Leadership Lenses with Barry Kislowicz

Jewish day schools are carrying real responsibility in a fast changing world.In this episode of Leadership Lenses, I’m joined by Dr. David Bryfman, CEO of The Jewish Education Project, for a future focused conversation about where Jewish education is heading and what school leaders can do now to prepare for what comes next.We talk about thinking beyond today’s pressures, how demographic and cultural shifts will shape schools over the next decade, and why building strong school communities includes supporting students and families together. We also explore what it means to prepare students to step into the broader world with confidence, pride, and optimism. I can’t wait to hear what you take away from this conversation.Get in touch with Dr. David Bryfman:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bryfman-74a2b25The Jewish Education Project: https://www .jewishedproject.org/The Jewish Education Project on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jewished/The Jewish Education Project on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JewishEdThe Jewish Education Project on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JewishEdEducator resources & portal: https://educator.jewishedproject.org/Get in touch with us: Website: https://kislowiczconsulting.comSubscribe to my Substack: https://kislowiczconsulting.substack.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadershiplenses/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bkislowicz/

Fundraising is (still) one of the most challenging parts of school leadership.In this episode of Leadership Lenses, I sit down with Amy Schiffman, Founder and CEO of Evolve Giving Group, to explore what makes fundraising work in Jewish day schools over time.We explore the head of school’s role in donor relationships, how boards and leadership teams can partner more effectively, and why clarity and shared responsibility are essential for sustainable fundraising.If fundraising has felt overwhelming, unclear, or disconnected from your leadership role, this conversation offers a grounded, practical perspective.I can’t wait to hear what you take away from this conversation.Get in touch with Amy:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyschiffmanLearn more about Evolve Giving Group:  Website: https://evolvegg.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolve-giving-groupFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EvolveGGEmail:  info@evolvegg.comGet in touch with us: Website: https://kislowiczconsulting.comWeekly Blog: https://kislowiczconsulting.substack.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadershiplenses/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bkislowicz/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, I sat down with Amihai Bannett, Director of Herzog Global, to explore how Jewish educators and school leaders can benefit from learning across borders.Herzog Global works with teachers and heads of school in more than 18 countries, offering professional development, advanced degrees, and customized school-based programs that connect Israeli educational expertise with Jewish communities around the world.We talk about:✅ Why global perspective matters for local school leadership✅ How professional development can strengthen Jewish identity and pedagogy✅ What schools gain when educators learn from peers in different countries✅ How Herzog Global partners with schools to offer accessible, high-quality trainingThis episode focuses on how school leaders can leverage global partnerships to support their schools!🎧 Join the conversation.Learn more about Herzog Global: https://global.herzog.ac.ilGet in touch with us: Website: https://kislowiczconsulting.comWeekly Blog: https://kislowiczconsulting.substack.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadershiplenses/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bkislowicz/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with Rabbi Ben Gonsher, a veteran fundraiser with more than 25 years of experience helping Jewish schools and nonprofits build sustainable philanthropic support.Rabbi Gonsher digs into why fundraising feels so uncomfortable and how the work gets easier when you stop treating fundraising like a necessary distraction, and start treating donors like partners. We talk about relationship-based fundraising, moves management, and simple systems that help leaders stay consistent, follow through, and build trust over time.If fundraising has always felt awkward, stressful, or unclear, this conversation will help you reframe it and walk away with practical ways to start building stronger donor relationships.Get in touch with Rabbi Gonsher:Email: ben@CICIsrael.orgGet in touch with us: Website: https://kislowiczconsulting.comWeekly Blog: https://kislowiczconsulting.substack.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadershiplenses/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bkislowicz/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with Dan Hazony, a fractional Chief Information Officer who works with Jewish nonprofits and schools to help them use data and systems more intentionally.Many schools collect enormous amounts of information about donors, families, students, and programs, yet struggle to turn that data into insight or action. Together, we explore what “using data well” actually looks like in real school settings, and why systems should support judgment, not replace it.In our conversation, we dive into: 👉 What schools mean (and don’t mean) when they talk about “data”👉 Why fundraising is often the easiest entry point and where schools leave value on the table👉 How systems can help schools care for students and families at scale👉 The difference between intuition and structure and why leaders need both👉 Why starting simple often matters more than choosing the “right” platform👉 How data systems can help strategic plans actually get implementedThis is a grounded conversation for heads of school, principals, and senior leaders who want systems that extend their leadership, not complicate it.I can’t wait for you to dive in. ABOUT OUR GUEST:Dan Hazony is a fractional Chief Information Officer who helps nonprofits and schools develop practical, human-centered data strategies. His work focuses on aligning technology, people, and processes so organizations can act on what they already know.Website: https://dzhconsulting.comEmail: dan@dzhconsulting.comGET IN TOUCH WITH US: Website: https://kislowiczconsulting.comWeekly Blog: https://kislowiczconsulting.substack.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadershiplenses/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bkislowicz/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with Dr. Ben Levy, a London-based school psychologist and the founder of Magic Lessons, to unpack the five ingredients behind truly engaging lessons.Drawing on decades of experience in classrooms, Ben explains how the most effective lessons consistently strengthen five elements: ability, belief, clarity, motivation, and environment. We explore what this looks like in practice, including a simple, repeatable way teachers can start lessons that draw students in and set them up for success.We also examine how school leaders can think more clearly about AI in lesson planning, what’s gained by using general tools like ChatGPT, and what changes when an AI platform is built on a clear pedagogical framework and structured thinking.This conversation is for heads of school and principals who want to improve teaching and learning without chasing trends and who are looking for practical ways to support teachers while raising the quality of classroom instruction.Substack: https://kislowiczconsulting.substack.com/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leadership-lenses-with-barry-kislowicz/id1813728680Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Qhxhn8NO5OFjFevyQdrEE?si=796d4440524d47a5Leadership Lenses on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadershiplenses/ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Ben Levy is a school psychologist and former teacher based in London. After years of observing classroom instruction, he identified five consistent ingredients behind highly engaging lessons: Ability, Belief, Clarity, Motivation, and Environment (ABCME). He is the founder of Magic Lessons, a platform that helps educators apply this framework through structured, practical lesson planning support.Magic Lessons: https://magiclessons.co.uk/Contact Ben: ben@magiclessons.co.uk

