or website highlighted in the pre-roll, email me at kelly@kellycroy.com.

• Reviews: I love them! Please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. I read every single one and might share yours on the next episode.

• Share: Please share this podcast with your staff, colleagues, and family.

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to listen and make a difference in the lives of students. You're awesome. Have a great week!

Mentioned in this Episode

Books & Authors

• Unthink Before Bed by Kelly Croy

• Along Came a Leader by Kelly Croy

• What Happened to You? by Dr. Bruce Perry & Oprah Winfrey

• Answering Why by Mark Perna

• Intentional Influence by Ben Johnson & Bobby Dodd

Websites & Resources

• Wired Educator Official Website – Your hub for all things level-up.

• KellyCroy.com – Book Kelly for your next speaking event.

• Van Wert City Schools – Learn more about Mark Bagley’s district.

• Focus 3 (E+R=O) – The leadership system mentioned by Mark.

• Project Lead The Way (PLTW) – The engineering and computer science curriculum discussed.

To learn more about having Kelly Croy speak at your event, visit his website to connect.

Thank you for listening and for being part of this community. It is always a great day to be a Wired Educator.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

WEP 259: Lifted to Lead: Resilience and Advocacy with Dr. Stefan Bean Hosted by Kelly Croy

Episode Description:

In this episode of the Wired Educator Podcast, Kelly Croy sits down with Dr. Stefan Bean, Superintendent of Orange County, California, to discuss a journey of resilience that is unlike anything you’ve ever heard.
Dr. Bean oversees the education of over 450,000 students, but his story begins as a refugee of the Vietnam War. Stricken with polio and brought to the U.S. during Operation Babylift, Dr. Bean shares how a single teacher’s belief in his potential transformed his life. This is a powerful conversation about moving from a "deficit mindset" to an "asset mindset," leading with empathy, and the profound impact of lifting others so they can lead. Dr. Bean's new book Lifted to Lead is available now. Click HERE!
You are going to love this episode.

About Dr. Stefan Bean:
Dr. Stefan Bean has dedicated the past 28 years to serving Southern California communities and students as a teacher, principal, and school administrator. In June 2024, the Orange County Board of Education unanimously appointed him as Orange County’s 12th superintendent of schools—a position that dates back to 1889.
Dr. Bean’s personal experiences as an English language learner and a student with a disability have deeply influenced his educational philosophy. He is a passionate advocate for English learners and marginalized students, using his own story as a living example of what is possible when a community rallies around a child.

Lifted to Lead
Dr. Bean’s new book, Lifted to Lead, explores his journey from a Saigon orphanage to the superintendent’s office. It details his "Lifted Leadership" framework, showing how leaders can cultivate hope and unlock the potential in others through authentic relationship-building and support.

Key Takeaways
 * The Power of Asset-Based Thinking: Educators must stop measuring what is "lacking" and start looking for what is "locked inside."
 * Relationships are the Key: You cannot unlock a student's potential without first building a relationship with them.
 * Resilience and Agency: How to overcome trauma and physical challenges through the support of a "lifting" community.
 * The LIFTED Framework: A sneak peek into the L and I: Listen and Inspire.
 * The Trades and Career Readiness: Why meeting students where they are means valuing the trades and technical education as much as college tracks.
 * Artificial Intelligence as an Assistant: How we can lead the way in using AI ethically and responsibly to support student creativity.
Words of Wisdom for Educators

Dr. Bean reminds us:
"Education will unlock the potential in you, but more powerful, education will unlock the potential of others through you."

No matter what challenges your students face—disability, language barriers, or trauma—they need to know you have their back. Just like Mr. Geisinger did for Dr. Bean, you have the power to whisper potential into a student's ear and change their life forever.

