In this special joint episode of Leaning Into Leadership and Aspire to Lead, Darrin Peppard and Joshua Stamper team up once again for their annual back-to-school leadership conversation.

As educators and leaders gear up for a new year, Darrin and Joshua dive deep into:

• What clarity looks like at the start of the school year
• How new leaders can define success before the chaos begins
• Building relationships and trust before pushing new initiatives
• The power of clearly modeling expectations
• Making feedback, coaching, and support part of your leadership culture
• Practical ways to sustain clarity, energy, and intentionality all year long

Whether you're just stepping into leadership or returning for your 20th year, this episode offers real-world strategies to help you start strong and stay focused on what matters most.

👉 Related blog post: Clarity for School Leaders – What to Do Now to Set Your Team Up for Success

👤 Guest Bio – Joshua Stamper

Joshua Stamper initially used his artistic talent and creative thinking as a professional graphic designer before transitioning into public education, where he found his calling in helping students express themselves and thrive. His own struggles as a student inspired his mission to challenge the status quo of education, promote innovative practices, and lead with empathy.

Joshua has served as a middle school Assistant Principal in North Texas for the past eight years, across four campuses and two districts. In addition to his administrative work, he is the author of Aspire to Lead, host of the Aspire to Lead podcast, a leadership coach, and educational presenter.

Joshua and his wife Leslie are the proud parents of five children, three of whom they adopted from foster care. They are both trained in trauma-informed practices, which Joshua incorporates into his leadership style.

Check out Joshua's new book (co-authored with Charle Peck) The Language of Behavior: A Framework to Elevate Student Success

📲 Connect with Joshua:

Website: www.joshstamper.com

Twitter/Instagram: @Joshua__Stamper