Episode Details

What if the burnout crisis in education is not just a workload problem but a skills gap? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with Corwin author and educator Katrina Huels to unpack why 54% of K through 12 educators report feeling burnt out often or always, and what leaders and teachers can actually do about it.​ Katrina draws on her 14 years of leadership experience across special education, assistant director, and executive director roles to explain how emotional intelligence development across five domains (self awareness, self regulation, internal motivation, empathy, and social skills) can reduce turnover, increase job satisfaction, and help educators shift from a reactive stress response into their thinking brain. She also breaks down the neuroscience behind neuroplasticity and explains why consistently practicing EQ tools, including breathwork, gratitude practices, and cognitive reframing, actually rewires the brain so that calm and clarity become the default rather than frustration and overwhelm.​ Katrina shares practical strategies educators and leaders can begin today, introduces her book Transformational Tools for Special Educators, her new companion workbook designed for all educators and leaders, and a professional development curriculum that makes the research backed case that mental health is professional development. About Katrina Huels: Katrina G. Huels is an educational consultant and former special education leader with more than twenty years of experience working across classrooms, programs, and district leadership. Her work focuses on helping educators sustain their passion and effectiveness in one of the most emotionally demanding fields in education. Over the course of her career, Katrina has served in roles ranging from classroom teacher to senior executive, gaining firsthand insight into the complex pressures facing education professionals. She has worked extensively in instructional design, program leadership, and national accreditation, developing systems that support both educator performance and student outcomes. Drawing on a background in psychology, neuroscience-informed practice, and educational leadership, Katrina translates research into practical tools educators can actually use in the middle of a demanding school day. Her work centers on emotional intelligence development, neuroplasticity, and the cultivation of professional resilience. Follow Katrina Huels: Website: www.huelsappliedharmony.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kat_huels/ Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-ramke-huels-04454a3b New Book: https://amzn.to/3PnompP -- NEW Aspire to Lead Cohort: Join the April 1st Launch Ready to move from teacher to administrator? The Aspire to Lead Cohort is a monthly leadership program designed for educators pursuing administrative roles. Get expert training, peer accountability, interview prep, and a clear roadmap to advance your career. December 1st cohort launching soon. Limited spots available. READY TO JOIN? Apply for the Aspire to Lead Cohort: https://bit.ly/47xWzIu Limited spots available. Next cohort starts 4/1/26 📧 QUESTIONS? Email me: Joshua@joshstamper.com — #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential