Leadership Coaching

Playing to Empty Rooms: A Lesson in Perseverance

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As I write this, the early morning hours find me awake, wrestling with insomnia. It’s around 3:00 a.m., and in the quiet solitude, I decide to revisit this blog. Against my better judgment, I check the stats on a recent post. I know the adage, “Comparison is the thief of joy,” but still, I fall into the trap.

The numbers aren’t encouraging. They stir up a flood of past memories—times when my efforts seemed to fall flat. The book giveaway that garnered no participation. The speaking engagement with an empty room. The book study I excitedly promoted, only to find no one signed up.

I have played to empty rooms. It’s a gut-wrenching experience. You pour your heart into your work, stepping vulnerably onto a stage without a net, only to be met with silence. It feels like validation of your worst fear: that your voice doesn’t matter. That your efforts aren’t enough. The doubt can spiral quickly, pulling you into an abyss that’s hard to climb out of.

I find myself wondering about the lack of engagement with my writing. I tag others and hear no response. I try to support others when tagged, yet often feel like I’m shouting into the void when I press Publish.

Before I sink too deep into this whirlpool of self-doubt, I pause and take a cue from The Reset Mindset by Penny Zenker, a book that has been a lifeline for me recently. The concept of resetting resonates deeply. It’s about an intentional pause—a mindful shift in perspective to open the door to new possibilities. Resetting means revisiting your core purpose and recalibrating your moves with intention.

So here, in this moment of doubt, I reset.

Why do I write? It’s not for stats, clicks, or reposts. It’s for connection. Writing is my bridge—to myself, to others, and to meaning. It’s a way to foster belonging, to reflect, and to find resonance with others navigating the lonely and challenging paths of leadership.

When I embrace this reset mindset, I remember: this moment of doubt is just that—a moment. It doesn’t define me or my work. My writing is not about chasing external validation; it’s about helping others seek meaning in their own leadership journeys. It’s about creating space for reflection and connection.

I remind myself of the moments that truly matter: the time a struggling reader reached out with gratitude after finding solace in my book. The fulfillment of a lifelong dream in publishing a book, The Pepper Effect. The joy of being invited to speak at upcoming conferences like FETC and the North Carolina Middle School Matters Conference. These are the moments that validate my voice and purpose.

And then, as I often do, I think of The Beatles.

In December 1961, before Beatlemania, before sold-out arenas and screaming fans, The Beatles played a gig at the Palais Ballroom in Aldershot. A booking error left the show poorly promoted, and only 18 people attended. Imagine it: the band that would change the world, performing in near obscurity.

But they didn’t let it break them. They played on, laughing and joking through the set, treating it as an opportunity rather than a failure. That moment was just one small chapter in their story—a necessary step on the path to greatness.

Failures happen. We stumble. We fall. And yet, like The Beatles, we get back up and keep playing.

As I stand in my own empty room—whether as a writer or a leader—I hold fast to my purpose. We all must. The value of our voice, our vision, isn’t determined by the size of the audience. It’s found in the connection with that one reader, that one listener, that one colleague who sees and understands your purpose.

When you play to empty rooms, remember: it’s not the end. It’s a pit stop—a chance to hone your craft, to reset, and to move forward.

Someone out there needs your voice. Someone out there is better because of your vision. Take heart in the small moments of connection and press on.

Each moment—success or setback—is a step forward in this journey of leadership and perseverance. Let’s keep playing.

Magical Mystery Tweet: A Journey of Gratitude and Creativity

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Boxing Day holds a special place in my heart. While it’s not widely celebrated in the United States, it marks a moment of reflection, creativity, and gratitude in my life. It’s a day that intertwines two of my great passions: my love of The Beatles and the power of small, intentional moves that ripple into something greater.

On December 26, 1967, The Beatles unveiled their BBC-TV film Magical Mystery Tour. At the time, critics dismissed the project as an odd misstep in the band’s otherwise stellar career. Yet, over the decades, it has transformed into a beloved piece of their psychedelic era—a testament to their willingness to embrace creativity and collaboration, undeterred by the opinions of naysayers.

This day also marks what I call my “Magical Mystery Tweet,” a small action that changed the course of my life. About eight years ago, while observing my personal Boxing Day tradition of watching Magical Mystery Tour, I posted a simple tweet:

“Happy Boxing Day. Happy Magical Mystery Tour Day.”

I included a picture of my well-loved DVD copy of the film, celebrating my fandom and connection to the enduring magic of The Beatles. It was a small, seemingly inconsequential act of sharing.

But something extraordinary happened. Nicole Michael of 910 Public Relations noticed that tweet and responded to it. That response ignited a journey that ultimately led to the publication of my first book, #ThePepperEffect, through the incredible vision of Dave Burgess. What began as a casual celebration of The Beatles evolved into an opportunity to share my ideas with educators worldwide.

Since its release in 2018, #ThePepperEffect has inspired educators to “think outside the box” and create collaborative, Beatles-inspired magic in their schools. I’ve had the honor of sharing its message as a keynote speaker at conferences and have even seen it adapted into a stage production by a school drama club in Canada. One small tweet sparked a movement that continues to connect, inspire, and transform.

