Best Servantleadership Podcasts (2025)

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Relational Strategies That Strengthen Academics - Dr. Lori Lynass 17:42

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4h ago17:42

17:42

Today our guest is Dr. Lori Lynass, Sr. Director of MTSS at CharacterStrong. We talk to Lori about how connection isn’t “extra” or “soft”—it’s a strategic, academic practice at the heart of effective Tier 1 work. She shares how simple strategies, like quick community-building circles, can be woven into the school day in just a few minutes and still…

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Dr. Maurice Fuller: Leading in Volunteer Organizations (Season 2, Ep. 8) 38:33

7h ago38:33

38:33

In this episode, Dr. Fuller explores the power of leading in volunteer organizations, with a spotlight on Toastmasters as a catalyst for growth. You’ll hear how members transform their public speaking, leadership, and confidence—skills that carry far beyond the club into careers and communities. Join us to discover how volunteer leadership can shap…

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Systems Over Goals: Building Belonging in Schools - Dr. Darian Jones 16:40

6d ago16:40

16:40

Today our guest is Dr. Darian Jones, Program Implementation Specialist at CharacterStrong. We talk to Dr. Jones on why belonging must be built into the systems of a school, not left to chance. He highlights how proactive and responsive practices, like structured greetings, advisory systems, and intentional transitions can help both students and adu…

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Dr. Jeff Radford: Mercy in Leadership: Lessons from the Frontline in the Healthcare Industry (Season 2, Ep.7) 40:25

7d ago40:25

40:25

In this episode, Dr. Radford unpacks why empathy and compassion aren’t just “feel-good” qualities — they are powerful drivers of innovation, collaboration, and trust in leadership. Drawing from frontline experiences in healthcare and lessons that apply to any organization, you’ll discover why leading with mercy is more than a mindset — it’s a movem…

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The Power of Presence in a Rushed World - John Norlin 5:58

13d ago5:58

5:58

On today's episode CharacterStrong Co-Founder John Norlin explores a simple idea with big impact: the pace of our day influences the way we show up for others. When we’re constantly rushing, even our best intentions, like showing kindness or practicing empathy, can get lost in the shuffle. John invites educators and leaders to reflect on how we pri…

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Dr. John Edward Betterson: Leading in the Logistics & Supply Chain Management Industry (Season 2, Ep. 6) 47:05

14d ago47:05

47:05

In this powerful episode, Dr. John Betterson unpacks one of the most underrated superpowers in leadership — Emotional Intelligence.From the fast-paced world of logistics and supply chain management to the high-stakes arena of strategic leadership, Dr. Betterson shares real-world stories and lessons learned on the front lines. You’ll discover: · How…

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2025 Tier 2 Summit: Problem-Solving Common Barriers to Tier 2 - Dr. Clay Cook 14:42

20d ago14:42

14:42

Today we talk with Dr. Clay Cook, the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. He shares the biggest reasons Tier 2 systems stall—and what to do about it. Dr. Cook unpacks common barriers like unclear roles, limited capacity, and lack of team clarity, offering practical, hopeful solutions every school can apply. Learn More About CharacterStron…

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Dr. Robert Wilson: Mental Health & Leadership (Season 2, Ep.5) 36:25

22d ago36:25

36:25

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Robert L. Wilson Jr.—a trailblazer in mental health and organizational development—to explore how mindfulness can revolutionize the way you lead. Discover how integrating mindfulness into your leadership style boosts emotional intelligence, empathy, focus, and overall well-being—both for you and your t…

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What Happens When Kids Know You Believe In Them - Dr. Andre Stout 17:40

27d ago17:40

17:40

Today our guest is Dr. Andre Stout, principal at Gray Middle School, in Tacoma, WA. We talk to Dr. Stout about how intentional systems—not just goals—drive lasting change. From daily character lessons and biweekly Fireside Chats to celebrating growth and reclaiming the hallways, he breaks down the simple, strategic systems that helped shift school …

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Dr. Maurice Fuller: Leading in the Pharmacy Industry (Season 2, Ep.4) 33:50

