

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

Sep 6, 2022 • 29min
Episode 22 - Gramercy and Joy with Guest Jillian DuBois
We welcome a megadose of joy and gratitude to the pod with guest, Jillian DuBois. This repurposed educator teaches me a new word and shares lots of love for a community of gratitude that you may be a part of too. Plus a shoutout to her hubby, Tim!
Transcript available here.
About Our Guest:
repurposed educator • author/illustrator • professional learning guide @edgeubadges • empathetic learner • optimistic originator @imparted_joy • each day is a fresh opportunity to dance + dream with a joyful heart
Website: impartedjoy.com
Twitter: @JillDuBois22
Instagram: @jilliande
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!

Aug 30, 2022 • 32min
Episode 21 - Becoming the Change with Guest Dan Wolfe
Have you been wonder how gratitude connects to each of the five core competencies of social emotional learning? Tune in as Dan explains this and much more! Including how we can use these five essential elements to guide us towards becoming our best selves. This listening adventure comes equipped with a compass to keep you moving in the right direction.
Transcript available here.
About Our Guest:
Dan Wolfe has served in Pasco County, Florida for more than 20 years. During this time, he has held roles as a teacher, instructional coach and administrator. He is currently an Assistant Principal at Sunray Elementary. He was selected as Pasco County’s District Teacher of the Year in 2011-2012 school year.
For the past two years Dan has written a blog called Becoming The Change (formerly Our Moral Compass) which focuses on a different quote each day and how we can best apply it towards becoming the change through our own moral compass and the five areas in SEL.
Website: becoming-the-change.com
Book: Becoming the Change
Twitter: @ServLeadInspire
Instagram: @serveleadinspirealways
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!

Aug 23, 2022 • 32min
Episode 20 - Digging Deep and Connecting to the Soul with Guest Laura McDonell
Does the word "evolve" resonate with you? Laura and I bonded over our love of this powerful, dynamic word! In this episode, Laura shares her strategy for testing ideas before bringing them into the classroom. She also explains how she is focused on going wide and deep to magnify the gratitude.
Shoutout to Tom Brenner, a coach that cares so much and gives his all to each of his runners.
Transcript available here.
About Our Guest:
Laura McDonell is a wife, mother of three and high school English teacher. She is a 34 time marathon runner, and when she is not working, running or spending time with her family, she loves to read, write, play violin, listen to music and travel.
Website: buildyourimpossible.com
Twitter: @lmcdonell14
Instagram: @lmcdonell2001
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

Aug 16, 2022 • 36min
Episode 19 - Relational Trust and Social Capital in Learning Communities with Guest Devin Vodicka
Devin is a wealth of knowledge and a source of inspiration as he reveals the 4 C's that lead to high levels of trust. We also dive into the importance of relational trust and social capital as well as why connectedness is essential in our learning communities.
Shoutout to Learner-Centered Collaborative's Chief Impact Officer, Katie Martin, and the entire LCC team!
Transcript available here.
About Our Guest:
Dr. Devin Vodicka is the CEO of Learner-Centered Collaborative, author of Learner-Centered Leadership, and former Superintendent of Vista Unified School District.
Website: learnercentered.org
Twitter: @dvodicka
Instagram: @lccollaborative
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

Aug 9, 2022 • 37min
Episode 18 - Get R.E.A.L. and Cannonball In with Guest Tara Martin
Tara Martin joins us to share what profound gratitude means to her and she reveals the best advice that her dad gave her. T inspires us to overcome fear, inner-critic, outer-critics, all the barriers we face when we're trying to take a risk and do something new.
Shoutouts to her dad, Mrs. S, Dave Burgess, Dr. Devin, Dr. D., her husband, her son and, of course, her puppy.
Transcript available here.
About Our Guest:
Tara Martin is an enthusiastic educator, national speaker, and author who thrives on change and refuses to settle for the status quo. She has served as a classroom teacher, an instructional coach for several years, and most recently, a district administrator.
As the founder of #BookSnaps, the latest reading comprehension strategy currently implemented in seventeen countries, she is always seeking unique ways to make learning fun, relevant, and meaningful.
Tara is the author of the inspirational book, Be REAL: Educate from the Heart and Cannonball In, a motivating children's book illustrated by Genesis Kohler. Tara firmly believes machines and artificial intelligence will never replicate an individual’s REAL identity–the unique strengths, talents, and life experiences of every human. Tara's passion for education and love of writing led her to a new role where she coaches and serves educational authors as the Director of Public Relations and Communication for DBC, Inc.
Website: tarammartin.com
Twitter: @TaraMartinEDU
Instagram: @tarammartin.real
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

