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Hosted by joshua stamper
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3 episodes with joshua stamper
3 episodes with joshua stamper
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What if feeling less tired and more inspired is not about waiting for life to slow down, but about making small, intentional choices in the middle of the chaos? In this episode, Joshua Stamper welcomes back former high school chemistry and physics teacher, keynote speaker, and author Phil Januszewski to discuss his new book, Too Damn Happy: Flourishing in a Tired and Uninspired World. After 20 years in the classroom, Phil left a career he loved to help educators and other adult givers build lives they do not need to escape from. Phil shares practical, research-informed strategies for moving beyond survival mode and toward greater energy, connection, resilience, and purpose. The conversation explores the difference between simply eliminating negativity and actively flourishing, why scheduling joy matters, how micro-moments of connection can change a school culture, and why leaders need to protect time for the things that truly refill their tank. About Phil Januszewski Phil Januszewski is a nationally recognized keynote speaker who empowers the “givers” of the world to flourish personally so they can create greater impact professionally; all while avoiding burnout, boredom, and cynicism. A 20-year educator turned full-time motivator; Phil blends science, storytelling, and humor to inspire audiences to recharge their energy and reignite their purpose. With a background in chemistry, a master's in teaching leadership, and a certification in positive education, he lives out his mission of creating and spreading happiness through motivation, education, and entertainment; all with a little extra tattoo ink and a whole lot of heart. Follow Phil Januszewski Website:https://philjanuszewski.com/Book (Too Damn Happy):https://TooDamnHappy.comFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/PhilJanuszewskiSpeaksInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/philjanuszewskiYouTube:https://youtube.com/@philjanuszewskiLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/philjanuszewskiTik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@philjanuszewskiTwitter/X:https://x.com/philjanuszewskiPositive Growth Clothing Store:https://www.etsy.com/shop/PositiveGrowthStore — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What would change if educators treated joy, connection, and mental wellness as essential parts of the work instead of extras?In this episode, Joshua Stamper welcomes back educator, author, speaker, and Teach Class Off creator CJ Reynolds. CJ reflects on more than 20 years in education, from teaching in West Philadelphia to serving students in New Mexico, and shares why his purpose has remained rooted in one simple belief: kids come first.Joshua and CJ discuss building meaningful relationships with students, finding joy in the everyday moments of school, setting boundaries, and pushing back on practices that do not serve students. CJ also shares practical ideas for combating burnout, reconnecting with what energizes you, and creating a culture where students and staff feel noticed, valued, and supported.About CJ Reynolds: Mr. Reynolds is an author, YouTuber, & public speaker. In his book, Teach Your Class Off, on his YouTube Channel, Real Rap With Reynolds, and on his Podcast, Sunday Night Teacher Talk, Reynolds offers an authentic glimpse into what it looks like to teach high school in the inner city. Using “Real Rap” to share teaching tips and strategies, Reynolds helps new and veteran teachers alike become the teacher they always dreamed of being.Follow CJ Reynolds:Twitter (X):https://twitter.com/realrapreynoldsWebsite:https://teachyourclassoff.com/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/realrapwithreynolds/Teach Your Class Off YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRGA_FqyigEPmh5U37Yn7fAThe Rules of Engagement:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1l43k7ZS2YuiqMj0Av1q-1TLHJ4qIhz9 https://www.amazon.com/Teach-Your-Class-Off-Teaching/dp/195160010X?crid=3BROTRPFRQR7O&keywords=real+rap+with+reynolds&qid=1650747175&sprefix=real+rap+with+reynolds%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=aab1975b82a180d6741cfe0700afe56f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
You have reflected on your leadership experiences, clarified your leadership identity, identified the people in your corner, and recognized the gaps you still need to fill. Now it is time to turn that insight into action. In the final episode of the Aspiring Leaders Bonus Series, Joshua Stamper shares a practical framework for creating an intentional leadership action plan. Learn how to choose a leadership focus, pursue one meaningful experience, connect with a person who can support your growth, and establish accountability that keeps your goals from getting lost in a busy school year. Joshua also introduces The 30-Day Action Challenge, a simple plan listeners can begin immediately: Week One:Choose your leadership focus area and write down one specific goal.Week Two:Reach out to a leader, mentor, or supervisor to ask for guidance or an opportunity.Week Three:Take action by volunteering, observing, supporting, or leading something connected to your goal.Week Four:Reflect on what you learned, document the experience, and identify your next step. Move beyond broad aspirations and take one intentional step toward the leader you want to become. Download the free Leadership Inventory Reflection HERE and begin leading with intention today. Aspire to Lead Cohort Are you ready to stop guessing your way through your leadership journey and start building a clear plan for your next role? The Aspire to Lead Cohort is a supportive community for aspiring educational leaders who want practical guidance, meaningful accountability, and real strategies for advancing their careers. You will gain access to two live Zoom workshops each month, weekly Voxer support, leadership resources, accountability partners, interview preparation, and a network of educators who are growing alongside you. Whether you are a teacher leader, department chair, aspiring administrator, or a new leader looking for support, this cohort will help you build your leadership identity, gain the right experiences, strengthen your interview readiness, and take intentional steps toward your goals. Special Founding Member Opportunity The first five people to join the Aspire to Lead Cohort by August 31 will receive the Founding Member rate, a 55% discount. This discounted rate is limited, so do not wait to take the next step in your leadership journey. Learn more and apply at joshstamper.com/leadership-cohorts. -- If today's episode has you thinking more intentionally about your leadership journey, my book, Aspire to Lead, is a great next step. It is designed to help aspiring and current school leaders reflect on their strengths, build meaningful relationships, develop practical leadership skills, and lead with greater confidence and purpose. Whether you are preparing for your first leadership role or looking to grow in the one you already have, Aspire to Lead offers strategies and reflection points to support you along the way. Grab your copy today and continue building the leadership foundation your school community needs. The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2
Are you building meaningful leadership experience, or are you simply staying busy? In Part 4 of the Aspiring Leaders Bonus Series, Joshua Stamper helps aspiring leaders identify the experiences they still need before stepping into their next role. Saying yes to every committee, project, or extra duty may show initiative, but not every opportunity builds the skills, relationships, and leadership evidence that hiring teams want to see. This episode explores key areas of school leadership, including instructional leadership, student support and discipline, human capital, school culture and community engagement, operations and systems, and district involvement. Joshua shares practical examples of experiences you can pursue, along with questions that will help you identify where your leadership portfolio is strong and where you may need intentional growth. You do not need to have every skill mastered before earning a leadership role. You do need to show that you are willing to seek opportunities, learn from experience, reflect on your impact, and continue growing. Choose one leadership experience you need to gain this school year, set a realistic deadline, and take the first step toward making it happen. FREE Leadership Inventory Reflection: https://joshua-stamper.kit.com/e73d99e4c6 Aspire to Lead Cohort Are you ready to stop guessing your way through your leadership journey and start building a clear plan for your next role? The Aspire to Lead Cohort is a supportive community for aspiring educational leaders who want practical guidance, meaningful accountability, and real strategies for advancing their careers. You will gain access to two live Zoom workshops each month, weekly Voxer support, leadership resources, accountability partners, interview preparation, and a network of educators who are growing alongside you. Whether you are a teacher leader, department chair, aspiring administrator, or a new leader looking for support, this cohort will help you build your leadership identity, gain the right experiences, strengthen your interview readiness, and take intentional steps toward your goals. Special Founding Member Opportunity The first five people to join the Aspire to Lead Cohort by August 31 will receive the Founding Member rate, a 55% discount. This discounted rate is limited, so do not wait to take the next step in your leadership journey. Learn more and apply at joshstamper.com/leadership-cohorts. -- If today's episode has you thinking more intentionally about your leadership journey, my book, Aspire to Lead, is a great next step. It is designed to help aspiring and current school leaders reflect on their strengths, build meaningful relationships, develop practical leadership skills, and lead with greater confidence and purpose. Whether you are preparing for your first leadership role or looking to grow in the one you already have, Aspire to Lead offers strategies and reflection points to support you along the way. Grab your copy today and continue building the leadership foundation your school community needs. The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 - Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2
What kind of leader do you want to be when the title finally arrives? In Part 3 of the Aspiring Leaders Bonus Series, Joshua Stamper helps aspiring leaders move beyond simply naming the role they want and begin defining the values, mission, vision, and commitments that will guide their leadership. A title may change, responsibilities may shift, and your career path may take unexpected turns, but your leadership identity can serve as the compass that keeps you grounded. In this episode, you will explore how to avoid copying another leader's style, make decisions that align with your values, and communicate your leadership purpose with greater clarity and confidence. Joshua also shares his own experience of stepping into a dean of students role and realizing that leading according to others' expectations was not creating the impact he hoped to make. Use the reflection questions below to begin building your leadership identity. This is not meant to be a final answer. It is a personal, authentic first draft that can evolve as you gain experience, receive feedback, and continue growing as a leader. Reflection Questions When I am at my best as a leader, I am…When I am struggling as a leader, I tend to…What values do I want to guide my decisions?Ten years from now, what do I hope people say about my leadership impact?What kind of culture do I want to create? Leadership Identity Statement “I am a leader who values [core values]. I lead so that [mission]. In my future role as [aspired role], I will create [vision]. My leadership will be guided by [key commitments].” Aspire to Lead Cohort Are you ready to stop guessing your way through your leadership journey and start building a clear plan for your next role? The Aspire to Lead Cohort is a supportive community for aspiring educational leaders who want practical guidance, meaningful accountability, and real strategies for advancing their careers. You will gain access to two live Zoom workshops each month, weekly Voxer support, leadership resources, accountability partners, interview preparation, and a network of educators who are growing alongside you. Whether you are a teacher leader, department chair, aspiring administrator, or a new leader looking for support, this cohort will help you build your leadership identity, gain the right experiences, strengthen your interview readiness, and take intentional steps toward your goals. Special Founding Member Opportunity The first five people to join the Aspire to Lead Cohort by August 31 will receive the Founding Member rate, a 55% discount. This discounted rate is limited, so do not wait to take the next step in your leadership journey. Learn more and apply at joshstamper.com/leadership-cohorts. -- If today's episode has you thinking more intentionally about your leadership journey, my book, Aspire to Lead, is a great next step. It is designed to help aspiring and current school leaders reflect on their strengths, build meaningful relationships, develop practical leadership skills, and lead with greater confidence and purpose. Whether you are preparing for your first leadership role or looking to grow in the one you already have, Aspire to Lead offers strategies and reflection points to support you along the way. Grab your copy today and continue building the leadership foundation your school community needs. The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2
Leadership growth does not happen in isolation. While your experiences, credentials, and drive all matter, the right relationships can help you gain perspective, identify meaningful opportunities, and take the next step in your leadership journey. In this episode, Joshua Stamper explores why aspiring leaders need a strong network of support and introduces four people who can make a meaningful difference: a mentor, a coach, a campus advocate, and a district connector. You will reflect on who currently supports your goals, where you may need to build stronger connections, and how to approach leadership relationships with authenticity rather than a transactional mindset. Joshua also shares practical ways to begin building trust with leaders, including asking for a conversation, following up with gratitude, offering value, seeking feedback, and consistently following through. Your next leadership opportunity may begin with one genuine conversation. Download the free Leadership Inventory Reflection HERE and begin leading with intention today. Aspire to Lead Cohort Are you ready to stop guessing your way through your leadership journey and start building a clear plan for your next role? The Aspire to Lead Cohort is a supportive community for aspiring educational leaders who want practical guidance, meaningful accountability, and real strategies for advancing their careers. You will gain access to two live Zoom workshops each month, weekly Voxer support, leadership resources, accountability partners, interview preparation, and a network of educators who are growing alongside you. Whether you are a teacher leader, department chair, aspiring administrator, or a new leader looking for support, this cohort will help you build your leadership identity, gain the right experiences, strengthen your interview readiness, and take intentional steps toward your goals. Special Founding Member Opportunity The first five people to join the Aspire to Lead Cohort by August 31 will receive the Founding Member rate, a 55% discount. This discounted rate is limited, so do not wait to take the next step in your leadership journey. Learn more and apply at joshstamper.com/leadership-cohorts. -- If today's episode has you thinking more intentionally about your leadership journey, my book, Aspire to Lead, is a great next step. It is designed to help aspiring and current school leaders reflect on their strengths, build meaningful relationships, develop practical leadership skills, and lead with greater confidence and purpose. Whether you are preparing for your first leadership role or looking to grow in the one you already have, Aspire to Lead offers strategies and reflection points to support you along the way. Grab your copy today and continue building the leadership foundation your school community needs. The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2
