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Aspire to Lead: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Joshua Stamper
Josh provides an opportunity to learn from some of the most experienced and accomplished educational leaders. As we grow in our leadership skills, it’s imperative to learn from other leader’s successes, trials and misconceptions. Join us each week as my guests provide valuable stories, resources, and advice to enhance your leadership journey.
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- 3 days ago31 min
Aspire Mailbag: Building Trust Through Leadership and Initiative Changes
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.inst
- 1 weeks ago27 min
384. Keeping Great Educators in the Profession: Featuring Brad Gaynor
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-order
- 2 weeks ago23 min
383. Increasing Student Engagement with Purposeful Instruction: Featuring Megan Diede
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 Schoo
- 2 weeks ago17 min
BONUS: The EQ Impact with Charle Peck
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
- 3 weeks ago27 min
382: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success: Featuring Gretchen Bridgers
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
- May 17, 202628 min
381. Leading With Hope When the Pressure Is Heavy: Featuring Dr. Brandi Kelly
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
- May 9, 202629 min
380. Every Student Needs a Chance to Win: Featuring James O’Neal Jr.
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 redu
- May 3, 202639 min
379. The Hidden Work of Real School Leadership: Featuring Principal Kafele
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.co
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About Aspire to Lead
Josh provides an opportunity to learn from some of the most experienced and accomplished educational leaders. As we grow in our leadership skills, it’s imperative to learn from other leader’s successes, trials and misconceptions. Join us each week as my guests provide valuable stories, resources, and advice to enhance your leadership journey.
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