Leadership Coaching

Grateful to be featured in the latest issue of “The Pennsylvania Administrator” by the PA Principals Association! Leadership (and life) is not meant to be done alone. We need a trusted community of people who can speak into our life, encourage our growth, and help reveal our blindspots. People like this are a gift. Who is on your support team?

Your to-do lists may seem endless. The pull on your time may feel like it comes from all directions. But in the midst of your responsibilities is an incredible opportunity. As a leader, you have a unique access point into the lives of those you lead - to encourage them, empower them, and help them grow into their potential. At the heart of leading is serving. And it is from this place that you can truly make a difference. Don’t let your procedures cloud you from your PURPOSE.

Your brain is hardwired to collect evidence that reinforces the situations you are in and patterns of thought you partner with. This can be your best friend or worst enemy. That’s why your perspective matters. In every trial is an invitation for growth. In every obstacle is an opportunity. Guard your heart, renew your mind, and lean into the uncomfortable. This is your season.

Bros.

When you think about the most impactful leaders in your life, most likely your first thought isn’t the way they helped your organization grow. Rather, it’s how they helped YOU grow. The time they invested in you. The belief they had in you. The uncomfortable conversations they had that were necessary for your growth. Like one of the most influential leaders in my life continually reminds me: It’s people, not programs. Here are 5 ways to leave a lasting impact in those you lead. #leader #leadershipdevelopment #leadership #buildingauthenticity

Last week I spent time talking about a “Culture That Starts Within” with educators from across the state of PA. The incredible part about the PDE Data Summit was the variety of roles and positions represented. Such an amazing group. No matter where your feet are planted, you have a responsibility for how you show up each day. Will you be perfect? Most certainly not. But can you live intentionally to serve, grow, and impact those around you by the life you live? Absolutely. Culture starts within. Culture starts with you.

At the heart of leadership is… people. You can have the best programs, systems, or incentives, but few things leave a greater impact than, “I see you.” Post-pandemic research shows that only 45% of employees feel valued, appreciated, and seen as individuals in their organizations. That’s less than half! As a leader, you have an opportunity to create an ecosystem that empowers and awakens the potential in those around you - while STILL doing all the other “stuff.” It’s doesn’t have to be an either/or. Love. Your. People. It’s worth it, because they are worth it.

None of us were parented perfectly, nor will any of us be the perfect parent. But, you get to choose every day how you show up. Because your life is a model for your kids. The way you are present. The way you affirm. The way you love and treat your wife. The way you respond to adversity. The way you lead. The life you live and the love you give your family will be the legacy that you leave them. Not simply FOR them, but IN them. In a world that measures accomplishments and success based on what you do outside of your home, remember that your first priority is inside your home. Live a life that leaves the legacy you really want.

Grateful to spend the day with Dr. Wayne Lewis, President of Houghton University, talking leadership, faith, and impacting our world around us. His vision for @houghtonuniversity, his heart to serve others, and his authenticity is truly something special. So thankful for leaders like @waynedlewisjr! Thank you @graceleadershipinstitute for such a great morning!

You are a leader. No matter your role, title, or season of life. This means eyes are always watching and ears are always listening. That’s why your life on display matters. More than you think. Every day you have the opportunity to elevate others, impact lives, and help awaken the potential of those around you. But most of the time, it’s not solely by the words you speak. It’s in the life you model. How you show up. The ways you lead YOURSELF well. Here are 5 essential traits to model as a leader each day. What else would you add to this list? Comment below! #leadership #leader #leadershipdevelopment #leadfromwithin #buildingauthenticity

Less than a week away from joining the @padeptofed for their 2024 Data Summit! I can’t wait to partner with so many incredible educators from across Pennsylvania, as we dive into building a culture that starts on the inside first!

Thankful feels like an understatement. I am so grateful for the opportunity to fulfill a dream and write #BuildingAuthenticity with @techninjatodd. Thank you to @casas_jimmy, @jzoul, and @connecteddpublishing for believing in this project. Finally, thank you to everyone who has picked up a copy over this past year. I pray it’s impacted your life and leadership. PLUS - for our Book’s 1st Anniversary, I am giving away some free signed copies! Just like, share, and tag a leader for a chance to win a copy for you BOTH!