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with curriculum consultant Malki Feuer to unpack one of the most complex and consequential elements of Jewish day school education: curriculum design and implementation. We explore how schools often operate without a true learning continuum, regardless of whether they rely on purchased materials or homegrown teacher-created units. We examine why schools struggle when curricula are not aligned with mission, outcomes, or assessments and show how thoughtful processes like backward design, stakeholder collaboration, and benchmark assessments can shift schools from fragmented instruction to intentional learning trajectories. When we invest in clarity around what students should know and be able to do and support teachers with practical tools instead of binders that collect dust, we strengthen learning, supervision, morale, and parent trust. By treating curriculum as a long-term leadership responsibility rather than a quick purchase, we can build programs that are coherent, mission-driven, and built to last.More Resources at - ⁠https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/Contact Malki Feuer - malkifeuer@gmail.com

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we speak with Dr. Alex Pomson of Rosov Consulting, a world-renowned scholar of Jewish educational leadership and professional development, about one of the field’s most pressing challenges: determining what actually works in professional growth.Drawing on the early stages of Alex’s current research, we explore the crucial distinction between capacities and dispositions, as well as what the evidence suggests can realistically change through leadership and teacher development. Skills, practices, and professional contributions tend to shift with the right conditions and support, while deeper traits such as grit, curiosity, and mindset prove far more resistant to direct intervention.For heads of school and principals, this raises urgent questions about where to invest time, energy, and resources. Our conversation focuses on how leaders can move beyond fashionable ideas and toward more disciplined, evidence-informed decisions about adult learning. By centering the conditions, relationships, and concrete skills educators need right now, schools can create environments where genuine growth is more likely to take root and where teachers are better equipped to make a lasting difference for their students.More Resources at - ⁠https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/See Alex's contact information at - https://www.rosovconsulting.com/Check out the Prizmah report - The Learning Leadership Landscape: https://www.rosovconsulting.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Prizmah-Rosov-Report-2018.pdf

