The CharacterStrong Podcast

CharacterStrong
  • 4.9 (424)
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The CharacterStrong Podcast: Weekly conversations for anyone in education. CharacterStrong provides an evidence-based, multi-tiered solution to support whole child success. Curricula and trainings that improve behavior, increase safety, and support mental health. For more information visit our website: characterstrong.com

  1. 4D AGO

    The 30-Second Feedback Strategy That Strengthens School Culture - Meghan Lawson

    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.

    16 min

  2. FEB 6

    Creating Belonging Through Systems That Work - Kendrick Claxton

    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.

    20 min

  3. JAN 30

    A Principal's Approach to Making Middle School Lessons Stick Schoolwide - Dr. Joe Sweeney

    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."

    15 min

  4. JAN 23

    How Student Voice and Developmental Assets Drive Schoolwide Growth - Pierre Orbe

    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

    24 min

  5. JAN 16

    Why Names, Presence, and Energy Matter in Leadership - Andrew Marotta

    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.

    17 min

  6. JAN 9

    Creating Calmer Classrooms by Supporting Educators - Kait Ahlbrandt

    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

    13 min

  7. JAN 2

    Top 6 of 2025: Simple Systems, Lasting Impact: Character Through Daily Announcements - Meg Boyd

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

    23 min

  8. JAN 2

    Top 6 of 2025: Systems Over Goals: Building Belonging in Schools - Dr. Darian Jones

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

    17 min
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4.9
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424 Ratings

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The CharacterStrong Podcast: Weekly conversations for anyone in education. CharacterStrong provides an evidence-based, multi-tiered solution to support whole child success. Curricula and trainings that improve behavior, increase safety, and support mental health. For more information visit our website: characterstrong.com

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