A little kick around with the boys this afternoon! (This is how the picture started. You can only imagine how it ended up) #dadlife #sons

I’m so pumped to hang out with the amazing @joshua__stamper and @techninjatodd on Saturday morning for the @teachbetterteam 12 hour live event! We will be diving into all things leadership from 10:30-11:00 AM EST! Stream it live on the @teachbetterteam social pages or their YouTube channel!

As a leader, decision-making is never easy, as it often impacts beyond what we can see. However, when we take time to assess from the right perspectives, we can see more clearly and lead with greater impact. Before you make your next decision as a leader, start with these 3 keys. #leadership #leadershipdevelopment #leader #buildingauthenticity #growth #leadershipcoaching

The responsibilities in your life are endless. There are constant demands for your time, your attention, and your energy. But nothing in this life compares to the importance of how you show up to love and lead your family. This is your most important leadership. Your family deserves the best of you, not the rest of you. #leadership #leader #family #values #priorities #authenticity #buildingauthenticity

Stacey asked Anna to get a book she could “read” during quiet time. This was her selection. 🤩❤️

I’m sure you’ve been there. Caught up in the routines and responsibilities of your busy day, leaving you tired and uninspired by the end. Perhaps even feeling defeated. Asking yourself, where did the day go? This is where intentionality matters. Start each day with a plan. Stay present in your emotions. Focus on what matters most. And take care of your body. Will there be hard days? Ab-so-lutely. However, here are 5 simple keys to help set you up to win your day. Build on the small wins. Because, you’re a winner.

What happened to this “little” pup?!?!

We all go through trials, obstacles, and even failures. It’s how we respond, however, that makes the difference. In every difficultly is an opportunity. A lesson. An invitation for growth. When the going gets tough, remember: YOU determine the outcome. You can be a victim of your setback, or find victory in your comeback. And it all starts with your perspective.

In the midst of this amazing yet challenging work we do, it’s so important to find joy, have fun, and build connection along the way. I’m so thankful for this team and the way they show up each day for one another and for our students.

What a weekend! It’s easy to see why @brownsvilleisd is doing big things in south Texas. Their vision, leadership, and commitment to loving and growing every student that walks through their doors is truly amazing. I’m so grateful to have joined them this morning to kick off their 2024 LISTO conference, talking about growing readers and building leaders!

What do you do when “hard” happens? Your trials are an opportunity for perseverance. For refinement. And for growth. There is something for you right now, even in the midst of what you’re going through. Let the uncomfortable of today be your victory of tomorrow.

One week until joining the @brownsvilleisd for their Annual LISTO Conference! I am pumped up and ready to dive into leadership, culture, and literacy!

80’s Day to the MAX around Klein! (Plus a bonus throwback of the real thing 😏)

Trust is the currency of empowerment. If you want to truly equip, grow, and empower those you lead, it all starts with trust. Ask yourself: How do those I lead experience me? Do they feel my genuine belief in them? Here are 5 phrases to communicate trust in your team today. #buildingauthenticity

If you are looking for a book to develop your leadership and learn how to truly connect with and love those you lead, this is the book for you! Check out “Leading with People” from my friend @zbauermaster! https://a.co/d/0IjMvQy

We all have areas in our life that are stealing from us. Maybe it’s a mindset. Maybe it’s a habit. Maybe it’s a fear. Or even simply a pattern that doesn’t serve your goals for who you desire to become. These pain points in your life won’t go away simply because you avoid thinking about them. (Been there, done that.) But, when you are willing to confront these areas, take ownership, and invite others to speak into your life, these areas will become a building block for your growth and a stepping stone in your life. Let nothing stand in the way of your vision. Lean into the uncomfortable. You’ll be glad you did.

Relationships matter. How are you building connection with those you lead?

Introducing the newest member of Boyz II Men. Well, they didn’t quite ask me. But I know they were thinking it. They might have just been too nervous to ask.

GYTOxVegas was one for the books. To have the opportunity to invest in leaders and also connect with great friends from around the country is truly a blessing. I’m so grateful for those who have poured into my life so that I can in turn pour into others!