Books Mentioned
Lifted to Lead by Dr. Stefan Bean (Connected with CASA and Associates)

Episode Chapters
 * 00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Stefan Bean and his 450,000 students
 * 01:11 – The incredible story of Operation Babylift and surviving the crash
 * 03:20 – How Dr. Bean’s father influenced his path into education
 * 04:58 – The "Gift of Gab": How Mr. Geisinger changed everything
 * 08:16 – Overcoming bullying and finding a voice in Washington, D.C.
 * 11:04 – Advice for educators: Finding potential in non-verbal students
 * 14:02 – Addressing chronic absenteeism and literacy challenges
 * 18:15 – The LIFTED Leadership Framework
 * 23:03 – Re-examining learning in the age of Artificial Intelligence

Connect and Learn More
To learn more about Dr. Stefan Bean and his work in Orange County, visit:
OCDE.us

If you would like your book, product, service, conference, or website mentioned or highlighted in the pre-roll of the Wired Educator Podcast, email Kelly at kelly@kellycroy.com.

About the Host
Kelly Croy is the host of the Wired Educator Podcast, a speaker, author, and Director of Innovation and Instruction. Kelly works with schools and districts across the country on leadership, culture, and growth.

Thank you for listening and for being part of this community. It is always a great day to be a Wired Educator.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

In this episode of the Wired Educator Podcast, Kelly Croy sits down with Greg Honchel, Educational Sales Consultant with IXL Learning, to explore a powerful idea that often gets overlooked in schools: customer service.

Yes… customer service.

Greg shares how putting students first, communicating with clarity, and building authentic partnerships can transform not only business relationships but classrooms, districts, and student outcomes. This is a conversation about leadership, intentional technology use, and how small acts of service create lasting impact.

You are going to love this episode.

About Greg Honchel

Greg Honchel is an Educational Sales Consultant with IXL Learning, partnering with districts across central and northwest Ohio. He works closely with curriculum leaders and principals to help schools evaluate instructional resources, align tools to student needs, and implement data-driven solutions with clarity and purpose.

Prior to joining IXL, Greg spent five years in education, including time as a Physical Education teacher and Athletic Director, before transitioning into financial services leadership. In each role, he focused on relationships, service, and communication.

Greg is known for his authentic leadership style, his commitment to students, and his belief that education is ultimately about serving others well.

What Is IXL?

IXL Learning

IXL Learning is a comprehensive online learning platform designed to support teachers and students through adaptive practice, diagnostic assessment, and real-time data insights.

Key features discussed in this episode include:

• Adaptive skill practice aligned to state standards

• Diagnostic assessments in math and ELA

• Teacher-created quizzes for formative and summative assessment

• ACT and state test preparation

• Integration with existing curriculum resources

• Vocabulary.com access for ELA subscribers

IXL is built to be teacher-led and student-focused, not a replacement for great instruction, but a powerful support tool when used intentionally.

Key Takeaways

• Customer service is essential in education

• Putting students first must guide every decision

• Relationships matter more than transactions

• Communication should be clear, human, and jargon-free

• Gamification can motivate students in powerful ways

• Intentional screen time beats passive screen time

• Practice may not make perfect, but it makes permanent

• Strong partnerships lead to stronger schools

• AI can be used creatively to explore big ideas

• Educators leave lifelong impact, even when they do not see it immediately

Words of Wisdom for Educators

Greg reminds us:

Most of us can remember our teachers by name.

We remember how they made us feel.
We remember who empowered us.
We remember who believed in us.

Even in February.
Even when the snow turns gray.
Even when energy dips.

What you do matters more than you realize.

Books Mentioned

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
by Stephen Covey

Greg highlights two habits in particular:

• Be Proactive

• Begin with the End in Mind

Both serve as guiding principles for leadership, service, and personal growth.

