In this episode of FocusED, we sit down with Dr. Brad Johnson for a thoughtful conversation about how meaningful change in schools rarely comes from massive initiatives—but from small, intentional shifts grounded in relationships.

Brad shares why he’s leaned into storytelling through his recent books, including Room 212, and how stories help educators see themselves in the work. He explains that while data and bullet points fade quickly, stories stay with us, shaping how we think, feel, and lead long after the moment has passed. For Brad, storytelling isn’t just a style—it’s a way to help educators connect emotionally to the work and remember what truly matters.

The conversation centers on the idea of “one degree shifts.” Drawing from the science of water boiling at 212 degrees, Brad reminds us that transformation doesn’t happen at 211. That final degree—the smallest change—creates energy, movement, and momentum. In schools, those one-degree shifts show up in everyday moments: how we greet students, how we talk about them, what we notice, and where we choose to focus our attention.

Brad emphasizes that these shifts are not just for classrooms, but for entire school cultures. He challenges educators to move from deficit-based thinking to asset-based thinking, highlighting how expectations shape outcomes through the Pygmalion Effect. When leaders and teachers believe students can succeed, that belief changes how they interact, respond, and support them—and students begin to live up to those expectations.

The discussion also explores relational intelligence and why it matters more than ever for school leaders. Brad explains that leadership success isn’t built on control or compliance, but on trust, connection, and valuing people as humans before professionals. Simple actions—asking about someone’s life, noticing when something feels off, taking time to encourage—build trust capital that fuels commitment, not just followership.

Throughout the episode, Brad reinforces that leadership feeds culture. Every interaction either adds value or withdraws it. Whether it’s supporting staff, recognizing strengths, or creating spaces where people feel seen and valued, leaders shape the emotional climate of their schools through the smallest daily decisions.

This episode is a reminder that meaningful change doesn’t require more programs, more mandates, or more pressure. It starts with awareness, intention, and the willingness to make one small shift—one degree at a time.

Be sure to listen through the end to hear about our sponsor, Bullseye, and how it helps instructional leaders manage feedback, walkthroughs, and professional learning. For more leadership conversations, coaching, and resources, visit theschoolhouse302.com.