The Table | The Deans' Roundtable Podcast Series

Nature as the Classroom: Healing Teen Isolation | Manny Almonte What if the most isolated young men in your community aren't missing a mentor program—they're missing a campfire? Teen social isolation has been declared a national epidemic, and young men of color are carrying a particular kind of loneliness that schools and traditional mentorship programs often fail to reach. In this episode, Bridget Johnson speaks with Manny Almonte—founder of Mastermind Connect and the nonprofit Camping to Connect—about what happens when you take young men out of the environment that's failing them and bring them into nature with no phones, no performance, and no competition. Manny shares how a men's accountability circle became the blueprint for a youth outdoor program now operating in New York, Colorado, and Los Angeles. He walks through what a first camping trip looks like for a teenager who has never left his neighborhood, what fear of the quiet reveals about trauma, and why he says "healing happens through connection." This is a conversation for every educator who senses their students are lonelier than they can name. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why teen social isolation is a systemic issue that goes beyond screens and social media How competition and emotional masking among young men is conditioned from childhood—and how to interrupt it Why nature is uniquely powerful for social-emotional learning with young men who distrust traditional institutions What "fear of the dark" and "fear of quiet" can tell you about a student's trauma history How Camping to Connect creates conditions for authentic vulnerability without coercion Why young men of color often can't trust school counselors—and what actually earns it How schools can partner with programs like Camping to Connect to extend their student support reach Featured Guest: Manny Almonte is the founder of Mastermind Connect and Camping to Connect, a BIPOC-led nonprofit confronting teen social isolation through outdoor experiences grounded in social-emotional learning, mentorship, and brotherhood. His work has been recognized by the NYC Department of Education, the Brooklyn Borough President, and the National Recreation Foundation (2023 Robert W. Crawford Achievement Prize). His award-winning short film Wood Hood has been featured on NBC Nightly News and The Today Show. 🌐 campingtoconnect.org | mastermindconnect.com     Recommended Resources: Wood Hood (short film documentary): Search "Wood Hood film" or visit campingtoconnect.org Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill (referenced in episode re: mastermind concept)     Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deans-roundtable Email: [email protected] The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals and K–12 educational leaders connect, learn, share, and grow together.

The Trauma-to-Prison Pipeline: What Every Educator Needs to Know What if the student disrupting your classroom isn't defiant—but dysregulated? In this episode of The Table Podcast Series, Bridget Johnson sits down with Dr. Dana Ainsworth to explore the trauma-to-prison pipeline and what it means for schools today. Drawing from her doctoral research, Dr. Ainsworth explains how childhood adversity, toxic stress, and systemic policies shape student behavior—and why traditional discipline approaches often make things worse. This conversation reframes behavior as communication and challenges educators to respond with curiosity, not punishment. It also offers practical, science-backed strategies that schools can begin implementing immediately. In this episode, you'll learn: How childhood adversity impacts brain development and behavior Why exclusionary discipline escalates rather than resolves dysregulation What is happening in a student's nervous system during a meltdown The role of supportive relationships in buffering stress and building resilience Why "regulation-first" classrooms improve both behavior and learning Simple, low-cost tools to support student regulation in everyday practice Why adult co-regulation is critical to student success Featured Guest: Dr. Dana Ainsworth holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Justice and focuses her research on the trauma-to-prison pipeline. With over 15 years in education, she now leads Tomorrow House, supporting schools in building trauma-informed, regulation-centered environments. Resources: Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org Community Profile: https://bit.ly/drt-community-profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Tomorrow House: https://tomorrowhouse.co The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Faculty Onboarding Done Right: Retention Starts Here | Meera Shah What if your school's biggest retention strategy isn't compensation—but onboarding? In this episode of The Table Podcast Series, Bridget Johnson sits down with Meera Shah, founder of Tray Education, to explore what faculty onboarding should actually look like in independent schools—and why most programs fall short. Meera reframes onboarding as a full journey: from the moment a candidate first encounters your school, through hiring, summer communication, orientation, mentorship, and into year two and beyond. Together, they unpack how schools can move from transactional onboarding to relationship-centered induction that builds belonging, clarity, and long-term success. In this episode, you'll learn: Why onboarding begins before a contract is signed—and how to use that time intentionally The hidden costs of weak onboarding: burnout, misalignment, and turnover The