Explore every episode of the podcast The CharacterStrong Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| Tier 2 in Action: Helping Counselors Build Skills, Systems, and Sustainable Support - Michelle DePuy | 07 Nov 2025 | 00:19:42 | |
Today our guest is Michelle DePuy, Secondary Ed. Program Specialist at Redlands Unified School District. We talk to Michelle about how her district is strengthening Tier 2 systems by focusing on both mindset and skill-building with secondary counselors. She shares how creating small-group structures, using consistent data from youth-needs screeners, and providing real coaching on implementation fidelity have helped staff move from uncertainty to confidence. Michelle also discusses early results: students gaining emotional-regulation skills, counselors feeling empowered to lead small groups, and a stronger bridge between Tier 1 and Tier 2. Learn More About CharacterStrong: | |||
| Doubling Tier 1 Usage: Building Stronger Classrooms Through Character, Connection, and Data - Amy Fairchild & Crystal Hooper | 31 Oct 2025 | 00:21:06 | |
Today our guests are Amy Fairchild & Crystal Hooper, District SEL Coaches in Tangipahoa Parish, LA. We talk to Amy and Crystal about how their district doubled Tier 1 usage in one year and what that growth has meant for students and staff. Amy and Crystal share practical ways they've woven daily character lessons and relational activities into the fabric of every classroom, how competition between schools sparked momentum, and why teacher wellbeing rose alongside student outcomes. They also highlight data showing improved academics, attendance, and behavior, proving that when adults are supported, students thrive. Learn More About CharacterStrong: | |||
| Systems Over Goals: Building Belonging in Schools - Dr. Darian Jones | 22 Aug 2025 | 00:16:40 | |
Today our guest is Dr. Darian Jones, Program Implementation Specialist at CharacterStrong. We talk to Dr. Jones on why belonging must be built into the systems of a school, not left to chance. He highlights how proactive and responsive practices, like structured greetings, advisory systems, and intentional transitions can help both students and adults reset, connect, and thrive. Through powerful stories, including a pivotal moment where uncovering the root cause of a student's behavior transformed outcomes, Dr. Jones reminds leaders that adult behavior change is the key lever for student success. Learn More About CharacterStrong: | |||
| Infusing CharacterStrong Into Your School District - Liz Ritz | 19 Jan 2024 | 00:27:31 | |
Today our guest is Liz Ritz the Director of Teaching and Learning, at Oak Harbor Public Schools. We talk to Liz about her experience infusing CharacterStrong throughout the Oak Harbor district, and she shares difference between implementing with fidelity and integrity. Liz highlights the importance of building relationships in meetings, professional development, and one-on-one sessions with staff.. She also explains how having a Tier 1 program has laid a strong foundation as they proactively support students and how this foundation has helped as they begin to roll out Tier 2 supports. Learn More About CharacterStrong:
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| Piloting, Selecting, And Implementing Curriculum Districtwide - Kiley Luckett | 12 Jan 2024 | 00:16:32 | |
Today our guest is Kiley Luckett the District Mental Health Coordinator with Lawrence Public Schools in Lawrence Kansas. We talk to Kiley about how they have planned, selected, and implemented the CharacterStrong curriculum over this last year. She shares about what they did as a district to make initial & ongoing implementation successful with both staff and students. Kiley also talks about the importance that clarity, competency, and consistency has been in helping the schools across the district collectively serve students better. Learn More About CharacterStrong:
Kiley Luckett is a dedicated social worker and mental health advocate with a proven track record in supporting students' well-being. With more than 10 years experience as a elementary school counselor, Kiley has recently transitioned into the role of District Mental Health Coordinator with Lawrence Public Schools in Lawrence Kansas. Kiley spearheads comprehensive mental health initiatives, acts as a community liaison, and works to enhance Social and Emotional Leaning district wide . She has a passion for fostering positive, inclusive, and connected environments within educational settings. Kiley holds a bachelor's and master's degree of Social Work from The University of Kansas, where she is also an adjunct lecturer. Her collaborative approach, empathy, and strategic mindset make her a valued team member in promoting mental health awareness and resilience throughout the district. | |||
| Building A Positive School Culture Through Restorative Practices - Sharon Bradley | 05 Jan 2024 | 00:16:36 | |
Today our guest is Sharon Bradley, School District Administrator who supports Character, Attendance, and Restorative Practices & Founder and Principal Consultant at RestorativeFlo Educational Solutions. We talk with Sharon about how about 80% Restorative Practices are dedicated to building a strong community and relationships, not just resolving conflicts. She shares that it's not only about addressing issues but creating a supportive atmosphere for everyone. Sharon also emphasizes the crucial role of 'voice' in shaping our school culture, and the importance of ensuring everyone feels heard and valued. Learn More About CharacterStrong:
Sharon Bradley serves as Director of Family and Social Services for a Dallas-area school district where she has helped shape the district's approach to social and emotional development and truancy prevention for all students. Throughout her 23 years in education, she has served as director, alternative high school principal, assistant principal, dropout prevention program coordinator, general education teacher, and special education teacher. In her current role, she supports programs such as: Truancy prevention, Social Emotional Learning, Restorative Practices, Parent Education and Engagement. Sharon Bradley has recently been recognized by Education-First "SEL in Action" and D CEO Magazine for her innovative efforts of leveraging SEL to help decrease chronic absenteeism. Sharon is the author of the reference guide "Chronic Absenteeism: Prevention and Intervention Strategies for Schools, Families and Communities". She is a graduate of Mississippi State University where she earned her bachelor's degree in Special Education; and her master's degree in Educational Administration from Prairie View A & M University. | |||
| Top 6 Episodes of 2023 - #1: Positive Relationships + Data-Based Decisions = Student Growth - Amber Benson & Ruby Voss | 29 Dec 2023 | 00:23:14 | |
