The Power of SEL

In this episode of the Good Insights podcast, Danny Mucinskas interviews Nick Haisman-Smith, the Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Institute for Social and Emotional Learning. Nick discusses his journey from teaching to co-founding the Institute and highlights the importance of proactive and systemic approaches to social and emotional learning (SEL) in schools. The conversation covers SEL competencies, the importance of cultural sensitivity in conducting this type of work, and how to create supportive environments for both students and educators. Connecting with The Good Project’s framework of “good work,” Nick emphasizes that SEL is integral to achieving excellence, fostering ethical decision-making, and maintaining engagement. The pair conclude by thinking about their hopes for the wider effects of SEL on the world.