Yes Brain Leadership: Shifting Mindsets to Build Inclusive Schools

Yes Brain Leadership: Shifting Mindsets to Build Inclusive Schools

by Drs. KPF & JC | The Inclusion Podcast

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Episode Transcript [pdf]

SHOW NOTES

 

Key Takeaways:

  • The difference between a “No Brain” (fear-based, rigid, anxious) and a “Yes Brain” (curious, flexible, open).
  • How fear, compliance-based systems, and rigid policies contribute to a “No Brain” culture in schools.
  • Practical ways for leaders to create environments where educators feel safe, supported, and creative.
  • The power of intentional leadership, language, and policies in shaping school culture.
  • Strategies for self-reflection: Are your actions fostering a Yes Brain mindset in others, or reinforcing a No Brain response? 

 

Episode Download/Handout: 

We’ve created a handout with The Yes Brain and Adult Learners to these phrases. Visit https://inclusiveschooling.com/download38 to access it for free.

 

Highlights from the Handout:

Julie’s Favorite:
[4:24] “Fairness isn't a good measure for individual student needs. Let's focus on strategies that truly support every student.”

Kriste’s Favorite:
[4:44] “Inclusion isn't about favoring one group over another; it's about creating an equitable learning environment.”

Practical Tip:

When our “Yes” brain is fully engaged we are able to “put the brakes” on if we feel ourselves becoming hyper or hypo aroused. Sounds good doesn’t it? But what if staff, colleagues, or family members struggle to operate using a “Yes” brain. 

One strategy to extend how often and how wide the green zone is for adults is to trigger the positive emotional attractor (PEA). The PEA: A psycho-physiological state of being open to new ideas; activation of stress-alleviating hormones; aroused by a positive experience or through positive guidance.

One way to trigger the PEA is to change how we ask questions…basically, to ask questions that invite the adult to a place where they feel a sense of hope and open to possibilities.

The following are examples of questions that trigger the PEA (and get adults back into their “Yes” brain when feeling stuck, when teaming, when setting goals, and when coaching..

When Feeling Stuck:

  1. What is one small step you could take right now to get unstuck?
  2. What if you reframed this challenge as an opportunity for growth—how would that change your approach?
  3. Who can you ask for support or insight to help move forward?

When Teaming:

  1. What’s something we’re already doing well that we can build on?
  2. How can we ensure everyone feels heard in this discussion?
  3. What strengths do we each bring to the table? How can we leverage those strengths?

When Setting Goals:

  1. Why does this goal matter to you on a deeper level?
  2. What’s a small, meaningful step you can take today?
  3. How can you track progress in a way that feels motivating, not overwhelming?

When Coaching:

  1. How does this goal align with your values and strengths?
  2. What’s one belief shift that could change how you approach this challenge?
  3. What’s the best feedback you’ve ever received? How did it help you grow?

 

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Dan Siegel [website]

Dr. Tina Payne Bryson [website] 

The Yes Brain [book for purchase]

The Yes/No Brain download helps you recognize when you're operating from a rigid “No Brain” vs. a flexible “Yes Brain” and provides simple strategies to foster creativity, trust, and collaboration.

Grab this quick-reference guide to start shifting mindsets today!