We're counting down the top 6 podcasts of 2023! Today our guests are Amber Benson & Ruby Voss, better know as BensonVoss. We talk to BensonVoss about the role that Positive Relationships & Data-Based Decisions play in Student Growth. They share how they work to build positive relationships from day one of the school year, and the positive impact that this has in their classroom. BensonVoss also talk about how they have intentionally done more with less and how they work for total participation with their students. Learn More:
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| Top 6 Episodes of 2023 - #2: The Impact Of A Strong Advisory Program - Katrina Hill, Caleb Amstutz, & Melanie Fox | 29 Dec 2023 | 00:18:13 | |
We're counting down the top 6 podcasts of 2023! Today our guests are Katrina Hill, Caleb Amstutz, & Melanie Fox. We talk to Katrina, Caleb, and Melanie about the advisory program at Community School. which was recently recognized as an inaugural AMLE School of Distinction in 2022. They share about multiage groupings, multiyear relationships, & the value of traditions and the impact that these have had in the lives of the students at Community School. Learn More:
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| Top 6 Episodes of 2023 - #3: Creating Systems Of Change For Discipline Referrals In School - Josh Nelson | 29 Dec 2023 | 00:14:16 | |
We're counting down the top 6 podcasts of 2023! Today our guest is Josh Nelson a School Counselor at Richard Lewis Brown Gifted and Talented Academy. We talk with Josh about creating systems for changing how discipline referrals are handled in schools. Josh suggests that we view behavior as unmet needs rather than just bad behavior, and emphasizes the importance of shifting our thinking about discipline from punishment to correction. Josh also shares how they analyzed behavior referral data and realized that teachers needed more information on behavior and trauma, and students needed more tools and systems to address their needs. By implementing these system changes, they were able to reduce behavior referrals by 74% since 2016, and improve attendance, academic performance, and school culture survey results. Learn More:
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| Top 6 Episodes of 2023 - #4: Student Driven Suicide Prevention - Ryan Marshall | 22 Dec 2023 | 00:19:30 | |
We're counting down the top 6 podcasts of 2023! We talk to Ryan about student driven suicide prevention and how they have worked to add student input and voice in supporting student mental health. He shares how this work started with one student, and how as they gathered information across the district they heard from students that they wanted to help. Ryan discusses how students have played a vital role in creating tools like a needs assessment, how their contributions have helped support students in crisis district-wide, and how this student involvement has helped save the lives of other students. Learn More:
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| Top 6 Episodes of 2023 - #5: How To Increase Staff And Admin Buy-In - Dr. Alvia Baldwin | 22 Dec 2023 | 00:19:47 | |
We're counting down the top 6 podcasts of 2023! Learn More:
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| Top 6 Episodes of 2023 - #6: Why Schools Need To Focus On Tier 1 & Tier 2 At The Same Time - Dr. Clay Cook | 22 Dec 2023 | 00:10:48 | |
We're counting down the top 6 podcasts of 2023! Learn More:
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| Level 10 Meetings - John Norlin | 15 Dec 2023 | 00:14:43 | |
This week CharacterStrong Co-Founder John Norlin overviews a weekly meeting process that has been a part of CharacterStrong from the beginning. He shares about the EOS process and talks about about the regular weekly meeting principles that anyone can use to help bring high accountability and high supports for us and our teams. Learn More:
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| The Power of Presence in a Rushed World - John Norlin | 15 Aug 2025 | 00:05:58 | |
On today's episode CharacterStrong Co-Founder John Norlin explores a simple idea with big impact: the pace of our day influences the way we show up for others. When we're constantly rushing, even our best intentions, like showing kindness or practicing empathy, can get lost in the shuffle. John invites educators and leaders to reflect on how we prioritize connection in our daily routines. Sometimes, the most powerful shift we can make is slowing down just enough to see the people right in front of us. Click here to subscribe to the CS Weekly Learn More About CharacterStrong: | |||
| Connecting Students To School In A Meaningful Way - John Morrison | 08 Dec 2023 | 00:23:03 | |
Today our guest is John Morrison an Educational Leadership Consultant, and named One of Canada's Outstanding Principals by the Learning Partnership. We talk with John about how we can better connect students to school in a meaningful way and how this directly connects with attendance. He also shares about the research that they did which shows the impact of students missing classes and the 4 things that they started to do in response to begin to decrease the number of students that were absent. John also talks about the importance of finding ways to engage students and gives some practical ways that we can listen to students and help show them that they matter. Learn More:
John Morrison has been recognized as One of Canada's Outstanding Principals by the Learning Partnership, is the recipient of the Leader in Education award from the national Harmony Movement, and the Peace Medallion from the Y.M.C.A. He was a school leader at the secondary school level for 12 years, with the final 6 years as the principal of Anderson Collegiate and Vocational Institute in Whitby, Ontario. John then moved on to the role of Coordinator of Leadership Programs at the Faculty of Education at York University, Toronto. He initially taught the Principals Qualifications Program (PQP) while still a principal, then moved into the role of coordinating all the PQP and other leadership programs, conferences, and events for the Faculty of Education for a period of 5 years. John rewrote the PQP on two occasions for reaccreditation through the Ontario College of Teachers, making significant revisions to reflect a greater focus on innovative thought and leadership. He codeveloped and wrote the two-part Private Schools Principals Program for the Ontario Federation of Independent Schools and after three years of successful offerings, revised and updated the PSP to meet the standards of the Ontario College of Teachers. It then became the Principals Qualifications Program – Private School Focus. John was contracted by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Education