This experience taught me a valuable lesson: you never know what impact your creative expression will have when you share it with the world. The Beatles, despite criticism, embraced their creative impulses, and their willingness to take risks gave us masterpieces that resonate across generations. We can do the same when we dare to share our gifts, no matter how small they may seem.

Four Actions to Embrace Creativity and Share Your Voice

  1. Celebrate Your Passions
    Honor the things that bring you joy and inspire you. Whether it’s music, art, or storytelling, your enthusiasm can spark connections and creativity in others.
  2. Take Small Steps
    Share a tweet, write a blog post, or create something that reflects your authentic self. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be real.
  3. Seek Collaboration
    The Beatles created their masterpieces through collaboration. Surround yourself with others who uplift and challenge you. Great things happen when we build together.
  4. Ignore the Critics
    Like Magical Mystery Tour, your work might not resonate with everyone at first. That’s okay. Stay true to your vision and trust in the process.

As educators and leaders, we have the power to inspire those around us through our creativity and vulnerability. We all have a masterpiece within us waiting to be shared. My journey, sparked by a single tweet, is proof that even the smallest action can create waves of change.

This Boxing Day, as I watch Magical Mystery Tour again, I’ll reflect on the gratitude I have for that tweet, for the connections it brought, and for the inspiration it continues to provide.

Dare to share your voice. You never know whose life you might change—including your own.

Reflect and Reset for the New Year

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Reflect and Reset for the New Year

As the year winds down and the calendar inches closer to 2025, I invite you to take a meaningful pause. My hope is that these words reach you during a moment of restoration, where you are embracing time with loved ones, reflecting on your journey, and finding opportunities to recharge physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Winter Break is a gift—a time to clear the noise and center ourselves as we prepare to lead with purpose into the new year.

This past year has been a challenging yet transformative one for me. I reflect on a pivotal moment back in February when a heart episode led to an ambulance ride and a stark reminder of life’s fragility. That experience set me on a path of healing, physically and emotionally. Renewing my dedication to fitness has been a much needed salve. Therapy has helped me confront and overcome anxiety, and the unwavering support of family and friends has kept me grounded. These challenges have not only renewed my faith but have also strengthened my resolve to serve with clarity and gratitude.

In 2024, I rediscovered the beauty of creation and connection. I launched three new podcast series (“Hope Amplified,” “Why The Beatles Matter,” and the upcoming “Chords of Connection”) and overcame my writer’s block to return to this blog, laying the groundwork for a new book. I also concluded “The Principal Liner Notes Podcast” with the feeling of satisfying closure and the hope of exploring new territories of expression. Most importantly, I learned to savor life’s small moments—the ones that weave together into a tapestry of hope, joy, and connection. Letting go of toxic ties and re-embracing meaningful relationships has been a powerful act of resetting my personal and professional compass.

The word “reset” has emerged as my guiding star for 2025. It first resonated with me during a professional development session on leadership, where I encountered Penny Zenker’s The Reset Mindset. Her definition of a reset mindset—“a way of thinking that focuses on dynamic reassessment and the willingness to reinvent”—perfectly encapsulates what leaders need to navigate challenges and inspire reinvention within their teams. The concept reappeared during a keynote at a leadership conference, and a trusted thought partner encouraged me to dive deeper into Zenker’s work. I’m savoring the insights from this book, which validates my journey and offers actionable steps for growth and leadership.

As we prepare to embrace 2025, I encourage us to adopt a Reset Mindset—one that empowers us to pause, reassess, and reinvent with intentionality. Here are four action steps for leaders to reset and lead with renewed purpose:

1. Take Intentional Time to Recharge Daily

Leadership can be all-consuming, but it’s essential to carve out moments each day to refuel. Whether through meditation, exercise, or simply a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, these intentional pauses restore our energy and focus. As Zenker notes, “recharge time” is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for clarity and effectiveness.

2. Revisit Your School’s Vision and Mission with the Faculty

The new year is an ideal time to recalibrate and ensure alignment with your team. Engage your faculty in meaningful conversations about your school’s vision and mission. Reflect together on what’s working, what needs reimagining, and how you can collaboratively set the course for a thriving 2025.

3. Read The Reset Mindset by Penny Zenker with a Thought Partner

Growth is amplified when shared. Invite a trusted colleague or thought partner to join you in reading The Reset Mindset. Use it as a springboard for dialogue, reflection, and the co-creation of strategies to navigate challenges and inspire reinvention within your school community. Discover The Reset Mindset here.

4. Pursue Personal Passions

Leaders are at their best when they bring their whole, authentic selves to the table. Dedicate time to personal pursuits that ignite your joy—whether it’s workouts, exploring new hobbies, or simply trying something new. These moments of personal fulfillment recharge our spirits and fuel our leadership.

Reflecting on 2024, I’m reminded of how my favorite band, The Beatles, exemplified the art of the reset. After the tumultuous 1966 World Tour, they reinvented themselves as “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” creating a timeless masterpiece. Later, during the “Get Back/Let It Be” sessions, they overcame discord to perform live once again, rediscovering their connection as a band. These moments of reinvention hold lessons for us as leaders—to embrace change, foster collaboration, and find new possibilities amid challenges. Explore these stories in The Pepper Effect: Tap into the Magic of Creativity, Collaboration, and Innovation.

As I step into 2025, I carry forward the lessons of intentional resetting—a process that has given me clarity, optimism, and purpose. I look forward to the opportunities ahead, both in my personal journey and within the schoolhouse I am privileged to serve. Together, let’s reset, reassess, and reimagine a brighter future for ourselves and our school communities.

Here’s to 2025—a year of reinvention, resilience, and renewal.

Creating Connections in Flight: A Lesson in Empathy from Delta Airlines

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As many of my close friends and family know, I am a nervous flyer. Over the years, I have had to face this fear head-on, seeking the support of a therapist and using strategies, including medication, to overcome the challenges of flying. While it hasn’t been easy, I’m proud of my ongoing efforts to confront this fear.

Flying isn’t something I do often—time and expense tend to be barriers—but recently, I had the opportunity to attend the National Education Leaders Workshop in Atlanta. It was an incredible event, full of ideas on reimagining teaching and learning in the schoolhouse. To experience it, though, I had to book a flight.

Before the trip, I reviewed my strategies with my therapist and felt optimistic. For the first time in a long while, I didn’t feel that familiar pit of anxiety in my stomach as I prepared for the flight. Instead, I felt calm anticipation.

As I sat at the gate with my colleagues, I began to notice small, powerful moments unfolding around me. At one point, a pilot walked out—likely heading for a quick coffee—and spotted two young boys playing with a toy plane. He knelt down to greet them warmly, telling them how excited he was to have them on his flight. Then, he invited them and their parents to visit the cockpit before takeoff. Later, as I boarded, the gate agent greeted each passenger—including me—by name. Touched by her effort, I made sure to thank her personally, using her name from her nametag.

These intentional acts of connection helped dissolve any lingering nervousness I had about the flight. They also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of small, meaningful gestures in leadership. Witnessing those moments inspired me to think about how such intentional actions could foster trust and belonging in the schoolhouse, reaffirming my commitment to creating a culture of connection in our community. The flight itself was smooth, and I even shared a lighthearted exchange with the pilot, who joked about our shared baldness. These small yet meaningful moments reminded me of a recent book I read, Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. It’s a must-read for leaders who want to create cultures of connection and build meaningful moments within their organizations. Check out the book here.

Delta Airlines demonstrated a commitment to humanity and empathy during that flight, and it left a profound impact on me. Their intentional gestures—from personalized greetings to creating special moments for passengers—highlight the power of thoughtful actions. As a school leader, this translates to practices like ensuring every student and teacher feels personally welcomed, celebrating achievements in visible ways, and creating opportunities for connection that make each person feel valued and supported. Their thoughtful gestures weren’t just routine—they were intentional, and they made me feel seen and valued. As a school leader, this experience reinforced my belief in the power of small yet meaningful actions to create a culture of connection in the schoolhouse.

Four Action Steps for Building Connections in Your Schoolhouse

  1. Greet Students and Teachers at the Door Be present and intentional at the start of the day. A warm greeting at the door sets a positive tone and ensures that everyone—students and teachers alike—feels seen and valued.
  2. Write Handwritten Notes Take time to write notes to teachers, celebrating the amazing things you see happening in classrooms. A personal, sincere message can uplift and inspire.
  3. Make Positive Phone Calls Home Share good news with families about their children. A positive phone call can build trust and strengthen relationships with parents and guardians.
  4. Surprise Your Team with Small Acts of Kindness Bring a favorite coffee order, leave a sticky note of encouragement on a desk, or organize a quick celebration to recognize milestones. These unexpected gestures build morale and community.

Building Psychological Safety

The Delta crew had no idea I struggled with flight anxiety, but their thoughtful actions created an environment where I felt safe and at ease. Similarly, in our schools, we may not always know the struggles our students, teachers, families, and staff carry with them each day. It is our responsibility to create an atmosphere of psychological safety—a place where everyone feels supported and valued.

Each act of connection, no matter how small, sends a powerful message: “You matter. We’re glad you’re here.” When we lead with hope and belief, we create ripples of positivity that can transform our schoolhouse communities. Let’s commit to making these moments a daily practice, knowing that our words and actions have the power to uplift, inspire, and connect.

Beat Support Revisited: Leadership in Rhythm

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Leadership can feel like navigating the swirling chaos of a live performance—where the screams of the crowd threaten to drown out your rhythm. As school leaders, it’s easy to get lost in the noise, but it’s in these moments that we must tune into those around us. The people we lead and serve are our rhythm section, and finding the right “beat support” can make all the difference.

