Advertise on podcast: The CharacterStrong Podcast

Today, host John Norlin shares a strategy called the Tactical Pause, a simple, trainable habit of pausing before responding in high-emotion situations so that reactions come from intention rather than regret. John walks through what it looks like in practice and why building this habit in low-stakes moments is what makes it available when it matters most. In this episode, John offers important reminders for educators and leaders: Responding from emotion in the moment is easy, the Tactical Pause is a trainable habit that creates space between a situation and your response. Practicing the pause in low-emotion situations is what makes it accessible when things get hard and the stakes are high. Simple cues like walking through a doorway can serve as a daily reminder to set an intention before entering a space or interaction. Responding with skill and empathy instead of emotion isn't one more thing on the plate, it is the actual plate. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today, host John Norlin shares a simple approach to staying focused in conversations when the noise of the day makes it hard to truly hear what someone is saying. He walks through exactly how to use it, step by step, in a way that makes the other person feel genuinely seen and heard. In this episode, John offers important reminders for educators and leaders: Truly listening to someone is harder than it sounds, the Click On strategy gives you a practical tool to cut through mental noise and stay present in conversation. Listening for key topics and emotions gives you something concrete to hold onto and return to, which deepens connection in even short interactions. Simple, intentional strategies practiced consistently are what make relationships stronger over time. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guests are Rebekah de Peo-Christner, Assistant Director of Counseling, and Amy Lawrence, Director of Counseling and Social Work, both at Denton ISD in Texas. We discuss how their district created WRAP — the Wilson Restorative Action Plan — a family-centered alternative to exclusionary discipline that wraps support around students and families rather than cycling them through punitive consequences. Rebekah and Amy share how WRAP helps schools address the underlying reasons behind student behavior by building communication, conflict resolution skills, and real partnership with families. They also explain how their district's SHIFT program helped administrators change the way they see and respond to student behavior, and why building systems around this work is what allows it to actually take hold across a district. In this conversation, Rebekah and Amy offer important reminders for educators and leaders working to reduce exclusionary discipline and strengthen family partnerships: Behavior is a form of communication, getting curious about the reason behind it leads to better outcomes than responding with punishment alone. Families come in feeling defensive, and leading with vulnerability and empathy is what breaks down those walls and builds real partnership. Exclusionary discipline without skill-building just cycles students back to the same place, schools need systems that address root causes, not just remove students. You are only as strong as your community, lasting change happens when families, schools, and community partners are all working together. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website   About Rebekah de Peo-Christner & Amy Lawrence: Amy Lawrence is a passionate advocate for student and family well-being with 35 years in education, including 13 as Director of Counseling and Social Work in Denton ISD. She leads a robust team of counselors and social workers and was instrumental in launching two Family Centers that provide free counseling services. A graduate of Texas State University and the University of North Texas, Amy actively serves on the Denton County Behavioral Health Leadership Team. Her heart for service and commitment to trauma-informed care continue to shape safe, supportive systems across one of Texas's fastest-growing school districts. Rebekah de Peo-Christner brings over 27 years of experience in education and counseling, with a focus on student mental health and trauma-informed care. She currently serves as Assistant Director of Counseling for Denton ISD and helped establish the district's Family Center, offering free counseling to students, families, and staff. Rebekah holds degrees in psychology and marriage and family therapy, is a TBRI® Practitioner, LPC Supervisor, and adjunct faculty at Texas Woman's University. She also maintains a private practice and previously served as a Mobile Assessor for psychiatric crisis response.

Today, host John Norlin shares a powerful reminder about the reach of educator influence, sparked by an unexpected email from a former exchange student, now living in Slovakia. What follows is a reflection on why the work educators do matters far beyond what they can see or measure. Drawing on the Amazing Law of Influence and a story about a smile that changed a life, John reminds us that small, intentional actions ripple outward in ways that are impossible to fully track, but no less real. In this episode, John offers important reminders for educators and leaders: Educator influence doesn't end at graduation, it travels across years, careers, and continents in ways you may never hear about. Small, consistent actions like a smile, a greeting, or a kind word can shift someone's entire experience without you ever knowing it. The greatest weight in education isn't the workload, it's understanding that what you do matters every single day. You don't need to see the outcome of your influence for it to be real, most of it happens quietly, long after students leave your classroom. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guests are Michelle Marcellin, Staff and Student Support Consultant, Nancy Buyle, School Safety and Student Assistance Consultant, and Sara Orris, School Health and Homeless Education Consultant — all at Macomb Intermediate School District. We discuss how schools can ensure every student is connected to at least one caring adult through a practical, research-backed approach called Silent Mentoring. They share how this three-step process helps schools identify disconnected students, match them with caring staff, and build the kind of intentional relationships that improve attendance, behavior, and belonging. They also explain why this work isn't just a teacher responsibility — and how small, consistent actions from any adult in a building can dramatically shift school culture and student outcomes. In this conversation, Michelle, Nancy, and Sara offer important reminders for educators and leaders working to strengthen student connection: Every student needs at least one adult in their building who knows them, not just an adult they know best. Silent Mentoring works because students feel genuinely cared for rather than assigned to an adult out of obligation. A hello, a quick update, and a goodbye a few times a week is enough to build real trust with a disconnected student. Research shows just one caring adult can significantly impact a student's resilience, and school is often the best place to find that person. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website  

