In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, we welcome Derek Pyle, a seasoned choir and band director at Auburn Mountain View High School. Derek shares his personal journey of finding balance between his passion for music, teaching, and his personal life. He discusses the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing health, both physical and emotional. Derek also shares how he navigated through serious health issues due to stress and high blood pressure, and how he managed to continue doing what he loves while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. We also delve into the impact of the pandemic on new band directors and offer advice on how to navigate these challenging times. Lastly, Derek shares some fun and engaging activities he uses to build a positive culture in his classroom.