I’ve been reflecting on this idea recently, inspired by a moment I once shared on my podcast, #PrincipalLinerNotes. Years ago, during one of my “Impromptu Carpool Episodes,” I recorded an off-the-cuff reflection about a clip of The Beatles performing “I Feel Fine” live. Amidst the chaos of Beatlemania—where stage monitors were nonexistent and screaming fans drowned out everything—Paul McCartney stepped in with a move of pure leadership. During Ringo Starr’s incredible drum break, Paul gave a quick cue, counting Ringo back in and ensuring he nailed his return to the beat.

That moment wasn’t just about music; it was a masterclass in leadership. It demonstrated the importance of being attuned to your team, providing support when they need it, and ensuring that everyone finds their rhythm.

The Rhythm of Belonging

I explored this connection between The Beatles, leadership, and education in my book, The Pepper Effect. In it, I share lessons from the Fab Four that remind us of the power of collaboration, creativity, and connection. (You can check out the book here! The Pepper Effect on Amazon).

One of the most important lessons from both The Beatles and leadership is the role of belonging. As leaders, we need to provide the cues and support that allow our team to thrive. Whether it’s a trusted teacher who serves as your barometer or the intentional moments where you help others find their groove, belonging starts with building connections.

Four Ways Leaders Can Build Beat Support

Here are four actionable ways leaders can create their own “beat support” and foster belonging:

1. Find Your Barometer

Identify someone you trust—someone who will be honest with you—and use them as a gauge to understand how your decisions and words land with your team.

2. Be a Barometer for Others

Provide clear and supportive cues for your team. Let them know where they stand and help them feel confident in their role.

3. Celebrate Strengths

Like Paul recognizing Ringo’s brilliance, tune into the unique gifts of your team members and amplify their contributions.

4. Create Collaborative Spaces

Build opportunities for your team to share ideas, support each other, and work toward common goals. Belonging grows in the spaces where collaboration thrives.

What’s Next: Why The Beatles Matter

This reflection on leadership, belonging, and The Beatles has inspired me to launch a new podcast called “Why The Beatles Matter,”starting December 12. This podcast will explore the lasting impact of The Beatles and their legacy through conversations with people whose lives have been shaped by their music and message.

I’m looking for future guests to share their stories of how The Beatles inspired them. If you’d like to join me on this journey, email me at sgaillard84@gmail.com. Spaces are filling up fast.

Celebrating Small Wins and Building Delight in the Schoolhouse

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As a principal, I often find myself dreaming big. I thrive on the grand visions, the Moonshot thinking, and the aspirational moves that inspire transformation. I envision a schoolhouse where many hands work together, creating a masterpiece of learning. But here’s the thing: while I may live in that realm of possibility, I know not everyone shares the same bandwidth or sense of urgency. We all move at different speeds, and it’s our responsibility as leaders to gauge where our teams are. To lead effectively, we must be visible, be present, and most importantly, listen. It’s through this intentional awareness that trust is cultivated.

In the past year, I’ve found a renewed appreciation for the power of small wins, a lesson beautifully captured in two books that have become cornerstones of my leadership practice: Legacy of Learning by Meghan Lawson and The Leader Inside by Lauren Kaufman. Both authors remind us of the importance of celebrating small moves as stepping stones to greater heights. They offer a powerful perspective on how small, intentional acts can build momentum, nurture growth, and foster a culture of progress.

Embracing the Power of Small Wins

In today’s educational landscape, many of us are feeling the weight of the pandemic’s aftermath and the uncertainties of new challenges. I see it daily in our school—a fatigue that cannot be lifted by a Jeans Day or a Donut Party. We need more than quick fixes or temporary boosts. As leaders, we must make deeper, more intentional moves that celebrate small wins and bring joy back into our school communities.

One way I’ve embraced this approach is through curating Images of Possibility. I’ve been using Wakelet to capture and share snapshots of the good happening in our schoolhouse—students smiling, engaging in hands-on learning, or experiencing new adventures like a virtual field trip to Alaska via Nearpod. I sent this Wakelet collection to our staff with a simple note, inviting them to pause and savor these moments. It was a small gesture, but it created a powerful ripple of positivity.

During a recent focus group with our teacher assistants, I shared the Wakelet collection and asked them to reflect on the small wins they’ve witnessed. One TA’s words resonated deeply: “A small win is just that—a win. And a win is a win.” Her comment sparked a wave of sharing, as others opened up about personal victories and classroom successes. It was a moment filled with belonging, connection, and most importantly, hope.

Building Delight Through Intentional Leadership

Reading Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara has also shaped my perspective on leadership lately. Guidara talks about building delight, not through grand gestures, but through thoughtful, intentional moves that show we care. This idea has inspired me to rethink how I approach small wins, not as fleeting moments, but as opportunities to build delight and create lasting impact.

We, as leaders, are called to cultivate hope. We must lift each other up, recognizing that our presence and our voice are catalysts for the hope our students need. It’s about finding the small wins, tuning into them with intention, and amplifying them with purpose.