in Prince Edward Island to coordinate the design and development of the two-part Administrator's Leadership Program. He worked with a team of school leaders from PEI to identify the key components required for this program and with a broader team to determine the most applicable resources. This program is now in its seventh year of successful operation. John also worked with the Schulich School of Business at York University in the development of an Executive Leadership Program for school leaders in Ontario and was an advisor to the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto, Executive Leadership Program for Canada's Outstanding Principals. Currently he is consulting and advising the British Columbia Principals/Vice Principals Association as they develop a leadership program for the Ministry of Education in British Columbia. He has spoken at local, regional, and national events, including keynoting at the 2023 Canadian Association of Principals National Conference. The most common adjectives used to describe his workshops/presentations/keynotes are "inspiring" and "thought provoking". John is also the author of The IT Factor: Discover and Unleash Your Own Unique Leadership Potential, a Bestseller on Amazon. | |||
| MTSS Implementation Pain Points: The Wild, Wild, West - Cory Notestine | 01 Dec 2023 | 00:22:29 | |
Today our guest is Cory Notestine the Executive Director of People at CharacterStrong. We talk with Cory about how implementing MTSS can often feel like the wild west as schools within districts each do their own things, making it difficult to track and support MTSS implementation. He shares how some of the pain points in implementation come from us not truly understanding the systems that we work in, how they operate, and who the decision makers are. Cory talks about how districts are often overflowing with implementation efforts, and when we start to zero in on just few of them with support, educators are more able to start implementing them well. Learn More:
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| Breaking Down Gratitude: Mindset & Behavior - Houston Kraft | 24 Nov 2023 | 00:15:56 | |
Today our guest is CharacterStong co-founder Houston Kraft! Learn More:
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| MTSS Implementation Pain Points: Not Having Shared Clarity And Commitment - Dr. Clay Cook | 17 Nov 2023 | 00:16:44 | |
Today our guest is Dr. Clay Cook the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong We talk to Clay about The importance of having Shared Clarity and Commitment when it comes to implementing MTSS. He breaks down the connection between clarity and adult readiness, highlighting their pivotal roles as prerequisites for successful MTSS implementation Clay also reminds us that clarity proceeds commitment, and shares that 80% of implementation efforts fall because we don't have adult readiness. Learn More:
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| Engaging Students Through Arts Integration - Dr. Beth Ruff | 10 Nov 2023 | 00:19:17 | |
Today our guest is Dr. Beth Ruff, School Counselor at Powder Springs Elementary School We talk to Dr. Ruff about Arts Integration in school counseling and how at Powder Springs they integrate art into all of the elementary classes. She shares how art integrates so well with the school counseling standards and framework, and gives examples of how they have used art to help students talk about topics such as grief and loss. Additionally, Dr. Ruff highlights the proactive use of art and music to address mental health issues and how this approach has effectively engaged students in a meaningful way.
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| Establishing Readiness For Initial Implementation Across An Entire District - Dr. Alisha Hill | 03 Nov 2023 | 00:21:47 | |
Today our guest is Dr. Alisha Hill the Director of School Support at CharacterStrong We talk with Dr. Hill about strategies to establish readiness for initial implementation across districts. She discusses how in her district they focused on building readiness in three key areas: motivation, capacity, and support structures. Dr. Hill emphasizes the significance of having a district-level team, ensuring support for adults involved in the process, and fostering a shared vision throughout the district. She also highlights the importance of aligning with other initiatives and utilizing low-burden, high-impact resources and tools for professional learning, and the positive impact this can have. Learn More:
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| Providing Continuous, Ongoing, And Effective Support For New Teachers - Melissa Rosario | 27 Oct 2023 | 00:24:32 | |
Today our guest is Melissa Rosario, Elementary Specialist at CharacterStrong. We talk to Melissa about ways that we can provide continuous, ongoing, and effective support for new teachers. Melissa highlights the concerning statistics regarding new teachers and the decline of teachers in schools today. She explains the 5 phases of first-year teachers and how we can use them to design support programs. Melissa suggests several intentional ways to support new teachers, including creating programs and partnerships, giving them a head start on the year, welcoming them into the school, and providing guidance as they set up their first classroom. Additionally, Melissa emphasizes the positive impact of mentorship from a veteran teacher can have during the first year of teaching. Learn More:
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| Simple Ways That We Can Show Gratitude To Principals - Brandon Bakke | 20 Oct 2023 | 00:17:17 | |
Today our guest is Brandon Bakke - Director of Secondary Education at CharacterStrong. We talk to Brandon about ways that we can work to support principals not only during National Principal's Month but also throughout the year. Brandon emphasizes the impact of simple acts of gratitude, such as sending a quick note, compliment, or video. He also shares a really creative idea to help principals build relationships in a way that they might not normally have the opportunity to do. In addition, Brandon emphasizes the importance of simplicity and specificity in expressing gratitude towards others. Learn More:
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| It's All About Relationships - John Norlin | 13 Oct 2023 | 00:10:51 | |
Today CharacterStrong Co-Founder John Norlin reminds us that at the core of our work it's all about relationships. He shares two quick stories that highlight the positive outcomes that can happen when we purposefully engage with our students' interests and strive to learn from them. John also reminds us that so often what we see on the surface does not reveal the full story of what is happening in the lives of those around us.
Learn More:
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| Building And Maintaining A Positive School Culture - Dr. David Arencibia | 06 Oct 2023 | 00:18:41 | |
Today our guest is Dr. David Arencibia, Principal at Colleyville Middle School in Colleyville, TX. We talk with Dr. Arencibia about what it takes to build a strong, positive school culture, and how they have succeeded in doing so at Colleyville. He explains how they have prioritized their four core values: relationships, positivity, a growth mindset, and teamwork, and how they incorporate these values into everything they do. Dr. Arencibia also discusses how they maintain a positive culture and the importance of intentionally modeling these values and positive behaviors for staff and students every day. Learn More:
Dr. David Arencibia is a highly regarded educator with over two decades of experience as a school leader, dedicated to building cultures of success that prioritize high standards and positive culture. His school has been recognized as one of the Best Schools in Texas and the country by Newsweek and US News & World Report. David's leadership skills have accelerated the school's progress, making it a Nationally Recognized Model Campus, Texas School To Watch, and National PTA School of Excellence with more PTA members than students. He understands the importance of building strong teams with shared vision and values, resulting in high employee satisfaction and engagement. EducationWeek has featured David in articles on building a positive culture and teacher retention. He was named the 2022 Texas Secondary Principal of the Year and a finalist for National Secondary Principal of the Year in 2023. He was also a finalist for 2022 Texan of the Year by the Dallas Morning News. David is currently working with best-selling author Jimmy Casas on David's book that will be released later this year. | |||
| 2025 Tier 2 Summit: Problem-Solving Common Barriers to Tier 2 - Dr. Clay Cook | 08 Aug 2025 | 00:14:42 | |
Today we talk with Dr. Clay Cook, the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. He shares the biggest reasons Tier 2 systems stall—and what to do about it. Dr. Cook unpacks common barriers like unclear roles, limited capacity, and lack of team clarity, offering practical, hopeful solutions every school can apply.
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| Easy Minute Meetings: A Simple Needs Assessment Strategy - Meredith Draughn | 29 Sep 2023 | 00:18:40 | |
Today our guest is Meredith Draughn, School Counselor at B Everett Jordan Elementary in North Carolina and also the 2023 ASCA National School Counselor of the Year. We talk to Meredith about the easy minute meeting, which is a simple needs assessment strategy. She breaks down the 4 question assessment that makes up the meeting and talks about the importance of activating positive thinking with students. Meredith also shares how she introduces & implements these meetings during the school year, and how the data has helped support students in really practical ways.
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Meredith Draughn is the 2023 School Counselor of the Year. Draughn is the school counselor at B. Everett Jordan Elementary School in Graham, N.C. A school counselor since 2014, Draughn is the first national School Counselor of the Year from North Carolina. A National Board Certified School Counselor, Draughn received her bachelor's degree from Wake Forest University and her master's degree from Appalachian State University. She is an ASCA U School Counseling Leadership Specialist; Mental Health Specialist; Anxiety & Stress Management Specialist; Cultural Competency Specialist; and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Specialist. B. Everett Jordan Elementary School is a Recognized ASCA Model Program school that serves 355 students in grades K–5. | |||
| The Value Of Coaching With PD And The Science Behind It - Megan Gruis | 15 Sep 2023 | 00:13:50 | |
Today our guest is Megan Gruis the Executive Director of Implementation Supports & Tier 2 at CharacterStrong. We talk with Megan about the importance of coaching alongside professional development (PD), and the science behind it. She reminds us that it is not enough to simply introduce new ideas during implementation; consistent coaching of our teams is necessary to help them be more effective in their efforts to help students. Megan shares research and statistics that demonstrate the impact of coaching, and explains how it relates to confidence and retention. She also emphasizes the importance of establishing heart-to-heart relationships, and reminds us that change is a process that requires support as we move forward. Learn More:
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| Season 6 Kickoff: Be Kind, Consistently - Houston Kraft | 08 Sep 2023 | 00:18:41 | |
Season 6 Kickoff! We talk with CharacterStrong Co-Founder Houston Kraft about key strategies that can help us be more intentional in our work and relationships. He shares about the power of specificity, surprise, and constraint, and how these approaches can help us better connect with others. Houston also shares about the importance of consistency over time. He reminds us that true change and growth come from sustained effort and dedication, and reminds us that we need to cultivate habits of kindness every day. Learn More:
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| Intentionally Planning Professional Development - Jana Clark | 01 Sep 2023 | 00:13:32 | |
Today our guest is Jana Clark, Assistant Principal, Hurst-Euless-Bedford Independent School District. We talk with Jana about the significance of planning professional development. She shares how she approaches professional development by considering what educators require and how administrators can support them through great PD. Jana explains how they intentionally connect teachers from various schools to remind them about the impact they have on students' lives. Additionally, she shares how they model campus expectations for educators during professional development, providing strategies that they can bring back to the classroom. Learn More:
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| The Importance Of Educators Building Up Their Own Social & Emotional Skills - Dr. Renee Carr | 25 Aug 2023 | 00:13:54 | |
Today our guest is Dr. Renee Carr - Owner and Founder of Kids Before Content LLC. We talk with Dr. Carr about importance of educators developing their own social & emotional learning skills in order to better serve their students. Dr. Carr shares an example from the classroom that highlights the significance of equipping and supporting educators. She also discusses her new book, Kids Before Content: An Educator's Guide on Social-Emotional Learning Competencies, and provides practical suggestions for how we can assist educators today. Dr. Carr underscores the significance of leadership and character, not only for the present but also for future generations.