three purposes of mentorship programs—and why most schools get them wrong How department chairs can anchor instructional onboarding within their teams What years two and three should look like—and how to support faculty beyond survival mode How onboarding connects to your broader professional development culture Featured Guest: Meera Shah is the founder and lead consultant of Tray Education, with over 20 years of experience in independent schools as a teacher, department chair, academic dean, and assistant head for teaching and learning. She specializes in faculty onboarding, mentorship program design, and leadership development for middle leaders. Resources: Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org Community: https://bit.ly/drt-community-profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Tray Education: https://www.treyeducation.com Contact Meera: [email protected] The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals and K–12 educational leaders connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Character Formation in Independent Schools with Ryan S. Olson What kind of human does your school make it easier to become? In this episode of The Table Podcast Series, Bridget Johnson welcomes Ryan S. Olson for a thoughtful, research-based conversation on character formation in independent schools—and the tension many schools face between academic excellence and developing young people of depth, judgment, and integrity. Drawing from his three-year collaboration with independent school heads, Ryan shares practical frameworks that help schools move beyond vague conversations about character and into meaningful action. Together, they explore why character is shaped through everyday school culture, relationships, accountability, and the choices adults make. In this episode, you'll learn: Why schools must form persons, not just performers The three dimensions of character: discipline, attachment, and autonomy The four types of virtue and why practical wisdom matters How the honor vs. excellence tension affects school culture Why student life professionals are central to character formation How restorative practices build accountability, repair, and belonging Why diagnosis—not aspiration—is the best place to begin Featured Guest: Ryan S. Olson is a Senior Fellow at the Institute for Advanced Studies in Culture and Research Associate Professor at the University of Virginia. He is the editor, with James Davison Hunter, of The Content of Their Character: Inquiries into the Varieties of Moral Formation. Resources: Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deans-roundtable Email: [email protected] Institute for Advanced Studies in Culture: https://iasculture.orgCharacter Compass: https://floreat.io The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Student Wellbeing Crisis: What Schools Get Wrong | Dr. Denise Pope Are today's students more successful—or more overwhelmed than ever? In this episode, Bridget Johnson sits down with Dr. Denise Pope, Senior Lecturer at Stanford and co-founder of Challenge Success, to explore what decades of research reveal about student stress, belonging, and engagement. Drawing from data on over 350,000 students, Dr. Pope explains why so many kids are "doing school" instead of truly learning—and how over-scheduling, academic pressure, and misaligned incentives are driving a growing wellbeing crisis. They also explore a surprising connection: how the rise of AI is exposing deeper questions about the purpose of school and what meaningful learning actually looks like.     In this episode, you'll learn: Why so many students feel disengaged—even at top schools The real impact of over-scheduling on student wellbeing How to apply the PDF framework (Playtime, Downtime, Family Time) What belonging actually requires—and why schools often miss it How AI is forcing schools to rethink learning, assessment, and purpose Featured Guest: Dr. Denise Pope is a Senior Lecturer at Stanford's Graduate School of Education and co-founder of Challenge Success, a school reform nonprofit using research-based strategies to improve student wellbeing and engagement. She is the author of Doing School and Overloaded and Underprepared, and a three-time recipient of Stanford's Outstanding Teacher and Mentor Award. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Why Schools Are Getting AI Wrong (And What It's Costing Students) with Sarah Hanawald Why are so many educators resisting generative AI—and what's at risk if they do? In this episode, Bridget Johnson sits down with Sarah Hanawald, Executive Director of the Association for Academic Leaders, to explore one of the biggest challenges facing schools today: how to lead in an AI-driven world. While students rapidly adopt AI tools, many schools remain stuck reacting—adding policies instead of building strategy. This conversation unpacks why that resistance exists, why it's understandable, and why it can't continue. Together, they explore: The real root of educator hesitation (hint: it's identity, not fear) What students lose when adults opt out of AI leadership How to use AI as a thought partner—not just a productivity tool Practical ways academic leaders can create space for faculty to engage Why independent schools have a unique opportunity to lead Sarah also shares how school leaders can move from avoidance to confident, responsible AI integration—and offers a simple challenge you can try today. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deans-roundtable Email: [email protected] Association for Academic Leaders: https://academicleaders.org The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.

