Aspire to Lead

Joshua Stamper
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  • Updated Semiweekly

Joshua Stamper provides an opportunity to learn from some of the most experienced and accomplished educational leaders. As we grow in our leadership skills, it’s imperative to learn from other leader’s successes, trials and misconceptions. Join us each week as my guests provide valuable stories, resources, and advice to enhance your leadership journey.

  1. 19h ago

    393. Reclaiming Our Joy Before It’s Too Late: Featuring CJ Reynolds

    What would change if educators treated joy, connection, and mental wellness as essential parts of the work instead of extras? In this episode, Joshua Stamper welcomes back educator, author, speaker, and Teach Class Off creator CJ Reynolds. CJ reflects on more than 20 years in education, from teaching in West Philadelphia to serving students in New Mexico, and shares why his purpose has remained rooted in one simple belief: kids come first. Joshua and CJ discuss building meaningful relationships with students, finding joy in the everyday moments of school, setting boundaries, and pushing back on practices that do not serve students. CJ also shares practical ideas for combating burnout, reconnecting with what energizes you, and creating a culture where students and staff feel noticed, valued, and supported. About CJ Reynolds: Mr. Reynolds is an author, YouTuber, & public speaker. In his book, Teach Your Class Off, on his YouTube Channel, Real Rap With Reynolds, and on his Podcast, Sunday Night Teacher Talk, Reynolds offers an authentic glimpse into what it looks like to teach high school in the inner city. Using “Real Rap” to share teaching tips and strategies, Reynolds helps new and veteran teachers alike become the teacher they always dreamed of being.Follow CJ Reynolds: Twitter (X):https://twitter.com/realrapreynoldsWebsite:https://teachyourclassoff.com/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/realrapwithreynolds/Teach Your Class Off YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRGA_FqyigEPmh5U37Yn7fAThe Rules of Engagement:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1l43k7ZS2YuiqMj0Av1q-1TLHJ4qIhz9 https://www.amazon.com/Teach-Your-Class-Off-Teaching/dp/195160010X?crid=3BROTRPFRQR7O&keywords=real+rap+with+reynolds&qid=1650747175&sprefix=real+rap+with+reynolds%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=aab1975b82a180d6741cfe0700afe56f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I’m happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/

    393. Reclaiming Our Joy Before It’s Too Late: Featuring CJ Reynolds

  2. 2d ago

    BONUS Series – Aspiring Leaders Part 5: 30-Day Leadership Action Plan

    You have reflected on your leadership experiences, clarified your leadership identity, identified the people in your corner, and recognized the gaps you still need to fill. Now it is time to turn that insight into action. In the final episode of the Aspiring Leaders Bonus Series, Joshua Stamper shares a practical framework for creating an intentional leadership action plan. Learn how to choose a leadership focus, pursue one meaningful experience, connect with a person who can support your growth, and establish accountability that keeps your goals from getting lost in a busy school year. Joshua also introduces The 30-Day Action Challenge, a simple plan listeners can begin immediately: Week One:Choose your leadership focus area and write down one specific goal.Week Two:Reach out to a leader, mentor, or supervisor to ask for guidance or an opportunity.Week Three:Take action by volunteering, observing, supporting, or leading something connected to your goal.Week Four:Reflect on what you learned, document the experience, and identify your next step. Move beyond broad aspirations and take one intentional step toward the leader you want to become. Download the free Leadership Inventory Reflection HERE and begin leading with intention today. Aspire to Lead Cohort Are you ready to stop guessing your way through your leadership journey and start building a clear plan for your next role? The Aspire to Lead Cohort is a supportive community for aspiring educational leaders who want practical guidance, meaningful accountability, and real strategies for advancing their careers. You will gain access to two live Zoom workshops each month, weekly Voxer support, leadership resources, accountability partners, interview preparation, and a network of educators who are growing alongside you. Whether you are a teacher leader, department chair, aspiring administrator, or a new leader looking for support, this cohort will help you build your leadership identity, gain the right experiences, strengthen your interview readiness, and take intentional steps toward your goals. Special Founding Member Opportunity The first five people to join the Aspire to Lead Cohort by August 31 will receive the Founding Member rate, a 55% discount. This discounted rate is limited, so do not wait to take the next step in your leadership journey. Learn more and apply at joshstamper.com/leadership-cohorts. -- If today’s episode has you thinking more intentionally about your leadership journey, my book, Aspire to Lead, is a great next step. It is designed to help aspiring and current school leaders reflect on their strengths, build meaningful relationships, develop practical leadership skills, and lead with greater confidence and purpose. Whether you are preparing for your first leadership role or looking to grow in the one you already have, Aspire to Lead offers strategies and reflection points to support you along the way. Grab your copy today and continue building the leadership foundation your school community needs. The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2

