In this episode of "Better Teaching: Only Stuff That Works," host Gene Tavernetti sits down with veteran educator James Hardin. With over 20 years of experience as a principal, James shares actionable insights and personal anecdotes from his career. Topics include effective administration across various school settings, the importance of focused instruction, fostering teacher growth through coaching, and the critical role of leadership in educational success. James emphasizes the need for principals to be both instructional leaders and supportive coaches, providing practical advice for new and seasoned administrators alike.

00:00 Introduction to Better Teaching Podcast
00:28 Meet James Hardin: A Veteran Educator
02:15 Unique Experiences in Independent Schools
04:13 Differences in Teaching Levels
05:30 Effective Teaching Strategies Across Levels
07:39 Leadership and Coaching in Education
08:49 Building a Collaborative Teaching Environment
13:42 The Role of Instructional Leadership
23:03 Meeting James Hardin: A Story of Ambition
23:39 Setting High Expectations in a High-Performing School
25:14 Building Consensus Among Teachers
28:28 Achieving Top Scores and Recognition
31:11 Transitioning Between Different Socioeconomic Schools
34:46 The Role of a Principal as an Instructional Coach
38:15 Advice for New Principals