Raising Kids Who Belong: Home & School Strategies | Peyten Williams What if every behavior challenge your students or children throw at you is actually a belonging signal in disguise? In this episode of The Table Podcast Series, Bridget Johnson sits down with Peyten Williams — founder of BowBend Consulting and 16-year educator — to explore the brain science behind belonging and what it practically takes to raise children who truly know they matter. Peyten brings together Positive Discipline frameworks, Alfred Adler's theory of human behavior, and restorative practices to offer a paradigm shift for both educators and parents: when we stop reacting to behavior and start reading it as a call for belonging and significance, everything changes. From classroom seating hacks that eliminate cliques to weekly family meetings that build connection, this episode is rich with specific, actionable strategies you can use this week. In this episode, you'll learn: How brain science and Maslow's hierarchy explain why belonging is a prerequisite for student learning How to decode misbehavior as a belonging or significance signal — and what to do instead of punishing it Why the parent-educator relationship breaks down and the one mindset shift that repairs it How restorative practices restore not just the student, but the whole family The "strong and kind adult" framework and practical tools for both parents and educators Featured Guest: Peyten Williams is the founder of BowBend Consulting and a former Director of Teaching & Learning at Westminster Schools in Atlanta with 16 years of experience. Her research-backed work bridges the gap between classroom and home, equipping parents and educators to raise thriving, grounded children who belong. Resources mentioned: The Art of Gathering (Priya Parker) Never Enough (Jennifer Breheny Wallace) Thanks for the Feedback (Stone & Heen) Positive Discipline Mistaken Goals Chart Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Stop Your Brain From Sabotaging Your School | Mitch Weisburgh What if the biggest obstacle in your school isn't budget cuts, student behavior, or the system — but the way your own brain responds to stress? In this episode of The Table Podcast Series, Bridget Johnson is joined by educator and MindShifting founder Mitch Weisburgh to unpack why our survival brains hijack our best leadership instincts, and how school professionals can learn to shift into resourcefulness, resilience, and real collaboration. This is a conversation that meets educators where they are — burned out, stretched thin, and questioning whether they can keep going — and offers something more useful than a pep talk. Mitch brings the science of how the brain works under pressure into direct conversation with the realities of school life, from managing classroom conflict to building team culture to supporting students' social-emotional growth. He shares why conflict, approached correctly, actually produces better outcomes, and how school leaders can create "islands of coherence" that gradually transform an entire institution. In this episode, you'll learn: How to recognize when your survival brain is running the show — before it costs you a relationship or a teachable moment A practical three-pillar framework (Resourcefulness, Resilience, Collaboration) you can begin using today Three evidence-based tools — strength-based feedback, motivational interviewing, and nonviolent communication — that build inclusive classrooms Why supporting adult educators first is the key to better student outcomes How to make meaningful change in your school without waiting for systemic reform Featured Guest: Mitch Weisburgh is an educator, author, and founder of the MindShifting Community who has been teaching MindShifting and Sensemaking to educators since 2018. He is the author of MindShifting: Stop Your Brain from Sabotaging Your Happiness and Success (December 2024) and MindShifting: Conflict and Collaboration (December 2025), and writes a weekly newsletter on inspiring the mind to learn and grow. A lifelong entrepreneur in education, Mitch previously founded Personal Computer Learning Centers of America, cofounded Academic Business Advisors, and launched nonprofits including Games4Ed and Edchat Interactive. Connect with Mitch at https://www.mindshiftingwithmitch.com/. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together. 