    BONUS Series – Aspiring Leaders Part 5: 30-Day Leadership Action Plan

  3. 3d ago

    BONUS Series – Aspiring Leaders Part 4: What Experience Are You Still Missing?

    Are you building meaningful leadership experience, or are you simply staying busy? In Part 4 of the Aspiring Leaders Bonus Series, Joshua Stamper helps aspiring leaders identify the experiences they still need before stepping into their next role. Saying yes to every committee, project, or extra duty may show initiative, but not every opportunity builds the skills, relationships, and leadership evidence that hiring teams want to see. This episode explores key areas of school leadership, including instructional leadership, student support and discipline, human capital, school culture and community engagement, operations and systems, and district involvement. Joshua shares practical examples of experiences you can pursue, along with questions that will help you identify where your leadership portfolio is strong and where you may need intentional growth. You do not need to have every skill mastered before earning a leadership role. You do need to show that you are willing to seek opportunities, learn from experience, reflect on your impact, and continue growing. Choose one leadership experience you need to gain this school year, set a realistic deadline, and take the first step toward making it happen. FREE Leadership Inventory Reflection: https://joshua-stamper.kit.com/e73d99e4c6 Aspire to Lead Cohort Are you ready to stop guessing your way through your leadership journey and start building a clear plan for your next role? The Aspire to Lead Cohort is a supportive community for aspiring educational leaders who want practical guidance, meaningful accountability, and real strategies for advancing their careers. You will gain access to two live Zoom workshops each month, weekly Voxer support, leadership resources, accountability partners, interview preparation, and a network of educators who are growing alongside you. Whether you are a teacher leader, department chair, aspiring administrator, or a new leader looking for support, this cohort will help you build your leadership identity, gain the right experiences, strengthen your interview readiness, and take intentional steps toward your goals. Special Founding Member Opportunity The first five people to join the Aspire to Lead Cohort by August 31 will receive the Founding Member rate, a 55% discount. This discounted rate is limited, so do not wait to take the next step in your leadership journey. Learn more and apply at joshstamper.com/leadership-cohorts. -- If today’s episode has you thinking more intentionally about your leadership journey, my book, Aspire to Lead, is a great next step. It is designed to help aspiring and current school leaders reflect on their strengths, build meaningful relationships, develop practical leadership skills, and lead with greater confidence and purpose. Whether you are preparing for your first leadership role or looking to grow in the one you already have, Aspire to Lead offers strategies and reflection points to support you along the way. Grab your copy today and continue building the leadership foundation your school community needs. The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 - Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2

    BONUS Series – Aspiring Leaders Part 4: What Experience Are You Still Missing?