Today our guest is Brenda Ortiz McGrath, district administrator, school committee member, author, and founder of the family engagement platform CoreKind360. We discuss why student support and character development must move from being an occasional initiative to becoming part of a school's foundation. Brenda shares how schools can embed life skills, relationship-building, and proactive student supports into daily instruction, leadership practices, and school culture. She also explains why strong district leadership, clear messaging, and community partnerships are essential for building systems that strengthen connection, improve school culture, and support student success. In this conversation, Brenda offers important reminders for educators and leaders working to build stronger school communities: Connection before correction builds trust and helps educators better understand the reason behind student behavior. Life skills and character development should be embedded into daily instruction and school culture, not isolated in a single period or program. District leadership and clear strategic planning are essential for making student support systems a true priority across schools. Schools must design systems that prevent disconnection, not just respond to problems after they occur. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website  

Topic: Career and Technical Education • Career Pathways • Workforce Readiness Today our guest is Brooke Martin, Executive Director of Career and Technical Education at Aldine ISD in Texas. We talk about why career and technical education (CTE) is becoming essential for helping students explore career pathways and workforce opportunities while still in high school. Brooke shares how industry certifications, work-based learning, and strong community partnerships allow students to gain real-world experience and make more informed decisions about their future. In this conversation, Brooke offers clear reminders for leaders working to expand career pathways and student engagement: Career and technical education gives students real-world experiences that help them explore career paths earlier. Industry certifications and work-based learning allow students to graduate with skills that translate directly into the workforce. Exposure to multiple career pathways helps students make more informed decisions about college, careers, and future opportunities. Hands-on learning increases student engagement by connecting classroom learning to real-life applications. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website   About Brooke Martin:  Brooke Martin serves as the Executive Director of Career and Technical Education at Aldine ISD. She has dedicated her entire career to empowering students with opportunities in CTE and Aldine ISD. Brooke actively participates in various committees within the State Career and Technical Association of Texas, advocating for student advancement. As a member of the state board and the Gulf Coast Region for CTE, she channels her passion into policy advocacy. She firmly believes in the transformative potential of CTE programs, witnessing firsthand the resilience of students when exposed early to real-world workforce scenarios. She champions the notion that regardless of background, every student should have access to authentic industry experiences. For her, the true impact lies in bridging classroom learning with practical industry opportunities through work-based learning initiatives. Currently pursuing her PhD, Brooke's research focuses on CTE structures and identifying pathways to enhance students' authentic industry experiences. Through her academic pursuits and professional endeavors, Brooke remains dedicated to shaping a future where education is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about empowering students for meaningful careers.

Today our guest is Sean Beaverson, Director of Technology at Orono Public Schools. We talk about how schools can use AI in education to reduce teacher workload and reclaim instructional time. Sean shares a practical approach to lowering cognitive load by offloading administrative tasks to AI, allowing educators to repurpose time toward relationships, collaboration, and deeper learning. In this conversation, Sean offers clear reminders for leaders working to reduce workload and restore professional time: AI can reduce teacher workload by offloading low-cognitive-load administrative tasks. Reclaimed time must be intentionally repurposed, or it will quickly disappear. AI works best as a thought partner that enhances professional judgment, not replaces it. Reducing cognitive load allows teachers to focus on relationships and high-impact instruction. The goal of AI in education is not efficiency alone, it is strengthening human connection. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website   About Sean Beaverson:  Sean Beaverson is the Technology Director for Orono Public Schools, where he leads the district's work to make technology supportive, reliable, and centered on the needs of students and staff. With 25 years in education, he focuses on clear communication, thoughtful innovation, and helping teachers and students thrive in a rapidly changing digital world.