Feedback is a gift. Who have you invited to speak into your life? #buildingauthenticity

With 4 kids at home, it’s easy to spend time all together, but sometimes challenging to find moments of personal connection with each of them individually. One of my goals is to be intentional each day to spend one-on-one time, doing something they want to do. There is no task, responsibility, or leadership more important than being present where it matters most.

We need people in our lives whom we trust to speak the truth to us regarding our blind spots. Does it feel good? No. But neither does staying stuck, missing the mark, or putting a lid on your potential. Welcoming feedback into your life starts with a humble invitation, even when it’s not necessarily what you want to hear. Because, that’s usually when you need to hear it the most. Your growth depends on it. #buildingauthenticity

An intentional life is grounded in DAILY commitments and compounded wins, no matter how small. The most important thing about your big goals for the year is TODAY.

Looking back on this past year, I am beyond grateful for the leaders I’ve had the opportunity to meet and work with from around the country. From education to corporate to non-profit, there is one thing that holds true - the growth and development of people is the highest calling of leadership. Here’s to 2024!

Dad, 4 kids, and 7.5 hours of open road. Here we go!

Enjoying a little front yard football, thanks to the Christmas heat wave here in Erie!

When you see this on the background of your 7 year old son’s computer. 💙 Parents - It’s so easy to get caught up in the business of life and all there is to “accomplish.” But don’t ever forget that the greatest impact you will ever make is on your family. What is the legacy you are building?

This does not mean you care any less, but it does mean you prioritize who and what matters most. If you struggle with this, ask yourself: 1. WHY do you feel this way? Often times it is with the best intentions, but can driven by fear, shame, or other lies that might be stealing from your life. 2. WHAT is the COST of living like this? Many of us find ourselves overextended, stretched thin, and out of alignment from our priorities. 3. WHO deserves your best? There is only one you, and you have those in your life who count on you, need you to be fully present, and truly deserve the best of you. Ask yourself these questions, and give yourself permission to pour yourself out in the right areas. The fruit will be the right one, and you’ll be so glad you did.

Meet Tucker! Our kids have been wanting a puppy for the last couple of years, and we had the opportunity to adopt this handsome Standard Poodle from the shelter today! He just arrived there and needed a new home.. and the Cooks were more than happy to give him one!

Today is a gift, and you have an opportunity to impact your world around you. Be present in every interaction, intentional with every choice, and remember that growth happens outside your comfort zone.

1 month until @gytoleadon in Las Vegas! Are you looking for a conference that will ignite a 🔥 in you as a leader? This is it! Did I mention @edmylett, @gavindegraw, @boyziimen, and more will be taking the stage as well?! Register here - http://getyourteachon.com/vegas @getyourteachon

Our world needs healthy leaders. That’s why it’s so important to do the inner work first, because who you are is how you lead. https://a.co/d/hXfYCDX

If you are stuck looking only at your circumstances, you will lose sight of your destination. "Write the Vision. Make it plain on tablets, so he may RUN who reads it." Habakkuk 2:2

This last month I had the opportunity to work with 400 @getgo store leaders from across the region. What an unbelievable company with a powerful culture. As I spent time talking with their leaders, we continually came back to the same thing. Leadership is about PEOPLE: Intentionally developing the untapped greatness and potential in those around you. @gianteagle and @getgo is getting it right. The future is bright!

Your growth is determined by who you are when the going gets tough, your discipline when you feel like quitting, and your courage to lean into the uncomfortable. If you're in the process right now, good. It's your opportunity to grow. Tag a friend who needs to hear this encouragement today!

We need each other, and you have something to give. How are you showing up for those around you, even for those who can do nothing for you in return? Iron sharpens iron.

@officialpascd I can’t wait to join you over the next few days with so many amazing leaders across Pennsylvania! #pascd23

Do you want to unlock the potential inside of your team, create a powerful culture, and maximize your impact as a leader in every area of your life? I am now booking for 2024 - Keynotes, Workshops, and Personalized Leadership Coaching. Growth is a choice. Your team, your family, and you are worth it. Let’s make 2024 the year everything changes. drtylercook.com

I had the joy of celebrating my son Judah’s 10th birthday with a trip together to Florida a few weeks ago. A one-on-one trip is something I do with each of my sons when they turn 10, and Judah chose Legoland and a chance to see Messi play. In these years that go by way too fast, cherish every moment, make memories together, and prioritize connection above all else. Happy Birthday Judah!

Our world needs healthy leaders. Leaders who are authentic, life-giving, and lead from the inside-out. Here are 4 things Authentic Leaders do consistently. What else would you add to this list? Post in the comments below! #buildingauthenticity #leadership #leadershipdevelopment

Such a fun morning in Georgia with @techninjatodd, talking about #culture with 3 schools full of incredible teachers! @gwinoaks_es @harmonyesjags @fmes_bears

Happy birthday to my beautiful wife, or as Anna calls her, my “life.” You live each day with excellence and love, and you relentlessly show up for those around you. I am grateful beyond words for you, @staceymcook ❤️

Can’t wait to head to Georgia with @techninjatodd this week to join 3 amazing schools in gwinnettschools!

A little Saturday flag football with the boys!

My favorite kind of delivery! Gearing up to sign 400 copies of #buildingauthenticity for the incredible leaders at @getgo in Columbus in a couple of weeks! @gianteagle

So grateful to join the @graceleadershipinstitute this past Saturday! They are equipping leaders with such excellence across our region! Check them out at graceleadershipinstitute.com

Anna wanted to join the football game, so the boys took a break from tackling each other and doing the gritty to let her join for a bit. So thankful for this little crew. 💙💙💙❤️

Can’t wait to join @officialpascd for their 2023 PASCD Annual Conference in Hershey next month! #pascd

Who needs to hear this today? 🙋🏻‍♂️ Trying to be all things to all people isn’t healthy or sustainable, and oftentimes pulls us away from our priorities. This can leave us feeling guilty, overstretched, and emotionally drained. What area in your life do you need to get better at saying “no,” so you can say “yes” to the right things?

This past week, one of our staff members of 25 years passed away after an extended battle with cancer. As a staff, we reminisced with grateful hearts, while we mourned the loss of a friend and colleague. In the midst of the never ending demands and pressures of our jobs, we can never forget that we have schools and organizations full of real people going through real things. As leaders, we must never lose sight of our calling to lead with empathy, compassion, and love.

Feedback is a gift. We need people in our lives who can speak with honesty for the sake of our growth and potential. Who have you invited to speak into your life? #buildingauthenticity

3rd born son. Enough said. Also, the mullet is coming along nicely, thanks for asking.

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. - Proverbs 4:23

The last 5 years with this cute girl have been a dream come true. Her sass, her confidence, her humor, and her love, all packaged together in a mini version of her Mama. Every day with her is such a joy. Happy Birthday Anna Grace!

So excited to join the @graceleadershipinstitute in a couple of weeks! They are doing incredible things to develop leaders across the Erie region! Hope to see you there!

Over the past month, I took some time away from social media to process the death of my biological father. A difficult season I did not anticipate. One of processing pain, facing emotions, and looking inward. Yet, it has been a season of some of my greatest breakthrough, clearest vision, and deepest comfort. In every season there is a crossroads. Avoid pain or process it. Run from your emotions or lean into growth. When we embrace what we are facing, there is hope and strength. I’ve had to practice what I preach in ways that have stretched me and challenged me. But in all things, I know this: God is good. He is the only true source of comfort, and is way better than we even know.

Had an incredible day with the @gianteagle WetGo team, talking leadership development, building healthy cultures, and growing their teams!

When we are willing to stay current with how we are doing on the inside, we become more aware of the impact that our external circumstances may have on us. We can't fully show up for others if we aren't willing to show up for ourselves first. #buildingauthenticity

For all you eBook folks out there - we've got you covered! Building Authenticity is now on Kindle! Leadership starts within, and this book will serve as a blueprint to encourage and equip you to live and lead at your fullest potential! https://a.co/d/388L16r

Had the privilege of spending 2 days last week with the @gytoleadon team and @waynecountyschoolswv in West Virginia! 70 incredible leaders with powerful vision and contagious passion!

So grateful to spend the afternoon yesterday in Arizona with the Sierra Vista School District, talking about growing healthy cultures and building authenticity!