Four Action Steps for Building Delight and Celebrating Small Wins

  1. Curate Moments of Joy: Start a collection on Wakelet to capture images and posts that highlight the everyday successes in your school. Share these with your staff regularly, creating a visual reminder of the good happening in your schoolhouse. It’s a simple yet powerful way to inspire and uplift.
  2. Begin Meetings with Small Wins: Kick off your meetings by inviting staff to share a recent small win. This practice sets a positive tone, fosters a sense of accomplishment, and encourages a mindset of celebration. It’s a small step that can create a big impact.
  3. Build a Culture of Sharing: Encourage your staff and PLN to use the hashtag #SmallWinsEDU across social media platforms. By sharing small wins, we create a dialogue of support and inspiration. Let’s celebrate each other’s victories and build a network of hope together.
  4. Celebrate Progress, Not Just Perfection: Make it a point to notice and celebrate progress, even if it’s incremental. Acknowledge the effort and the journey, not just the final outcome. When we focus on progress, we create a culture where every step forward is valued and celebrated.

A Call to Action

As school leaders, we have the power to shape the narrative. Let’s tune into the small wins, build delight, and create a culture of hope. Let’s support each other in this journey, lifting each other up through the small yet powerful moves we make every day. Together, we can make a difference, one small win at a time.

So, let’s start today. Share your small wins using the hashtag #SmallWinsEDU and let’s create a collective space of inspiration and support. After all, a small win is still a win, and every win deserves to be celebrated.

Keep dreaming big and finding joy in the small moments. We’ve got this—together.

The Art of Going Solo: Why Leaders Need Time Alone

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As I stood in line at Barnes & Noble with a couple of new books under my arm, I was feeling deflated. A recent collaborative project I had spearheaded hadn’t gone as planned. My vision for what it could become was met with challenges and miscommunications—mistakes I take full responsibility for. I found myself yearning for the comfort of a bookstore, a sanctuary where I could immerse in words and ideas, hoping to reset my mindset.

While browsing, the headline of a recent Harvard Business Review article caught my eye: “We’re Still Lonely at Work.” It stopped me in my tracks. Loneliness is an epidemic many of us grapple with, whether we’re school leaders, teachers, or district administrators. The piece reminded me of the isolation that can creep in, even when surrounded by people. As leaders, we often navigate a delicate balance between fostering connection and feeling adrift in our own roles.

The Myth of Constant Collaboration

In our line of work, there is a pervasive myth: that the most effective leaders are always collaborating. We’re encouraged to find our “bandmates,” to build a culture of teamwork and shared vision. And while this is crucial, it’s equally important to recognize when it’s time to take a step back and find our creative solitude.

I’ve had the privilege of being part of incredible collaborations, whether it’s through projects like my podcasts, #PrincipalLinerNotes and #HopeAmplified, or through dynamic partnerships in our school’s Professional Learning Network (PLN). Yet, I’ve also experienced the sting of collaborations gone awry—those moments when trust is broken or communication falters. I’ve had ideas co-opted, projects I thought I’d be part of move forward without me, and connections that simply fizzled out. There was the time I thought I was co-writing a book with someone, only to find out they decided to go ahead without me. Or the time I drafted a conference proposal for a co-presentation with a colleague, only to learn they chose not to include me and took the idea to someone else. These setbacks can feel personal, prompting deep reflection on my own role and contributions.

When those moments happen, I retreat into my own creative space. I turn to music and the stories of artists who dared to go solo, forging their own paths when the band wasn’t quite the right fit anymore.

Solo Albums as Metaphors for Leadership

Paul McCartney’s McCartney, Bruce Springsteen’s Nebraska, and Nick Drake’s Pink Moon all come to mind. Each album is a testament to the power of going it alone. McCartney, grappling with the breakup of The Beatles, recorded his first solo album at home. It’s raw, intimate, and features a vulnerability that inspires me. Bruce Springsteen’s Nebraska began as a set of demos intended for the E-Street Band. But when the full band recordings didn’t capture the raw emotion of the demos, Springsteen made a bold decision: he released the demos as the album. It’s a haunting, spare record that wouldn’t be the same with a full band.

Joni Mitchell’s Clouds is another beautiful example of solo expression. On this album, Mitchell showcases her introspective songwriting with just her voice and guitar for much of the record. It’s a deeply personal work that highlights the power of stripping back the layers and letting the essence of the music shine through.

Keith Jarrett’s The Köln Concert is a masterclass in solo creativity. This entirely improvised piano performance captures the raw beauty of an artist fully immersed in their own expression. It’s a reminder of the magic that can happen when we trust ourselves enough to follow our instincts, even without a plan.

These albums remind me that sometimes, we need to embrace our own creative solitude. It’s okay to be a solo act. In fact, it can be essential for recharging our spirits and clarifying our vision as leaders.

Gratitude for Collaborative Partners

As much as I value these solo pursuits, I am equally grateful for the collaborative partners who have taken a chance on me and embraced the spirit of shared creation. I owe a deep sense of gratitude to the few incredible educators who have been true bandmates on this journey. They’ve shown me the power of trust, shared vision, and authentic connection. Their willingness to join forces has renewed my belief in the possibilities of collaboration and reminded me of the joy that comes from making music together.