29d ago33:50

33:50

In this powerful episode, Dr. Maurice Fuller—pharmacy veteran with over 40 years of experience—shares how integrating mindfulness and emotional intelligence can transform leadership in the pharmacy industry. From prescription counters to leading with purpose, Dr. Fuller reveals how self-awareness, empathy, and mindfulness are reshaping pharmacy lea…

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Every Student, Every Need: Rethinking School Support - Jeff Cohen 12:14

1M ago12:14

12:14

Today our guest is Jeff Cohen, CEO of FullBloom. We talk to Jeff about what it really means to support students. He challenges us to rethink the one-size-fits-all models and instead embrace a personalized approach, one where schools are equipped to meet every student where they are. From personalizing learning experiences to strengthening the adult…

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Jason Brooks: Leading in the Restaurant/Hospitality Industry (Season 2, Ep. 3) 33:10

1M ago33:10

33:10

Strong leadership in the restaurant industry starts with smart systems. In this episode, Restaurant Coach Jason Brooks shares how effective processes elevate team performance, enhance guest experiences, and drive lasting success. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on how great leaders transform restaurants from simple dining spots into unforget…

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Tools, Trust, and Teaching What Matters - Kelli Brabson 16:01

1M ago16:01

16:01

Today our guest is Kelli Brabson the MTSS Coordinator at Mossville Grade School. We talk to Kelli about what it means to invest in students intentionally, proactively, and with heart. Drawing from over two decades of experience as a teacher, principal, and now MTSS leader, Kelli shares practical strategies for building community, fostering accounta…

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Randall Koch, Leading in the Martial Arts Industry 34:13

2M ago34:13

34:13

In this powerful episode, we step into the dojo to explore the unexpected yet profound connection between martial arts and leadership . Our expert guest, Randall Koch, brings over 43 years of combined martial arts and self-defense experience, including Taekwondo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Krav Maga, to the table. But this conversation goes far beyon…

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Carrying Less, Caring More: The Power of Emptying the Backpack - Sam Demma 19:08

2M ago19:08

19:08

Today our guest is Author and Keynote Speaker Sam Demma. We talk to Sam about the powerful concept of “Emptying Your Backpack,” which began during a series of live Instagram chats with students. Sam shares why it’s essential to help young people release the negative thoughts, emotions, and labels they carry, and how doing so can create space for gr…

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Season 2, Ep. 1: Leading in the E-Commerce Industry 53:21

2M ago53:21

53:21

Join us for an insightful episode as we delve into the world of leadership in the ever-evolving e-commerce industry. I’m thrilled to be joined by Coco Duan — a former Fortune 500 executive turned life coach — who brings a wealth of experience and a refreshing perspective on what it really means with unshakable confidence. In this conversation, you’…

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The Story of Natalie Nixon - Move, Think, Rest 1:31:50

2M ago1:31:50

1:31:50

In this episode, we chat with Creativity Strategist Natalie Nixon about the connections between dance, creativity, and personal growth. She shares transformative insights from her experiences in ballet, modern dance, and open water swimming, emphasizing the importance of embracing vulnerability and imperfection. We discuss her upcoming book, "Move,…

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2025 School Safety Summit - Prevention in Action: The Power of Effective Threat Assessment - Dr. Dewey Cornell 16:24

2M ago16:24

16:24

On this episode we are sharing a conversation from the 2025 School Safety Summit. Dr. Dewey Cornell, a leading national expert in school safety, shares the science and practical strategies behind effective threat assessment. He explains why prevention must go beyond zero tolerance policies and how schools can use structured, research-backed approac…

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From Listening to Launch: Collaborative Curriculum Selection - Joanna Frankel 19:56

2M ago19:56

19:56

Today our guest is Joanna Frankel the Director of Elementary Culture and Climate at Portland Public Schools. We talk to Joanna about how her team led a deeply collaborative curriculum selection process—gathering input from over 300 staff members, conducting a community listening tour with families, and piloting options with 37 educators. She reflec…

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2025 School Safety Summit - Beyond Response: Building Safer Schools Through Relationships and Resilience - Frank DeAngelis 15:57

