Season 4, Episode 2 – “The Last Time”

Graduation season has a way of hitting the heart. In this episode, Joe and Al reflect on graduation speeches and the powerful idea of “the last time.” For some parents, this moment marks the last school pickup, the last concert, the last game from the stands.

Season 4 starts with a conversation every educator, parent, and leader needs to hear. In this episode, we dive into the idea of “hulking fixing”—that instinct to swoop in, solve the problem, and move on—often with the best intentions. But what happens when fixing isn’t what kids actually need?

We reflect on the students who have changed us, shaped our leadership, and reminded us why relationships always come first. From moments of humility to lessons learned the hard way, this episode challenges us to slow down, listen more, and recognize that sometimes the growth happens in the struggle—not the solution.

If you’ve ever caught yourself trying to fix instead of understand, this one’s for you.

🎧 Welcome to Season 4. Let’s go.

The Great Reset has officially gone prime time! In this episode, Joe shares the electrifying moment when Old Quarry’s student-led phone-free movement caught the attention of a major news station. Hear how The Great Reset went from a bold idea at a lunch table to a headline story seen across the region. Joe takes us behind the scenes of the interview, the student reactions, and what it felt like to see our school’s mission—disconnect to reconnect—broadcast on TV. This episode is packed with pride, purpose, and a powerful reminder: when students take ownership of positive change, the world notices. 🎥📺📱🚫

🎙️ 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!