  4. 4d ago

    BONUS Series – Aspiring Leaders Part 3: Defining Your Leadership Identity

    What kind of leader do you want to be when the title finally arrives? In Part 3 of the Aspiring Leaders Bonus Series, Joshua Stamper helps aspiring leaders move beyond simply naming the role they want and begin defining the values, mission, vision, and commitments that will guide their leadership. A title may change, responsibilities may shift, and your career path may take unexpected turns, but your leadership identity can serve as the compass that keeps you grounded. In this episode, you will explore how to avoid copying another leader’s style, make decisions that align with your values, and communicate your leadership purpose with greater clarity and confidence. Joshua also shares his own experience of stepping into a dean of students role and realizing that leading according to others’ expectations was not creating the impact he hoped to make. Use the reflection questions below to begin building your leadership identity. This is not meant to be a final answer. It is a personal, authentic first draft that can evolve as you gain experience, receive feedback, and continue growing as a leader. Reflection Questions When I am at my best as a leader, I am…When I am struggling as a leader, I tend to…What values do I want to guide my decisions?Ten years from now, what do I hope people say about my leadership impact?What kind of culture do I want to create? Leadership Identity Statement “I am a leader who values [core values]. I lead so that [mission]. In my future role as [aspired role], I will create [vision]. My leadership will be guided by [key commitments].” Aspire to Lead Cohort Are you ready to stop guessing your way through your leadership journey and start building a clear plan for your next role? The Aspire to Lead Cohort is a supportive community for aspiring educational leaders who want practical guidance, meaningful accountability, and real strategies for advancing their careers. You will gain access to two live Zoom workshops each month, weekly Voxer support, leadership resources, accountability partners, interview preparation, and a network of educators who are growing alongside you. Whether you are a teacher leader, department chair, aspiring administrator, or a new leader looking for support, this cohort will help you build your leadership identity, gain the right experiences, strengthen your interview readiness, and take intentional steps toward your goals. Special Founding Member Opportunity The first five people to join the Aspire to Lead Cohort by August 31 will receive the Founding Member rate, a 55% discount. This discounted rate is limited, so do not wait to take the next step in your leadership journey. Learn more and apply at joshstamper.com/leadership-cohorts. -- If today’s episode has you thinking more intentionally about your leadership journey, my book, Aspire to Lead, is a great next step. It is designed to help aspiring and current school leaders reflect on their strengths, build meaningful relationships, develop practical leadership skills, and lead with greater confidence and purpose. Whether you are preparing for your first leadership role or looking to grow in the one you already have, Aspire to Lead offers strategies and reflection points to support you along the way. Grab your copy today and continue building the leadership foundation your school community needs. The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2

    BONUS Series – Aspiring Leaders Part 3: Defining Your Leadership Identity

  5. 6d ago

    BONUS Series – Aspiring Leaders Part 2: Growth Does Not Happen in Isolation

    Leadership growth does not happen in isolation. While your experiences, credentials, and drive all matter, the right relationships can help you gain perspective, identify meaningful opportunities, and take the next step in your leadership journey. In this episode, Joshua Stamper explores why aspiring leaders need a strong network of support and introduces four people who can make a meaningful difference: a mentor, a coach, a campus advocate, and a district connector. You will reflect on who currently supports your goals, where you may need to build stronger connections, and how to approach leadership relationships with authenticity rather than a transactional mindset. Joshua also shares practical ways to begin building trust with leaders, including asking for a conversation, following up with gratitude, offering value, seeking feedback, and consistently following through. Your next leadership opportunity may begin with one genuine conversation. Download the free Leadership Inventory Reflection HERE and begin leading with intention today. Aspire to Lead Cohort Are you ready to stop guessing your way through your leadership journey and start building a clear plan for your next role? The Aspire to Lead Cohort is a supportive community for aspiring educational leaders who want practical guidance, meaningful accountability, and real strategies for advancing their careers. You will gain access to two live Zoom workshops each month, weekly Voxer support, leadership resources, accountability partners, interview preparation, and a network of educators who are growing alongside you. Whether you are a teacher leader, department chair, aspiring administrator, or a new leader looking for support, this cohort will help you build your leadership identity, gain the right experiences, strengthen your interview readiness, and take intentional steps toward your goals. Special Founding Member Opportunity The first five people to join the Aspire to Lead Cohort by August 31 will receive the Founding Member rate, a 55% discount. This discounted rate is limited, so do not wait to take the next step in your leadership journey. Learn more and apply at joshstamper.com/leadership-cohorts. -- If today’s episode has you thinking more intentionally about your leadership journey, my book, Aspire to Lead, is a great next step. It is designed to help aspiring and current school leaders reflect on their strengths, build meaningful relationships, develop practical leadership skills, and lead with greater confidence and purpose. Whether you are preparing for your first leadership role or looking to grow in the one you already have, Aspire to Lead offers strategies and reflection points to support you along the way. Grab your copy today and continue building the leadership foundation your school community needs. The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2

