In this Thanksgiving mini-episode, Brad shares two simple but meaningful ways he practiced gratitude and generosity in his school this week—from writing personalized notes to every staff member to teaming up with the counselor to give teachers an extra thirty minutes of breathing room.

With real stories from kindergarten and first grade life, this quick episode is a reminder that small, intentional gestures can transform a school’s culture.

Interventions and Detentions…Where the Real Learning Begins.

In this episode, I sit down with principal and author Brian Kulak to talk about why adult SEL isn’t optional and how emotionally intelligent leadership shapes everything that happens in a school. We dig into what leaders can do to support the people who care for kids, the impact on students when adult SEL is ignored, and why strong staff culture is the foundation of every great school.

this episode of Interventions & Detentions, Brad opens up about the emotional realities of school leadership — the weight you carry, the pressure you absorb, and the moments that make the job feel heavier than anyone realizes.

Drawing on his journey from a 5th-grade classroom in 1997 to 22 years in the principal’s chair, Brad shares honest reflections on burnout, staying grounded, and what it truly takes to reset when everything feels overwhelming.

Whether you’re a new leader, a veteran administrator, or someone who simply understands the emotional toll of serving others, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical strategies to help you keep leading with purpose — without losing yourself in the process.

This week, Brad dives into how adult actions, tone, and consistency shape everything kids do — and how real change starts with us.

Because better behavior doesn’t begin with rules… it begins with relationships.

Interventions and Detentions — Where the Real Learning Begins.

In this special episode of Interventions and Detentions, I share a heartfelt tribute to my late father, who passed away at the age of 91. The episode opens with his obituary and reflects on his life growing up on a farm in Wawaka, Indiana, his time in the Army, his years as an IHSAA official and youth coach, and his deep love for IU basketball, the Indy 500, and his family. It’s a touching look at a humble man who left a lasting legacy through his character, work ethic, and devotion to his sons and granddaughters.

What really drives student behavior? In this episode, Brad dives deep into the power of connection over control, exploring why relationships, regulation, and understanding matter more than punishment. From practical interventions that actually work to reflections on the quiet kids who often go unnoticed, this episode looks at the heart of what education is all about: people.

Because every kid has a story and every educator has a reason.

Episode 2.8 – The Primary Grind

What’s a day in the life really like for a primary school principal? In this episode, Brad welcomes special guest Kim Kabrich, principal of Lakeland Primary School, for a real and relatable look into the joys, challenges, and surprises of leading a building full of little learners.

From morning drop-off chaos to heartwarming classroom moments and everything in between, Brad and Kim share stories that’ll make educators nod, laugh, and maybe even tear up a little.

Stick around for a fun round of rapid-fire questions at the end — because even principals need a brain break!

What’s it really like growing up as the principal’s kid?

In this week’s episode of Interventions and Detentions, I sit down with my daughters, Madi and Meredith, to find out! They share the real story of being “PKs” — from tagging along to school events when they were little, to walking the halls of the same school where their dad was in charge.

Episode 2:6 – So I Married a Principal

Interventions and Detentions – Where the Real Learning Begins

In this special episode, Brad welcomes his wife, Shari Targgart, to the mic. Together they share stories, laughs, and honest reflections about what it’s like to be married to a school principal. From the everyday challenges to the lighter moments, this behind-the-scenes conversation gives listeners a personal look at life beyond the office.

Why are so many good teachers leaving the profession? In this solo episode, I dig into the research, share some honest reflections, and ask the hard questions:

•Is burnout worse in teaching than in other professions?

•Why do the days of teachers staying 30 years in the same grade feel like a thing of the past?

•And most importantly — what can we do to keep great teachers in our schools?

It’s a mix of data, storytelling, and a little humor (yes, including some rapid-fire questions.)