Trusted Adults & Healthy Boundaries: Sustainable Student Relationships What does it actually mean to be a trusted adult — and are you doing it in a way that's sustainable? In this episode of The Table Podcast Series, host Bridget Johnson sits down with Dr. Brooklyn Raney to explore the real cost of blurred boundaries in schools and what it takes to build authentic student connections without burning out. Dr. Raney brings both personal experience and rigorous doctoral research on teacher-student care to the conversation. Drawing from the newly released second edition of One Trusted Adult, she introduces her ABCs framework — Accessible, Boundaried, and Caring — as a practical lens for student life professionals navigating the impossible standard of being everything for everyone. Together, Bridget and Brooklyn tackle the warning signs of boundary drift, why students themselves identify oversharing as a top trust-breaker, and how building a culture of trusted adults is fundamentally a team effort. In this episode, you'll learn: Why trust actually requires boundaries — and how to communicate them without pushing students away The 3 most common boundary blurs that erode student trust (backed by student focus groups) How the ABCs framework — Accessible, Boundaried, Caring — protects both students and educators Why prioritizing likeability over authentic connection is the #1 mistake student life professionals make A practical ABC self-assessment you can use this week to reset unsustainable patterns Featured Guest: Dr. Brooklyn Raney is a leadership researcher, speaker, and author whose doctoral work focused on the ethics of care in schools. She is the creator of the One Trusted Adult framework and the author of the newly released second edition of One Trusted Adult: How to Build Strong Connections and Healthy Boundaries with Young People — a research-backed guide used by schools and youth-serving organizations to build cultures where every student has a trusted adult in their corner. Recommended Resources: One Trusted Adult (2nd edition) — available everywhere books are sold Free resources, courses, advisory programs & the "Too Loose, Too Rigid, Just Right" quiz: https://onetrustedadult.com Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Sustainable School Leadership: Escape Heroic Mode with Kalimah Fergus-Ayele Is your school running on systems — or running on you? If things stall the moment you're out of the building, this episode is essential listening. Host Bridget Johnson sits down with Kalimah Fergus Ayele, Author of Roundtrip Ticket Home, to tackle one of the most urgent challenges in school leadership: breaking free from the heroic leadership trap before burnout breaks you first. Kalimah brings her Leadership Infrastructure System (LIS) framework — rooted in design thinking — to show how schools can replace fragile, person-dependent operations with distributed structures that empower every team member. Together, Bridget and Kalimah explore practical tools including the TPR role audit, the RRS Framework (Reflect, Reset, Systemize), and the Japanese philosophy of Wabi-Sabi as a model for imperfect, courageous leadership innovation. In this episode, you'll learn: How to identify whether your school has a "single plane of failure" problem The step-by-step RRS friction audit you can apply immediately this week Why clarity around roles — not more effort — is the real antidote to leadership burnout How to introduce systemic change gradually without triggering team resistance What sustainable leadership actually looks, feels, and functions like day-to-day Featured Guest: Kalimah Fergus-Ayele is the Founder and CEO of Roundtrip Ticket Home, an organization that uses design thinking to help school leadership teams build sustainable infrastructure systems. A NAIS presenter and seasoned educational consultant, Kalimah helps leaders stop being the hero holding everything together — and start building schools that thrive without them. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Leading From the Middle: Navigate Up, Down & Across | Meredith Herrera Are you the connective tissue of your school — leading in every direction at once, without the authority to match your responsibility? This episode is your roadmap. In Episode 46 of The Table Podcast Series, host Bridget Johnson is joined by Board-Certified executive coach Meredith Herrera for a deeply practical conversation on leading from the middle. Together they unpack how to navigate upward to senior leadership without losing your footing, manage and develop the teams beneath you without sacrificing trust, and build lateral influence across departments without positional power. Meredith also names what's rarely said out loud: the compounded burden that women, BIPOC, and neurodivergent leaders carry in middle management roles — and the unique strengths they bring. In this episode, you'll learn: How to make your proposals an "easy yes" for senior leadership by presenting strong process — not just perfect ideas Why middle leaders struggle at the handoff — and the relationship-building habits that prevent it How to shift from being liked to being trusted when leading your team, especially former peers The three grounding questions that help leaders focus on influence instead of control A practical power mapping activity to help you find your sphere of influence when you feel stuck Featured Guest: Meredith Herrera is a Board-Certified executive coach with nearly 20 years of senior leadership experience in schools and mission-driven organizations. She specializes in coaching historically marginalized leaders — including women, BIPOC, and neurodivergent leaders — through one-on-one coaching, group programs, and team consulting. Connect with her at MHerreraConsulting.com or on LinkedIn. Recommended Resources: MHerreraConsulting.com | LinkedIn: Meredith Herrera Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected]