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Renee G. Carr, EdD has been working in education and related programmatic work since 2007. She is multilingual: she speaks Modern Greek, French, and Spanish. Dr. Carr has worked at a university, government contractors, non-profits, associations, and two school districts in the Washington, DC area. Dr. Carr's areas of expertise include social-emotional learning, international exchange, and world languages. She has a background in educational research including qualitative coding, case studies, literature reviews, and project management. She has presented at conferences and shared research findings with peers in her field. During the pandemic, she wrote a book for the publisher Rowman & Littlefield called Accountability in the Classroom: Using Social-Emotional Learning to Guide School Improvement. The premise of this book came from her dissertation topic, social-emotional learning and school accountability systems. She added her own experiences as an educator both from the perspectives of World Language education and the COVID-19 crisis. The idea behind her second book Kids Before Content: An Educator's Guide on Social-Emotional Learning Competencies came from both her dissertation and her experiences with recommending a pilot social-emotional learning program at her school. In 2022, Dr. Carr became a trainer and coach. She offers education and training in emotional intelligence and leadership. Dr. Carr received her EdD in Educational Leadership and Administration from the George Washington University in 2019 and her MA in Political Science in 2009 from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. She obtained her BA in French and International Studies in 2007 from the University of Washington, Seattle. | |||
| Creating Systems Of Change For Discipline Referrals In School - Josh Nelson | 18 Aug 2023 | 00:14:17 | |
Today our guest is Josh Nelson a School Counselor at Richard Lewis Brown Gifted and Talented Academy. We talk with Josh about creating systems for changing how discipline referrals are handled in schools. Josh suggests that we view behavior as unmet needs rather than just bad behavior, and emphasizes the importance of shifting our thinking about discipline from punishment to correction. Josh also shares how they analyzed behavior referral data and realized that teachers needed more information on behavior and trauma, and students needed more tools and systems to address their needs. By implementing these system changes, they were able to reduce behavior referrals by 74% since 2016, and improve attendance, academic performance, and school culture survey results.
Josh's Bio: Joshua Nelson, M.Ed., School Counselor at Richard Lewis Brown Gifted and Talented Academy in Jacksonville, Florida. I am a proud graduate of the University of North Florida receiving my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education (2009) and my Master's Degree in Counselor Education (2016). I have worked in Education for 15 years spending 2010 - 2015 as an Elementary Teacher and from 2015 to present as an Elementary School Counselor. | |||
| Being More Intentional, Relational, & Transformational Leaders - Chris Layton | 11 Aug 2023 | 00:12:54 | |
Today our guest is Chris Layton the Executive Director of Partnerships at CharacterStrong. We talk to Chris about how we can be more intentional, relational, and transformational leaders. He breaks down each one of those focuses and gives us some examples of how we intentionally shape our school cultures every single day. Chris also reminds us that growth in these areas doesn't just happen, we have to have a plan, and he shares how he plans for personal growth throughout the year. Learn More: | |||
| The Importance Of Focusing On Multi-Tiered Systems Of Support - Dr. Clay Cook | 04 Aug 2023 | 00:16:11 | |
Today our guest is Dr. Clay Cook the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. We talk with Clay about the importance of focusing on Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). He shares that MTSS is a framework that provides a continuum of supports that can be matched to the level of student needs. Clay also emphasizes the need for adult supports to ensure that educators are engaging in effective practices for all students. He he shares how CharacterStrong is supporting this work with an MTSS Certification and a Tier 2 Certification. Finally, Clay stresses the importance of ongoing professional learning as a key element in implementing MTSS systems. Learn More: | |||
| Research Backed & Evidenced-Based Practices: What's The Difference And Why Does It Matter? Dr. Madeline Larson | 28 Jul 2023 | 00:15:49 | |
| The Importance Of Student Voice & Choice Within The Classroom - Halli Roussell | 21 Jul 2023 | 00:12:44 | |
Today our guest is Halli Roussell a Secondary Specialist at CharacterStrong. We talk to Halli about the importance of student voice and choice. She emphasizes that when we take the time to elevate student voice in the classroom, it increases engagement over the long term. Halli provides some practical examples of how she incorporated student voice during her time as a middle school teacher, and talks about the benefits that students experience as a result. Halli also highlights the importance of not only starting a unit with student voice, but also incorporating it as a way to end a unit.
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| What Happens When Kids Know You Believe In Them - Dr. Andre Stout | 01 Aug 2025 | 00:17:40 | |
Today our guest is Dr. Andre Stout, principal at Gray Middle School, in Tacoma, WA. We talk to Dr. Stout about how intentional systems—not just goals—drive lasting change. From daily character lessons and biweekly Fireside Chats to celebrating growth and reclaiming the hallways, he breaks down the simple, strategic systems that helped shift school culture. Dr. Stout also shares why capacity-building—not just buy-in—is key to sustainability, and how being present as a leader creates the credibility to raise expectations and drive impact. Learn More About CharacterStrong:
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| Removing Barriers To Gifted & Talented Education - Anthony Vargas | 14 Jul 2023 | 00:14:19 | |
Today our guest is Anthony Vargas - the Director of Advanced Academics and Gifted and Talented Education for the Maryland Department of Education. We talk to Anthony about creating and supporting more equitable Gifted and Talented programs and he emphasized the need to shift our thinking towards finding potential and growing talents. Anthony shares about the 3 areas that need to be changed to shift to a talent development and reminds us that we are all leaders and can make positive changes in our schools. He also shares ways that can help us see the different talents that our students have.
