

Evolving with Gratitude
Lainie Rowell
Evolving with Gratitude examines the science and stories that optimize happiness, relationships, and performance in work and life. Host Lainie Rowell sits down with leading thinkers, researchers, authors, and practitioners to explore evidence-based insights on gratitude, well-being, resilience, leadership, and human connection. Each episode offers practical ideas we can apply immediately to thrive personally and professionally.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 30, 2023 • 33min
Episode 59 - Unapologetic Leadership with Guest Marcus Belin
Join us as we dive into the world of Unapologetic Leadership with Dr. Marcus Belin. Discover how Marcus and his team have embraced positivity by finding what's good in the last 24. You will feel the excitement as if you're the one running around the school, interviewing students about their wins, from acing a math test to winning a championship game. But it's not just about the kids—Marcus reveals how cultivating gratitude benefits adults too. You won't want to miss this!
Transcript available at LainieRowell.com
About Our Guest:
Dr. Marcus Belin serves as the Principal of Huntley High School, President of Illinois Principals Association, and was recently awarded the 2021 National Association of Secondary School Principals Digital Principal of the Year and was named to the Class of 2021 ASCD International Emerging Leader. Dr. Belin is a motivational speaker and host of the podcast Unapologetic Leadership. He is passionate about creating learning environments that foster social-emotional support for kids, leveraging the integration of technology to expose kids to the world around them, motivating educators, and challenging the status quo of education. He is an alum of Bradley University, where he received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees and National Louis University for his doctorate. Dr. Belin is the husband of an amazing wife, Monique, and a father to 3 beautiful children, who keep life exciting and active.
Website: drmarcusbelin.com
Twitter: @marcusjbelin
Instagram: @drmarcusbelin
About Lainie:
Lainie Rowell is an educator, international consultant, podcaster, and TEDx speaker. She is the lead author of Evolving Learner and a contributing author of Because of a Teacher. Her latest book, Evolving with Gratitude, was just released. An experienced teacher and district leader, her expertise includes learner-driven design, community building, online/blended learning, and professional learning. Learn more at linktr.ee/lainierowell.
Twitter - @LainieRowell
Instagram - @LainieRowell
Evolving with Gratitude, the book, is now available! Purchase here!
You can also get bulk orders for your staff (10 copies or more) at a discounted price! Just fill out the form linked below and someone will get back to you ASAP! bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount

May 23, 2023 • 30min
Episode 58 - Unlocking Unlimited Potential with Guest Brandon Beck
Get ready for a paw-some episode with the charismatic Dr. Brandon Beck. He spills the beans on his furry friend Peaches and how she became the coolest classroom companion ever. Plus, Dr. Beck shares the secret sauce to unlocking your unlimited potential. Get ready, because this episode is filled with stories, purpose, and a whole lot of wagging tails! Don't miss out on the fun, fur-real!
Transcript available at LainieRowell.com
About Our Guest:
Dr. Brandon Beck is a National Board Certified Teacher, Speaker, Results coach, and Author of "Unlocking Unlimited Potential." Brandon speaks to Teachers, School Leaders, Students, Athletes, and Coaches about the ultimate goal for ALL educators…to unlock unlimited potential in all whom you serve. He is also the host of the "Unlocking Unlimited Potential Stories Show. He also serves as an adjunct professor, a consultant, Results Coach, an editor and reviewer for AASA Journal of Scholarship & Practice.
Website: BrandonBeckEDU.com
Twitter: @BrandonBeckEDU
Instagram: @BrandonBeckEDU
About Lainie:
Lainie Rowell is an educator, international consultant, podcaster, and TEDx speaker. She is the lead author of Evolving Learner and a contributing author of Because of a Teacher. Her latest book, Evolving with Gratitude, was just released. An experienced teacher and district leader, her expertise includes learner-driven design, community building, online/blended learning, and professional learning. Learn more at linktr.ee/lainierowell.
Twitter - @LainieRowell
Instagram - @LainieRowell
Evolving with Gratitude, the book, is now available! Purchase here!
You can also get bulk orders for your staff (10 copies or more) at a discounted price! Just fill out the form linked below and someone will get back to you ASAP! bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount

May 16, 2023 • 39min
Episode 57 - Positively Thankful Living with Guest Nikki Jones
Get ready as Nikki Jones drops some gratitude knowledge that will have you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. Tune in to hear how shifting your perspective can make a tough year a little brighter, and get some practical tips for incorporating gratitude into your daily life. It's time to savor the good and spread some appreciation like confetti. Don't miss it!
Transcript available at LainieRowell.com
About Our Guest:
Nikki Jones is a creative and tech-savvy educator with a passion for all things pink and gratitude! With 16 years of experience in education, Nikki has taught 1st and 3rd grade and currently serves as an instructional technology coach. As a mom to two young boys, aged 3 and 7, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to both her personal and professional life. Nikki's love for STEAM and EdTech is evident in everything she does, whether she's working with students or collaborating with fellow educators.
Twitter: @mrsjones72812
About Lainie:
Lainie Rowell is an educator, international consultant, podcaster, and TEDx speaker. She is the lead author of Evolving Learner and a contributing author of Because of a Teacher. Her latest book, Evolving with Gratitude, was just released. An experienced teacher and district leader, her expertise includes learner-driven design, community building, online/blended learning, and professional learning. Learn more at linktr.ee/lainierowell.
Twitter - @LainieRowell
Instagram - @LainieRowell
Evolving with Gratitude, the book, is now available! Purchase here!
You can also get bulk orders for your staff (10 copies or more) at a discounted price! Just fill out the form linked below and someone will get back to you ASAP! bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount

May 9, 2023 • 31min
Episode 56 - Being an Experience Expert with Guest Amy Mathews-Perez
In this episode of the pod, Dr. Amy Mathews-Perez shares her unique perspective on gratitude and let's just say it's not all rainbows and unicorns (although those are pretty cool too!). For her, gratitude is about being grateful for every opportunity to learn and grow, even in the face of challenges and mistakes. From learning what to do to what not to do, every opportunity is a chance to evolve and improve. Discover the power of gratitude in personal and professional growth in this short and sweet podcast episode.
"Life is short, but our influence is never-ending so let's be our best & make the best of every interaction, situation and opportunity."
-Dr. Amy Mathews-Perez
Transcript available at LainieRowell.com
About Our Guest:
Dr. Amy Mathews-Perez is a Texas native with over 30 years of experience serving public education. She has held various roles in the field including GENED Teacher, SLP, Diagnostician, SPED Supervisor, Principal, Assistant Principal, and Director of Special Education. Currently, Dr. Mathews-Perez is serving as a Director of Special Programs. Her passions include communication, authenticity, and laughter, and she finds her greatest fulfillment in using these qualities to inspire and empower others. As a lifelong learner, she considers herself an "Experience Expert" and is constantly seeking to learn and grow. Dr. Mathews-Perez is also an aspiring author and speaker, using her talents to connect with others, share stories, and highlight the best in those around her.
Twitter: @drgrowtoknow
About Lainie:
Lainie Rowell is an educator, international consultant, podcaster, and TEDx speaker. She is the lead author of Evolving Learner and a contributing author of Because of a Teacher. Her latest book, Evolving with Gratitude, was just released. An experienced teacher and district leader, her expertise includes learner-driven design, community building, online/blended learning, and professional learning. Learn more at linktr.ee/lainierowell.
Twitter - @LainieRowell
Instagram - @LainieRowell
Evolving with Gratitude, the book, is now available! Purchase here!
You can also get bulk orders for your staff (10 copies or more) at a discounted price! Just fill out the form linked below and someone will get back to you ASAP! bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount

May 2, 2023 • 34min
Episode 55 - Yes! Your Child Can with Guest Victoria Waller
Hey there, podcast fam! Are you ready for an episode packed with positivity and empowering, practical advice? We've got the one and only Dr. Victoria Waller joining us, and she's all about being strengths based! If you're a parent or caregiver of a child with learning differences, you won't want to miss this engaging and fun-filled conversation. Trust me, as both an educator and a parent, I recommend tuning in and joining us on this journey!
Transcript available at LainieRowell.com
About Our Guest:
Victoria E. Waller, Ed.D. holds a B.S in Education from Wayne State University, an M.Ed., as a certified reading specialist, and an Ed.D. focusing on reading and learning differences, from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Waller has been awarded the University of Cincinnati’s Distinguished Alumna College of Education Award, was one of three finalists for the L.A. Music Center’s Bravo Award for Outstanding Teaching, and was named the Local Hero in the L.A. Times for her Printer Pal Program, connecting students with nursing home occupants. She was the creator of the Disney Busy Bags for Travel on Planes and Cars for Disney/Hyperion Books and has created backpacks and toys for M&M Mars, Inc.
Book: Yes! Your Child Can: Creating Success for Children with Learning Differences
Website: drvictoriawaller.com
Instagram: @drvictoriawaller
About Lainie:
Lainie Rowell is an educator, international consultant, podcaster, and TEDx speaker. She is the lead author of Evolving Learner and a contributing author of Because of a Teacher. Her latest book, Evolving with Gratitude, was just released. An experienced teacher and district leader, her expertise includes learner-driven design, community building, online/blended learning, and professional learning. Learn more at linktr.ee/lainierowell.
Twitter - @LainieRowell
Instagram - @LainieRowell
Evolving with Gratitude, the book, is now available! Purchase here!
You can also get bulk orders for your staff (10 copies or more) at a discounted price! Just fill out the form linked below and someone will get back to you ASAP! bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount

Apr 25, 2023 • 28min
Episode 54 - Being In Tune with All Feelings with Guest Natasha Nurse
Are you ready to learn how being in tune with your feelings can turn you into a change agent? Join Tasha Nurse in this inspiring episode as she shares her insights on the power of gratitude. Tasha also reveals how gratefulness plays a crucial role in developing important life skills such as perseverance, resilience, and effective communication. Get ready to be uplifted and enlightened after listening to Tasha's episode.
Transcript available at LainieRowell.com
About Our Guest:
Natasha Nurse is a 6th grade science teacher in Long Beach, New York. She truly enjoys being a facilitator of learning! Throughout her 19 years as an educator, she has had the opportunity to teach grades 3-5, and was an instructional coach, who worked alongside amazing teachers. She also donates her time as a Long Beach Housing Authority Commissioner, giving back to the community she grew up in and loves!
Twitter: @natasha_nurse
Instagram: @tnurselb
About Lainie:
Lainie Rowell is an educator, international consultant, podcaster, and TEDx speaker. She is the lead author of Evolving Learner and a contributing author of Because of a Teacher. Her latest book, Evolving with Gratitude, was just released. An experienced teacher and district leader, her expertise includes learner-driven design, community building, online/blended learning, and professional learning. Learn more at linktr.ee/lainierowell.
Twitter - @LainieRowell
Instagram - @LainieRowell
Evolving with Gratitude, the book, is now available! Purchase here!
You can also get bulk orders for your staff (10 copies or more) at a discounted price! Just fill out the form linked below and someone will get back to you ASAP! bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount

Apr 18, 2023 • 30min
Episode 53 - Being Present in My Life With Guest Alfonso Mendoza Jr.
In this episode, we'll dive deep into Fonz's recent trip to Mexico and explore the lessons he has learned about happiness, fulfillment, and the never-ending quest for more. It's a thought-provoking conversation that's sure to leave you with a new perspective on life.
So grab your headphones and get ready to join us on this educational journey with Alfonso Mendoza Jr.!
Update: Look who's on the cover of the Future of Education campaign launched by USA TODAY! Read Fonz's feature here!
Transcript available at LainieRowell.com
About Our Guest:
Alfonso Mendoza Jr., a passionate educator with over a decade of experience, holds a Masters in Educational Technology and is in his third year of doctoral studies. With the aim of providing engaging and effective learning experiences, Mr. Mendoza has served as the district Instructional Technologist for six years now, equipping teachers with tech tools to enhance student learning. His commitment to education does not end there; for the last six years, he actively participates on many social media platforms sharing his expertise through podcasts, blogs, and other education-related posts.
Website: www.myedtech.life
Twitter: @MyEdTechLife
Instagram: @MyEdTechLife
About Lainie:
Lainie Rowell is an educator, international consultant, podcaster, and TEDx speaker. She is the lead author of Evolving Learner and a contributing author of Because of a Teacher. Her latest book, Evolving with Gratitude, was just released. An experienced teacher and district leader, her expertise includes learner-driven design, community building, online/blended learning, and professional learning. Learn more at linktr.ee/lainierowell.
Twitter - @LainieRowell
Instagram - @LainieRowell
Evolving with Gratitude, the book, is now available! Purchase here!
You can also get bulk orders for your staff (10 copies or more) at a discounted price! Just fill out the form linked below and someone will get back to you ASAP! bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount

Apr 11, 2023 • 27min
S2 Episode 52 - Small Shifts Bring the Biggest Gifts with Guest Suzanne Dailey
In both her book and podcast, Teach Happier, Suzanne Dailey gives us small yet powerful practices to feel more balanced, content, and aligned. And here on this pod, she shares how gratitude anchors her during both positive and challenging seasons, and how it sustained her during the last few years of her professional and personal life. Plus, discover what we can learn from how planes turn!
Transcript available at LainieRowell.com
About Our Guest:
Suzanne Dailey is an instructional coach in the Central Bucks School District. She teaches model lessons, facilitates professional development sessions, and mentors teachers to be the best for the students in front of them. She is dedicated to nurturing and developing the whole child and teacher and presents these topics at a local, state and national level. Suzanne is the author of Teach Happier this School Year: 40 Weeks of Inspiration & Reflection and the host of the popular weekly podcast, Teach Happier.
Website: suzannedailey.com
Twitter: @DaileySuzanne
Instagram: @TeachHappier
About Lainie:
Lainie Rowell is an educator, international consultant, podcaster, and TEDx speaker. She is the lead author of Evolving Learner and a contributing author of Because of a Teacher. Her latest book, Evolving with Gratitude, was just released. An experienced teacher and district leader, her expertise includes learner-driven design, community building, online/blended learning, and professional learning. Learn more at linktr.ee/lainierowell.
Twitter - @LainieRowell
Instagram - @LainieRowell
Evolving with Gratitude, the book, is now available! Purchase here!
You can also get bulk orders for your staff (10 copies or more) at a discounted price! Just fill out the form linked below and someone will get back to you ASAP! bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount

Apr 4, 2023 • 33min
Episode 51 - Identifying Your Superpowers with Guest Stacey Ross Cohen
Dive into this convo where Stacey Ross Cohen spills the tea on the importance of personal branding and how kids can discover their superpower so they can slay college admissions, snag that dream job or internship, and live their best lives. Get ready to be inspired to stretch beyond your comfort zone and learn how her new book, Brand Up: The Ultimate Playbook for College & Career Success in the Digital World, can empower each of us to tap into our unique talents and bring our A-game to any situation.
Transcript available at LainieRowell.com
About Our Guest:
Stacey Ross Cohen is an award-winning brand professional who earned her stripes on Madison Avenue and major television networks before launching Co-Communications. A TEDX speaker, Stacey is an author (Brand Up) and contributor at prominent media outlets (Entrepreneur, Huff Post, Thrive Global). Stacey has been recognized as PRSA practitioner of the Year, City & State NY/Power 100, and Forbes Enterprise. She holds an MBA from Fordham University and Media/Technology certificate from NYU Leonard Stern School of Business.
Website: cocommunications.com; brandupbook.com
Instagram: @staceyrosscohen
Twitter: @StaceyRossCohen
Stacey's book Brand Up: The Ultimate Playbook for College & Career Success (Post Hill Press/Simon & Schuster) is out!
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About Lainie:
Lainie Rowell is an educator, international consultant, podcaster, and TEDx speaker. She is the lead author of Evolving Learner and a contributing author of Because of a Teacher. Her latest book, Evolving with Gratitude, was just released. An experienced teacher and district leader, her expertise includes learner-driven design, community building, online/blended learning, and professional learning. Learn more at linktr.ee/lainierowell.
Twitter - @LainieRowell
Instagram - @LainieRowell
Evolving with Gratitude, the book, is now available! Purchase here!
You can also get bulk orders for your staff (10 copies or more) at a discounted price! Just fill out the form linked below and someone will get back to you ASAP! bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount

Mar 28, 2023 • 34min
Episode 50 - Narrating the Beauty You Notice with Guest Paige Couros
In addition to making my cheeks hurt from a serious case of the giggles, Paige Couros delights us with her wisdom and strategies for raising grateful kids. She also shares the importance of appreciating the hopes and dreams of yesterday that are now our reality. We get a cameo from Kallea and Marino Couros and stayed tuned to the very end for some bonus content!
Transcript available at LainieRowell.com
About Our Guest:
Paige Couros is an experienced elementary educator and an innovative entrepreneur. Passionate about teaching and learning, Paige amplifies the voices of educators around the world as a leader of IMPress, a publishing company. The mother of three amazing young kids, Paige shares inspiring ways to promote learning through play on Instagram @teach.me.mom.
You can also connect with Paige on Twitter using @PaigeCouros and Instagram @PaigeCouros.
Website: linktr.ee/teach.me.mom
About Lainie:
Lainie Rowell is an educator, international consultant, podcaster, and TEDx speaker. She is the lead author of Evolving Learner and a contributing author of Because of a Teacher. Her latest book, Evolving with Gratitude, was just released. An experienced teacher and district leader, her expertise includes learner-driven design, community building, online/blended learning, and professional learning. Learn more at linktr.ee/lainierowell.
Twitter - @LainieRowell
Instagram - @LainieRowell
Evolving with Gratitude, the book, is now available! Purchase here!
You can also get bulk orders for your staff (10 copies or more) at a discounted price! Just fill out the form linked below and someone will get back to you ASAP! bit.ly/ewgbulkdiscount