2M ago15:57

15:57

On this episode we are sharing a conversation from the 2025 School Safety Summit. Frank DeAngelis, former longtime principal of Columbine High School, shares powerful lessons on prevention, resilience, and leadership. He highlights why real school safety is about relationships, readiness, and collective action—and reminds us why we must continue wo…

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A Purposeful Approach to Student Support - Sam Dusek & Jordan Seifert 20:21

3M ago20:21

20:21

Today our guests are Sam Dusek & Jordan Seifert, School Counselors at Meyer Middle School and part of the team that was awarded the 2025 Wisconsin School Counseling Team of the Year. We talk to Sam & Jordan about how their school counseling program is leading the way in proactive, purpose-driven student support. They share how a clear mission focus…

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Holistic Student Support In Action - Cory McCarthy 19:01

3M ago19:01

19:01

Today our guest is Cory McCarthy, the Chief of Student Support for Boston Public Schools. We talk with Cory about what it means to take a truly holistic approach to student support. He explains the critical difference between technicaland adaptive progress monitoring—and why getting to the “third why” in conversations with students and staff is a g…

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Alwin Put on 'The Hook' 15:57

3M ago15:57

15:57

This episode centers around the concept of "the hook," a transformative idea that has the potential to enhance participant engagement and foster meaningful connections during workshops and meetings.By Morgan Duta

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Captain Shantae Coppock, Ph.D. – Leading in the Law Enforcement Field (Special Ep.1) 1:37:11

3M ago1:37:11

1:37:11

In this powerful pre-launch episode of Season 2, Dr. Ralph Hughes sits down with Captain Shantae’ Coppock, Ph.D., to explore the realities of leadership in law enforcement—through the lens of African American officers navigating both systemic challenges and community expectations. From the importance of mentorship and ethical policing to the role o…

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The Story of Leo Chan - Belonging and Redefining Creativity 1:39:21

3M ago1:39:21

1:39:21

The Power of Human Creativity in a Time of AI Reflections from a conversation with Leo Chan In a rich and personal conversation on the Radio Future Skills Academy podcast, Leo Chan joined Arne van Oosterom and Morgan Duta to talk about creativity, imposter syndrome, the importance of psychological safety, and the impact of AI. What unfolded was mor…

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Celebrate the Small Stuff: The Power of Positive School Storytelling - Dr. Vince Breunig 21:01

3M ago21:01

21:01

Today our guest is Dr. Vince Breunig, District Administrator at the School District of Lodi. We talk to Dr. Breunig about the power of consistently sharing the good happening in our schools. He shares practical strategies for celebrating small but meaningful moments, filling the community with positivity, and making space for authentic engagement—e…

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Sustainability: A Key to Lasting Impact in Education - Dr. Clay Cook 15:24

3M ago15:24

15:24

Today our guest is Dr. Clay Cook the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. We talk to Clay about one the most important parts of implementation: sustainability. From onboarding and monitoring fidelity to embedding new practices into the fabric of school culture, Clay shares the essential systems that help schools avoid implementation drift.…

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Annika Madejska on Facilitating Evil 17:13

3M ago17:13

17:13

In this episode of The Naked Facilitator, we talk with Annika Madejska about her provocative workshop “Facilitating Evil.” What happens when we flip the script and explore how technology can be misused with good intentions gone wrong? Anika shares how speculative design, worldbuilding, and playful discomfort can trigger deep ethical reflection—and …

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Tackling Tech & Teen Anxiety: A Community on a Mission - John Hellwich 20:21

4M ago20:21

20:21

Today our guest is John Hellwich, the Director of Secondary Teaching and Learning at the Peninsula School District in WA. We talk to John about the Gig Harbor/Key Peninsula community campaign inspired by the book The Anxious Generation. With anxiety rising and screen time out of control, this grassroots movement is bringing together schools, faith …

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Showing Up Matters: The Power of Daily Connection - Alex Kajitani 19:15

4M ago19:15

19:15

Today our guest is Alex Kajitani the 2009 California Teacher of the Year and also The Rappin' Mathematician. We talk to Alex about the foundational role that relationships play in education. He unpacks the three essential components every relationship must have and highlights the different types of relationships students navigate daily—with themsel…

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Start Small, Lead Big: Building Culture with Student Leaders - Julia Kennedy 15:56