Learn more:
Anthony Vargas is the Director of Advanced Academics and Gifted and Talented Education for the Maryland Department of Education and former Supervisor of Gifted/Talented and Advanced Programming for Manassas City Public Schools. He received his bachelor's degree in secondary social studies education from Millersville University, and started his teaching career at Manassas Park Middle School. After completing his first year, Mr. Vargas attended Arkansas State University where he later received his master's degree in gifted and talented education. He then revamped the middle school gifted program and provided more professional learning opportunities to staff. Mr. Vargas then took on a position as a gifted resource teacher in a neighboring county while completing an additional master's degree in educational leadership from the University of Virginia. In his current role, Mr. Vargas has increased representation of historically excluded students in programming and has expanded enrichment opportunities. Raised in poverty without having access to many opportunities himself, Mr. Vargas intimately knows the struggles of many of his students and unwaveringly places emphasis on supports for everyone. | |||
| Empowering Effective Educator Collaboration So That All Students Thrive - Dr. Jeremy Koselak | 07 Jul 2023 | 00:14:11 | |
Today our guest is Dr. Jeremy Koselak, the Director for Professional Learning in Academy District 20 in Colorado Springs. We talk with Dr. Koselak about the importance and critical aspects of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in relation to academic and social/emotional wellness for educators and students. He explains that while PLCs have traditionally focused on academics, they have recently become more holistic. Dr. Koselak emphasizes the need for structures to facilitate collaboration, but also the importance of being intentional about what topics are discussed during these meetings. He stresses the need for a more holistic, team-based approach to supporting students, and highlights the key role that data plays in driving PLC work.
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| Adding Tier 1 Supplements To Classroom Counseling Lessons - Chelsea Hinkle | 30 Jun 2023 | 00:13:59 | |
Today our guest is Chelsea Hinkle, 5th Grade School Counselor at Roosevelt Middle School in Oklahoma City Public Schools. We talk with Chelsea about Tier 1 supplements for classroom counseling lessons. She explains what Tier 1 is and how comprehensive counseling lessons can become more fun for students by incorporating Tier 1 elements. Chelsea discusses practical ways that she has involved the entire school in helping students implement Tier 1 lessons, which has helped build relationships school-wide. She also highlights the significance of structure and consistency, both of which have a significant impact on students.
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| Harnessing The Power Of The First Few Minutes Of Class - Kate Gerber | 23 Jun 2023 | 00:16:13 | |
Today our guest is Kate Gerber, Professional School Counselor at Central Lyon Elementary School in Rock Rapids, Iowa. We talk with Kate about the impact of utilizing the first few minutes of class for morning meetings in the classroom. She emphasizes the importance of making students feel welcome and a sense of belonging as soon as they enter the classroom. At Central Lyon, Kate created the morning meeting to be their tier 1 time, and she talks about the benefits this time has had in the elementary classrooms and how they plan to expanding this time into the 7th and 8th grade classes. Episode Links:
Kate's Bio: Hello, my name is Kate Gerber and I am a Professional School Counselor in Northwest, IA. I currently serve 435 students preschool through sixth grade and have loved this work. I am a former kindergarten teacher and was offered a risk by switching roles after distance learning and man, I am so grateful I did. With this new position came personal challenges but I have grown and continue to radiate the importance of education for our students success. I love teaching and plan to continue. I am not just an educator but also a mom to three small children, Penelope, Jones, and Calvin. With motherhood comes my SEL hat whether I want to utilize it or not, the skills matter. SEL matters and we need to celebrate the coaching role we have been put in as adults to help our next generation of youth become successful, professional, empathetic, power houses. | |||
| The Importance Of Having A Great Principal & School Counselor Relationship - Brooklyn Stevens & Kensie Daleske | 16 Jun 2023 | 00:16:45 | |
Today our guests are Brooklyn Stevens & Kensie Daleske, School Counselor & Principal at Brookfield R3 Elementary in Brookfield, Missouri. Brooklyn and Kensie emphasize the positive impact of having weekly meetings at Brookfield and why it's worth it to make time for these check-ins. Kensie explains how prioritizing this time has established a solid foundation from the start of her time at Brookfield. They also provide examples of how this strong relationship has directly supported students and families. Episode Links:
Kensie Daleske has been in education for 11 years, 10 of which were spent in the classroom or as a Title 1 reading teacher. She moved to the Brookfield R-III School District last summer and is wrapping up her first year as an administrator. Currently, she serves as the Kindergarten-4th Grade Elementary Principal. She describes herself as a servant leader and strives to build powerful relationships with her students and staff. Brooklyn Stevens has served the field of education for 9 years with 7 of those years in counseling. She began her counseling journey after helping high school students apply for jobs and colleges during her student teaching experience. She has worked with high schoolers, middle schoolers and now elementary students. She currently serves as the Elementary School Counselor at Brookfield R3 Elementary going into her 5th year in this position. | |||
| Key Ingredients To Great Professional Development - Meredith Lee | 09 Jun 2023 | 00:18:09 | |