Aug 2, 2022 • 34min
Episode 17 - First, Gratitude for Kids with Guest Rachelle Dené Poth
Emotional contagion is real and you will be grateful for that during this episode because you are going to feel so much joy listening to Rachelle share the joy her learning community brings her. The way she talks about her learners is truly uplifting so jump on that treadmill, get out the cleaning supplies, or do whatever you like to do when you listen and be prepared to be inspired.
Transcript available here.
About Our Guest:
Rachelle Dené Poth is an edtech consultant, presenter, attorney, author, and teacher of Spanish and STEAM: Emerging Technology. Rachelle has a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law, a Master’s in Instructional Technology, and is currently pursuing a second doctorate, focused on Educational Technology. Rachelle is an ISTE Certified Educator and recipient of the ISTE Making IT Happen Award and several presidential gold and silver awards for volunteer service. She was one of 30 K-12 IT Influencers for 2021. She is the author of seven books and a columnist for Getting Smart.
Website: Rdene915.com
Books
Podcast
Twitter: @Rdene915
Instagram: @Rdene915
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

Jul 26, 2022 • 33min
Episode 16 - Collaboration as a Love Language with Guest Sarah Thomas
Talented and delightful, Dr. Sarah Thomas will inspires us to collaborate with others and bring celebrations into our learning communities. Plus a boatload of shoutouts! So much gratitude for Mandy Froehlich, Tara Linney, Jaime Donally, Nicol Howard, Regina Schaffer, and her mom, Marie-Thérèse Labossière Thomas.
Referenced in the show: Super Attractor by Gabrielle Bernstein
Transcript available here.
About Our Guest:
Sarah Thomas, PhD is a Regional Technology Coordinator in a large district in Maryland, and the founder of EduMatch, an organization that empowers educators to make global connections across common areas of interest. She has spoken and presented internationally, participated in the Technical Working Group to refresh the 2017 ISTE Standards for Educators, and is a recipient of the ISTE Making IT Happen award. Sarah is a co-author of the ISTE Digital equity series, Closing the Gap.
Website: EduMatch.org
Twitter: @sarahdateechur
Instagram: @sarahdateechur
LinkedIn
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

Jul 19, 2022 • 33min
Episode 15 - Using Glittering Eyes to Go from Mundane to Magical with Guest Tisha Richmond
Friends, things are about to get magical! Tisha Richmond joins the pod to tell us about spark moments, marigolds, appreciation circles, and much more! Including how her mom, Susan Mills, and Mr. Rogers helped her develop a joyful and grateful disposition. Tons of strategies and resources shared!
Plus even more to explore after the episode:
Fred Rogers Acceptance Speech - 1997
Find Your Marigold: The One Essential Rule for New Teachers by Jennifer Gonzalez
The Forgotten Key to Happiness on the Joy Lab Podcast
Creating Savoring Rituals
Transcript available here.
About Our Guest:
Tisha is a district Student Engagement and Professional Development Specialist, Canva Learning Consultant, national speaker, podcast host, and author from Southern Oregon. She has taught Family and Consumer Science for 25 years and has served in various leadership roles regionally and nationally. Tisha is the author of the book Make Learning MAGICAL, which unlocks seven keys to transform teaching and create unforgettable experiences in the classroom.
Website: tisharichmond.com
Twitter: @tishrich
Instagram: @TishRichmond
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

Jul 12, 2022 • 38min
Episode 14 - The Emotional Side of Leadership with Guest Joshua Stamper
With his signature brand of empathy, passion, and creativity, Josh Stamper joins us to share what he has learned about showing others appreciation. He shares key strategies to being intentional and making sure everyone feels seen, heard, known, and valued.
This week's shoutout goes to someone who has had a profound impact on Josh's leadership journey, Sonja Pegram.
Referenced in the show: The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace by Gary Chapman and Paul White
Transcript available here.
About Our Guest:
Joshua Stamper is an educational administrator for a North Texas School District and the Podcast Network Manager for the Teach Better Team. Prior to Joshua's current positions, he was a classroom art educator and athletic coach. In addition to being an administrator, Joshua is the author of Aspire to Lead, podcaster, leadership coach, and education presenter.
Website: joshstamper.com
Twitter: @Joshua__Stamper
Instagram: @joshua__stamper
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

Jul 5, 2022 • 36min
Episode 13 - Savoring and Sharing Profound Impact with Guest Stephanie Rothstein
Steph Rothstein may very well be one of the best public displayers of gratitude in the world! She is also someone who is always focused on collaboration over competition. Listen as Steph shares how she makes this work in her role and discover what she means by ""alone together".
Shoutouts to Neal Rothstein and Bonnie Chelette plus some love to George Couros, Sean Gaillard, Livia Chan, and Julie Hasson."
Transcript available here.
About Our Guest:
Stephanie Rothstein is an EdTech TOSA in Northern California, an educational consultant, writer, and TEDXer. Stephanie’s favorite projects are ones that create innovative opportunities, she was the chair of a Design Thinking pathway for over 10 years. Stephanie is the creator of CanWeTalkEDU, founder of GlobalGEG, and a Google Innovator. Her writing can be found in Edutopia, Because of A Teacher, Evolving with Gratitude, and on her own blog.
Website: stephrothedu.com
Twitter: @stephrothedu
Instagram: @stephrothedu
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