Four Ways Leaders Can Embrace Solo Creativity

Here are four actionable steps for leaders to carve out solo time and tap into their own creative wellspring:

  1. Write It Out: Start a blog, write a journal entry, or even pen a letter to your future self. Writing is a powerful tool for reflection and can help you process your thoughts and emotions. It’s your own form of “audio journaling,” much like Springsteen’s Nebraska.
  2. Record a Podcast Episode: If you’re feeling inspired, create a solo podcast episode. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just hit record and share your thoughts. This process can be cathartic and help you find your voice, much like McCartney did on his solo debut.
  3. Go for a Solo Walk or Run: Physical exercise can clear your mind and offer a fresh perspective. Leave the headphones at home and listen to the rhythm of your own thoughts. It’s a form of active meditation that can spark new ideas. Outdoor space is good for inspiration and introspection. You can even take Joni Mitchell’s album, “Clouds” with you on a solitary walk.
  4. Create an Art Piece: Whether it’s painting, drawing, or playing an instrument, creating something with your hands can be a wonderful way to express yourself. Like Keith Jarrett’s improvisations, let it be unstructured and free-form. See what emerges when you follow your instincts.

Conclusion: Finding Hope in Solitude and Connection

Leadership is about fostering a sense of belonging and connection for the people we serve, but it starts with us. It starts with acknowledging the times when we need to go solo, to reflect and create on our own terms. By stepping away from the noise of constant collaboration, we strengthen our ability to be present and authentic in our partnerships. We need both the band and the solo album to thrive.

As you reflect on your leadership journey, I encourage you to find your own version of “Walden Pond.” (Thoreau’s Cabin is pictured in the blog graphic for a reason.) Seek out those moments of quiet solitude to recharge your creative energy. It’s in these moments that we build the core of who we are as leaders. By doing so, we can return to our collaborations with renewed clarity, a sense of purpose, and the resolve to foster true connection and belonging.

Let’s embrace our solo efforts, find hope in our quiet moments, and continue building a sense of community for the bandmates who share this leadership journey with us. The interlude into solo pursuits can serve as the antidote for combatting work loneliness and inviting others into the band.

Finding Our Bandmates: Leading with Belonging and Hope in Mind

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There’s a powerful moment in the Ron Howard documentary, The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years, where Paul McCartney reflects on when Ringo Starr first joined the band. McCartney becomes visibly emotional as he recalls the moment The Beatles finally found their unique sound with Ringo’s drumming—the missing piece they’d been searching for. It’s a reminder of the magic that happens when people unite around a shared vision, truly seeing one another in that experience. That’s the heartbeat of any great band, and it’s the pulse that drives a meaningful school culture: connection.

Not every team operates like The Beatles, and not every organization feels that synergy. Even The Beatles had their ups and downs, but despite personal struggles, they continued to rally together. And in our schools, we, too, are called to cultivate that kind of connection, especially in times when loneliness and isolation can seem overwhelming.

A recent article in the Harvard Business Review highlights that one in five employees feel lonely at work. This statistic resonated with me as a principal because leadership can be an isolating role. Principals, often the only ones in their specific position, can feel a sharp sense of loneliness, especially when new to a school. Walking into a new environment, we’ve often left behind a place of familiarity and success and stepped into an unknown, where we may even be perceived as a threat. Building trust in these moments is essential but cannot be accomplished through quick fixes or shallow gestures.

It is also important to remember that the people we serve may be battling some form of loneliness as well. Human-centered work is a labor of love. For some educators in the schoolhouse, the work can be isolating. Individuals in the building may feel bereft of connection for a myriad of reasons. As leaders, we must be steadfast, sincere, and intentional in the steps we take to include those who are not experiencing connection or belonging.

As a principal who has navigated the challenges of turnarounds, I know that intentionality is key. Building trust takes time, and trust is essential for establishing the genuine connections that will combat isolation and loneliness for everyone in the school. As leaders, we must commit to meaningful interactions that empower others and foster a sense of belonging.

Getting into classrooms is one of the most valuable moves we can make as principals. Walkthroughs and observations are essential, but there are ways to build trust and connection beyond mere evaluation. Try hosting a “Read Aloud” or engaging in a “Question Aloud” or “Think Aloud” session. Sharing the written word—whether it’s a passage from an inspiring book or a content-related question—allows us to connect with students and teachers alike. A Read Aloud isn’t just for elementary levels; sharing language and stories can resonate at any grade level, and it’s a moment to be seen as a partner in the learning process rather than an evaluator.

In seeking these connection points, we’re also building pathways for collaboration. One approach I’ve found impactful is a practice I started a couple of years called #InstantPD. After observing a teacher excel in a particular area, I invite them to share a brief, 15-minute PD session for their colleagues. This optional, quick-format session provides a space for teachers to share their insights and build professional connections. As a leader, witnessing this shared growth not only strengthens my sense of belonging but also empowers our educators to connect with each other. This in turn creates authentic belonging and connection for them.