Today our guest is Meredith Lee, the Director of Professional Learning at CharacterStrong. We talk with Meredith about the key ingredients that make professional development great. She shares that PD should be engaging, effective, and lead to positive behavior changes on campus. According to Meredith, relevance, the introduction of practices that can be immediately applied, and opportunities for relational processing are all important aspects that we need to consider when facilitating professional development. Additionally, Meredith reminds us that great PD comes from a place of humility and should be clear and simple. Episode Links:
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| The Importance Of Student Leadership At The Elementary Level - Elli McDaniel | 02 Jun 2023 | 00:21:01 | |
Today our guest is Elli McDaniel, Principal at Maple Lawn Elementary. We talk with Elli about the importance of student leadership. Eli shares about the student servant leadership program that she started as a teacher and now implements as the principal at Maple Lawn. She emphasizes that servant leadership starts with building staff, and provides practical ways that they have intentionally implemented student leadership. Elli explains that student involvement starts from the very first year that they step onto the campus, and highlights some of the ways that that students lead and serve each other every day at school and in the community. Elli McDaniel has served in the field of education for 25 years, all in the Sumner-Bonney Lake School District. She began her career in elementary education as a teacher at Liberty Ridge Elementary, teaching for 17 years in 3rd, 4th and 5th grade. She moved to the District Office for 2 years as Program Administrator for Elementary Curriculum and Instruction. She has been serving as principal at Maple Lawn Elementary for the last 6 years. Her goal is to continue to serve this community for years to come, growing the capacity of student and staff leaders to support the district promise to know, value, and support every student, helping them graduate ready to pursue a promising future. | |||
| Connection With Students Is Essential - Dr. Lyndsey Brown | 26 May 2023 | 00:22:39 | |
Today our guest is Dr. Lyndsey Brown a School Counselor Educator & School Counseling Program Coordinator at Wichita State University. We talk with Dr. Brown about why it is essential for school counselors and staff to connect with students. She shares practical ways that all educators can create meaningful connections with students, show authentic interest, and celebrate successes with them. Dr. Brown also discusses some of the roadblocks that prevent us from making intentional connections, and the positive impact that intentional relationships can have in students' lives. Dr. Lyndsey Brown is in her second year as a School Counselor Educator at Wichita State University, where she is also the School Counseling Program Coordinator. Dr. Brown is currently serving on the Kansas School Counseling Association Executive Board as Past President. She won Kansas School Counselor of the Year in 2021 while she was serving as a High School Counselor at Maize South High School. Prior to that, Dr. Brown has been a School Counselor at the Elementary and Middle School levels. Dr. Brown's passion is connecting with all students and instilling passion and advocacy into her future school counselors. | |||
| Making Math Matter: Creating Structures That Support Teachers - Dr. Tonya Clarke | 19 May 2023 | 00:19:54 | |
Today our guest is Dr. Tonya Clarke, Mathematics Coordinator in the Division of Teaching and Learning and Strategic Improvement at Clayton County Public Schools. We talk with Dr. Clarke about the crucial role of supporting teachers as they implement culturally responsive and sustaining mathematics practices. She explains how her team is providing onsite job-embedded professional development to help teachers apply the training to their classrooms. Dr. Clarke also discusses the various strategies they are using to support teachers across the 66 schools in the district, including math ambassadors, partnerships with colleges, and collaborative learning. Additionally, she shares some of the remarkable impacts that this work has on students' mathematics learning. To learn more:
As a Mathematics Coordinator for Clayton County Public Schools with over 20 years of experience in education, Dr. Tonya Clarke has a laser focus on increasing achievement in mathematics for all students. Her team's work focuses on creating structures and establishing partnerships that support teachers with implementing widely accessible teaching practices. As founder of the I'm W.O.K.E. Project (Widening Options through Knowledge and Empowerment), Dr. Clarke and her team guide teachers through a process for developing and implementing culturally relevant and sustaining mathematics practices. I'm W.O.KE. Projects use highly accessible teaching practices that guide students through applying mathematical models to investigate social, economic, environmental, and political issues. As a consultant to several educational organizations she has had the opportunity to work with teachers and leaders around the world, most recently in Ghana, Malaysia, South Africa, and Singapore. Through her work in Clayton County, her consulting work, and her service with the NAACP, Dr. Clarke continues to cultivate critical consciousness. Her devotion to equitable learning environments and student empowerment motivates her to continue supporting strong implementation of equitable teaching practices and the development of programs that make math matter for every student every day. | |||
| Helping Young Men In Our Communities Be The B.E.S.T. - Antonio McMath | 12 May 2023 | 00:16:50 | |
Today our guest is Antonio McMath, the Founder, T4E: Trans4ormed Extreme Leadership. We talked to Antonio about the B.E.S.T. model that T4E has created to help build up young men in our communities. He explained that the B.E.S.T. model stands for Build, Empower, Strengthen, and Transform, and it is designed to help young men understand what it means to be the best version of themselves. Antonio emphasized that the model starts with empowering young men to take care of themselves first, which is fundamental to their growth and development. When they learn to practice self-care, they can then extend that knowledge to their friends, which can lead to a ripple effect of transformation in the community.