    BONUS Series – Aspiring Leaders Part 2: Growth Does Not Happen in Isolation

  6. Aug 17

    BONUS Series - Aspiring Leaders Part 1: Leadership Starts Before the Title

    If you are considering a future leadership role, have recently joined a principal preparation program, or simply feel ready to make a greater impact on your campus, this series will help you take practical next steps. In this first episode, Joshua Stamper challenges aspiring leaders to look beyond the title and recognize the leadership experiences they may already have. You will reflect on the committees, initiatives, relationships, and problems you have helped lead, while also identifying gaps in your preparation. Joshua shares why being busy is not the same as being strategic and introduces a free Leadership Inventory Reflection to help you build a clearer plan for your next steps. Throughout this bonus series, you will explore how to build the right relationships, define your leadership identity, gain meaningful experiences, and create an action plan for your leadership journey. Download the free Leadership Inventory Reflection HERE and begin leading with intention today. Aspire to Lead CohortAre you ready to stop guessing your way through your leadership journey and start building a clear plan for your next role? The Aspire to Lead Cohort is a supportive community for aspiring educational leaders who want practical guidance, meaningful accountability, and real strategies for advancing their careers. You will gain access to two live Zoom workshops each month, weekly Voxer support, leadership resources, accountability partners, interview preparation, and a network of educators who are growing alongside you. Whether you are a teacher leader, department chair, aspiring administrator, or a new leader looking for support, this cohort will help you build your leadership identity, gain the right experiences, strengthen your interview readiness, and take intentional steps toward your goals. Special Founding Member Opportunity The first five people to join the Aspire to Lead Cohort by August 31 will receive the Founding Member rate, a 55% discount. This discounted rate is limited, so do not wait to take the next step in your leadership journey. Learn more and apply at joshstamper.com/leadership-cohorts. -- If today’s episode has you thinking more intentionally about your leadership journey, my book, Aspire to Lead, is a great next step. It is designed to help aspiring and current school leaders reflect on their strengths, build meaningful relationships, develop practical leadership skills, and lead with greater confidence and purpose. Whether you are preparing for your first leadership role or looking to grow in the one you already have, Aspire to Lead offers strategies and reflection points to support you along the way. Grab your copy today and continue building the leadership foundation your school community needs. The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 -- Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2

    BONUS Series - Aspiring Leaders Part 1: Leadership Starts Before the Title

  7. Aug 16

    392. Culture Is a System, Not a Slogan: Featuring Tom Walls

    What if the strongest school cultures are not built through big initiatives, catchy slogans, or another binder of expectations, but through small actions repeated every day? In this episode, Tom Walls shares lessons from more than 30 years in education and coaching across four continents. He explains why culture must be treated as a system, not a slogan, and how leaders can create genuine buy-in by helping people feel seen, valued, and connected. Tom introduces the idea of micro-inclusions: simple, repeatable habits such as using names, making eye contact, and greeting people with a handshake. He also discusses student-led teams, the importance of returning to your “why,” and why leaders need more than one tool when facing the challenges of school culture and relationships. Whether you lead from the classroom, office, sidelines, or community, this conversation offers practical ways to build belonging and create a culture that lasts. About Tom Walls Tom Walls is an international speaker, educator, and leadership coach with more than 30 years of experience helping schools build cultures where people genuinely buy in. Drawing on his experience as a teacher, coach, and school leader, Tom shares practical leadership systems that strengthen culture, reduce unnecessary conflict, and help educators get back to the reason they entered the profession. Based in Medellín, Colombia, he works with international schools and organizations throughout South and Central America while continuing to write, speak, and coach on leadership and culture Follow Tom Walls Website:www.Thomasbwalls.comInstagram: @tom.walls104Facebook: tom.walls.104Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-wallsleadership/Substack:https://substack.com/@coachtom — #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I’m happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/