Episode Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Greg Honchel and IXL
02:19 – Greg’s journey in education
05:15 – The importance of customer service in schools
07:43 – Understanding IXL’s impact
10:37 – Teacher-led platforms and student growth
13:09 – Innovative uses of IXL
16:11 – High-quality interventions
18:40 – The value of personal communication
21:37 – Screen time and educational technology
24:10 – Words of wisdom for educators
26:57 – Fun questions and personal insights

Connect and Learn More

To learn more about IXL Learning and its offerings, visit:
https://www.ixl.com

If you would like your book, product, service, conference, or website mentioned or highlighted in the pre-roll of the Wired Educator Podcast, email Kelly at kelly@kellycroy.com.

Kelly is accepting applications for Coaching with Kelly. One seat is available starting in March. Fill out this questionnaire. Kelly will select one person to work with: Complete this Coaching Questionnaire.

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to level up and make a difference in the lives of others.

About the Host

Kelly Croy is the host of the Wired Educator Podcast, a speaker, author, and Director of Innovation and Instruction. Kelly works with schools and districts across the country on leadership, culture, and growth.

Kelly Croy’s website:
https://kellycroy.com

Kelly’s book, Along Came a Leader

To learn more about having Kelly Croy speak at your event, visit his website to connect.

Thank you for listening and for being part of this community. It is always a great day to be a Wired Educator.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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Wired Educator Podcast Episode 257

Lead From Who You Are with Dr. Joe Sanfelippo

In Episode 257 of the Wired Educator Podcast, Kelly Croy interviews Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, nationally recognized speaker, former superintendent, and author of the new book Lead From Who You Are. It has been 122 episodes since Joe’s last appearance on the podcast, making this conversation both timely and meaningful.

Together, Kelly and Joe explore leadership identity, consistency, self-awareness, and what it truly means to show up for others during challenging seasons in education. This episode blends practical leadership insight with personal reflection and encouragement.

About the Guest

Dr. Joe Sanfelippo recently retired after 26 years in education, including 12 years as superintendent of the Fall Creek School District in Fall Creek, Wisconsin. Under his leadership, Fall Creek was named an Innovative District twice by the International Center for Leadership in Education. Joe was named Education Dive’s National Superintendent of the Year in 2019 and was selected by the U.S. Department of Education as a Future Ready Superintendent and Personalized Learning Leader.

Joe is widely known for his leadership reflection videos and is the author of multiple books, including Lead From Where You Are, The One Minute Walk to Work, Hacking Leadership, The Power of Branding, and his newest release, Lead From Who You Are.

Joe Sanfelippo’s website:
https://www.jsanfelippo.com/

Joe’s book, Lead From Who You Are: https://amzn.to/4a6HOiB

Episode Summary

This episode focuses on the idea that leadership begins with identity before position. Joe explains why consistency often matters more than charisma and introduces the concept of the “mirror test,” encouraging leaders to reflect on how others experience them.

Kelly and Joe also discuss repairing relationships after mistakes, the importance of vulnerability paired with follow-through, and how leaders can better support educators who are overwhelmed. Joe shares practical advice on meeting people in their space, offering help that is usable and timely, and maintaining steady leadership rhythms regardless of external pressures.

The conversation also touches on comparison, social media, and why late winter can feel isolating for educators. Joe offers a powerful reminder that connection, even with just one person, can make a significant difference.

Key Takeaways from Episode 257

• Leadership starts with knowing who you are before focusing on where you lead

• Consistency builds trust more than charisma alone

• Vulnerability without action creates doubt, while follow-through builds credibility

• Leaders support others best by meeting them where they are

• Awareness and regulation help leaders remain steady in difficult moments

• Comparison distracts from meaningful leadership work

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and overview
01:21 Joe Sanfelippo’s journey and the origin of the book
08:56 Awareness, the mirror test, and leadership consistency
11:55 Consistency versus charisma
17:23 Repairing relationships and rebuilding trust
22:42 Supporting overwhelmed educators
30:31 Comparison, social media, and leadership identity
35:56 A message for educators during a challenging season

About the Host

Kelly Croy is the host of the Wired Educator Podcast, a speaker, author, and Director of Innovation and Instruction. Kelly works with schools and districts across the country on leadership, culture, and growth.