4M ago15:56

15:56

Today our guest is Julia Kennedy the SEL Coach at Meduxnekeag Consolidated School in Woodstock, NB. We talk with Julia about her school’s CharacterStrong journey and the intentional steps they’ve taken to build a stronger culture. She shares how they’ve created meaningful opportunities for student engagement—like having 200 students sign up to gree…

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The Story of Jesse Poe - Music, Neurodivergence and a new start 1:29:37

4M ago1:29:37

1:29:37

Behind the Glass Wall “Sometimes, I feel like I’m behind a glass wall.” Morgan described this feeling during our conversation with Jesse Poe. She spoke about observing the world, people, conversations, systems, all unfolding just beyond an invisible barrier. You’re present, yet not truly part of it. That image resonated deeply with me. It brought t…

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Character Traits That Connect: A K–12 Approach - Dr. Mark Chapin 14:17

4M ago14:17

14:17

Today our guest is Dr. Mark Chapin, Principal at Meyer Middle School. We talk to Dr. Chapin about how his district takes a purposeful approach to character development—from monthly character kickoff presentations to unifying yearly themes. He explains how each trait is clearly defined and modeled across all grade levels, K–12, and how community inp…

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From Curriculum to Connection: Building Belonging with PBIS 19:41

4M ago19:41

19:41

Today our guest is Mariah Reed-Brown, School Counselor at Paradise Valley High School. We talk to Mariah about how she’s customized the CharacterStrong curriculum to strengthen her school’s PBIS framework. She shares how getting into classrooms and intentionally connecting Tier 1 practices to PBIS has helped foster a stronger sense of belonging for…

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Equipping Students To Navigate Conflict With Compassion - Jocelyn Pajimula 17:02

5M ago17:02

17:02

Today our guest is Jocelyn Pajimula the Social and Emotional Learning Coordinator & Restorative Practices Coach at Ewa Makai Middle School. We talk to Jocelyn about how her school have created a system to give students tools to repair and prevent broken broken relationships. She breaks down their two key strategies when conflict arises and introduc…

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The Story of Alwin Put - Why Holding Space is Exhausting (and Beautiful) 1:41:27

5M ago1:41:27

1:41:27

The Hidden Life of a Facilitator By Arne van Oosterom Facilitation often looks easy from the outside. A room full of people, energy, sticky notes, good vibes, some structure, and someone calmly guiding the process. But what most people don’t see is the part that happens afterwards. When the room is empty again. When you’re back in the car. Or alone…

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Living Out Your Purpose - Taryne Dismuke 18:39

5M ago18:39

18:39

Today our guest is Taryne Dismuke, Culture Catalyst at DO EWE Coaching & Consulting. We talk to Taryne about the concept of living out your pillars of purpose. She unpacks how easy it is to get pulled away from our core purpose in education—and how that drift can lead to burnout. Taryne offers practical insights on staying grounded in our “why,” an…

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COLUMN - by Arne van Oosterom - AI and the Human Experience 6:45

5M ago6:45

6:45

Hey everyone, welcome to another episode of Future Skills Academy Podcast with a Column by Arne van oosterom: I’m really excited to share something that’s been on my mind for a while. We’ve all heard how technology—and more specifically AI—seems to be creeping into every corner of our lives. I mean, it’s not just about writing blog posts or crunchi…

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The Story of Annika Madejska - Ethical Debt, AI and Neurodiversity 1:28:53

5M ago1:28:53

1:28:53

Wired Differently: A Conversation with Annika Madejska on AI, Neurodiversity, and Ethical Debt When we spoke with Annika Madejska for our podcast, it was one of those conversations that lingered long after we hit stop on the recording. Thoughtful, sharp, and honest—Annika shared stories and insights that connected the personal and the professional …

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Helping Students Stay Present And Focused - Cara Newman 15:49

5M ago15:49

15:49

Today our guest is Cara Newman a 4th grade educator in the Plainedge School District. We talk to Cara about how a simple yet powerful practice—having students set intentions throughout the day—can increase focus, presence, and ownership in the classroom. She explains how this strategy fosters student buy-in, supports self-regulation, and ultimately…