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with Jeff Riley, former Massachusetts Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, to explore what the rise of artificial intelligence means for schools and for educational leadership. Together, we examine why AI should not be viewed as a passing trend or a threat to be avoided, but as a powerful tool that can free educators from administrative burdens and refocus schools on meaningful teaching and learning. We discuss how thoughtful integration of AI can support differentiation, personalize instruction, and restore joy to the work of teaching, while also confronting real concerns around safety, integrity, and student development. By approaching AI with curiosity, caution, and purpose, we can begin to shape learning environments that are more human, more engaging, and better equipped for the future.More Resources at - ⁠https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/Reach Jeff Riley at - jeff@dayofai.orgCheck out Day of AI resources at - https://dayofai.org/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with Miriam Stein of Saddlerock Strategies to explore how heads of school can move from feeling reactive and unprepared to becoming thoughtful, data-informed partners in the school growth and admissions processes. We look at why strong communication with admissions professionals, investment in training, and developing a clear enrollment strategy are essential to a school’s mission and financial health. When admissions is aligned with leadership, values, and honest storytelling, it becomes not just a pathway to filling seats, but a powerful lever for building the school community we are trying to create.More Resources at - ⁠https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/Reach Miriam Stein at - https://www.saddlerockstrategies.com/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with Rabbi Dr. Maury Grebenau of the Jewish New Teacher Project to explore what new administrators truly need in their first years of leadership. Together, we look at why the transition from teacher to principal can feel overwhelming, from the fire hose of tasks to the sudden shift in relationships, expectations, and identity. We consider how coaching, trust building, and clear role definition can help leaders move from reactive survival mode to a place of clarity and confidence. When we recognize the emotional and psychological weight that comes with the role and create structures that support growth, we give new administrators the space to become thoughtful, grounded leaders who can guide their communities with purpose and presence.More Resources at - ⁠https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with Tikvah Wiener and Smadar Goldstein to explore how schools can create lasting change through effective instructional coaching. We consider how leaders can support teachers, overcome fear of change, and build a culture where every student has the opportunity to engage deeply with their learning. Together, we reflect on the ways that focused coaching, aligned with a school’s mission and led in partnership with educational leaders, can help schools move from feeling “fine” to achieving excellence. By combining data, workshops, and individualized support, schools can create a virtuous cycle where teachers feel empowered, students thrive, and the community experiences the full potential of its educational vision.More Resources at -⁠https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/Reach Kadima Coaching at - https://www.kadimacoaching.org/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Kobrin to explore what it really means to lead a school community made up of families from profoundly different cultural backgrounds. Drawing on his experience at North Shore Hebrew Academy, we look at how differences in educational priorities, religious practice, and family expectations can create both tension and opportunity. Together, we consider how leaders can honor each family’s values while also creating shared experiences that help students learn from one another and appreciate perspectives beyond their own. When we approach these differences with curiosity and respect, we can transform them into a source of strength for our schools, building communities that are more open, more connected, and more reflective of the full tapestry of Klal Yisrael.More Resources at - ⁠https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/

