In this episode of Leaning Into Leadership, Darrin sits down with Dr. Nason Lollar to explore a topic often overlooked in leadership conversations—educator professionalism.

Drawing from his book The Five Principles of Educator Professionalism, Nason introduces the TRUST framework, a practical approach to connecting individual behaviors with school culture.

The conversation dives into how small, everyday actions—not just major incidents—shape the success, safety, and climate of a school.

Key Topics:

• Why adult behavior—not student behavior—is often the real leadership challenge
• Defining professionalism as a contribution to school culture
• The TRUST framework:
• Teaching and learning first
• Remain vigilant about safety
• Understand communication
• Seek personal balance
• Take ownership of morale
• The difference between negatives vs. negativity
• Why listening is one of the most overlooked leadership skills
• Moving beyond “gotcha” leadership toward genuine support
• The power of acknowledgment in building staff morale

Key Takeaway:

Professionalism isn’t about compliance—it’s about clarity, consistency, and contribution. When leaders define what matters and support their people well, culture improves—and so does everything else.

Connect with Nason:

• Blog: nasonlollar.wordpress.com
• X: @nasonlollar
• Facebook: Nason Lollar, Author

Sponsor Spotlight

This episode is sponsored by HeyTutor.

If improving student outcomes is part of your plan, don’t wait until the fall to build your support system.

HeyTutor provides high-dosage tutoring in Math and ELA—handling recruitment, training, and management—so your team can focus on impact.

Learn more at HeyTutor.com

Let’s Connect

If you’re working to move from planning to execution—and want to ensure your team stays aligned and focused throughout the year—Darrin can help.

Through coaching, leadership retreats, and team development, he supports leaders in building clarity, alignment, and lasting impact.