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Building a Student-Centered MTSS: Mental Health Strategies That Work - Dr. Tinisha Parker 30:23

5M ago30:23

30:23

On this episode we are featuring content from our 2025 MTSS Summit! Dr. Tinisha Parker, Executive Director of Student Services for Gwinnett County Public Schools, shares her expertise on integrating mental health within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports. With over two decades of experience as an educator, school counselor, and district leader, Dr. …

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Building a Mental Health Continuum Within MTSS: Strategies for Schools - Dr. Sharon Hoover 25:52

6M ago25:52

25:52

On this episode we are featuring content from our 2025 MTSS Summit! Dr. Sharon Hoover discusses the critical intersection of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support and mental health. As a leading expert in school mental health, Dr. Hoover shares insights on how schools can effectively integrate mental health prevention and intervention services within an …

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The Power of Community Circles: Strengthening Student Relationships & Behavior - Charles MacGregor 16:07

6M ago16:07

16:07

Today our guest is Charles MacGregor, a School Counselor at Penrose Elementary and emerging leader with the Colorado School Counselor Association Board of Directors. We talk to Charles about how his school has embraced community circles as part of their morning meetings, fostering stronger relationships and positively impacting student behavior. He…

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EDITORIAL - The Edge of Chaos - 11:31

6M ago11:31

11:31

Welcome to this week’s Editorial. I’m thrilled you’re joining me today. I want to dive into a topic that’s central to how we innovate, lead, and navigate our constantly changing world. And the metaphor I love using for this is the image of a tightrope walker. So, picture yourself on a tightrope, arms stretched out, wobbling just enough to keep your…

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Advocating For School Counselors As Mental Health Professionals - Jordan Blevins 18:23

6M ago18:23

18:23

Today our guest is Jordan Blevins, School Counselor at Pacific Law Academy & 2025 California School Counselor of the Year We talk to Jordan about the critical role school counselors play as student mental health professionals, often being the first point of contact for students in need. She discusses the importance of advocating for the counselor’s…

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The Story of Samuel West - Museum of Failure and conceptual dyslexia 1:34:55

6M ago1:34:55

1:34:55

In this episode, we explore the concept of "conceptual dyslexia" with Samuel West, the founder of the Museum of Failure. We discuss how this term illuminates the cognitive processes of creative thinkers who connect diverse concepts, enhancing our understanding of the world. Samuel shares insights on navigating creativity amidst uncertainty, emphasi…

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Always Improving: Making Our Tier 2 Solution Even More Effective For Educators And Students - Dr. Clay Cook 15:38

6M ago15:38

15:38

Today our guest is Dr. Clay Cook, Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. We talk with Clay about the importance of Tier 2 interventions in schools. The discussion highlights key improvements to CharacterStrong’s Tier 2 solution, including reducing prep time for small group skill-building sessions, increasing engagement, and enhancing data tr…

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Empowering First-Generation Students: Strategies For Counselors And Schools - Carrie Woodard 13:12

7M ago13:12

13:12

Today our guest is Carrie Woodard the Director Student Support Services - School Counselors at Pittsburgh Public Schools. We talk to Carrie about ways that school counselors can create a strong support system for first-generation students—offering personalized guidance on navigating the college application process, exploring financial aid options, …

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2025 NSCW: Beyond the Basics: Strengthening Student Support Systems - Dr. Damien Sweeney 16:02

7M ago16:02

16:02

Dr. Damien Sweeney shares his expertise on supporting students through strong relationships, collaboration, and culturally sustaining practices. Drawing from his diverse career in education, counseling, and leadership, Dr. Sweeney discusses the importance of student trust, multi-tiered systems of support, and integrating student voices into decisio…

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Providing A Safe Environment In An Overcrowded Middle School - Rebecca Thompson & Charlee Breeden 19:06

7M ago19:06

19:06

Today our guests are Principal Rebecca Thompson & Associate Principal Charlee Breeden at Tomahawk Creek Middle School in Midlothian, VA We talk to Rebecca & Charlee about how they create a safe, supportive environment in an overcrowded middle school. They highlight the power of knowing names, servant leadership, and safety. Rebecca emphasizes the i…