Our role as leaders is not only to combat our own loneliness but also to actively work against it within our schools. Some may be reluctant to join the “band” initially, but with intention and consistency, we can foster a culture where everyone feels they belong.

Conclusion

Hope is the ignition for belonging, and as school leaders, we must foster that hope in ourselves and those we serve. Just as Ringo’s drumming completed The Beatles’ sound, our consistent efforts to connect and include each person in our schools create harmony and a shared purpose. Building a culture of connection requires us to lean into that hope, step into vulnerability, and lead with compassion. Together, we can create school communities that resonate with trust, connection, and shared vision.

Action Steps for Combating Loneliness and Building Connection:

  1. Get Visible in Classrooms
    Make time for a Read Aloud, a Question Aloud, or a Think Aloud. These are powerful ways to build a sense of belonging by connecting with students and teachers on a personal level. Show up, engage, and share in the learning journey with your school community.
  2. Empower Teacher Leadership through #InstantPD
    Encourage teachers to share their strengths in optional 15-minute PD sessions. Not only does this build their confidence, but it also fosters a collaborative culture where colleagues can learn from each other in an informal, supportive environment.
  3. Build and Nurture Your Professional Learning Network (PLN)
    Connect with other leaders, both within your district and beyond, through online communities or local gatherings. A strong PLN can serve as a vital support system, helping you navigate challenges and celebrate successes together.
  4. Create Moments for Personal Connection
    Simple gestures like checking in with staff, sending a quick thank-you note, or organizing informal meetups can go a long way. Recognize and celebrate the unique gifts each person brings, reminding them that they are an essential part of the team.

By taking these steps, we can build a culture where loneliness is replaced with a sense of shared purpose, and every member of the school community feels seen, valued, and connected.

Hope On: Cultivating a Culture of Possibility in the Schoolhouse

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I’m an unabashed fan of the television series The Bear. I’ve breezed through all three seasons, savoring the beautiful portrayal of a group of people coming together around a shared vision to make the impossible possible. The story of a humble sandwich shop transforming into a fine dining restaurant, with aspirations of becoming the world’s greatest, is nothing short of inspiring.

Without giving away spoilers for those who haven’t seen the latest season, I want to share a brief scene that recently came up in a conversation with Meghan Lawson while preparing for our new podcast, Hope Amplified. It’s no secret that Meghan and I admire the show, having discussed it at length on my other podcast, #PrincipalLinerNotes.

Talking with Meghan is always a meaningful and uplifting experience, and I’m eagerly anticipating our upcoming discussions on the art and science of hope in a new podcast we are co-creating called Hope Amplified. As we were mapping out our inaugural episode, we both recalled a powerful scene from the Season 3 finale of The Bear.

In the scene, the chefs and restaurant staff gather for an impromptu afterparty, marking the bittersweet closure of a renowned restaurant. The head chef—celebrated worldwide for her culinary brilliance—decides to prepare a midnight snack for the guests. The host, a rising chef, hesitates when the famous chef finds only a few modest ingredients, including a frozen pizza. Yet, the renowned chef isn’t deterred. With creativity and mastery, she transforms those humble ingredients into something extraordinary. It’s a moment worth watching, as she turns a frozen pizza into a culinary delight.

As we reflected on this scene, we saw it as a fitting emblem for hope. The show itself is a deep, reflective series filled with life-affirming moments of perseverance, collaboration, and innovation. In Hope Rising by Casey Gwinn and Chan Hellman, hope is defined as the belief that the future can be better than the present, combined with the understanding that we have the power to make it so.

Educators strive to embody this belief every day. Even with limited resources, they create transformative experiences in the classroom. I think of the teachers I have the privilege to support as principal at Charles England Elementary, who cultivate hope daily, opening new possibilities for our students. I’m reminded of my 5th-grade teacher, Mrs. McMonagle, who saw something in me—a young, awkward, light-skinned African American boy—that I didn’t always see in myself. She revealed the possibilities within the written word and storytelling. I also think of my first teachers, my parents, who taught me to dream big, walk with purpose, and hold my head high.

Teachers need many things, but at the core is the hope that they can make a difference in the lives of children. It’s the leader’s role to ignite that hope by fostering a sense of belonging, trust, and open communication. Leaders must call out hope and passionately embrace the possibilities it brings. It’s not just a sentiment but an essential, strategic action.

I’m thrilled to dive deeper into the art and science of hope in upcoming episodes of Hope Amplified with Meghan. Some may argue that hope is not a strategy for leaders to depend on. While I understand that perspective, I disagree. Hope isn’t merely a strategy; it’s a must. It’s an essential thread in the daily fabric of our schools, shaping the lives of those we serve. Without hope, we have nothing. With it, we have purpose, potential, and the catalyst for meaningful change. Don’t let anyone deprive you of that spark. Hope on.

Stay tuned for the debut of Hope Amplified, launching November 2nd. Meghan and I invite you to join the conversation and share your thoughts on hope using the hashtag #HopeAmplified. Here are three small moves for leaders to inspire hope in your school:

  1. Impromptu Restorative Circle: Gather colleagues and teachers for an informal circle to share what gives them hope.
  2. Hope in Action Bulletin Board: Showcase experiences from your school where hope is making a difference.
  3. Hope Playlist: Curate a playlist of songs that inspire hope and share it with your faculty.

