🎙️ Episode Description – Season 3, Episode 10: “How Long Do You Wait?”

In this episode, Joe and Al tackle one of the most challenging questions in education: How long do you wait out a difficult student? They dive into the balance between patience and accountability, discussing real stories, strategies, and the mindset shifts that help leaders support students without losing sight of expectations. Whether you’re a principal, teacher, or parent, this conversation offers practical insights on leading with empathy while maintaining structure.

🎙️ Season 3, Episode 9: “The Visit”

In this episode of The Principals’ Leadership Lounge, Joe shares insights from a recent site visit where he and seven Old Quarry teachers spent the day at Granger Middle School.

The team explored instructional practices, learning environments, and systems that support student growth — all through the lens of continuous improvement. Joe reflects on the power of getting out of your own building, seeing great teaching in action, and bringing fresh ideas back to your school community.

Tune in to hear how one visit can spark collaboration, inspiration, and a renewed sense of purpose!

Season 3, Ep 8: “Disrupt the Midpoints and Gameshows”Joe & Al talk about sparking midyear momentum—plus, how Old Quarry turned a student assembly into a full-blown game show!

In this lighthearted and uplifting episode, Joe and Al dive into the importance of choosing fun — even when the days feel long and the to-do lists are overflowing. They explore how laughter, joy, and play can strengthen relationships, build culture, and make schools (and life!) a place people genuinely want to be. From hallway hijinks to staff camaraderie and student connections, the conversation reminds leaders that fun isn’t a distraction from the work — it’s part of what fuels it.

Tune in for practical ideas to bring positivity into your building, stories that will make you smile, and a reminder that sometimes the best leadership move you can make is to choose fun!

Season 3, Episode 6: "Hey Joe, Really… It’s Episode 6!"
Joe can’t believe it either—we’ve actually made it to Episode 6! In this one, we mix a little bit of reflection with a whole lot of laughs. From behind-the-scenes moments to the random stories only Joe could tell, this episode is part celebration, part chaos, and all heart. Buckle up—it’s Episode 6, for real this time!

Season 3, Episode #5: “A Piece of Mind”

In this episode, Joe and Al dive into the daily pressures and mental load that come with being a school leader. From juggling schedules and making tough calls to carrying the unseen weight of staff, students, and families — principals rarely get true peace of mind. But what if we reframed it as a piece of mind — intentionally carving out space for reflection, clarity, and focus?

Join us as we explore practical strategies to manage stress, protect your mental bandwidth, and create rhythms that allow you to lead with purpose. Expect honest conversation, real-world examples, and tools you can take back to your building right away.

Whether you’re looking for encouragement, balance, or just a reminder that you’re not alone in the work — this episode offers a piece of mind for every leader.

🎙️ Episode Description – Season 3, Episode #4: Surveys and People Pleasing
In this episode of the Principals’ Leadership Lounge, Joe and Al dive into the tricky balance between gathering honest feedback and falling into the trap of people-pleasing. They unpack how surveys can be powerful tools for growth—but also how they can create unnecessary pressure to make everyone happy. Tune in for real talk on listening with purpose, leading with confidence, and staying true to your values while still valuing the voices of your staff and community.

Season 3, Episode 3 – The Locker Dilemma
Remember the days of wrestling with a stubborn locker lock between classes? In this episode, we tackle a hot topic in the halls: should schools ditch the built-in locks and hand every student their very own? We’ll break down the pros, the cons, and the “uh-oh, I forgot my combo” moments. From security to student responsibility (and maybe even a few locker horror stories), The Locker Dilemma opens the door—literally—to a lively conversation about what’s best for our students.

🎙️ Season 3, Episode 2: Leadership Truths

In this episode, we dig into the realities of leadership that every principal—and every leader—eventually faces:

1. You will make hard decisions that negatively affect people.

2. You will be disliked, despite your best efforts to do what’s best for the most.

3. You will be misunderstood, and often won’t have the chance to defend yourself.

Joe and Al share their own experiences with these challenges, talk about how they’ve learned to navigate them, and reflect on the mindset it takes to keep leading with courage, empathy, and purpose—even when it’s hard.

We’re back for Season 3 of The Principals’ Leadership Lounge! In our first episode, Joe and Al tackle one of the questions every principal hears once the last bell rings in May: “So… what do you do all summer?”

From strategic planning and hiring to building projects, professional development, and yes—squeezing in a little rest—this episode pulls back the curtain on the work (and surprises) that keep principals busy when students aren’t in the building.

Whether you’re a school leader, educator, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes life of a principal, this conversation blends humor, insight, and practical takeaways for the year ahead.

Sit back, relax, and join the conversation in The Lounge—because leadership is better when it’s shared.