Antonio is a Certified Life Coach, Youth and Young Adult Motivational Speaker based out of Tennessee. Antonio has been married to Evelyn for 24 years with two amazing sons Andrew and Aaron. His holistic approach brings clarity, direction, and positive support to youth and young adults. Antonio helps young people live their best life, by filling the gap between where they are now, and where they want to be. By identifying where growth is desired, setting goals, and objectives, focused action, goal achievement, and holding accountability, youth and young adults will reach their highest goals and dreams. Are you going through a stage in your life where you feel lost, confused, or conflicted? Do you feel like you're disconnected from the people around you, friends, or even with yourself? Are you feeling a lack of motivation or a lack and understanding of your true purpose? Do you yearn for friendships and relationships? Or do you just want to upgrade your life to the next level? Antonio is trained in helping young people find themselves, find direction, and true happiness in all aspects of their lives. We all have a light within us. You are already born with the qualities you will need to get everything you have ever wanted! Antonio helps his youth and young adult reach each milestone, one at a time. With an ultimate end goal of satisfaction and success. You will discover answers, find solutions, and create possibilities to move forward in the area you want coaching. You are whole, complete, and resourceful, and he coaches you knowing that! | |||
| Every Student, Every Need: Rethinking School Support - Jeff Cohen | 25 Jul 2025 | 00:12:14 | |
Today our guest is Jeff Cohen, CEO of FullBloom. We talk to Jeff about what it really means to support students. He challenges us to rethink the one-size-fits-all models and instead embrace a personalized approach, one where schools are equipped to meet every student where they are. From personalizing learning experiences to strengthening the adult systems that guide them, Jeff lays out a compelling vision for the future of education, and how CharacterStrong and FullBloom are helping to make it possible. Learn More About CharacterStrong: | |||
| Participatory Budgeting & Student Voice - Cyndi Tercero-Sandoval | 05 May 2023 | 00:15:36 | |
Today our guest is Cyndi Tercero-Sandoval the Family and Community Engagement Manager at the Phoenix Union High School District. We talk with Cyndi about Participatory Budgeting, a way to empower students and give them a voice in how the budget is spent. Cyndi explained the intentional process that Phoenix Union has undertaken to implement participatory budgeting, which has started to increase student engagement and connection in some really creative ways. This process has not only increased student voice in the budgeting process, but also in school improvement, safety, and curriculum decisions throughout the district. To learn more:
Cyndi Tercero-Sandoval is an advocate of student voice, civic leader, community activist and humanitarian. She currently serves as the Family and Community Engagement Manager for the Phoenix Union High School District, where she has been enriching the lives of our youth for over 29 years. She serves as the McKinney-Vento and Foster Point of Contact and is responsible for establishing and coordinating district-wide dropout prevention, intervention, and reengagement strategies for opportunity youth who have been historically disenfranchised or marginalized. Cyndi is considered a resident expert in dropout prevention initiatives and student support services. She has received several awards for her work with youth and was recognized as an Obama White House Champion of Change in 2016. She was named a Community Luchadora for being a fighter of social justice and human rights in 2017 and was recognized for being a pioneer in empowering youth voice in 2018 with a North American Participatory Budgeting Network Award. She was most recently recognized as a 2023 EdWeek Leader to Learn from for her work in implementing Participatory Budgeting in her district. She is very active in the community and serves on several boards that focus on improving youth outcomes. She has a passion for enhancing and advancing the lives of our youth by elevating student voice in all areas of education by empowering students to act as change agents. She believes schools and districts can incorporate student voice in a multi strategy approach ranging from intentional classroom-based efforts to schoolwide participatory budgeting focusing on strategies that empower students to work in partnership with campus and district adult leadership. She understands that the community school partnership model is essential to the philosophy of educating the whole child. She engages with community agencies through collaborative action to provide supplemental services to students and families, provide additional opportunities for engagement for youth (i.e. leadership development, life skills, social justice, civic engagement, etc.), and support the school district's mission of preparing every student for success in college, career and life. Cyndi is a native of Arizona. She currently resides in Peoria with her husband and two children. | |||
| Student Driven Suicide Prevention - Ryan Marshall | 28 Apr 2023 | 00:19:40 | |
Today our guest is Ryan Marshall, School Counselor at South Salem High School and the 2023 Oregon School Counselor of the Year. We talk to Ryan about student driven suicide prevention and how they have worked to add student input and voice in supporting student mental health. He shares how this work started with one student, and how as they gathered information across the district they heard from students that they wanted to help. Ryan discusses how students have played a vital role in creating tools like a needs assessment, how their contributions have helped support students in crisis district-wide, and how this student involvement has helped save the lives of other students. Ryan Marshall is a school counselor at South Salem High School, in Salem, Oregon where he's served as the department lead for the last three years. South is a three-time ASCA Ramp school and a home Ryan considers the kindest school in America. His focus areas are grief and loss counseling, crisis management, and suicide prevention and intervention. When he's done finding joy on the job for the day, Ryan's an avid sports fan and loves hanging with his wife and two daughters. He's the 2023 Oregon School Counselor of the Year and is currently on a yearlong Sabbatical aimed at identifying ways to serve students and their families more effectively. | |||
| Being A Data-Driven School Counselor: It's About Working Smarter Not Harder - Dr. Sandi Logan-McKibben | 21 Apr 2023 | 00:16:03 | |
Today our guest is Dr. Sandi Logan-McKibben School Counseling Program Director and Clinical Assistant Professor at Sacred Heart University. We talk to Dr. Logan-McKibben about the importance of being a data-driven school counselor and how we can embrace the data to help us more effectively support students and families. She shares 3 ways that we can put a focus on data and reminds us that even though data can sometimes be intimidating, it's an essential way to make sure that we are best advocating with and for students and families.
Sandi Logan-McKibben, PhD, NCC, NCSC, ACS, BC-TMH, LPC (CT), CSC (CA) is School Counseling Program Director and Clinical Assistant Professor at Sacred Heart University (FIU). Prior to earning her doctorate, she worked as an elementary and middle school counselor in Southern California, was the district-level Tobacco Use, Prevention, and Education (TUPE) Coordinator, and was a site supervisor for practicum and internship students. Her interests include assessment & data-driven decision making, incorporating creativity in counseling and supervision, and online counselor education. She is award winning and has served in multiple leadership roles with various state and national counseling associations, including California Association of School Counselors, Florida School Counselor Association, and Chi Sigma Iota International. Recently, she co-authored her first book, The Ultimate School Counselor's Guide to Assessment & Data Collection. In her spare time, she enjoys teaching Yin & Restorative Yoga and facilitating wellness accountability groups. | |||