If you are considering a future leadership role, have recently joined a principal preparation program, or simply feel ready to make a greater impact on your campus, this series will help you take practical next steps. In this first episode, Joshua Stamper challenges aspiring leaders to look beyond the title and recognize the leadership experiences they may already have.You will reflect on the committees, initiatives, relationships, and problems you have helped lead, while also identifying gaps in your preparation. Joshua shares why being busy is not the same as being strategic and introduces a free Leadership Inventory Reflection to help you build a clearer plan for your next steps.Throughout this bonus series, you will explore how to build the right relationships, define your leadership identity, gain meaningful experiences, and create an action plan for your leadership journey.Download the free Leadership Inventory Reflection HERE and begin leading with intention today.Aspire to Lead CohortAre you ready to stop guessing your way through your leadership journey and start building a clear plan for your next role?The Aspire to Lead Cohort is a supportive community for aspiring educational leaders who want practical guidance, meaningful accountability, and real strategies for advancing their careers. You will gain access to two live Zoom workshops each month, weekly Voxer support, leadership resources, accountability partners, interview preparation, and a network of educators who are growing alongside you.Whether you are a teacher leader, department chair, aspiring administrator, or a new leader looking for support, this cohort will help you build your leadership identity, gain the right experiences, strengthen your interview readiness, and take intentional steps toward your goals.Special Founding Member OpportunityThe first five people to join the Aspire to Lead Cohort by August 31 will receive the Founding Member rate, a 55% discount. This discounted rate is limited, so do not wait to take the next step in your leadership journey.Learn more and apply at joshstamper.com/leadership-cohorts.--If today's episode has you thinking more intentionally about your leadership journey, my book, Aspire to Lead, is a great next step.It is designed to help aspiring and current school leaders reflect on their strengths, build meaningful relationships, develop practical leadership skills, and lead with greater confidence and purpose. Whether you are preparing for your first leadership role or looking to grow in the one you already have, Aspire to Lead offers strategies and reflection points to support you along the way.Grab your copy today and continue building the leadership foundation your school community needs.The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2
What if the strongest school cultures are not built through big initiatives, catchy slogans, or another binder of expectations, but through small actions repeated every day? In this episode, Tom Walls shares lessons from more than 30 years in education and coaching across four continents. He explains why culture must be treated as a system, not a slogan, and how leaders can create genuine buy-in by helping people feel seen, valued, and connected. Tom introduces the idea of micro-inclusions: simple, repeatable habits such as using names, making eye contact, and greeting people with a handshake. He also discusses student-led teams, the importance of returning to your “why,” and why leaders need more than one tool when facing the challenges of school culture and relationships. Whether you lead from the classroom, office, sidelines, or community, this conversation offers practical ways to build belonging and create a culture that lasts. About Tom Walls Tom Walls is an international speaker, educator, and leadership coach with more than 30 years of experience helping schools build cultures where people genuinely buy in. Drawing on his experience as a teacher, coach, and school leader, Tom shares practical leadership systems that strengthen culture, reduce unnecessary conflict, and help educators get back to the reason they entered the profession. Based in Medellín, Colombia, he works with international schools and organizations throughout South and Central America while continuing to write, speak, and coach on leadership and culture Follow Tom Walls Website:www.Thomasbwalls.comInstagram: @tom.walls104Facebook: tom.walls.104Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-wallsleadership/Substack:https://substack.com/@coachtom — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What might change in your school if students felt safe enough to say they were not okay? In this episode, Ashanti Branch shares how his own journey as a student, engineer, and educator led him to create the Ever Forward Club, a nonprofit dedicated to helping young men build connection, emotional awareness, character, and leadership skills. He explains why many students learn to hide behind masks, what it takes to earn trust, and how schools can create spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and supported. Ashanti also introduces the #MillionMaskMovement, a powerful activity that helps students and adults reflect on the parts of themselves they show to the world and the experiences they often keep hidden. From simple daily check-ins to proactive conversations about emotions and belonging, this episode offers practical ways educators and leaders can strengthen relationships, support regulation, and build a healthier campus culture. About Ashanti Branch Ashanti is a master in transforming schools into safer, more connected spaces through his workshops and a variety of products geared towards social-emotional learning. He is a pioneer in education reform and in youth mental health, with over 18 years of experience. He is the Founder and Executive Director of the Ever Forward Club (EFC), a non- profit organization dedicated to addressing the dropout rates of marginalized students through youth mentorship and teacher professional development. A recipient of the 2023 US Surgeon General's Medallion (the highest honor a civilian can receive from the Surgeon General), Ashanti is a keynote speaker, a consultant on the youth mental health crisis, a Fulbright Fellow, and 4x Tedx Speaker. His work with youth as an ‘emotional locksmith' has been featured at SXSW, on CNN's This is Life with Lisa Ling, on the Kelly Clarkson Show, and in the documentary about American masculinity The Mask You Live In, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. Formerly a math teacher and raised in Oakland by a single mom on welfare (his father died just before he was born), Ashanti found his passion while tutoring struggling students in a school with a majority African-American and Latino population. It broke his heart to see 40% of them wanting to drop out at such a young age. By fulfilling deeper emotional needs to feel safe, seen, and heard, EFC has helped 100% of its student members graduate high school, 90% enroll in higher education, and 0% become incarcerated (compared to the national incarceration rate of 8% for black males, age 20-24). Notable projects include EFC's Adventure Card Game which introduces youth to the world of their feelings, created by boiling down 18+ years of deep understanding working with thousands of youth. EFC's #millionmaskmovement (Anthem Award recipient) provides a free, youth-friendly, hands-on emotional tool, with an online gallery of over 75,000 masks from around the world, searchable by age, so youth feel less alone. EFC alumni are often the first to break generational patterns and go on to make healthier leaders, parents, and partners. Although EFC is based in California, it has now impacted schools globally, with thousands of alumni stating, "I can truly say Ever Forward Club saved my life." Ashanti's work is crucial as we are now at an unprecedented inflection point with youth, with this being the first generation in history expected to live shorter lives than their parents. Youth mental health has been identified as being in a state of emergency by the US Surgeon General. Please help Ashanti get the word out that help is available. Follow Ashanti Branch Website:https://everforwardclub.org/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub/Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@everforwardclub https://www.amazon.com/Diary-Confused-Educator-Ashanti-Branch/dp/B0F9K18XQV?crid=3TAW2U0Y4AOX8&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hOsaBN16KeoYeOEt7y3LL8A1tI79liJowuogsLf8crMkzD0L5qL5ZdsDMK3M0LOrygVN-otGu0afnWnNceA8EQ.KmhO_DVZ4L1VUXxCiT3U_vRO-C4M8BZq3oGDUt4O18k&dib_tag=se&keywords=Ashanti+Branch&qid=1786239603&sprefix=ashanti+branch%2Caps%2C177&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0ee789956ef1ee21eff4aacb290a9ac5&language=en_US&gaOptInStatus=true&ref_=as_li_ss_tl -- #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What happens when an educator chooses to look beyond behavior and uncover the story, need, or struggle beneath it?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with educator, author, speaker, and podcast host Joshua Stamper to explore relationships, leadership, student behavior, educator wellness, and the power of discovering purpose.Together, they reflect on the confidence educators show publicly, the self-doubt they may carry privately, and why meaningful change begins when students and staff feel seen, valued, and understood.This conversation dives into:Joshua's journey from graphic designer to teacher and school leaderHow mentors can recognize leadership potential before we see it ourselvesWhy purpose can transform motivation and performanceThe importance of building relationships before expecting academic growthWhy knowledge of the brain must first pass through the heartHow educators can misinterpret students when pieces of their stories are missingWhy behavior should be viewed as a form of communicationThe role respect and trust play in student engagementThe confidence leaders display while privately carrying self-doubtIf you care about educator wellness, student behavior, school leadership, emotional intelligence, relationship-centered education, or creating healthier school communities, this episode is for you.Connect with Joshua StamperEmail: Joshua@joshstamper.comWebsite:https://joshstamper.comLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@joshuastamperExplore Joshua's books and podcasts, including Aspire to Lead, The Language of Behavior, and the VibeEDU Podcast.Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators#AspireToLead #TheLanguageOfBehavior #VibeEDU #EducationalLeadership #SchoolLeadership #EducatorWellness #TeacherBurnout #StudentBehavior #RelationshipCenteredEducation #EmotionalIntelligence
What does it really take to lead well when school life is messy, fast-moving, and full of real challenges? In this week's episode, Adam Dovico shares a grounded and practical conversation about what educators and school leaders are facing right now, from supporting new teachers and building school culture to developing future leaders and creating meaningful learning experiences. He talks about the changing realities of the teaching profession, why confidence matters in leadership, and how small shifts in practice can make a big difference in classrooms and schools. Adam also shares insights from his work with Elevate Your Classroom, Wake Forest University, EdMed Talks, and his new instructional idea, Covalent Seminar. If you care about leadership, culture, and what it looks like to build better schools from the inside out, this episode is worth your time. About Dr. Adam Dovico Dr. Adam Dovico is an accomplished teacher, curriculum facilitator, principal, professor, speaker, and author. For over two decades, he has taught students of all ages through his engaging and rigorous teaching style. He is known for his time at the Ron Clark Academy, Get Your Teach On, Elevate Your Classroom, Moore Elementary School, and Wake Forest University, along with hundreds of keynotes and workshops he has provided for educators worldwide. You can often find Adam standing on a table or chair dressed in one of his signature suits. Organizations such as the Japan Fulbright Memorial Fund, Learning for Justice, and the Atlanta Falcons have recognized him for his leadership and teaching. He continues to work for greater equity in schools through his culturally responsive pedagogy. You can learn more about Adam's teaching and leadership online at adamdovico.com, on social media @adamdovico, or in his books: Inside the Trenches, The Limitless School, and When Kids Lead. Connect with Dr. Adam Dovico Website:www.adamdovico.com Twitter (X): @adamdovico Instagram: @adamdovico Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamdovico/ https://www.amazon.com/When-Kids-Lead-Inspiring-Empowering/dp/195160024X?crid=3GJRW7CVDJQ8R&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.QMc5arTrjnTMb9CTnMwIbX12w-lOQTZkOuqvvRPutzDGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.mrhNVudbnU7scQnrKqvYQxSBOghwvZw1s9rJC5Nz3Ts&dib_tag=se&keywords=Adam+dovico&qid=1785730351&sprefix=adam+dovi%2Caps%2C285&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=d176b9a60abbb4179838def642fbb134&language=en_US&gaOptInStatus=true&ref_=as_li_ss_tl https://www.amazon.com/Limitless-School-Creative-Culture-Puzzle/dp/1946444502?crid=3GJRW7CVDJQ8R&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.QMc5arTrjnTMb9CTnMwIbX12w-lOQTZkOuqvvRPutzDGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.mrhNVudbnU7scQnrKqvYQxSBOghwvZw1s9rJC5Nz3Ts&dib_tag=se&keywords=Adam+dovico&qid=1785730379&sprefix=adam+dovi%2Caps%2C285&sr=8-2&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0a9beec39c9bab53109f9b097de017cc&language=en_US&gaOptInStatus=true&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What if resistance in your school is not a sign of defiance, but a signal that something deeper needs attention?In this episode, Becca Silver shares a research-informed approach to understanding resistance in K-12 education and why it is often rooted in unmet needs rather than unwillingness to change. She explains how school leaders and instructional coaches can move from reacting to resistance to diagnosing it with more intention, clarity, and empathy. Becca also breaks down the five needs that shape whether educators are ready to engage with change: value, belonging, success, growth, and ownership.You'll hear practical strategies for responding to teacher resistance in ways that build trust, strengthen belief, and move initiatives forward. Becca also shares how leaders can shift from focusing on compliance and buy-in toward creating real ownership, along with the role of listening, curiosity, and targeted support in meaningful school improvement. Whether you lead a school, coach teachers, or support district initiatives, this conversation will help you better understand what resistance is telling you and how to respond in ways that truly support educators.About Becca Silver Becca Silver is a speaker, leadership trainer, Resistance Specialist, and author of The Resistance Solution: Why Educators Resist and What They Need Instead. She helps instructional coaches and school leaders understand the human side of change. Becca is also the founder of The Whole Educator and host of the long-running podcast Coaching the Whole Educator, where she explores practical ways leaders can support teachers as whole people while improving practice. Becca's work focuses on a simple but often overlooked truth: resistance isn't defiance. It's information. Through her Catalyst Mindsets™ framework, she helps leaders identify the unmet needs underneath resistance and respond in ways that build trust, ownership, and real progress. Her sessions blend research, real coaching stories, and practical tools educators can use immediately. Follow Becca SilverWebsite:https://www.thewholeeducator.com Twitter (X): @BeccaSilver_EduInstagram: @thewholeeducatorFacebook: The Whole Educator CommunityLinkedin: Becca SilverYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXwwkdnMVSc3gu9Uu1HOv0-8vxvfrcp-W Free Resistance Diagnostic Assessment:https://www.thewholeeducator.com/resistance-audithttps://www.amazon.com/Resistance-Solution-Educators-Resist-Instead/dp/1965438172?crid=MF8YBR55Q90R&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.85DD3I0QNb9kkCiJFOrA3K6QA03dVj3s5nOlZDZAJoAu-HrlJi0UqKkaKs1BCeCo2Nt6_gF9iZNa96xVCeOH-pR2f9fHnYhwKS0I8g1ZBhQitgjvc9aPUzLSPunwwKzKw_nna8wEKoHunMbByWIuA-JInhWWRkOR3nBv2fexJXCe71nnv0IRKIb_anaXEbCGXdPA5IOyouoJYRoKTTwu0_FwBam1yhLr4FWKdHTILd4.HUVnqZR-9BibUvo5hAFZt4X6nRsULBHnaXHhX4k1rZs&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+resistance+solution+book&qid=1784854579&sprefix=the+resistance+solution+boo%2Caps%2C261&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=7c033f8306ab27a8779c0fd8f62f581d&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
Why is it still so common for people to say, “I'm not a math person,” and how can school leaders help change that narrative? In this week's episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with Thomas O'Brien to explore why leaders are uniquely positioned to shape math culture, support stronger instruction, and create environments where both teachers and students see themselves as capable math learners. Thomas also shares why leading math instruction does not require a math background, and how the best coaches are not always the best players. Together, they discuss what leaders and coaches should actually look for when walking into a math classroom, how to support teachers in meaningful ways, and what it means to assist with math projects and instructional coaching at a high level. Thomas also highlights his upcoming book, Empowering All Leaders to Be Math Leaders, releasing August 14, 2026 from Routledge with a foreword by Dr. T.J. Vari, and his weekly writing on How Math Saves the World on Substack, where he continues to share practical ideas for math instruction and school leadership. About Thomas O'Brien Thomas O'Brien partners with schools, districts, and after-school programs nationwide to turndata and practice into college and career opportunities. An award-winning math teacher andformer nationally recognized high school principal, he brings deep instructional-leadership experience and a passion for continuous improvement to his work. Follow his writing on substack about education, math instruction, and school leadership. His book Empowering All Leaders to be Math Leaders comes out in August. Follow Thomas O'Brien Website:www.thomasobrien.xyzTwitter (X): thomas_g_obrienLinkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrien-thomas/Substack:https://howmathsavestheworld.substack.com/ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1041171897?lv=shuf&crid=3JF28KOE0DQAZ&keywords=empowering+all+leaders+to+be+math+leaders&sprefix=empowering+all+leaders+to+be+math+leaders%2Caps%2C82&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.bAds_C6GrwPh3dUMA3TNTMoyo3oiGl56uxabxp4cDv622158nHDm1npdzikEhxuFO9fghFp-CRgUPBhsWHDEbA.XYlnjJiHCJiw7WXedrNHL-5adU8QI23jYjWElv7LRfk&qid=1784294931&sr=8-1&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=e8d0b730654dab3eb4aa87b8d07df70c&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
In this Aspire Mailbag episode, Joshua Stamper and Jeff Gargas tackle two leadership topics that are on a lot of educators' minds right now: how to hire great people when applicant pools are shrinking, and how to rethink student discipline in ways that actually build skills. They explore why culture matters in attracting the right staff, how leaders can look beyond interview answers to find the right fit, and what it means to create a school or district people genuinely want to be part of.The conversation also dives into the tension between punishment and education in student behavior systems. Joshua and Jeff discuss why discipline should not be about simply removing students or making them “sit and think,” but instead about teaching regulation, repairing harm, and helping students build the skills they need for the future. This episode offers practical leadership insight for administrators, coaches, and educators who want to build stronger teams and healthier school cultures.Follow Jeff Gargas:Twitter:https://twitter.com/jeffgargasInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/_jeffgargas/Follow The Teach Better Team:Twitter:https://twitter.com/teachbetterteamWebsite:https://www.teachbetter.com/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/teachbetterteamInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/teachbetterteamThe Teach Better Podcast:https://www.teachbetter.com/podcast/https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1949595668/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1949595668&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=76f63506c1e5b2f907d05fb13ab6f8e4 Teach Better Academy: https://www.teachbettercommunity.com/academy Use Coupon Code: ASPIRE for 50% Off for LIFE — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper:Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with Darrin Peppard to explore how organizations can intentionally develop future leaders. Darrin shares practical ideas for identifying leadership potential early, creating meaningful growth opportunities, and building the kind of trust and support that helps emerging leaders step into new roles with confidence. Together, they discuss why leadership development cannot be left to chance, how mentorship and coaching shape long-term growth, and what it looks like to create a culture where people are encouraged to lead before they have the title. Darrin also offers insight into how strong leadership pipelines help schools and organizations sustain momentum, strengthen teams, and prepare for the future. About Darrin Peppard: Darrin Peppard is a keynote speaker, author, publisher and consultant focused on what matters most in leadership. Darrin is an expert in school culture and climate as well as coaching and growing emerging leaders. He is known for his keen insight, culture-first leadership style, and dynamic personality. In 2016, Darrin was named Wyoming Secondary School Principal of the Year by WASSP/NASSP and was the 2015 Jostens Renaissance Educator of the Year. In 2017, Darrin earned his Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Wyoming. In the summer of 2019, Darrin was inducted into the Jostens Renaissance Hall of Fame. Darrin shares his experiences from over 25 years in education, specifically those learned as an education leader during the past 13 years. As a ‘recovering' high school principal, Darrin talks about lessons learned and effective strategies to help leaders of all experience levels become more effective at their craft. Follow Darrin Peppard Website:www.darrinmpeppard.com&www.roadtoawesome.netTwitter:https://twitter.com/DarrinMPeppard(@DarrinMPeppard)Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/darrinmpeppard/?hl=en(@darrinmpeppard)Facebook: Darrin M Peppard & Road to Awesome, LLC (page)Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrin-m-peppard-ed-d-29a7a147/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6WkYpIkcDAAItdZdM02wRg https://www.amazon.com/Culture-First-Classrooms-Leadership-Relationships-ebook/dp/B0F1DSSMCG?&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=3f35a95b0e3eb232accab956612306ff&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — Aspire to Lead Cohort Ready to grow your leadership capacity and take the next step in your journey? The Aspire to Lead Cohort is designed to support aspiring leaders with practical tools, guided reflection, and a community of educators who are committed to growth. If you are looking for mentorship, clarity, and encouragement as you move toward your leadership goals, learn more and apply here: https://joshstamper.com/leadership-cohorts/ — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
Leadership isn't just about the impact you create today. It's about the leaders you prepare for tomorrow.In this annual shared episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard sits down with fellow leadership coach, author, and podcast host Joshua Stamper for a powerful conversation about one of the most important responsibilities of leadership: developing the next generation of leaders.Darrin and Joshua begin by reflecting on transitions, stress, and the reality every leader faces — even the best plans encounter challenges. The difference is whether leaders have the clarity and intentionality to stay focused on the work that matters most.From there, the conversation turns toward a question every organization should be asking:Who are we intentionally preparing to lead next?Darrin and Joshua share their own “tap on the shoulder” moments — those pivotal conversations where someone saw leadership potential in them before they saw it in themselves. They discuss why leaders have a responsibility to identify potential early and create pathways for others to grow.They also explore why building leaders requires far more than assigning tasks. Covering events, managing duties, or checking off responsibilities does not develop leadership capacity. True leadership development happens when aspiring leaders are given authentic experiences, meaningful conversations, coaching, feedback, and opportunities to sit alongside current leaders.In this episode, Darrin and Joshua discuss:Why leaders have a moral obligation to grow future leadersThe power of identifying leadership potential earlyWhy a simple “tap on the shoulder” can change someone's career trajectoryHow to create meaningful growth opportunities for aspiring leadersWhy leadership development must move beyond tasks and titlesThe importance of mentoring and coaching through mistakesHelping aspiring leaders gain confidence before they step into the roleWhy instructional leadership experiences are critical preparationHow leaders can build a stronger bench for the futureGreat leaders don't just create followers. They create more leaders.If we want stronger schools, stronger organizations, and stronger cultures, we have to stop waiting for leaders to appear — and start intentionally developing them.Connect with Joshua StamperWebsite: joshstamper.comPodcast: Aspire to LeadBook/Work: The Language of BehaviorConnect with Dr. Darrin PeppardWebsite: darrinpeppard.comRoad to Awesome: roadtoawesome.net
What if vulnerability is not a weakness, but the very thing that helps leaders build trust, connection, and courage? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper talks with Chris Valli, a New Zealand author, keynote speaker, former journalist, educator, and founder of the VOIC framework, Vulnerability Opens Inner Courage. Chris shares how a highly publicized turning point in his teaching career became the catalyst for a deeper understanding of authentic leadership, emotional intelligence, and the power of using your voice. Together, they explore the hidden cost of “having it all together,” the role of storytelling in creating belonging, and why difficult conversations are essential for healthy school culture. Chris also discusses reframing masculinity, building psychologically safe environments, and how courage grows when leaders are willing to be seen, speak honestly, and lead with empathy, compassion, and purpose. About Chris Valli Chris Valli is a New Zealand author, keynote speaker, former journalist, educator and founder of the VOIC Framework (Vulnerability Opens Inner Courage). Following a highly publicised turning point in his teaching career, Chris transformed adversity into a platform for authentic leadership, helping educators, leaders and communities embrace vulnerability as a catalyst for courage, connection and growth. His work explores emotional literacy, wellbeing, resilience and the future of leadership through the lens of human connection. Chris is also the author of Put the Phone Away and the forthcoming Beyond the Chair, inspiring audiences to lead with heart before hierarchy. Follow Chris Valli Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590626252770Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-valli-983b54311Stories that Stir:https://www.facebook.com/storiesthatstir https://www.amazon.com/Put-Phone-Away-Chris-Valli/dp/1037118111?&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=f2ca09f46f4c34cbc4f50accbded689e&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What if the biggest key to better leadership is not focusing on the lagging measures, but learning how to measure what truly matters? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with Dave Schmittou to talk about leadership, priority management, and the difference between lead measures and lagging measures. Dave shares practical insight from his work with schools, districts, and organizations, and explains why leaders must clarify the results they want before they can effectively guide others. Together, they explore why so many leaders get stuck managing process instead of outcomes, how overcontrolling can create dependence, and what it looks like to build independence and interdependence in staff and students. Dave also shares a powerful story about getting out of the way, the value of focusing on lead measures, and how leaders can create cultures centered on real growth and measurable progress. About Dave Schmittou: As an educator for more than two decades, Dave has earned a reputation for being a disruptor of the status quo, an innovator, and a change agent. Having served as a classroom teacher, school-based administrator, central office director, and professor of Educational Leadership, he often uses real-life stories and examples of his own life and career to describe why and how we need to confront “the way we have always done it.” He is now the Director of Leadership and Development with the Teach Better Team where he speaks, consults, and partners with districts around the country. He has written multiple books, including “It's Like Riding a Bike: How to make learning last a lifetime”, “Bold Humility”, “Making Assessment Work for Educators Who Hate Data but Love Kids”, and “Poking the Bear”. Follow Dave Schmittou: Website:https://schmittou.netTwitter:@daveschmittouInstagram:@daveschmittouFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/LastingLearning1Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-schmittou-90022a41YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKwwjU4R1TYyRZfQ2VjY5JQPodcast:The Lasting Learning PodcastPhone Number: (734) 377-3457 https://www.amazon.com/Poking-Bear-engaging-conversations-matter/dp/1959347004?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1683941974&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=06ca461b93d74ee81b5ad57d4bb12400&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
In this Aspire Mailbag episode, Joshua Stamper and Jeff Gargas respond to listener questions about supporting an aspiring leader through a campus transition and helping teachers shift away from punitive discipline. They explore how new leadership can create both uncertainty and opportunity, and what aspiring leaders can do to build trust, stay visible, and align themselves with a new principal's vision without losing momentum in their own leadership journey. The conversation also digs into one of the biggest challenges in education today: helping teachers move from punishment-based discipline to relationship-based support. Joshua and Jeff discuss why this shift takes time, why common language matters, and how schools can make restorative approaches feel practical instead of overwhelming. They also talk about the importance of small, intentional steps, teacher buy-in, and creating systems that support student growth without making behavior management feel like an unfair sacrifice of teacher time. Follow Jeff Gargas: Twitter:https://twitter.com/jeffgargasInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/_jeffgargas/ Follow The Teach Better Team: Twitter:https://twitter.com/teachbetterteamWebsite:https://www.teachbetter.com/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/teachbetterteamInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/teachbetterteamThe Teach Better Podcast:https://www.teachbetter.com/podcast/ https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1949595668/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1949595668&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=76f63506c1e5b2f907d05fb13ab6f8e4 Teach Better Academy: https://www.teachbettercommunity.com/academy Use Coupon Code: ASPIRE for 50% Off for LIFE — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What does it really mean to lead with empathy in today's schools? In this episode, we sit down with Joshua Stamper to explore how empathetic leadership can transform school culture, strengthen relationships, and create environments where both educators and students thrive. Joshua shares practical strategies for building trust, supporting teacher wellness, and leading with authenticity—even during challenging times. Whether you're a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or school administrator, this conversation offers valuable insights on creating a more compassionate and connected educational community. Quotables **All quotes are from the interviewee** "We can't define them [students] based on the actions that we see.""There's always something behind the behavior.”"There are going to be times you need to work more, and there are going to be times you need to be with your family more.” About Joshua Stamper Joshua Stamper is an educator, speaker, and creator of the Aspire to Lead podcast. A former middle school administrator and author of The Language of Behavior, he equips educators with trauma-responsive strategies to create supportive learning environments and drive student success through empathetic leadership. Links From This Episode: “Transform Your Mental Health: Joshua Stamper's Email Strategy to Prioritize Balance”: https://youtu.be/cht3g1trmlE?si=DQoWQqrYLVtUJIsQ Book: Aspire to Lead Book: Language of Behavior Connect with Joshua Stamper: Website:www.joshstamper.comTwitter (X):@Joshua__Stamper(@Joshua__Stamper)Instagram:@Joshua__Stamper(@Joshua__Stamper)LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper/Blue Sky:@joshuaStamper Join the Always A Lesson Newsletter Join here and grab a freebie! Connect with Gretchen Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.comBlog: Always A LessonFacebook: Always A LessonTwitter: @gschultekInstagram: Always.A.LessonLinkedin: Gretchen Schultek BridgersBook: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn't Teach You in College Gretchen's latest book, Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success, is now available on Amazon. Leave a Rating and Review: This helps my show remain active in order to continue to help other educators remain empowered in a career that has a long-lasting effect on our future. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/always-lessons-empowering/id1006433135?mt=2 Search for my show on iTunes or Stitcher.Click on ‘Ratings and Reviews.'Under ‘Customer Reviews,' click on “Write a Review.”Sign in with your iTunes or Stitcher log-in infoLeave a Rating: Tap the greyed out stars (5 being the best)Leave a Review: Type in a Title and Description of your thoughts on my podcastClick ‘Send'
What happens when the very systems meant to support education begin driving great teachers out of the profession? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with Brad Gaynor to talk about the growing teacher retention crisis, the hidden emotional and psychological cost of teaching, and why so many good educators are leaving the profession. Brad shares insights from his leadership journey and his own experience with burnout, offering a powerful look at the pressures shaping schools today. Together, they explore how workload, leadership pressure, parent expectations, and behavior challenges are affecting teachers and school leaders across education. Brad also discusses why resilience alone is not the answer and what leaders, teachers, and systems can do to rebuild trust, strengthen culture, and create more sustainable schools for the future. About Brad Gaynor Brad Gaynor is an Australian education leader, executive coach, speaker, and author with more than 35 years of leadership experience across schools and system leadership. Brad is the author of From Burnout to Breakthrough: The Leadership Reset and Not One More Teacher Lost. His work focuses on sustainable leadership, burnout prevention and recovery, leadership under pressure, organisational culture, and helping leaders thrive in complex environments without sacrificing their wellbeing. Grounded in both lived experience and evidence-informed practice, Brad speaks and writes with honesty about the hidden emotional load of leadership, while offering practical and sustainable approaches for leading well over time. Follow Brad Gaynor Website:www.bradgaynor.com.auTwitter (X): @Brad1968Instagram: @bradgaynorLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/brad-gaynor-92b68b53Email: brad@bradgaynor.com.au https://www.amazon.com/Burnout-Breakthrough-Leadership-Reset/dp/1041132069?crid=OPW0P6QSUO59&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.mCd_bTb9CnSZGB4qWPJ5Iwr2bI7NDWZ7BQi5DqTvx8CMIjeXCeo_RW3gx7HaX5Lq5mSsfLdfFHqyHeo7z00eOMRuIS_PlOB5BGJz5GOLWVt2Oo_O8L6glA32IbZ-uRz3kNOtoolKWTjAqUjydIsd5s3MvB4uCU_sic_GFZBlLrWpa_up8tuF4vDiqQbyw40jmVGW_UqYI0oBbFXJV9OeIp8mJ7tqT082EL2G0B97Mik.XtC4u9o6xBhgHb6PvPoymX8W8RWPcjjTWWvM7rVa_2c&dib_tag=se&keywords=From+Burnout+to+Breakthrough%3A+The+Leadership+Reset+and+Not+One+More+Teacher+Lost&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1780807092&sprefix=from+burnout+to+breakthrough+the+leadership+reset+and+not+one+more+teacher+lost+%2Caps%2C199&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=6bcab1e29a3d91c535bf93d41f0a5fb5&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl https://www.amazon.com/Not-One-More-Teacher-Lost-ebook/dp/B0GQT84TZH?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=z18Jh&content-id=amzn1.sym.f8e88413-4697-42ea-9bf7-b28eb886330d&pf_rd_p=f8e88413-4697-42ea-9bf7-b28eb886330d&pf_rd_r=147-6981761-1725338&pd_rd_wg=3DVNn&pd_rd_r=9020516c-81f0-43e0-b88b-b8f90052df7e&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=c53fe8cbdc07c02b43a765b9a2ddea63&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2Aspire to LeadWon the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchaseon Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper talks with Megan Diede about the power of connection, purposeful teaching, and the small instructional shifts that can create meaningful change in classrooms. Megan shares how her seven pathways to learning help educators design lessons that are more engaging, accessible, and effective for students while also reducing overwhelm for teachers. Throughout the conversation, Megan explains how educators can move beyond compliance driven instruction and instead create learning experiences that build purpose, increase student engagement, and bring joy back into teaching. She talks about the importance of clarity, creativity, and flexibility in lesson design, as well as the value of making instruction more responsive to how students learn best. Joshua and Megan also discuss how teachers and leaders can support one another through burnout, workload, and the pressure to constantly do more. This episode is full of practical ideas for teachers, instructional coaches, and school leaders who want to create classrooms where both students and educators can thrive. Megan also shares insights from her book, Elevated Educator, along with resources that help schools implement small but powerful changes that improve instruction and strengthen classroom culture. About Megan Diede Megan Diede is an educational leader, instructional strategy expert, and seasoned classroom educator with over 15 years of hands-on experience. Her deep understanding of the challenges and realities of teaching fuels her passion for transforming instruction in meaningful, sustainable ways. Known for her high-energy, engaging delivery, Megan helps educators rethink instruction through the power of connection. She believes connection is the bridge between people and purpose, driving how educators collaborate, take instructional risks, and move beyond compliance-driven teaching to create impactful learning experiences where both teachers and students thrive. Follow Megan Diede Website:www.integratedk12.comInstagram: Megan Diede/ IntegratEDk12Facebook: IntegratED EDULinkedin: Megan Diede/ IntegratED EDUYouTube: IntegratED EDU TikTok: Megan Diede https://www.amazon.com/ElevatED-Educator-Megan-Diede/dp/1598502867?crid=1ETM25PF5F66G&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.3wZpYC_IGVVNbijEtaHnLRjy_KnANMbKQnoikkWKMZxXsQa8rWUX5uDyo37ROAB1I1V16mM2ilWxZ0MflfyRvXw-15Cz3GdcpYebt8EZUbLPumIy3TNEgvwT8VBht5qC15sIBbkYMLBAsET2Hq4HCKMsDNoq29pJXhnPH-qlwGKbh1xjgOdpEMjBWgkiXD2FzD2QiPPf_Qvd46KnJo9cALWE_Rr1eKTxuKsSVeSylcY.aR3OcMIdgytbfBuw3WhQgq4Jd52myNIS1Nsc7yGcDCg&dib_tag=se&keywords=Elevated+Educator+book&qid=1780194761&sprefix=elevated+educator+boo%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=5963c11c8cd4faa33661a8c1b703870a&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
In this special bonus episode of Aspire to Lead, Josh and Charle share exciting news about their upcoming book project, EQ Impact. They explore why emotional intelligence matters more than ever in schools, workplaces, families, and relationships, and why lasting change depends on giving people practical skills they can use to respond to stress, conflict, and reactivity.Josh and Charle also discuss how this new resource expands their work beyond behavior and into the creation of emotionally intelligent systems that support both adults and students. They reflect on the need for clarity over the phrase “soft skills,” the importance of making complex ideas accessible, and their hope that this book will serve as a guide for meaningful, long term transformation in schools and beyond.--About Charle Peck:Charle Peck is the co-creator of Thriving School Community, a revolutionary program designed for schools to improve mental health. She holds an MS in Education and an MS in Social Work as a 20+ year veteran in education (K-12). As a global keynote speaker, she delivers powerful messages of hope to educators and facilitates meaningful professional development. Charle successfully equips school staff with practical tools to mitigate teacher burnout and the youth mental health crisis providing relief to schools all across the country. Her unique lens as a high school teacher turned clinical therapist specializing in trauma makes her stories relevant and captivating to educators struggling in today's system. You can purchase her book “Improving School Mental Health: The Thriving School Community Solution” on Amazon and connect with her on X @CharlePeck.Follow Charle Peck:Website: www.ThrivingEducator.orgTwitter: https://twitter.com/CharlePeckFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlepeckconsulting?mibextid=LQQJ4dLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlepeck/Other: charle@thrivibgeducator.orgPodcast: Thriving EducatorBook: https://www.amazon.com/Improving-School-Mental-Health-Community/dp/B0BTS3MN2P?crid=EIKAGWZ4V006&keywords=charle+peck&qid=1705780803&sprefix=charle+peck%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=6456f4f1bc2440be71d094a5d14656a4&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tlAbout Joshua Stamper:Joshua Stamper is the Director of Innovation for the Teach Better Team, a multifaceted role that encompasses his talents as an author, podcaster, leadership coach, and education keynote speaker. With a rich background as a middle school administrator, classroom art educator, and athletic coach, Joshua brings a wealth of experience to his work in education.Joshua is passionate about implementing trauma-responsive techniques, exploring alternative student discipline methods, and promoting healthy leadership habits. He is deeply committed to enhancing leadership capacity through self-care practices, ensuring that educators are equipped to lead with empathy and resilience. As the author of The Language of Behavior and Aspire to Lead and host of two popular podcasts, Joshua continues to inspire and empower educators and leaders worldwide.Follow Joshua Stamper:Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe to Aspire to Lead: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175--Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD?Contact Brad Waid at techbradwaid@gmail.com to book Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits.--Review the PodcastI want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to us that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show.--Teach Better Podcast NetworkThis podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at
What if the biggest instructional breakthrough came from starting in the right place? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with Gretchen Bridgers to talk about classroom instruction, teacher mentorship, and the mindset shifts that help educators build more sustainable and effective learning experiences. Gretchen shares her journey from classroom teacher to instructional coach, author, and podcaster, and reflects on how connection, curiosity, and the right support changed the trajectory of her career. A major theme in this conversation is the power of intentional lesson design. Gretchen explains why so many teachers get stuck trying to fix surface-level problems when the real issue is often rooted in planning and structure. She introduces her “bricks” framework and walks through how lesson design, classroom management, student engagement, and student ownership work together to create a classroom where learning can actually flourish. Rather than overwhelm teachers with more to do, Gretchen emphasizes small, thoughtful improvements that lead to real growth over time. The conversation also explores burnout, motivation, and the difference between new teachers and veteran teachers when it comes to instructional change. Gretchen shares practical strategies for naming what you're feeling, understanding why it's happening, and identifying what you can control in the moment. She also talks about the importance of finding people who can help you grow, whether that's through a mentor, a colleague, a professional network, or a simple conversation with someone who sees your potential. About Gretchen Bridgers Gretchen Bridgers is a two-time National Board Certified educator, instructional coach, and education consultant with over two decades of experience empowering teachers and school leaders nationwide. She is the author of multiple books for educators, the host of the Empowering Educators podcast, and a sought-after keynote speaker and conference presenter. Passionate about professional growth and sustainability in education, Gretchen helps teachers build confidence, refine their practice, and find fulfillment throughout their careers. With a belief that there is “Always A Lesson,” Gretchen challenges educators to grow boldly, lead authentically, and make lasting change in their classrooms and beyond. Follow Gretchen Bridgers Website:www.alwaysalesson.comTwitter (X):https://x.com/GSchultekInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/always.a.lessonFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AlwaysALesson/Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchenbridgers/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@GretchenSchultekPodcast:https://alwaysalesson.com/episodes/ https://www.amazon.com/Always-Lesson-Teacher-Essentials-Classroom/dp/1394158807?crid=V6GMA2AVNHBA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.a6pfPUyv18jgODybrCqN0Ob6sOA01fWOAlAhHClEAS-rvg4yaTr8LKbns3ia3vBAh1x2HClluIpw6I4Qujks4iW4Xd98WuuNl3HnhsNlnCQ1nx9Vo1OT6RyxRRLZfpdBpLGi1KkgW-BwI-jZeU5Cz1eR9P8VKl4eW72U5YSmxudUB1i0wipUqRaFdEcboterlNdZics1BnuUbrVjewybWKqGw60pMTVY--vxROUBmsU.kfsdUl_qeQmmh1F0g6TEE66L27TdDj4aGVlT9AZaZ6E&dib_tag=se&keywords=teacher+essentials+for+classroom+and+career+success+book&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1779597455&sprefix=teacher+essencials+for+classroom+and+career+success+book%2Caps%2C244&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=635afad96a3d6d9b23f92159eb576333&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 -- Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What does it look like to lead with hope when life, leadership, and responsibility feel overwhelming? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with Dr. Brandi Kelly for a powerful conversation about resilience, self-awareness, purpose, and the daily choices that help leaders thrive. Brandi opens up about her personal journey through loss, stress, and major life transitions, and shares how those experiences shaped the way she now leads, coaches, writes, and supports others. A central theme in this conversation is the idea that everything starts in the mind. Brandi explains why self-awareness is so critical for educators and leaders, how reflection can help us identify our fears, blind spots, and limiting beliefs, and why pausing long enough to be intentional can make all the difference. She also unpacks the pillars of hope from her book Lead with Hope, including habits, optimistic outlook, purpose, passion, and perseverance. Brandi and Joshua also discuss how to move from pain to purpose, the importance of treating people well in schools, and why connection, presence, and kindness matter just as much as strategy. She shares practical habits that helped her reclaim margin in her life, including calendar wedges, daily reflection, and protecting time for what matters most. Later in the episode, Brandi also talks about her new children's book, Spreading Sunshine with Kindness, and her new community for female leaders, Spark Hope Community. About Dr. Brandi Kelly Dr. Brandi Kelly is a two time principal of the year and the CEO of Spark HOPE Edu, dedicated to empowering leaders to rise with clarity, courage, and purpose. With over 20 years of experience leading schools and organizations, she is renowned for her ability to blend storytelling, strategy, and hope, specifically helping people lead with unwavering confidence and resilience in their careers. Brandi is the creator of the System of H.O.P.E.—Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, and Excellence—a framework designed to support leaders in strengthening their mindset and leading with greater alignment. This system is a vital tool for leaders navigating the challenges of today's professional landscape. As a highly sought-after speaker and author of Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self-Efficacy, Dr. Kelly inspires leaders to step fully into their influence and create cultures where people (and possibilities) thrive. Follow Dr. Brandi Kelly Website:https://sparkhopeedu.com/Twitter (X):https://x.com/jbmrkellyLinkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandi-kelly-ed-d-lcsw/Free Resource:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GuDDo6OnP2if0EetO5PI7YJXHhSL1x14/view?usp=sharingFree Community:https://sparkhopeedu.com/drbrandikelly-4049 https://www.amazon.com/Lead-H-P-Building-Self-Efficacy/dp/B0F6K2665V?crid=3SNAROA91059N&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.DDXMx6hk9M7J8kEmhh60IcK1oRZIzgm6f9xx2Zme4LQ.q0sITlUo9RIHho0isXRhJfE6Wh4beEPDKKV01b4m3vk&dib_tag=se&keywords=lead+with+HOPE+brandi+kelly&qid=1779046894&sprefix=lead+with+hope+brandi+kell%2Caps%2C229&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=80646372c99acc9f2fee3a34faff8dea&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 -- Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What if student success had less to do with talent and more to do with belief, access, and the way we design learning experiences? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with James O'Neal, Jr., founder of Mastery For All, to explore what it really takes to create classrooms where all students can thrive. James shares his journey from middle and high school math teacher to department chair, PLC lead, speaker, and educational consultant, and explains how his work is helping shift both instructional practice and school culture. A major theme in this conversation is the power of mindset. James breaks down how teacher beliefs shape classroom experiences, why students need opportunities to win early and often, and what it means to create a learning environment where ownership, voice, and confidence are built into the lesson itself. He also speaks candidly about the cultural lens in his work, including the importance of highlighting the brilliance of black boys and making sure K-12 math instruction is rooted in access, joy, and mastery for all. The conversation goes beyond math instruction and into larger questions of leadership and coaching. James challenges school leaders to look more closely at what they are actually observing in classrooms, how they support teachers without needing to be the content expert, and why honest reflection and emotional maturity matter so much when responding to feedback. He also shares insights from his new book, The Engaged Classroom, and explains how motivation, belonging, competence, autonomy, and praise all play a role in student engagement. About James O'Neal Jr. James O'Neal, Jr., a passionate educator and speaker with a transformative journey spanning fifteen impactful years in the classroom, including six as a department chair, has seamlessly transitioned his dedication into a thriving full-time endeavor: Mastery For All, LLC. Mastery For All passionately promotes K-12 math education mastery through professional development, consulting, and coaching, accentuating the brilliance of black boys as a means to empower all. As a speaker, James seeks to empower all educational stakeholders in the roles they play in education. His academic voyage culminated with an M.Ed. from UNC-Charlotte in 2020, and in 2021, he stood as a finalist for the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), a testament to his resolute focus. While in the classroom, James was ranked in the top 25% of the state of North Carolina's teachers who showed effective growth in student performance. James knows what it takes to support the education and advancement of all students. His evolution from a classroom teacher to an influential advocate for mastery mirrors his unwavering dedication to shaping a future where the belief of "who can" encompasses all! Follow James O'Neal Jr. Website:www.mrjamesoneal.comInstagram:@mr.jamesonealFacebook: @mr.jamesonealLinkedin:@mrjamesonealYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@mr.jamesoneal-mastery4all619TikTok: @mr.jamesonealPodcast:https://www.mrjamesoneal.com/podcasts — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What does it really mean to lead a school rather than simply manage one? In this powerful conversation, Joshua Stamper sits down with Principal Baruti Kafele to explore the deeper work of school leadership, instructional coaching, student engagement, and school culture. Kafele shares lessons from his journey as an educator, assistant principal, principal, author, and speaker, offering a compelling reminder that leadership is not about maintaining the status quo — it's about intentionally moving people forward. Throughout the episode, Kafele unpacks the difference between management and leadership, the importance of honest self-assessment, and why instructional leadership must remain at the center of a school leader's work. He also explains the idea of “closing the attitude gap” and how leaders can influence the mindset, motivation, and potential of both students and staff. This conversation is filled with practical wisdom for principals, assistant principals, instructional leaders, and anyone who wants to grow in their capacity to lead with purpose. Kafele also shares the books and frameworks that have shaped his work, making this episode especially valuable for leaders looking for direction, reflection, and a fresh lens on school improvement. About Baruti Kafele A highly-regarded urban educator in New Jersey for over twenty years, Principal Baruti Kafele distinguished himself as a master teacher and a transformational school leader. As an elementary school teacher in East Orange, NJ, he was selected as the East Orange School District and Essex County Public Schools Teacher of the Year and New Jersey State Teacher of the Year finalist. As a middle and high school principal, Principal Kafele led the turnaround of four different New Jersey urban schools, including The Mighty; Newark Tech, which went from a low-performing school in need of improvement to national recognition, which included U.S. News and World Report Magazine recognizing it three times as one of America #39;s best high schools. Principal Kafele is the author of fourteen books including his most recent release, What Is My Value Instructionally to the Teachers I Supervise? and he's a highly sought-after speaker with over 3000 keynotes and seminars delivered over his 40 years of public speaking. Follow Baruti Kafele Website: https://principalkafele.com/ Social Media Twitter:@PrincipalKafeleFacebook:Principal KafeleFacebook: AP & New Principals AcademyInstagram:Principal KafeleLinkedIn:Principal Kafele Books What Is My Value INSTRUCTIONALLY to the Teachers I Supervise? (New)The Assistant Principal IDENTITYThe Assistant Principal 50The Aspiring Principal 50The Principal 50Is My School a Better School BECAUSE I Lead It?The Equity & Social Justice Education 50The Teacher 50Closing the Attitude GapMotivating Black Males to Achieve in School and in LifeYouTube ChannelsAP & New Principals Academy (one of YouTube's top channels for principal & AP leadership)Principal Kafele SpeaksMessage to Your Son / YouthPrincipal Kafele Throwbacks https://www.amazon.com/What-Value-Instructionally-Teachers-Supervise/dp/1416633456?crid=8EDF3U23E9Q7&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.9wl3V2aIJKdsXNaOo4r-SDUVSGwY4HBUZ_1MPIZJj_We70m971YextnsZto5_qygHxdmtHUrUnmP0SFEYDll_g.6K2WCii6jIQ9tfCZFyHbXJ_04QUx0SkIVOashlRNr0k&dib_tag=se&keywords=What+Is+My+Value+INSTRUCTIONALLY+to+the+Teachers+I+Supervise%3F&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1777826022&s=books&sprefix=what+is+my+value+instructionally+to+the+teachers+i+supervise+%2Cstripbooks%2C187&sr=1-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0aaefed846987a3df4445f1316548961&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl https://www.amazon.com/Assistant-Principal-Meaningful-Leadership-Professional-ebook/dp/B08V21DBWT?&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=a49f2bda1edbb0d50b3ab97eeaeea473&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl https://www.amazon.com/My-School-Better-BECAUSE-Lead-ebook/dp/B08V1Z7FRF?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=iV2gC&content-id=amzn1.sym.aec507cb-142c-4f68-9ae5-803b8e7b33f1&pf_rd_p=aec507cb-142c-4f68-9ae5-803b8e7b33f1&pf_rd_r=138-6790116-8125430&pd_rd_wg=feblV&pd_rd_r=921a4fe6-380e-426b-87d7-21ddf731d452&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=ab7d6cc665aa380e698fb047f3a1c5dd&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl https://www.amazon.com/Principal-Leadership-Questions-Schoolwide-Excellence-ebook/dp/B07WZH6P84?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=iV2gC&content-id=amzn1.sym.aec507cb-142c-4f68-9ae5-803b8e7b33f1&pf_rd_p=aec507cb-142c-4f68-9ae5-803b8e7b33f1&pf_rd_r=138-6790116-8125430&pd_rd_wg=feblV&pd_rd_r=921a4fe6-380e-426b-87d7-21ddf731d452&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=dce2a4b8404b6bc0dc6b037e99c95594&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused...
How can professional development feel energizing instead of exhausting? In this bonus episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with Kim Gameroz to talk about the upcoming Vibe EDU event on July 31st in Anaheim, California. They share the vision behind this unique PD experience that brings together educators, leaders, and parents for real connection, vulnerability, and actionable strategies. Kim reveals: Why Vibe EDU is different from typical conferencesWhat to expect (keynotes, breakouts, teacher panels, student speakers)How the event builds community and combats isolationTicket details (available May 1st with 10% off for the first week)Why educators leave energized for the school year If you're craving PD that feels like a “herd running toward the storm” together, this conversation will give you a taste of what's coming. Grab tickets at https://www.teachinginsideout.com/vibe-edu About Kim Gameroz Kim Gameroz, M.Ed., is a change agent and founder of Teaching Inside Out, revolutionizing classrooms through a systematic approach to teaching social and emotional skills. With over 15 years of experience coaching, training, and mentoring educators, students, and families globally, Kim has spoken at numerous conferences, consults for school districts, serves on SEL panels, and contributes to various publications and podcasts. Through Teaching Inside Out, as well as her second company, SELebrate Good Times, she has created a supportive community for heart-centered educators nationwide where she is committed to making teachers feel seen, valued, and SELebrated at her events and teacher retreats. Kim's NEW book, "Becoming The Bison," is a #1 new released book on Amazon. She currently resides in Dallas, Texas with her husband, Shaun, and son, Wyatt, and is looking forward to spreading her knowledge of SEL and best practices in teaching even further to schools, districts, and homes around the world. Visit SELebrate Good Times to learn more about the teacher community that is changing lives all over the country, and her annual National SELebration: The Bloom! Follow Kim Gameroz: Website:SELebrateGoodTimes.comandTeachingInsideOut.comInstagram:@SELebrateGoodTimesandTeaching_Inside_OutLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-gameroz-18144b1b0/Private Facebook Group:Becoming the B.I.S.O.N.Podcast Episode:https://open.spotify.com/episode/3z4PCLMdcjNp0BLa5HmvYa?si=23acb58d4eb04f16 https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-BISON-Emotional-Solution-Educators/dp/1968898131?&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=450e6d6a67db3aab013f43677d1091cd&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #1New 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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What does it take to have a tough conversation that is both clear and compassionate? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with Erica Bear and Tiffany Burns to discuss their new book, The School Leader's Playbook for Tough Conversations, and the practical strategies school leaders need when navigating conflict, feedback, and high-stakes communication. Erica and Tiffany unpack why these conversations are often avoided, how strong relationships and intentional preparation create better outcomes, and what leaders can do to stay calm when emotions rise. They share how to plan for difficult conversations, how to de-escalate when things go sideways, and why listening, clarity, and follow-through matter so much in leadership. The conversation also explores the role of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and connection in building trust with staff, families, and school communities. About Erika Bare & Tiffany Burns Erika Bare is the Superintendent of the South Umpqua School District. She has been an educator for over 20 years serving at every grade level in a variety of roles. Erika is a special education teacher by training. Tiffany Burns is an instructional leadership coach, university instructor, author, and former long-time principal with more than 20 years of experience in Oregon, Alaska, and Mexico. Together, they wrote Connecting Through Conversation: A Playbook for Talking with Students and The School Leaders Playbook for Tough Conversations. Their work empowers educators to help all students feel loved, understood, and a deep sense of belonging so they can learn at the highest levels. Follow Erika Bare & Tiffany Burns Website:www.ConnectingThroughConversation.comFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090370647418&mibextid=LQQJ4dInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/connectingthroughconversation/Linked In Erika Bare:https://linkedin.com/in/erika-bare-6a72a6215Linkedin Tiffany Burns:https://linkedin.com/in/tiffany-burns-90a50a274LinkedinCTC:https://www.linkedin.com/company/connecting-through-conversation/Twitter:https://twitter.com/CTCPlaybook.comYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/@CTCPlaybook https://www.amazon.com/School-Leaders-Playbook-Tough-Conversations/dp/B0GWWC65JW?crid=2OSIX3R7NAVLX&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sVW3jtISTiaywNfgE9IJsvlcivIfRKl9z4IgEWkCQzY660pUGzdsZLRjEKB7L5_z4cn2BX_Jhg2QYSc3GZpHn5KkJTqp4BABtcgaTeR4nQ5H81y4Sm3J9B5bbeFCD5q5_n6sLz6f_yEHygIleQokZDJMAbKyX8IrCX3pe7iuC8c.iVSAGtcS1sM3oOZtO8McgHo264WYKV0-LmcBTZ_G6oA&dib_tag=se&keywords=The+School+Leader%E2%80%99s+Playbook+for+Tough+Conversations+book&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1777229108&sprefix=the+school+leader+s+playbook+for+tough+conversations+boo%2Caps%2C183&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=b232a9e7537307d2e2021120bb59bccb&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 -- Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What happens when students are not just disengaged, but quietly deciding school is too hard, too boring, or too risky to try? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with Katie Powell, Director of Middle Level Programs for AMLE, to unpack the realities of middle school learning, the brain science behind engagement, and how teachers can better support students who struggle with boredom, frustration, and task avoidance. About Katie Powell Katie Powell is the Director for Middle Level Programs for AMLE and author of the books Boredom Busters and Frustration Busters. As part of her role with AMLE, Katie works closely with schools, districts, and affiliate organizations through the Successful Middle School book study, assessment, and Schools of Distinction programs as well as providing professional development and coaching on a variety of middle grades topics. Follow Katie Powell Website: teachbeyondthedesk.comTwitter (X): @beyond_the_deskInstagram: @teach_beyond_the_deskLinkedin: katiepowellbeyondthedesk/ https://www.amazon.com/Boredom-Busters-Worksheets-Meaningful-Experiences/dp/1949595684?crid=1MZTWT5ULGRO2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vpRmV7sEFwc-1gsCCWLUB0NbA095Kfh6cTQxDPbv37OP_GkCLIvnP1yXxxCRfoEgeXZRWCAOCKnQaizH6XoW6Qi4IC3Tv3cjyELffTyOqw_n5jQaQUcAuIX7XbatyohvOwSfUPpy1gX1pMweirnSlHYJMHJULMtKO3F5obIzbmOyxgMOYEYOrDLsmnpgJJpxWzmta3UppGB3Cjo4O4NphSyYLVum0LsSWCzsQv-ydds.WmGB3BPVszNQS204qZyXOlGxLZJsNfj2Uq7z2ZNYVGQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=boredom+busters&qid=1776551659&sprefix=boredome+buster%2Caps%2C218&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0f11279fb77c48d92f943d180919bdbc&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl https://www.amazon.com/Frustration-Busters-Responding-Management-Challenges/dp/195630603X?&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=73324c066c6478f3bc7766f08b022f73&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
Recorded live at NCMLE, Joshua Stamper sits down with Charlie Peck, Gretchen Bridgers, and Vernon Wright to talk about their presentations, their current projects, and the power of connection at a conference built on learning and community. Charlie shares practical tools for addressing anxiety and avoidance, Gretchen focuses on the essentials of instruction, and Vernon explores influence, action, and what it means to be a coachable leader. About Charle Peck Charle Peck is the co-creator of Thriving School Community, a revolutionary program designed for schools to improve mental health. She holds an MS in Education and an MS in Social Work as a 20+ year veteran in education (K-12). As a global keynote speaker, she delivers powerful messages of hope to educators and facilitates meaningful professional development. Charle successfully equips school staff with practical tools to mitigate teacher burnout and the youth mental health crisis providing relief to schools all across the country. Her unique lens as a high school teacher turned clinical therapist specializing in trauma makes her stories relevant and captivating to educators struggling in today's system. You can purchase her book “Improving School Mental Health: The Thriving School Community Solution” on Amazon and connect with her on X @CharlePeck. Follow Charle Peck Website: www.ThrivingEducator.orgTwitter: https://twitter.com/CharlePeckFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlepeckconsulting?mibextid=LQQJ4dLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlepeck/Other: charle@thrivibgeducator.orgPodcast: The Language of Behavior https://www.amazon.com/Improving-School-Mental-Health-Community/dp/B0BTS3MN2P?crid=EIKAGWZ4V006&keywords=charle+peck&qid=1705780803&sprefix=charle+peck%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=6456f4f1bc2440be71d094a5d14656a4&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl About Gretchen Bridgers Over the last two decades, Gretchen has passionately taught elementary students, mentored and coached educators, led professional development experiences for school building staff, written three books, and presented at district and national conferences as the owner of Always A Lesson. Her impact continues to amplify serving educators worldwide through her blog, Empowering Educators podcast, classroom resources, professional development courses and leadership coaching cohorts. Follow Gretchen Bridgers Website: https://alwaysalesson.comX: https://x.com/gschultek/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY7FCBzm0vfTYV1YMjq51kAIG: https://www.instagram.com/always.a.lesson/ https://www.amazon.com/Always-Lesson-Teacher-Essentials-Classroom/dp/1394158807?crid=2Q0FMBRPWJ11Z&keywords=always+a+lesson+%2B+bridgers&qid=1692639966&sprefix=always+a+lesson+%2B+bridgers%2Caps%2C126&sr=8-2&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=65f6fe9bd3c35f1975fdad89e40d9b05&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl About Vernon Wright Vernon Wright is an entrepreneur, veteran speaker, consultant, and life coach with 16 years of experience in various roles in leadership. He is the founder of ZeroApologyZone.com As a speaker and consultant, Vernon has shared his experiences numerous times over the years at the local, regional, state, national, and global levels. Vernon has brought his unique style and combination of insight, experience, humor, and authenticity to audiences whether in person or virtually. He knows that real change begins when we become "fully sold" on our own visions, and when we create a vision for that impact to manifest and elevate others. Vernon has collaborated literally across the world with some of the biggest names in educational leadership and entrepreneurial pursuits. Vernon has an established presence on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube (@TheWrightLeader), and he unabashedly stands as a voice for the people with no apologies. Vernon welcomes you to the #ZeroApologyZone. Follow Vernon Wright Website:TheWrightLeader.comX: https://x.com/thewrightleaderIG: https://www.instagram.com/thewrightleader/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thewrightleader/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmwPShQkY62AHzYZTjdmgH1AReEZxl1fo — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What if the key to unlocking social emotional learning for your students has been playing in their earbuds all along? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with David Spellman, also known as the Positive Archer, an unorthodox educator who built a unique book and curriculum called Just Like Music: Social Emotional Learning Inspired by Hip Hop after years of recognizing a deep disconnect between the SEL strategies schools were using and the students they were trying to reach. David unpacks the powerful connection between the five elements of hip hop and the core competencies of social emotional learning, walking through how his curriculum uses hip hop lyrics from artists like Common, Jay Electronica, and A Tribe Called Quest to teach self-awareness, relationship skills, reading comprehension, and so much more. Each chapter of the curriculum is structured as a workshop built around a city, an artist, a lyric, and activities that bring SEL to life in a culturally responsive and deeply engaging way. The conversation also explores how school leaders and teachers can push back against the stigma of using hip hop in the classroom, why culturally responsive teaching is a foundation for student success, and how David's two powerful action steps for aspiring leaders can transform the way you show up for your school community. About David Spellmon David Spellmon is an experienced Behavioral Specialist with a demonstrated history of working in the primary/secondary education industry. He is a fellow for the National Fellowship for Black and Latino Male Educators. He is also the CEO and Founder of Positive Archer Solutions, an educational consulting firm that specializes in Culturally Responsive Social Emotional Learning, building Positive School Culture, and boosting up the Social Capital of students. Follow David Spellmon Website: https://positivearchersolutions.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjappiLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-spellmon https://www.amazon.com/Just-Like-Music-Emotional-Learning/dp/1734923709?&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=1c034c2166f0bde96bf289682cc63220&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 -- Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
Recorded live at the NCMLE Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, Joshua sits down on the conference floor with two dynamic educational leaders, speakers, and authors, Frederick Buskey and Dr. Brandi Kelly. Frederick shares his work building a Leadership Excellence Network in partnership with the North Carolina Middle Level Education Association and dives into his conference presentation on the Motivation Equation, a framework that moves leaders and teachers from a place of judgment to curiosity when students or staff aren't showing up the way we expect. Dr. Brandi Kelly shares the heart behind her book and her powerful session, Leading with Hope: A Blueprint for Resilient Leadership, unpacking her HOPE framework of Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, and Excellence, and why cultivating hope is the key to addressing the leadership crisis in education today. About Frederick Buskey: Frederick is the founder of Strategic Leadership Consulting, and the host of The Assistant Principal Podcast. He is passionate about improving life and leadership for school leaders by making complex ideas simple and building the mindset, structures, and skills to help school leaders focus on supporting and growing teachers. Frederick uses his experiences and understanding of research to inform practical ideas and strategies for busy leaders. His 30+ years of educational experience include being a National Board Certified Teacher, entry-year teacher program coordinator, and 13 years as a researcher and principal licensure program coordinator at Western Carolina University and Clemson University. He lives and plays in the mountains of Western North Carolina and is a happy husband and father to four grown offspring. Follow Frederick Buskey: Website:https://www.frederickbuskey.com/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/frederickcbLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/strategicleadershipconsulting About Dr. Brandi Kelly Dr. Brandi Kelly brings over 20 years of heart, hustle, and hands-on experience to the world of education. A licensed clinical social worker and Maxwell Certified Coach, she's worn many hats — from school social worker to principal to superintendent. Along the way, she's been honored with the Distinguished Elementary School Principal Award and Middle School Principal of the Year Award. Dr. Kelly is proud to be part of inspiring networks like the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA), Teach Better Network, Illinois Principals Association (IPA), and the Educational League of Illinois (ELI). She loves sparking change through speaking, writing, and hosting the Lead with HOPE podcast — where she shares real conversations about leadership, resilience, and growth. Follow Dr. Brandi Kelly: Website:https://sparkhopeedu.comLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandi-kelly-ed-d-lcsw https://www.amazon.com/Lead-H-P-Building-Self-Efficacy/dp/B0F6K2665V?&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=b0b37bdb043926be16e265ab2019e969&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What if the reason so many young students struggle in the classroom has nothing to do with behavior, laziness, or defiance, and everything to do with emerging executive functions that have simply not been taught yet? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper welcomes back two familiar faces, executive functioning expert Mitch Weathers and primary educator and researcher Sarah Oberle, to celebrate the release of their brand new co-authored book Executive Functions for Every K–3 Classroom: Promoting Self-Regulation for a Strong Start. Mitch and Sarah share the story behind the book, including how Sarah tracked Mitch down through a contact form after realizing his first book, which covered grades three through twelve, left primary teachers without the tools they desperately needed for the youngest learners in the building. Together they explain why working memory, inhibition, and cognitive flexibility look completely different in a five, six, or seven year old, and why what looks like defiance or inattention in a primary classroom is almost always a child whose executive functions are still in the very early stages of development. The conversation is packed with practical, immediately usable strategies embedded in routines teachers are already using, from how to orient student attention before instruction, to rethinking classroom displays that quietly drain cognitive bandwidth, to the power of being so granular and specific in directions that ambiguity is removed entirely. Mitch and Sarah also speak directly to school leaders about what to look for when walking into classrooms where this work is taking root, and why investing in executive function development at the primary level is the most powerful tier one intervention a school can make. About Mitch Weathers: Mitch Weathers became an exceptional educator because he once struggled as a student. Throughout his academic journey, Mitch rarely felt comfortable in the classroom. It took him seven years to graduate from college—a reflection not of ability, but of disconnection. He often experienced education as something happening around him, not something he was actively part of. That sense of isolation fueled his desire to create a different kind of learning experience. When Mitch became a teacher, he brought with him a deep empathy for students who felt unseen or overwhelmed. He quickly realized that before we can effectively teach content, we must first build the foundation for learning. That foundation is structure, consistency, and support. To meet this need, Mitch created Organized Binder—a simple, research-backed system that empowers teachers to explicitly teach executive functioning skills without sacrificing instructional time. By establishing predictable learning routines, teachers foster safer, more inclusive classrooms where students gain confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. Mitch's mission is to equip educators with the tools to help every student succeed—not just academically, but personally. Follow Mitch Weathers: Website:www.organizedbinder.comTwitter:https://twitter.com/organizedbinderInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/organizedbinder/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/organizedbinderLinkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchweathers/Vimeo OB showcase:https://vimeo.com/showcase/8775721 About Sarah Oberle Sarah Oberle is an educator, writer, and professional learning designer with 18 years of experience as a primary classroom teacher. Her work centers on helping educators understand how learning happens and how that understanding shapes daily instructional decisions. Beyond the classroom, Sarah designs and facilitates evidence-informed professional learning for teachers and school leaders, both in person and virtually. She works with national and international organizations to ensure professional learning is research-informed, practical, and responsive to the realities of teaching. Her work focuses on attention, memory, and executive functions, with an emphasis on pedagogy rather than programs. Follow Sarah Oberle Website:sarahoberle.comTwitter (X): S_OberleLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/drsarahoberle https://www.amazon.com/Executive-Functions-Every-Classroom-Self-Regulation/dp/B0G3PX72N5?pd_rd_w=2sLa3&content-id=amzn1.sym.4c8c52db-06f8-4e42-8e56-912796f2ea6c&pf_rd_p=4c8c52db-06f8-4e42-8e56-912796f2ea6c&pf_rd_r=RC6BBND1GXYF9N93EEDQ&pd_rd_wg=b01fx&pd_rd_r=c0701dfa-8805-4112-b35a-3899b52fe858&pd_rd_i=B0G3PX72N5&psc=1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=e366c22231736e593748df76e59f10b1&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 -- Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I'm happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education...
What does it take to truly engage a middle schooler, build a classroom where every student feels like they belong, and sustain yourself as a leader for the long haul? In this second bonus episode recorded live at the NCMLE Moving the Middle Forward Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, Joshua Stamper brings you three more energizing conversations straight from the conference floor, sponsored by New Horizons Global. First, Joshua sits down with educator, speaker, and author Katie Powell to talk about her two books, Boredom Busters and Frustration Busters, and the powerful message from her conference sessions on why lack of motivation is not a behavior problem. Katie unpacks the psychology behind task avoidance and work resistance, shares why empowering students with agency and classroom jobs can transform the culture of a room, and explains how teachers can build engagement strategies that honor both student needs and their own frustration in the process. Next, Joshua connects with the high energy Ronell Blackman, speaker, MC, and community builder, who talks about his work on the power of presence, why showing up fully wherever you are is the foundation for growth, consistency, and confidence, and how small steps forward change everything in education and in life. Rounding out the episode is a returning Aspire to Lead guest, Illinois school leader, author, and speaker Charles Williams, who shares his framework for sustainable leadership built around clarity, capacity, and care, and his evolving work on belonging and what it actually means to create the conditions for every student and staff member to feel genuinely included. All three guests are returning to NCMLE because of one reason: community. And this episode captures exactly why. If you want professional development that makes an impact from day one, visit newhorizonseducation.net and click on Educational Speakers. About Katie Powell Katie Powell is the Director for Middle Level Programs for AMLE and author of the books Boredom Busters and Frustration Busters. As part of her role with AMLE, Katie works closely with schools, districts, and affiliate organizations through the Successful Middle School book study, assessment, and Schools of Distinction programs as well as providing professional development and coaching on a variety of middle grades topics. Follow Katie Powell Website: www.teachbeyondthedesk.comTwitter (X): @beyond_the_deskInstagram: @teach_beyond_the_deskLinkedin: katiepowellbeyondthedesk About Ronnel Blackmon Originally from Akron, Ohio, and currently living in Atlanta, Georgia, he's been modeling for over 20 years, married for over 18 years, a father for over 10 years, and in business with his wife, Tinika Blackmon (CFO), for over 13 years. They have traveled to over 180 cities modeling with the Ebony Fashion Fair and many other Class A clients. He has emceed live events, fundraising events, and facilitated corporate events across the country. Ronnel has a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and a Master's Degree in Psychology with a focus on Industrial Organization. He's valued as a fitness influencer and has received a host of certifications including, personal and executive life coaching. Ronnel has a passion for fatherhood, being a husband, a businessman, motivating others through life and fitness, educating communities, and being the connector of people looking to further their dreams and visions. His diverse hobbies include sports, manly conversations, and trying something new. The vision that Ronnel has is robust, but with the help of others he believes that the future is bright for so many, and with exposure to more than what surrounds you brings vision, goals, and a desire for success. Help us build a community through conversations by following all of our projects and those we collaborate with. Follow Ronnel Blackmon Website:https://www.ronnelblackmon.com About Charles Willaims Charles Williams has been an educator for more than 15 years serving as a teacher, a mentor/lead teacher, an assistant principal, and a principal for urban students in grades K-12. He also serves as an equity advocate through his work with Great Expectations Mentoring, Chicago Public School's Office of Equity, and The City of Chicago's Equity Office. Charles is the host of The Counter Narrative Podcast, a show designed to challenge the dominant narrative that often negatively portrays our disenfranchised populations. He is also the co-host of Inside the Principal's Office, a bi-monthly show featuring educational leaders from around the world. After presenting at numerous events including nationwide conferences, educational workshops, and fundraising events, Charles decided to launch CW Consulting - an organization committed to delivering personalized keynotes, workshops, and consulting services focused on helping institutions to unlock their potential and delivering results. Follow Charles Williams: Links: https://linktr.ee/_cwconsulting -- #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 guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
What does it look like when a third grade STEM teacher from Houston uses comedy, creativity, and storytelling to pull back the curtain on the real life of an educator and build a community that refuses to feel alone? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with educator, podcaster, and doctoral student Brandon Jenkins to talk about the power of authentic storytelling in education and why laughter might be one of the most underrated tools in our profession. Brandon shares how social media became a lifeline for connection in a career that can feel deeply isolating, and how his comedic content gives educators permission to laugh at the hard stuff while sparking real conversations with people outside of education who had no idea what teachers actually face every day. He also unpacks why representation in schools goes far beyond skin tone and covers zip code, access to programs, arts, technology, and the profound impact of seeing yourself reflected in the adults who show up for you. The conversation goes deeper as Brandon shares his doctoral research on trust within Black and Brown communities in education, the inspiration behind his podcast Teaching in Color now in its third season, and a simple but powerful leadership challenge to sit down, grab a journal, and write your own story before someone else writes it for you. About Brandon Jenkins Brandon Jenkins is a 3rd grade Math and Science teacher in Houston, Texas and the creator of the Teaching in Color podcast, a platform dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and perspectives in education. As an educator, Brandon is passionate about creating engaging learning environments that empower students and highlight the cultural experiences that shape how communities interact with schools. Beyond the classroom, Brandon is a nationally recognized education content creator known for his humorous and insightful takes on teacher life, education policy, and classroom culture. Through his social media platform @allabout.brandon, he has built a large community of educators by blending storytelling, satire, and honest conversations about the realities of teaching. Brandon is also pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, where his research focuses on how families from historically underserved communities perceive and engage with the education system. Through his teaching, scholarship, and digital storytelling, he works to reimagine a more equitable and culturally responsive future for education. Follow Brandon Jenkins Facebook: Allabout.brandon YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@allabout.brandon Teaching in Color Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teaching-in-color/id1753541231 -- 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