    392. Culture Is a System, Not a Slogan: Featuring Tom Walls

  8. Aug 9

    391. Taking Off the Leadership Mask: Featuring Ashanti Branch

    What might change in your school if students felt safe enough to say they were not okay? In this episode, Ashanti Branch shares how his own journey as a student, engineer, and educator led him to create the Ever Forward Club, a nonprofit dedicated to helping young men build connection, emotional awareness, character, and leadership skills. He explains why many students learn to hide behind masks, what it takes to earn trust, and how schools can create spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and supported. Ashanti also introduces the #MillionMaskMovement, a powerful activity that helps students and adults reflect on the parts of themselves they show to the world and the experiences they often keep hidden. From simple daily check-ins to proactive conversations about emotions and belonging, this episode offers practical ways educators and leaders can strengthen relationships, support regulation, and build a healthier campus culture. About Ashanti Branch Ashanti is a master in transforming schools into safer, more connected spaces through his workshops and a variety of products geared towards social-emotional learning. He is a pioneer in education reform and in youth mental health, with over 18 years of experience. He is the Founder and Executive Director of the Ever Forward Club (EFC), a non- profit organization dedicated to addressing the dropout rates of marginalized students through youth mentorship and teacher professional development. A recipient of the 2023 US Surgeon General’s Medallion (the highest honor a civilian can receive from the Surgeon General), Ashanti is a keynote speaker, a consultant on the youth mental health crisis, a Fulbright Fellow, and 4x Tedx Speaker. His work with youth as an ‘emotional locksmith’ has been featured at SXSW, on CNN’s This is Life with Lisa Ling, on the Kelly Clarkson Show, and in the documentary about American masculinity The Mask You Live In, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. Formerly a math teacher and raised in Oakland by a single mom on welfare (his father died just before he was born), Ashanti found his passion while tutoring struggling students in a school with a majority African-American and Latino population. It broke his heart to see 40% of them wanting to drop out at such a young age. By fulfilling deeper emotional needs to feel safe, seen, and heard, EFC has helped 100% of its student members graduate high school, 90% enroll in higher education, and 0% become incarcerated (compared to the national incarceration rate of 8% for black males, age 20-24). Notable projects include EFC’s Adventure Card Game which introduces youth to the world of their feelings, created by boiling down 18+ years of deep understanding working with thousands of youth. EFC’s #millionmaskmovement (Anthem Award recipient) provides a free, youth-friendly, hands-on emotional tool, with an online gallery of over 75,000 masks from around the world, searchable by age, so youth feel less alone. EFC alumni are often the first to break generational patterns and go on to make healthier leaders, parents, and partners. Although EFC is based in California, it has now impacted schools globally, with thousands of alumni stating, "I can truly say Ever Forward Club saved my life." Ashanti’s work is crucial as we are now at an unprecedented inflection point with youth, with this being the first generation in history expected to live shorter lives than their parents. Youth mental health has been identified as being in a state of emergency by the US Surgeon General. Please help Ashanti get the word out that help is available. Follow Ashanti Branch Website:https://everforwardclub.org/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub/Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@everforwardclub https://www.amazon.com/Diary-Confused-Educator-Ashanti-Branch/dp/B0F9K18XQV?crid=3TAW2U0Y4AOX8&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hOsaBN16KeoYeOEt7y3LL8A1tI79liJowuogsLf8crMkzD0L5qL5ZdsDMK3M0LOrygVN-otGu0afnWnNceA8EQ.KmhO_DVZ4L1VUXxCiT3U_vRO-C4M8BZq3oGDUt4O18k&dib_tag=se&keywords=Ashanti+Branch&qid=1786239603&sprefix=ashanti+branch%2Caps%2C177&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0ee789956ef1ee21eff4aacb290a9ac5&language=en_US&gaOptInStatus=true&ref_=as_li_ss_tl -- #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available!  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders — Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits. Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact:https://joshstamper.com/contact/Twitter:www.twitter.com/Joshua__StamperInstagram:www.instagram.com/joshua__stamperLinkedin:www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamperFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcastSubscribe:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award! I’m happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support! The book is available for purchase on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175 Review the Podcast I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Teach Better Podcast Network This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/

    391. Taking Off the Leadership Mask: Featuring Ashanti Branch
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4.9
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59 Ratings

About

Joshua Stamper provides an opportunity to learn from some of the most experienced and accomplished educational leaders. As we grow in our leadership skills, it’s imperative to learn from other leader’s successes, trials and misconceptions. Join us each week as my guests provide valuable stories, resources, and advice to enhance your leadership journey.

Information

  • Creator
    Joshua Stamper
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    300
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Aspire to Lead

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