The CharacterStrong Podcast

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 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

Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

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 Chris Fore, Principal at Mojave High School, in Hesperia, CA. We talk with Chris about why it is important and how it is guiding his work everyday. He shares how creating high-accountability meetings with parents and teachers led to a nearly 60% reduction in failure rates. Chris also highlights the impact that "flipping the script" on parent communication has as he has celebrated individual student wins with positive phone calls home. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website   Chris Fore is the Principal at Mojave High School, a 2025 California Department of Education Model Continuation School. Fore coached high school football for sixteen years (eight as a Head Varsity Coach) and Junior College football for one. He spent six years as an Athletic Director where both schools set the school record for the most Championships won in one year; both stand to this day. (One was set in 2010, the other in 2013.) He has also served as the Administrator supervising athletics and the Athletic Director for 4.5 years. His education includes: a Master's degree in Coaching and Athletic Administration, an Administrative Services Credential (CA), Education Specialist Credential (CA), and a Bachelor's degree in Religious Studies.

Today our guests are Assistant Principal Crystal Keck & Humanities Instructional Coach Wendy Uzzle from Bowie High School in Austin, TX. We talk about the unique challenges and solutions for implementing CharacterStrong at the high school level. Crystal & Wendy share how they utilized a "soft launch" approach and adjusted their schedule from 3rd period to advisory based on honest student feedback. They also highlight practical strategies for increasing teacher confidence, including creating a "one-stop shop" for materials and live demonstrations of the low-prep curriculum. 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 Leandra Torra, Social Emotional Learning and Trauma Informed Care Manager at Jefferson County Public Schools. We talk with Leandra about an innovative approach to Tier 2 support that solves capacity issues by partnering elementary schools with neighboring high school student mentors. She shares how this student-led model helped younger students "graduate" from support groups while significantly improving attendance and belonging. She highlights the necessity of a strong Tier 1 foundation and why leaders must prioritize connection before students are truly ready to learn. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

On today's episode CharacterStrong Co-Founder John Norlin talks about the "Power of the Post-It Note," a simple strategy to build connection with students. He shares practical ways to use written notes for compliments, questions, or behavioral pre-corrections during class. He highlights how small, low-cost investments of time can leave a lasting legacy for students. Click here to subscribe to the CS Weekly  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 Yvonne Culver, Director of School Counseling and Student Wellness, and Stephanie Hammond, Coordinator for School Counselors at Akron Public Schools. We talk about how they moved beyond "posters on the wall" by creating a district timeline that aligns life skills with academic pacing guides. They share how they engaged content teachers to build practical toolkits that integrate character development into daily lessons without adding more work. They highlight the critical need for patience in implementation and how to use data for support rather than compliance. 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 Krystal Colhoff - Director of MTSS at Austin ISD. Krystal shares how a large, urban district strengthened implementation not through top-down directives, but by elevating campus leaders and letting momentum build from the ground up. She explains how a "soft launch" created space for early adopters to innovate, how campus highlights sparked organic buy-in across 116 schools, and how monthly champions meetings and usage data now guide coaching and support. Krystal also highlights early wins, from thousands of Tier 1 lessons delivered to faster, clearer Tier 2 problem-solving, and why moving slow to move fast is helping Austin ISD build a system that lasts. 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 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:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website