What does it look and feel like to be surrounded by 400 passionate middle level educators for three days straight? In this first bonus episode recorded live at the NCMLE Moving the Middle Forward Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, Joshua Stamper brings you three powerful conversations straight from the conference floor, sponsored by New Horizons Global. First, Joshua sits down with resilience researcher, speaker, and author Julie Hasson, who shares her message from her presentation "Recharge Your School Culture" and the simple, practical tools educators can weave into their school day to reduce stress, build individual resilience, and leave school with enough energy to actually have a life outside of it. Next, Joshua talks with Brad Waid, founder of New Horizons Global, former third grade teacher, and passionate advocate for AI and Industry 4.0 in education. Brad breaks down what skills students will need for a workforce that is changing faster than most schools can keep up with, and why educators are more important than ever in helping young people find their place in it. The series wraps up with a conversation with the man who built this incredible community, NCMLE Conference Director David James. David shares how he has grown the conference from a post-COVID rebuild to a 400 plus educator gathering that brings together the best voices in middle level education from across the country, and previews what is coming in 2027. If you want professional development that makes an impact from day one for your school, district, conference, or organization, visit newhorizonseducation.net and click on Educational Speakers About Dr. Julie Schmidt Hasson: Dr. Julie Schmidt Hasson is an Associate Professor in School Administration at Appalachian State University and the founder of the Teacher Recharge project. Julie's research on teacher resilience, engagement, and impact is the heart of her keynotes, training programs, and her TEDx Talk, The Teachers We Remember. Julie is the author of four books, including Pause, Ponder, and Persist in the Classroom. Julie is a former classroom teacher and school principal, now on a mission to help educators stay longer, grow stronger, and keep making an impact. Follow Dr. Julie Schmidt Hasson Website:teacherrecharge.comTwitter (X): @julieshassonInstagram: @julieshassonFacebook: Julie Schmidt HassonLinkedin: Julie Schmidt HassonYouTube: Julie Schmidt Hasson https://www.amazon.com/Safe-Seen-Stretched-Classroom-Remarkable/dp/0367634643?&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=2bbea57e9b54f526fbba6976c820ed1f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl About Brad Waid: Brad is an Award winning Emerging Technology Leader, International Keynote Speaker, Futurist, Educator, Visionary, and Author specializing in AR/VR/XR, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence and Industry 4.0. He is tabbed as one of the top 20 Global Futurist & Keynote Speakers by TAFFD (Transdisciplinary Agora for Future Discussions), recognized as the #14 influencer world-wide in Augmented Reality by Onalytica as well as being recognized as one of the “20 to Watch” by the National School Board Association. Follow Brad Waid Website:www.bradwaid.comTwitter (X): @techbradwaidInstagram: @techbradwaidFacebook: Brad WaidLinkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-waid-21187593/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@bradwaid3790Other:www.newhorizonsglobal.net https://www.amazon.com/Racing-Future-Industry-Business-Education/dp/B0FPG6ZSYC?crid=2WQ7FZH03GKPL&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Nk30rAQk9p1cM4CPc-x8jdIM5o2io9g9PwurvJJOrz9tLU0dbnrdNibRvFp_ADjdh-5W8oTYn2x7K5GpJ0ISjm7mpwvzLGFOY07BhUr1lA9bbz4mwWhxSSncpKvdhAdm9IVne5LMKBi5VC5Dg-KBM5kAe_E8nBMB4gr2OIOIBxEUDPtr7oKISQ8FgvlEETgamIqcnXWbgi1hhLwP3ND-l1E2NBUN9GWFhek7qaY2cfo.XZKl7uL0tkzLkloMAGZufgbOD5Hj6Bmlo108mkWxD0g&dib_tag=se&keywords=brad+waid+book&qid=1774577229&s=books&sprefix=brad+waid+book%2Cstripbooks%2C185&sr=1-1-catcorr&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=39e5f0693af6a9e51615929b42dbb837&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl About David James David is an 18 year veteran of K - 12 education. He started his teaching journey as a graduate of Ohio University in 2007. After moving to North Carolina in the fall of 2011, David became part of the inaugural teaching staff at the award winning Harold E. Winkler Middle School, a 6-8 International Baccalaureate school located in Concord, NC, 15 miles north of Charlotte. David currently serves in multiple teacher-leadership capacities at HWMS. As an English/Language Arts and Social Studies Teacher, Lead Mentor of the school's highly successful beginning teacher mentoring program, School Leadership Team representative, and 7th grade level chair, David leans on his experience and enthusiasm in the classroom to influence kids, teachers, and parents in hopes of having a positive impact on student achievement. His student-first mindset in the classroom leading to positive results both academically and behaviorally with students, has been highlighted in multiple EDU publications including Culture First Classrooms: Leadership, Relationships, and Practices That Transform Schools by Dr. Darrin Peppard and Katie Kinder. At the state level, David serves on the North Carolina Association for Middle Level Education Board of Directors as both the Marketing and Conference Directors. He is proud to organize and bring the annual conference to life that hosts 500+ middle school educators in a celebration of learning and growth. You can learn more about NCMLE at ncmle.org and on their social media outlets. All this to say, David's favorite roles are as a husband to his beautiful wife Erin and father to his 8 year old son Aiden. Follow David James Twitter (X): heroichistory22Instagram: heroichistory22Facebook: David Jameshttps://ncmle.org -- 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
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
Why do some students sit and do “nothing” when we give them plenty of time to work, and why does “just get to work” rarely change anything? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper talks with executive function coach Carrie Bonnett about task initiation as a teachable brain based skill rather than a character flaw. Drawing on her years as a middle and high school teacher and her current coaching practice with students, families, and schools, Carrie explains how to reframe “procrastination,” “laziness,” and “defiance” as executive function challenges that show up when tasks feel boring, overwhelming, or too big. Carrie shares practical strategies from her free Task Initiation Toolkit, including chunking work by task and by time, using timers as “dopamine tools,” and making the invisible visible with clear routines and visual cues so the environment does more of the prompting than the adult. She also offers concrete language shifts educators can use, such as moving from “You are lazy” to “Your brain struggles with getting started,” and shows how small changes in how we talk about brains, motivation, and “stuckness” can transform classroom culture, family dynamics, and student confidence. About Carrie Bonnett Carrie Bonnett is a veteran teacher, lifelong list-maker, and Executive Function coach based in Bend, Oregon. She works with students and families around the country using a practical, no-shame, brain-first approach that empowers students to thrive, helps parents and teachers better support them, and gives adults tools to stay on top of all that life requires. In addition to coaching, Carrie creates digital resources—including her signature course Get the Brain on Board and a series of No-Shame Guides for Parents—and provides brain-based workshops and trainings for parents, teachers, and other professionals. She is also an adjunct instructor at the University of Portland, where she supports early-career teachers. Follow Carrie Bonnett Website: www.carriebonnett.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachcarriebonnett/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachcarriebonnett Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-bonnett YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@carriebonnett Free Task Initiation Toolkit for parents and teachers: www.carriebonnett.com/toolkit -- 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 3/1/26
What happens when a former assistant principal chooses to return to the middle school classroom and discovers a deeper, wider form of leadership than the front office ever offered? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper talks with David James, seventh grade social studies teacher, lead mentor, and conference director for the North Carolina Association for Middle Level Education, about what it really means to lead where your feet are. David shares how his journey from substitute teacher to AP and back to the classroom reshaped his view of growth mindset, professional learning, and influence, and why he now sees every student in his 1,200 student building as “his kid.” He breaks down the BT support structures at Harold E. Winkler Middle School, including a non evaluative mentoring model and weekly Wolf Pack Workshop PD that is led by teachers for teachers, and explains why consistency, clear structures, and teaming are non negotiables in middle level education. The conversation closes with a preview of the upcoming NCMLE conference in Charlotte, where David is conference director, and a powerful challenge to aspiring and current leaders to connect beyond their buildings and invest deeply in the roles they already hold, rather than chasing titles. About David James David is an 18 year veteran of K-12 education. He started his teaching journey as a graduate of Ohio University in 2007. After moving to North Carolina in the fall of 2011, David became part of the inaugural teaching staff at the award winning Harold E. Winkler Middle School, a 6-8 International Baccalaureate school located in Concord, NC, 15 miles north of Charlotte. David currently serves in multiple teacher-leadership capacities at HWMS. As an English/Language Arts and Social Studies Teacher, Lead Mentor of the school's highly successful beginning teacher mentoring program, School Leadership Team representative, and 7th grade level chair, David leans on his experience and enthusiasm in the classroom to influence kids, teachers, and parents in hopes of having a positive impact on student achievement. His student-first mindset in the classroom leading to positive results both academically and behaviorally with students, has been highlighted in multiple EDU publications including Culture First Classrooms: Leadership, Relationships, and Practices That Transform Schools by Dr. Darrin Peppard and Katie Kinder. At the state level, David serves on the North Carolina Association for Middle Level Education Board of Directors as both the Marketing and Conference Directors. He is proud to organize and bring the annual conference to life that hosts 500+ middle school educators in a celebration of learning and growth. You can learn more about NCMLE at ncmle.org and on their social media outlets. All this to say, David's favorite roles are as a husband to his beautiful wife Erin and father to his 8 year old son Aiden. Follow David James Twitter (X): heroichistory22 Instagram: heroichistory22 Register for NCMLE 2026: https://ncmle.org/2026-ncmle-conference -- NEW Aspire to Lead Cohort: Join the March 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
Educators are exhausted, overextended, and still trying to show up fully for kids. So what does it actually look like to build a sustainable life and career in schools instead of just surviving the year? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with Kim Gameroz to celebrate the launch of her new book Becoming the BISON and explore how teachers can "be intentional so others notice" in ways that protect their wellness, elevate their impact, and spark real change on campus. Kim shares why she believes educators are like bison. They move bravely into the storm rather than away from it. She unpacks her core shifts: courage over comfort, clarity over compliance, and connection over control, especially in the face of student behavior, burnout, and broken systems. She also pulls back the curtain on her Celebrate Good Times community, the Vibe EDU podcast, and the high energy Vibe EDU live event in Anaheim, designed to surround teachers with a herd that refuses to let them do this work alone. About Kim Gameroz Kim Gameroz, M.Ed., is a change agent and founder of Teaching Inside Out, revolutionizing classrooms through a systematic approach to teaching social and emotional skills. With over 15 years of experience coaching, training, and mentoring educators, students, and families globally, Kim has spoken at numerous conferences, consults for school districts, serves on SEL panels, and contributes to various publications and podcasts. Through Teaching Inside Out, as well as her second company, SELebrate Good Times, she has created a supportive community for heart-centered educators nationwide where she is committed to making teachers feel seen, valued, and SELebrated at her events and teacher retreats. Kim's upcoming book, "Becoming The Bison," is set to be published in 2025. She currently resides in Dallas, Texas with her husband, Shaun, and son, Wyatt, and is looking forward to spreading her knowledge of SEL and best practices in teaching even further to schools, districts, and homes around the world. Visit SELebrate Good Times to learn more about the teacher community that is changing lives all over the country, and her annual National SELebration: The Bloom! Follow Kim Gameroz: Website:SELebrateGoodTimes.comandTeachingInsideOut.com Instagram:@SELebrateGoodTimesandTeaching_Inside_Out LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-gameroz-18144b1b0/ Private Facebook Group:Becoming the B.I.S.O.N. VIBE EDU EVENT: www.teachinginsideout.com/vibe-edu https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-BISON-Emotional-Solution-Educators/dp/1968898131?crid=1QF6L0J9ECD0N&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.7I334JAPlFNnYnVBWYC9-Gu5AFtCJSpadMw9smMKZPxbggRfExdiL8NWG-7Uxvm2WVpwgAe1P-yHSYcBBON1VTYeoWEZFiZri21BpUSDTHV_nQXDDMxfmzNzjcmWbLQnxvtP6Uoxqw9i-mlJFl9m5rWg3rAFxwCOI_KJBT2k670a-ct9iYc53TQWf_UkHwLuqsf-ubFNSGkupzjV7nQSkadraJ-Q1MdmK8mO-0IdmYk.aSZW5E-elB09tw8qUTNUCu77PJWil2QUDznstk1SmeY&dib_tag=se&keywords=becoming+the+bison+book&qid=1772296986&sprefix=becoming+the+bison+boo%2Caps%2C189&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=095b68a1c42185fba8de6542eecaa2e1&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl -- NEW Aspire to Lead Cohort: Join the March 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 3/1/26
Aspiring leaders asked: How do you lead with emotional intelligence (EQ) instead of ego, and navigate school politics without getting burned? In this bonus Aspire Mailbag with Jeff Gargas (COO, Teach Better), Joshua Stamper dives into self-awareness, empathy, humility, and building feedback loops to ditch ego-driven decisions for people-first leadership.They also tackle the politics game: map power dynamics, build advisory circles, watch before acting, and strategically invite influencers to witness your wins—without losing your authenticity. Perfect for teachers eyeing admin roles or current leaders refining their approach. Plus, Jeff shares updates on the Teach Better Academy relaunch.Featuring Jeff Gargas and Joshua StamperFollow Jeff Gargas:Twitter:https://twitter.com/jeffgargasInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/_jeffgargas/Follow Joshua Stamper:Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2Follow The Teach Better Team:Twitter:https://twitter.com/teachbetterteamWebsite:https://www.teachbetter.com/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/teachbetterteamInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/teachbetterteamThe Teach Better Podcast:
What happens when discipline shifts from punishment to teaching? In this important conversation, Joshua Stamper and Nathan Maynard unpack the ideas behind Nathan's new book The Science of Discipline, exploring how schools can move from compliance-driven systems to accountable, trauma-informed practices that actually change behavior. Nathan shares what he has learned working with struggling schools in all 50 states, why generic consequences fail, and how to design clear, sustainable discipline frameworks that support educators while honoring each student's uniqueness and neurodiversity. About Nathan Maynard Nathan Maynard is best known for translating complex human behavior into practical systems that educators can use under real-world pressure. He is a leading voice in the global movement to reimagine school discipline with 17 years experience working in complex learning environments. Through his writings and hands-on work across most of the US and 30+ countries, he helps educators with a question he has obsessively tried to solve: what actually makes discipline work in schools. His work has influenced schools and systems worldwide, offering a clear alternative to fear-based models that no longer serve educators or society. He is the author of Science of Discipline, Hacking School Discipline, and the founder of Highfive- an award winning school discipline program. Nathan has worked with thousands of schools globally, opened up alternative school programming across the US, is a guest lecturer, and serves on the board for a non profit that does restorative prison re-entry programming. He is passionate about helping educators better understand their students and students to understand social norms, empathy, accountability, and feel a sense of belonging. Follow Nathan Maynard: Website: https://www.highfive.school/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highfive.k12/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-maynard-6849827a/ New Book: https://www.amazon.com/Science-Discipline-Strategies-Empowering-Educators/dp/1394253508?crid=MO1MKJ88912F&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.LZhdDMB-lD-vX6jMl5cZsFlBRK0OWlBIBUN1DVfMw-FnQ5W2lIP3y_Ja1NxwWAyB.dMNTyF93PqpEUCba2LuyI5iVEjrOOmTpydoayxjbxJ8&dib_tag=se&keywords=nathan+maynard+science&qid=1771205872&sprefix=nathan+maynard+science%2Caps%2C246&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=d0c48cd8bb72791b23b3dc8afcf20bcc&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl -- NEW Aspire to Lead Cohort: Join the March 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:...
How can schools ensure every student benefits from collective expertise without overwhelming teachers with endless meetings? In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper talks with Kurtis Hewson, co author of Collaborative Response and co founder of Jigsaw Learning, about a school wide model that replaces fragmented teams with purposeful, layered collaborative structures centered on data, evidence, and a clear continuum of supports.Kurtis explains how to shift from “tiering students” to “tiering supports,” where Tier 1 defines non negotiable universal practices, Tier 2 offers classroom based options, and higher tiers coordinate beyond classroom resources without labeling kids. He breaks down the game changing collaborative team meeting format that reduces overall meetings by adding one intentional space where teachers share celebrations, generate solutions for common issues, and build capacity across the building.About Kurtis Hewson Kurtis Hewson is a highly sought-after keynote speaker, author and professional learning facilitator. In addition to being an award-winning teacher, vice-principal, and principal, he has also served as faculty at the post-secondary level. With over a decade of experience as an administrator, Kurtis has championed the call for collaborative structures in schools to ensure success for all students. He is the co-founder of Jigsaw Learning, a co-author of the best-selling text Collaborative Response: Three Foundational Components That Transform How We Respond to the Needs of Learners (Corwin, 2022), and currently works with districts and schools nationally and internationally establishing Collaborative Response frameworks and interacting with thousands of educators annually. Follow Kurtis Hewson Website: https://www.jigsawlearning.ca/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jigsawlearningab/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecollaborativeleader Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jigsaw-learning-inc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3U_RKp7yxQhckpKaQur7ow https://www.amazon.com/Collaborative-Response-Foundational-Components-Transform/dp/1071862812?crid=286SG3M5LIFZ2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.COivoRyBayRyg98CF1nUp0wIGkcj6xAwY5RP-bXiljANMuhIlNp5yNmlxfYYkvus9PLLI5rHRlRm1H2ZJNctezuGhCuhUPcvlwwQfngmy4vzyj_pPWxNv4DnCuex0TRf8-2eD4974mErzUgo6qqGDKunnUYsx0sP6IQRmrBSfZKtP85fi3K7h0eCxe6m2ODp307_uSD3AVFAMhDQphAo6uPSsdw3IxuXpudOzzXVxQ4.zIN_MeMg2EqihqQ19pGF1Smr1GQCE--maHoXdTi514k&dib_tag=se&keywords=collaborative+response+book&qid=1770575346&sprefix=collaborative+response+boo%2Caps%2C134&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=262419187aea54eed9fb270c0d00eb8e&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl FREE Webinar - The Language of Behavior School leaders, don't miss this free webinar Thursday, Feb 12 at 12pm ET to equip your staff with better tools for student behaviors. Register here: https://thrivingeducator.myflodesk.com/webinarfeb2026 -- NEW Aspire to Lead Cohort: Join the March 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
What happens when we decide to be present, patient, and kind in the middle of one of the hardest stretches of the school year? In this week's episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper welcomes back Dr. Christopher Culver to explore the science of kindness and belonging, the impact of chronic stress on educators, and why self compassion must come before we can sustain compassion for others.Dr. Culver shares vulnerable pieces of his own story, including seasons of deep darkness and imposter syndrome, and explains how those experiences shaped his work on kindness, his bilingual children's book about belonging, his new book Be the Light, and his Science of Kindness podcast. Listeners will gain practical strategies to lead with presence and patience, protect their own mental health in high stress seasons, and create school cultures where every person feels seen, valued, and included.About Dr. Christopher Culver:Dr. Christopher Culver is a proud product of Oklahoma education and has served educational communities for more than a decade as a classroom teacher, secondary principal, and most recently as a cabinet-level administrator. Dr. Culver is a product of a divorced family and split time between Tulsa & Wyandotte, OK and Fayetteville, NC during his childhood. Currently, Dr. Culver serves as a consultant with expertise in kindness, culture and understanding Gen Z/Gen A, and as an adjunct professor at Oklahoma City University, teaching future teachers and leaders. He is highly sought after and well known for his high-energy, passionate, engaging, and motivational professional development. Participants call him “engaging, charismatic, dynamic, and enthusiastic.” He has his pulse on today's generation. Earning an EdD researching culture, motivation, and the collective impact on teacher retention, Dr. Culver is focused on spreading kindness, improving mindset, cultivating culture, and educating about Gen Z/A. He believes that if you cannot find the light, be the light! Keep shining, friends! Follow Dr. Christopher Culver: Website: www.orangesparrow.org Twitter (X): DrChrisCulver Instagram: DrChrisCulver Facebook: DrChrisCulver Linkedin: Dr. Christopher (Chris) Culver YouTube: DrChrisCulver Podcast: https://scienceofkindness.com/ — NEW Aspire to Lead Cohort: Join the March 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 3/1/26
This bonus Aspire to Lead episode brings you a featured segment from the Thriving Educators Summit, where Mitch Weathers facilitates a fast paced conversation with TJ Vari and Joshua Stamper about what it truly means to lead well in today's schools, whether you are an aspiring leader, assistant principal, principal, or district administrator. The trio digs into mindset shifts from classroom to leadership, why every leader deserves a coach, how to build influence before you have a title, and why community based supports like the Aspire to Lead Cohort and Schoolhouse 302's induction and coaching work are essential for combating isolation, burnout, and “trial by fire” leadership transitions.About T.J. Vari:Dr. T.J. Vari is the Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools and District Operations in the Appoquinimink School District. He is the co-author of Candid and Compassionate Feedback: Transforming Everyday Practice in Schools. T.J. is a former middle school assistant principal and principal and former high school English teacher. His master's degree is in School Leadership and his doctorate is in Innovation and Leadership. He holds several honors and distinctions, including his past appointment as President of the Delaware Association for School Administrators and the Paul Carlson Administrator of the Year Award, which he accepted in 2015. He holds adjunct appointments at three universities, teaching courses at the masters and doctoral level. Together they present nationally on topics of school leadership, and they co-founded TheSchoolHouse302, which is a leadership development institute. They co-authored Candid and Compassionate Feedback: Transforming Everyday Practice in Schools. And, with Salome Thomas-EL they co-authored Passionate Leadership: Creating a Culture of Success in Every School, Building a Winning Team: The Power of a Magnetic Reputation and the Need to Recruit Top Talent in Every School, and Retention for a Change: Motivate, Inspire, and Energize Your School Culture.Follow T.J. Vari:Website: www.theschoolhouse302.com Twitter: @tjvari Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Theschoolhouse302 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-t-j-vari-78726b40/ About Mitch Weathers: Mitch Weathers became an exceptional educator because he once struggled as a student. Throughout his academic journey, Mitch rarely felt comfortable in the classroom. It took him seven years to graduate from college—a reflection not of ability, but of disconnection. He often experienced education as something happening around him, not something he was actively part of. That sense of isolation fueled his desire to create a different kind of learning experience. When Mitch became a teacher, he brought with him a deep empathy for students who felt unseen or overwhelmed. He quickly realized that before we can effectively teach content, we must first build the foundation for learning. That foundation is structure, consistency, and support. To meet this need, Mitch created Organized Binder—a simple, research-backed system that empowers teachers to explicitly teach executive functioning skills without sacrificing instructional time. By establishing predictable learning routines, teachers foster safer, more inclusive classrooms where students gain confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. Mitch's mission is to equip educators with the tools to help every student succeed—not just academically, but...
What if students' “attention problems” were really a mismatch between how the brain works and how we structure learning?In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper talks with first grade teacher, cognitive science scholar, and author Sarah Oberle about what executive functions actually are, core and higher order cognitive processes like working memory, inhibition, and cognitive flexibility, and why they are so often misunderstood as behaviors in schools.Sarah describes how explosive development in these skills during the K–3 years should shape our pedagogy, from how we orient attention and chunk directions to how we design routines, structure independent work, and set up the physical and acoustic environment so students can think instead of just “look busy”. Drawing from her upcoming book with Mitch Weathers, she shares concrete classroom moves—mini check ins, EF informed routines, visual and sound management, and tools like dividers and voice recorders—that any teacher can use to promote self regulation and learning without adding another program to their plate.About Sarah Oberle Sarah Oberle is an educator, writer, and professional learning designer with 18 years of experience as a primary classroom teacher. Her work centers on helping educators understand how learning happens and how that understanding shapes daily instructional decisions. Beyond the classroom, Sarah designs and facilitates evidence-informed professional learning for teachers and school leaders, both in person and virtually. She works with national and international organizations to ensure professional learning is research-informed, practical, and responsive to the realities of teaching. Her work focuses on attention, memory, and executive functions, with an emphasis on pedagogy rather than programs. Follow Sarah Oberle Website: sarahoberle.com Twitter (X): S_Oberle Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/drsarahoberle Pre-Order "Executive Functions for Every K-3 Classroom: Promoting Self-Regulation for a Strong Start": https://organizedbinder.com/books/ — NEW Aspire to Lead Cohort: Join the March 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 12/1/25
What if the strongest leaders in your school are already in classrooms, waiting for permission to step up? In this week's episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper reconnects with longtime friend and former Teach Better teammate Brad Hughes, elementary principal in Ontario, Canada, to explore how aspiring leaders can build confidence, prepare for interviews, and maintain personal and professional balance without rushing into formal roles. Brad shares stories from his 30+ year journey, from classroom teaching to principalship, and reflects on the value of district aspiring leaders programs, responding to interview setbacks with humility, and investing in physical, emotional, and relational wellbeing to avoid burnout. Listeners will hear practical advice for educators ready to expand their influence, including the power of one-word intentions like “allow,” seeking candid feedback, and recognizing the leadership already happening every day in classrooms. About Brad Hughes: Brad Hughes is the host of The Good News, Brad News Podcast. Brad is an elementary school principal in Ontario, Canada, with 30 years' experience in education. Prior to becoming a school leader, Brad taught for 16 years from Kindergarten to eighth grade, most recently teaching middle school Visual Arts, French and Special Education. Brad has an ongoing commitment to reframing the joys and challenges of school life through a Self-Reg lens. Brad is an optimist and recovering perfectionist, passionate about improving kids' lives by loving and supporting the adults that serve them. Follow Brad Hughes: Twitter:@brad_hughesInstagram:@bradnewspodcastWebsite:bit.ly/brad_hughes -- NEW Aspire to Lead Cohort: Join for the March 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 12/1/25
In this special conversation on Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper, Kim Gameroz, and Mitch Weathers share everything you need to know about the Thriving Educators Summit 2026 and how it was born from a desire to help teachers move from surviving to truly thriving after years of running hard and lean in schools. Listeners will hear the story behind the free virtual summit, what makes its fast paced, highly practical sessions different from typical PD, and how districts are using past summit recordings as a no cost professional learning library all year long. The crew also spotlights Kim's Becoming the Bison session on intentional teaching and leading, Joshua and TJ's new leadership focused session, and the growing speaker lineup that blends inspiration with concrete next steps educators can act on immediately. Finally, they preview the in person VIBE Edu event at the ARTIC in Anaheim, California and explain how both gatherings are designed to give educators community, clarity, and energy heading into a new school year. Thriving Educators Summit 2026: https://thrivingeducatorssummit.com/ Vibe EDU Event 2026: https://www.teachinginsideout.com/vibe-edu About Mitch Weathers: Mitch Weathers became an exceptional educator because he once struggled as a student. Throughout his academic journey, Mitch rarely felt comfortable in the classroom. It took him seven years to graduate from college—a reflection not of ability, but of disconnection. He often experienced education as something happening around him, not something he was actively part of. That sense of isolation fueled his desire to create a different kind of learning experience. When Mitch became a teacher, he brought with him a deep empathy for students who felt unseen or overwhelmed. He quickly realized that before we can effectively teach content, we must first build the foundation for learning. That foundation is structure, consistency, and support. To meet this need, Mitch created Organized Binder—a simple, research-backed system that empowers teachers to explicitly teach executive functioning skills without sacrificing instructional time. By establishing predictable learning routines, teachers foster safer, more inclusive classrooms where students gain confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. Mitch's mission is to equip educators with the tools to help every student succeed—not just academically, but personally. Follow Mitch Weathers: Website:www.organizedbinder.com Twitter:https://twitter.com/organizedbinder Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/organizedbinder/...
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