If you know Mark Shinar, you know this episode, which we're calling Finding Joy with Your Leadership Team, is worth a listen.We unpack what heads can do when they find themselves frustrated by a struggling administrator without truly understanding what is getting in the way.We talk about the power of regular meetings, shared agendas, and naming issues directly, as well as the importance of laughter and psychological safety in building a culture where leaders feel supported rather than scrutinized, and we dive into the specifics of how leaders can create environments where teams talk openly, learn together, and even have some fun, unlocking deeper trust, healthier dynamics, and the conditions that allow everyone to thrive.Find Mark Shinar at - https://www.markshinar.com/More Resources at - ⁠https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with Principal Yoel Trieger of the Kiryas Joel Public School to explore how creativity can transform even the most familiar school routines. We look at how a fresh approach to parent engagement turned a typical back-to-school night into a vibrant, expo-style event that celebrated student programs and strengthened trust between parents and staff. Together, we reflect on how authentic collaboration, clear purpose, and a willingness to take risks can inspire both educators and families. When we view creativity not as a rare talent but as a mindset open to possibility, we unlock new ways to build connection, confidence, and community within our schools.Click the link to see the open house at Kiryas Joel Public School - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Zb1ht5srVx-xxjBQy2q9d9CaxICKwCQZ?usp=drive_linkMore Resources at - https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with veteran leadership coaches Marcy Balogh (https://consultba-lo.com/)and Cheryl Finkel (cherylfinkel@gmail.com) to explore how heads of school and board presidents can build partnerships that truly strengthen their schools. Drawing on years of experience coaching educational leaders, we look at what makes these relationships work, from shared clarity around governance and structure to the personal systems and habits that sustain trust. We discuss how courage, gratitude, and honest communication turn a professional pairing into a genuine leadership partnership, one that empowers both head and president to lead with strength, empathy, and alignment. When we invest the time to build that connection, we create the foundation for brave leadership and healthy schools.More Resources at - https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with Rabbi Menachem Linzer, Principal at Hillel Torah Chicago, to explore how school leaders can build strong, effective partnerships with their boards. Together, we look at what it takes to move beyond routine board meetings toward genuine board relationships built on clarity, communication, and shared purpose. We examine how defining governance roles, setting expectations early, and investing in the head–board chair relationship can transform collaboration and decision-making. When we approach governance not as a formality but as a partnership, we can create alignment, trust, and the kind of leadership that sustains schools and communities over time.More Resources at - https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with Rabbi Jeremy Stern of CauseMatch to explore how schools can transform their fundraising efforts into genuine community building. Together, we examine what separates campaigns that struggle from those that thrive, and why technology alone is never enough. We look at how strategy, segmentation, and empowering ambassadors can turn a fundraising drive into a shared expression of mission and purpose. When we view fundraising not just as raising money but as strengthening community, we create deeper engagement, broader support, and a stronger foundation for the work ahead.More resources at - https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with Rabbi Yoni Fein, Head of School at Brauser Maimonides Academy in Hollywood, Florida, to explore how a rapidly growing school can stay healthy, mission-driven, and sustainable. Under Rabbi Fein’s leadership, BMA has nearly doubled in size over the past decade, a transformation that brought both opportunity and strain. Searching for a way to maintain clarity and culture amid complexity, Rabbi Fein and his team turned to EOS, the Entrepreneurial Operating System. Together we look at how this framework helps leaders balance vision and execution, defining a North Star for student success, codifying culture so it scales with growth, and putting systems in place that bring accountability, focus, and alignment. The lesson is not about adopting one model wholesale, but about creating practices that link vision to traction so that growth strengthens rather than dilutes the heart of the school.

In this episode of Leadership Lenses, we sit down with transformation and growth executive Dina Rabhan to reflect on the unique demands of school leadership and what it takes to build resilient teams. Dina shares insights from her work as a turnaround CEO, where she steps into struggling organizations to drive change from the inside out. Together, we explore the parallels between corporate and school leadership, noting that while leadership is transferable, the pressures of running a school are unmatched in their intensity and personal toll. We consider how heads can combat the inherent loneliness of leadership, the importance of authentic vulnerability in building trust, and practical structures that help leadership teams move from individual silos to true collaboration. By rethinking how we use our time, how we show up for our teams, and how we balance inspiration with honesty, we can create the conditions for growth, sustainability, and shared strength in our schools.More resources at - ⁠https://kislowiczconsulting.com/resources/⁠