Kelly Croy’s website:
https://kellycroy.com

Kelly’s book, Along Came a Leader

To learn more about having Kelly Croy speak at your event, visit his website to connect.

What if this year did not just happen to you, but you designed it on purpose?

In this episode of The Wired Educator Podcast, I reflect on the power of goal setting, intention, and personal growth for educators and leaders. This is not about resolutions that fade by February. It is about choosing focus, taking action, and building momentum in your work, your health, and your life.

I share my personal priority for the year with a strong focus on physical well-being and explain why choosing one clear priority can unlock progress in every other area. We explore why sharing goals creates accountability, why goal setting is an act of leadership, and how community and collaboration elevate the work we do in education.

I also highlight exciting updates to the podcast, a powerful professional learning opportunity in social emotional learning, and ways you can continue growing long after this episode ends.

Episode Takeaways

It is important to have intention and take action.
Goal setting is leadership, not just personal growth.
Sharing goals creates accountability and momentum.
Choosing one priority increases focus and clarity.
Physical well-being fuels professional effectiveness.
You can start fresh any day of the year.
Community and collaboration strengthen education.
Innovative tools improve learning and sharing.
Social-emotional learning is essential.
Consistency matters more than perfection.

The Greatest Year of Your Life Course

Join my course here:
https://www.skool.com/kelly-croy-7161/about?ref=39319fa9311b45d6a2d867898975888e

When you join, you receive this course and all future courses and content. New content is added every month.

Free Workbook Sample

Here is a 14-page sample from the 135-page workbook, including a powerful template you can use while listening to this podcast:
https://kellycroy.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/14-Page-of-135-Sample-of-The-Greatest-Year-of-Your-Life-Workbook-by-Kelly-Croy-.pdf

Want a larger sample of the workbook?
Sign up for my newsletter here:
https://chipper-teacher-8587.kit.com/kellycroy

Social Emotional Learning and Mental Wellness Symposium
Hosted by Port Clinton City Schools
Created & Organized by Joe Miller

SEL Symposium Website:
https://www.pccsd.net/apps/pages/?type=d&uREC_ID=570812&pREC_ID=1100998

Register Here:
https://forms.gle/ZoSL9Rxu34d4dpxRA

Morning Keynote Speaker
Casey Cuny
SEL, AI, and the New Era of Rigor Through Relationships

2024 California Teacher of the Year
National leader in social emotional learning and artificial intelligence

Watch:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1dz6W1-pIjI

Afternoon Keynote Speaker
Kurt Russell
Many Rivers to Cross

2022 National Teacher of the Year
Expert in student-centered instruction, inclusive curriculum, and advocacy

Breakout Speakers Include

Paul LaRue, President of the State Board of Education
Chris Monsour, 2026 Ohio Teacher of the Year
Danee Pinckney, 2025 Ohio Teacher of the Year
Mark Lowrie, 2024 Ohio Teacher of the Year
Award-winning authors
Licensed professional clinical counselors
School resource officers

Bring a team of teachers, counselors, or administrators to save even more. Each attendee receives access to all keynotes and breakout sessions, a continental breakfast, lunch, and 6.5 contact hours.

Join us on March 20 in Port Clinton, Ohio for a day that will positively impact you and your colleagues and send you back to your school with practical ideas you can use immediately.

Order My Books

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Kelly-Croy/author/B076MYK9WB?isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=49175a34-693e-40af-9569-e1030e60bcd9&linkCode=sl2&tag=kelcro-20&linkId=c5e49c26b5baeecbe22834895e743af0&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

Explore All of My Creative Work
https://linktr.ee/kellycroy

I Would Love to Speak at Your Event

I love opening day keynotes for school districts and conferences, leadership workshops, and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections, improve instruction, and level up as leaders.

Yes, let’s make it happen here:
https://forms.gle/Svsgd4pug4KxvGXj7

Thanks for listening, and here’s to building the greatest year of your life starting right now.