Today our guest is Dr. Joe Sweeney, principal at Old Quarry Middle School and the 2025 Illinois Principals Association South Cook Region Middle School Principal of the Year. We talk about how Joe uses a schoolwide podcast to bring consistent lessons to life and elevate student voice. He shares how recording short episodes with students helps simplify implementation, increase engagement, and meet teachers where they are. He highlights how this approach builds consistency, reduces staff burden, and creates a culture where students look forward to the work.

Learn More About CharacterStrong:

• Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples
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• Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Dr. Joe Sweeney is an accomplished educational leader, creator and host of the Principal Leadership Lounge Podcast, devoted husband, and proud father who has spent nearly two decades shaping the lives of young people. He currently serves as the principal of Old Quarry Middle School, a role he has held for seven years, where he is known for his student-centered leadership and his belief that exceptional schools are built upon three foundational pillars: strong academics, meaningful relationships, and a positive learning environment. As he often says, "Create a school environment where people want to be, and the rest will fall into place."

Today our guest is Pierre Orbee, Principal at DeWitt Clinton High School in New York. Pierre was named the School Administrators Association of New York State's 2025 New York State Principal of the Year, the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents' 2025 National Principal of the Year, and the K-12 Dive 2025 Principal of the Year. We talk with Pierre about how shoring up the underlying developmental assets students need can unlock stronger outcomes and long-term success. Pierre shares how student voice, a clear framework, and consistent follow-through help schools identify what students are missing and build structures that match real needs. He also highlights how listening first, setting high expectations, and creating the right incentives can shift culture without changing the kids.

Learn More About CharacterStrong:

• Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples
• Request a Quote Today!
• Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support
• Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Today our guest is Andrew Marotta is an author and presenter, and is the Director of Communications & Academic Services at Port Jervis Schools, NY. We talk with Andrew about the power of positive energy and how small, intentional actions shape how people feel in schools. He shares practical reminders like learning names, using names often, and being fully present in brief moments. Andrew also highlights how slowing down, focusing on what matters most, and leading with intention can create stronger connections each and every day.

Learn More About CharacterStrong:

• Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples
• Request a Quote Today!
• Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support
• Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Andrew Marotta is the Director of Communications & Academic Services at Port Jervis Schools, NY. He was Principal & AP for the last 20 years in the great small city of Port Jervis. He took on a new challenge in the 23-24 school year, moving to this director position, allowing him to promote and carry the banner for Port Schools in a new and creative way while giving him more flexibility to travel and present nationally as an inspirational speaker. He is a husband, father, adjunct professor of school leadership, former Division 1 men's college basketball official, speaker, & author.

Today our guest is Kait Ahlbrandt, school psychologist and Director of Customer Success at EmpowerU. We talk about why educator wellbeing is essential to student success and how adult regulation shapes classroom climate. Kate shares why intentional listening and making space for connection matter, especially when educators feel overwhelmed. She highlights the need for practical, realistic supports that help educators show up present, regulated, and ready to teach.

Learn More About CharacterStrong:

• Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples
• Request a Quote Today!
• Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support
• Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:

• Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples
• Request a Quote Today!
• Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support
• Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:

• Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples
• Request a Quote Today!
• Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support
• Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:

• Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples
• Request a Quote Today!
• Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support
• Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:

• Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples
• Request a Quote Today!
• Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support
• Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:

• Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples
• Request a Quote Today!
• Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support
• Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Learn More About CharacterStrong:

• Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples
• Request a Quote Today!
• Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support
• Visit the CharacterStrong Website