So grateful to work with the @parklandschooldistrict in Allentown, PA this past week. What an amazing district with incredible leadership. Their passion to serve and grow their students is contagious!

I love the opportunity to help districts and organizations grow their people, build healthy cultures, and expand their impact. Excited to head to Allentown, PA to work with the @parklandschooldistrict this week!

It’s impossible to not have this on repeat. 🤣

I loved being out on the course this morning with these two boys! We had so much fun!

Loved joining @thenaesp for their National Conference yesterday to lead two pre-conference workshops with @techninjatodd in National Harbor, MD! Thankful for this great organization and for the chance to invest in leaders from across the country!

It's giveaway time! My book Building Authenticity, written with @techninjatodd! A book to develop the authentic leader inside each one of us, in every area of our lives. To enter to win: 1. Tag a friend 2. Like this post 3. Share this post Winners announced on Wed, July 12!

Can’t wait to join @thenaesp this weekend for their National Conference in National Harbor, MD! @techninjatodd and I will be leading one of the pre-conference workshops! Hope to see you there!

It is nearly impossible to behave in a manner inconsistent with the way we view ourselves. This is why the inner work we do matters. It determines how we show up to love and lead others well. #leadershipdevelopment #personaldevelopment

So thankful to join @getyourteachon for their National Conference this past week. @heyhopeking and @heywadeking truly have a heart to equip and empower educators to live and lead at their best, and @techninjatodd’s vision for @gytoleadon is something special. Also, thank you to @chrispombonyo @lanesha_tabb @chasemayo & @ameliacapotosta for your incredible leadership! I appreciate you all!

1,100 leaders from across the country. One goal. To grow into their fullest potential for the sake of every person they lead! So thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the @getyourteachon @gytoleadon National Conference in Dallas! 📷 @david_erickson_photography

So grateful to be standing next to this guy! It has been an incredible journey to collaborate and create a message of encouragement and empowerment to live and lead with authenticity! Who you are is how you lead! Thankful for you @techninjatodd! #buildingauthenticity #leadershipdevelopment

@justinwillman is the man! He brought down the house tonight at GYTO in Dallas! #getyourteachon #getyourleadon

Kicking off the GYTO Lead On National conference! 1,100 leaders ready to grow!

Our world needs whole, healthy, and present fathers more than ever. Those who love fully, live humbly, and lead their family with character and courage. This is your most important legacy. Happy Father’s Day!

Those people who give us honest feedback, challenge us to grow, and love us unconditionally are a true gift in life. We are created for connection, and we need to foster a healthy support system so we can truly grow into our potential. Who are those people in your life? Tag them below!

Who do you want to be a month from now? A year from now? The decisions you make and the actions you take TODAY matter. Do the hard thing. Your future self thanks you. #buildingauthenticity #leadershipdevelopment #personaldevelopment

Thankful we live so close to my parents, and for the ability to raise our kids with an appreciation for family, hard work, and of course ALL the treats from Grandma.

Honored to be recommended by such an incredible organization like @tepsatalk! Thank you! @techninjatodd #buildingauthenticity #leadershipdevelopment

Hard to believe my oldest, Elijah is now headed to middle school. I am so proud of the young man of character he has become, and I’m so grateful to be his dad.

When you reach your school-wide reading goal for the year, you celebrate by getting color blasted by the students! #principal #leadership #kidsdeserveit

Thank you to Region 4 in Houston, TX for welcoming me and @techninjatodd to share with your team about #buildingauthenticity and developing the leader inside you! You are doing incredible work for schools and students! #leadershipdevelopment

So excited to join the “GYTO Library” at this year’s National Conference in Dallas! So many incredible authors, so much wisdom! Thank you @getyourteachon & @gytoleadon!

So honored to join the amazing @joshua__stamper on his Aspire to Lead podcast! Josh is such an all around great guy - if you are in education, check out his podcast! https://bit.ly/438ECNe #buildingauthenticity #aspirelead

Girl’s night for Mom means party time with Dad 🕺🏻

Your health is not selfish, it’s essential to love and serve others well. #buildingauthenticity #leadyourselffirst #health

Loved joining @brandonbeckedu recently on his Unlocking Unlimited Potential podcast to talk about living and leading with authenticity! https://brandonbeckedu.com/podcast