In this episode of the Leaning Into Leadership podcast, Darrin sits down with fellow high school principal and podcast host Jeff Linden, Principal of Hastings High School in Nebraska. With a shared passion for culture and leadership, Jeff and Darrin dive into what it really takes to build a thriving school environment—especially for those stepping into leadership roles for the first time.

Jeff opens up about his unconventional path to school leadership, including his service in the U.S. Army Reserves, a career in coaching, and his early days as a rookie head football coach and math teacher. He shares what inspired his transition to administration and how a single conversation set him on a leadership journey grounded in systems thinking and relationship building.

Topics covered include:

• The power of systems to reduce chaos and create consistency
• A 60-90-30 day transition plan for new school leaders
• How to foster collective buy-in to support schoolwide accountability
• Jeff’s approach to culture-first leadership and his school’s cell phone policy journey
• Why listening is a non-negotiable skill for new administrators
• How podcasting helps Jeff sharpen his leadership skills

If you're stepping into school leadership—or looking to sharpen your systems and culture-building strategies—this episode is packed with insight and practical takeaways. Plus, Jeff shares how his podcast, Educational Leadership with Principal JL, is helping leaders grow and connect.

📩 Connect with Jeff:

• Email: [email protected]
• Podcast: Educational Leadership with Principal JL (available on all major platforms)
• Social Media: Find his handles through his podcast page
• More contact info:  https://dot.cards/principal_jl

Jeff Linden is the Principal of Hastings High School in Nebraska and the host of t the Educational Leadership with Principal JL podcast. With over 17 years in education, Jeff brings a wealth of experience as a teacher, coach, and school leader. A military veteran, Jeff’s leadership is grounded in discipline, systems thinking, and a passion for building strong school culture. He holds multiple advanced degrees in leadership and curriculum and is committed to empowering educators, supporting student success, and fostering collaborative school communities.