Father Engagement in Schools: Beyond Sports with Kelin Mark Sr. & Bro. Thomas X-Williams Are fathers truly engaged in their children's education, or are they only showing up for sports? This groundbreaking conversation challenges school leaders to rethink father involvement and activate dads as powerful academic partners. Kelin Mark Sr., the first Black male principal in both Wayne Township School District and Park Tudor School, shares the personal experiences that led him to create the DADS program after discovering schools systematically overlooked him despite his active involvement in his son's life. Brother Thomas X-Williams, co-founder of Love and Light Ministry, Inc., reveals how father absence impacts student ambition, showing how young people shift from dreams of becoming physicists and astronauts to limiting themselves to athletics when meaningful dad engagement declines from elementary through high school. In this episode, you'll learn: Why schools default to calling mothers even when fathers are actively involved and available How one engaged father creates a ripple effect supporting not just their child but entire peer groups Practical strategies for creating welcoming school environments where fathers feel valued in academic spaces The connection between visible Black male presence in schools and strengthening the educator pipeline Why moving beyond mentorship programs to root-level father involvement transforms student outcomes Featured Guests: Kelin Mark Sr. is Middle School Director at Park Tudor School, recognized with the MG Raby Award for Equity and the Jefferson Award for Multiplying Good for his groundbreaking DADS program helping fathers take active roles in education. Bro. Thomas X-Williams is a national speaker, youth education advocate, and author of "Mountain Mover: The Impeccable Strength That Will Accompany Your Character," dedicated to empowering young Black males through character development and academic resilience. Recommended Resources: Mountain Mover: The Impeccable Strength That Will Accompany Your Character by Bro. Thomas X-Williams Love and Light Ministry, Inc. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Creating NeuroWell School Cultures: Brain Science Strategies with Lisa Riegel Are your discipline policies actually working against how students' brains learn? Educational neuroscience expert Lisa Riegel, Ed.D., reveals how understanding brain science can transform the way you approach student behavior, teacher burnout, and school culture. As author of NeuroWell and the newly released Aspirations to Operations, Lisa brings over 15 years of consulting experience helping schools move from reactive management to proactive, brain-friendly environments where both students and educators thrive. In this transformative conversation with host Bridget Johnson, Lisa introduces the NeuroWell culture framework—built on emotional safety, supportive power-sharing, and proactive teaching strategies. She explains why traditional approaches to discipline often fail students with challenging behaviors, how intellectual safety impacts learning for struggling students, and why differentiation remains more theory than practice in most classrooms. Drawing on neuroplasticity research, Lisa demonstrates how schools can create environments where failure becomes a celebrated learning tool, persistence develops through safe experimentation, and staff wellbeing connects directly to student outcomes. In this episode, you'll learn: How to establish emotional and intellectual safety using brain science principles that transform student engagement and reduce behavioral issues The three essential components of a NeuroWell culture and practical strategies to implement each pillar in your school or classroom Why focusing on people and relationships, not just policies and structure, is critical for addressing the teacher retention crisis How to leverage productive stress states (calm, alert, alarm, fear) to deepen learning without triggering student shutdown Concrete techniques for creating classrooms where mistakes drive learning, building students' capacity for persistence through challenges Featured Guest: Lisa Riegel is an educational neuroscience consultant and author who has taught at the secondary, post-secondary, and graduate levels, including principal licensure courses at Ohio State University. She specializes in helping schools develop "NeuroWell cultures" that apply brain science to create emotionally safe environments promoting staff and student wellbeing. Lisa's Books: NeuroWell and Aspirations to Operations by Lisa Riegel Visit the Deans' Roundtable: Website: https://deansroundtable.org  Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Table Podcast Series: Where K-12 educational leaders, student life professionals, and change makers connect to share insights, strategies, and evidence-based practices for building communities where everyone belongs.  