Let’s continue amplifying hope together. #HopeAmplified

Why Not Hope?-Embracing Possibility in Leadership

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The Dreamer’s Dilemma
Facing Skepticism with Vision

The other day, I found myself discussing a bold, ambitious goal with colleagues. While I was met with polite nods, I sensed hesitation. When I asked if I needed to clarify my vision, they shared that while they appreciated the dream, they believed the realities of our situation—budget constraints, time limits, and logistical barriers—would prevent it from becoming a reality.

I listened and expressed gratitude for their feedback. However, I countered that if we let impossibilities win, we’ll never achieve anything. It’s easy to accept limitations as inevitable, but when we allow that mindset to dominate, progress halts. Dreaming big requires not just vision but also the courage to challenge reality with hope.

Meeting Others Where They Are
Small Moves, Big Impact

I know dreaming big can be daunting for others. Fear, grounded in past experiences, often holds us back from stepping into uncharted territory. I must remind myself not to judge the fears of others but to empower them. Together, we can take small steps to bring the dream closer to reality.

This idea echoes the work of my friend and thought partner Meghan Lawson, whose book, Legacy of Learning: Teaching for Lasting Impact, explores the concept of “small moves.” She shows how incremental progress can sustain dreams and turn them into dynamic action that benefits everyone.

The Power of Hope
Why Leaders Must Defy Cynicism

In a recent episode of my Principal Liner Notes Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Meghan Lawson for the fourth time. As always, her insights were illuminating. This time, she shared her research on the Science of Hope, a framework that fascinated me. Meghan framed hope not as a passive emotion but as a viable tool for creating change.

Too often, leaders dismiss hope, branding it as ineffective. We’ve all heard the phrase, “Hope is not a strategy.” But when did we decide that embracing hope meant abandoning strategy? Hope can be the catalyst that ignites action. It’s the foundation we need to build dynamic, transformative strategies that work.

Just think—what if John F. Kennedy hadn’t embraced hope when he delivered his famous “We Choose to Go to the Moon” speech? Without hope, there would be no Moon landing, no template for Moonshot Thinking. The impossible only became possible because someone dared to hope and challenged others to do the same.

A Beatles Lesson in Hope
Staying True to Vision

The Beatles’ classic song “Hey Jude” offers another powerful lesson in hope. When they first recorded the song, some in the music industry said it was too long at over seven minutes. Radio stations wouldn’t play it, they warned. But John Lennon famously replied, “They will if it’s us.”

And he was right. Hey Jude went on to sell over 8 million copies after its initial release and stayed at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for nine weeks. To this day, it’s been streamed over 1.5 billion times on Spotify.

The Beatles operated with hope by trusting their vision and defying the limitations imposed by industry norms. That hope led to the creation of a timeless song that still resonates today.

The Call for Hope in Education
Leading with Vision and Possibility

As school leaders, we carry enormous responsibility. Many look to us for solutions, quick fixes, and results. The pressure to meet objectives can make it tempting to dismiss hope as impractical or naive. But I believe hope is exactly what we need.

There will always be pushback—colleagues may talk about you in the parking lot, claiming you’re chasing windmills. But there’s someone in your building who needs to hear a voice rooted in hope. Remember those who saw something in you, believed in you, and called out your potential. They didn’t see you as you were; they saw you as you could be—and that’s the power of hope.

Just as JFK’s words on a Houston day in September ignited a nation to reach the Moon, we, too, can challenge our teams to strive for the stars. Think of the teacher who believed in you and stretched your learning into unknown territory, simply because they had hope.

As Martin Luther King, Jr. shares, “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” Hope is lasting, enduring, and impactful. We need Hope in the marrow of our culture and the cadence of our dialogue. We need to illuminate a compass of Hope on the teachers and students we serve.

Yes, why not hope?

Four Action Steps to Build a Culture of Hope
Transforming Leadership with Vision

  1. Research the Science of Hope
    Leverage resources on hope to ground your leadership approach in actionable, evidence-based strategies that inspire change.
  2. Start with Small Moves
    Build momentum by taking small, consistent steps toward your larger vision. Focus on small wins that create a ripple effect in your organization. Meghan Lawson writes about this in her amazing book, Legacy of Learning.
  3. Lead with Vision, Not Fear
    Acknowledge the realities, but don’t let them stifle your vision. Inspire your team to look beyond limitations and into possibilities.
  4. Amplify Success Stories
    Celebrate the achievements—both big and small—of your team and students. When others see what’s possible, they’re more likely to believe in and contribute to the bigger vision. Curate those stories using a school hashtag and creating a list with either Padlet, Canva, or Wakelet.

Hope is not just a lofty ideal; it’s the engine that powers real change. Let it be the guide that drives your leadership and inspires others to dream bigger.

Enjoy The Beatles performance of “Hey Jude.”