Today our guest is Jenice Pizzuto, Implementation Training Specialist at CharacterStrong. We dive into why change is both personal and emotional, and how implementation science gives leaders a roadmap for turning intention into lasting impact. If you've ever adopted a new initiative only to watch it fade, this conversation will help you understand why, and what to do differently. In this episode, we answer critical leadership questions about implementation: Why do new initiatives fail even when the idea is strong? What is the difference between a theory of change and a change theory? Who should be on an implementation team? Why should implementation goals focus on adult behavior first? Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Meghan Lawson, Assistant Superintendent at Sycamore Community Schools in Cincinnati, Ohio. We talk about how small, consistent moves can grow collective potential across a school system. Meghan shares the 30-Second Feedback Protocol, a simple strength-based strategy that builds trust, reinforces effective practice, and strengthens culture without adding more to the plate. She highlights how 1% of intentional time can create meaningful impact for teachers, leaders, and students. In this conversation, Meghan offers clear reminders for leaders working to grow culture and capacity: Small, strength-based feedback builds trust faster than deficit-based evaluation. Just 1% of intentional time can meaningfully improve culture and collective potential. Specific cause-and-effect feedback increases the likelihood that effective practices are repeated. People need to hear something positive about their work every seven days to feel that they matter. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website   About Meghan Lawson:  Meghan is the author of Legacy of Learning: Teaching for Lasting Impact. She has worked in all levels of public education as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, educational consultant, and district administrator. Meghan currently serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning for Sycamore Community Schools located in the Cincinnati, Ohio area.

Today our guest is Kendrick Claxton, Vice Principal at Central Middle School in Kansas City Public Schools. We talk about how positive school culture is built through systems that create belonging, safety, and consistent adult support. Kendrick shares how mentorship, trusted adults, and simple daily practices help students feel seen and supported. He highlights how consistency, not grand gestures, drives stronger engagement, safer schools, and better outcomes for students and staff. In this conversation, Kendrick offers clear answers to questions school leaders are asking every day: A sense of belonging is built when every student has a trusted adult and experiences consistent care. Simple systems like threshold greetings, and student feedback strengthen school culture and safety. Consistency matters more than programs because it creates psychological safety for students and staff. Strong mentorship supports higher engagement, fewer behavior incidents, and stronger academic outcomes.   Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website   About Kendrick Claxton:  Kendrick D. Claxton is a dedicated educator and transformational leader committed to empowering students and shaping the future of education. Serving as the Vice Principal of Central Middle School in Kansas City Public Schools, he brings a deep passion for student success, mentorship, and academic excellence. A proud native of Saint Louis, Missouri, Mr. Claxton's journey in education began in the classroom. His experience in the classroom shaped his belief that education is more than just instruction, it is a gateway to opportunity, a tool for empowerment, and the foundation for a brighter future. Guided by the words of Malcolm X, "Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today," he has dedicated his career to ensuring that every student has access to that passport.

Today our guest is Dr. Joe Sweeney, principal at Old Quarry Middle School and the 2025 Illinois Principals Association South Cook Region Middle School Principal of the Year. We talk about how Joe uses a schoolwide podcast to bring consistent lessons to life and elevate student voice. He shares how recording short episodes with students helps simplify implementation, increase engagement, and meet teachers where they are. He highlights how this approach builds consistency, reduces staff burden, and creates a culture where students look forward to the work. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website Dr. Joe Sweeney is an accomplished educational leader, creator and host of the Principal Leadership Lounge Podcast, devoted husband, and proud father who has spent nearly two decades shaping the lives of young people. He currently serves as the principal of Old Quarry Middle School, a role he has held for seven years, where he is known for his student-centered leadership and his belief that exceptional schools are built upon three foundational pillars: strong academics, meaningful relationships, and a positive learning environment. As he often says, "Create a school environment where people want to be, and the rest will fall into place."

Today our guest is Pierre Orbee, Principal at DeWitt Clinton High School in New York. Pierre was named the School Administrators Association of New York State's 2025 New York State Principal of the Year, the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents' 2025 National Principal of the Year, and the K-12 Dive 2025 Principal of the Year. We talk with Pierre about how shoring up the underlying developmental assets students need can unlock stronger outcomes and long-term success. Pierre shares how student voice, a clear framework, and consistent follow-through help schools identify what students are missing and build structures that match real needs. He also highlights how listening first, setting high expectations, and creating the right incentives can shift culture without changing the kids. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Andrew Marotta is an author and presenter, and is the Director of Communications & Academic Services at Port Jervis Schools, NY. We talk with Andrew about the power of positive energy and how small, intentional actions shape how people feel in schools. He shares practical reminders like learning names, using names often, and being fully present in brief moments. Andrew also highlights how slowing down, focusing on what matters most, and leading with intention can create stronger connections each and every day. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website Andrew Marotta is the Director of Communications & Academic Services at Port Jervis Schools, NY.  He was Principal & AP for the last 20 years in the great small city of Port Jervis. He took on a new challenge in the 23-24 school year, moving to this director position, allowing him to promote and carry the banner for Port Schools in a new and creative way while giving him more flexibility to travel and present nationally as an inspirational speaker.  He is a husband, father, adjunct professor of school leadership, former Division 1 men's college basketball official, speaker, & author.  

Today our guest is Kait Ahlbrandt, school psychologist and Director of Customer Success at EmpowerU. We talk about why educator wellbeing is essential to student success and how adult regulation shapes classroom climate. Kate shares why intentional listening and making space for connection matter, especially when educators feel overwhelmed. She highlights the need for practical, realistic supports that help educators show up present, regulated, and ready to teach. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website