Parent Feedback Strategies: Building Trust & Retention with Ryan Ermeling Is parent feedback triggering more anxiety than insight at your school? You're not alone. In this essential conversation, Ryan Ermeling, founder of ParentPulse, reveals why traditional approaches to parent feedback create more problems than they solve—and what to do instead. After working with nearly 300 private and independent schools, Ryan has identified patterns that transform family engagement from reactive crisis management into proactive community building. He introduces the Listen-Engage-Act framework, explains why continuous feedback outperforms annual surveys, and shares how small, responsive actions build exponential trust with families. With school choice reshaping parent expectations and retention becoming increasingly critical, this episode delivers practical systems for turning feedback into your school's competitive advantage. In this episode, you'll learn: How to overcome "Post-Traumatic Feedback Disorder" that prevents authentic parent engagement Why systematic feedback loops create healthier school cultures than ad-hoc approaches Strategic methods for responding to anonymous feedback while maintaining dialogue How continuous feedback systems naturally support re-enrollment and retention goals The connection between feeling heard and psychological safety in school communities Featured Guest: Ryan Ermeling is the founder of ParentPulse and a recognized leader in K-12 parent engagement strategies. Since 2022, he has partnered with nearly 300 private and independent schools to revolutionize feedback systems, helping educational leaders transform parent relationships from adversarial to collaborative partnerships. Recommended Resources: ParentPulse feedback systems and school engagement tools Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Leadership Presence for Educators: Communication Skills with Belle Halpern What separates good administrators from truly inspiring educational leaders? Join veteran educator Bridget Johnson in conversation with Belle Linda Halpern, executive coach and founder of Inspiring Educators, for a transformative discussion about building leadership presence in K-12 settings. Belle Linda Halpern is an executive coach and founder of Inspiring Educators, a leadership development company specializing in emotional intelligence and communication training for mission-driven educational professionals. A Harvard graduate and co-author of "Leadership Presence" (Penguin/Putnam), Belle has designed leadership programs for Boston Public Schools, Teach For America, Achievement First, and Harvard Business School, bringing over 30 years of expertise in developing inspiring, resilient change-agents in education. In this essential episode, discover practical communication techniques drawn from Belle's acclaimed book "Leadership Presence" and her decades of experience training educational leaders. Learn how to inspire your team during challenging moments, develop authentic leadership presence, and build the emotional intelligence skills that transform school culture. Whether you're a dean of students, residential life coordinator, or aspiring student affairs professional, this conversation offers immediately applicable strategies for becoming a more effective, inspiring leader. About The Table Podcast Series: Hosted by Bridget Johnson, The Table Podcast Series emerges from the Deans' Roundtable community, providing essential insights for student life professionals navigating the complex challenges of K-12 education. With Bridget's extensive background as former Dean of Students at Milton Academy and current educational consultant, each episode fills the critical void in professional support for those in student affairs roles. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: Website: https://deansroundtable.org Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Athletic Identity Beyond the Game: Supporting Student-Athletes' Character Development What happens when the jersey comes off? For most student-athletes, the answer reveals a dangerous truth: their identity is so exclusively tied to sport that retirement feels like death. Casey Johnson and Michael Willett both experienced career-ending injuries in Division I football, discovering their self-worth was entirely dependent on athletic performance. Now they lead organizations transforming how we measure athlete potential and redefine what "more than an athlete" actually means in practice, not just empty rhetoric. This conversation challenges the assumption that athletic identity simply needs support—it needs complete redefinition. Casey founded GYMNAZE to develop athletes holistically through mindset, character, and sports-intelligence assessments—measuring the traits traditional statistics miss. Michael created WalkOn Nation after earning his scholarship and winning championships at UCF, teaching over 5,000 athletes that they're enhanced, not defined, by sport. Together, they reveal why the emotional roller coaster of competitive sports affects everything from classroom performance to mental health, and why educators must understand the multifaceted challenges student-athletes navigate daily. In this episode, you'll learn: Why career-ending injuries expose the vulnerability of one-dimensional athletic identity and how to prevent identity foreclosure before crisis hits Practical assessment tools for measuring coachability, resilience, and sports IQ through GYMNAZE's holistic platform—the character traits that determine long-term success How to support students through the performance-based highs and lows that dramatically affect their classroom presence, eating habits, and mental health Evidence-based strategies for integrating character development into athletic programs while maintaining competitive excellence The reframe that transforms athletic retirement from "death" to rebirth: understanding who you are and what impact you're leaving behind Featured Guests: Casey Johnson is Founder and CEO of GYMNAZE, a sports technology platform developing athletes through mindset, character, and sports-intelligence assessments. A former WalkOn who earned a scholarship and became a two-year starter at Norfolk State with a Psychology degree and 14 years in IT recruiting, Casey helps athletes discover who they are beyond performance. Michael Willett is Founder and CEO of WalkOn Nation, redefining athletic identity after his University of Central Florida career (2013-2017) ended with injury. Having served over 5,000 student-athletes and staff, he teaches that athletes are enhanced, not defined, by their sport and helps them understand who they are and what impact they're leaving behind. Recommended Resources: GYMNAZE platform for mindset, character, and sports-intelligence assessments WalkOn Nation programs for athletic identity development Character development frameworks for integrating athletics with student life programming Visit the Deans' