2025 was a year that asked a lot of educators. In this reflective solo episode of Interventions and Detentions, I pause to look back on the wins, the wounds, and the work that defined the year in schools.

I unpack the major themes that surfaced across classrooms and leadership offices—instruction coming back to the center, behavior as a signal rather than a problem, leadership fatigue, and the growing parent-school divide. I also reflect on the conversations that shaped this podcast in 2025 and the quiet victories that too often go unnoticed.

This episode isn’t about trends or quick fixes. It’s about naming what was real, honoring the people who carried the work, and clarifying what matters as we move forward.

If you made it through 2025 in education, this one’s for you.

In this episode of Interventions & Detentions, Brad sits down with Andrew Barrand, first-year principal at Lakeland Intermediate School, to explore the powerful connection between high-quality instruction and student behavior. Together, they discuss how engaging teaching practices, proactive classroom strategies, and Conscious Discipline can reduce behavior issues before they begin. Andrew also reflects on lessons learned in his first year as a building leader, the shift from classroom teacher to principal, and advice for educators aspiring to lead—all while keeping teaching and learning at the center of school leadership.

In this episode, Brad digs into The Parent Divide—the growing gap between what some parents expect from schools and what educators can realistically provide. From communication challenges to shifting responsibilities, Brad breaks down the tensions, the misunderstandings, and the real stories happening inside today’s classrooms.

Listen as he offers honest reflections, practical insights, and a grounded perspective from inside the principal’s office.

New episodes drop every Friday at 8 a.m.

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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!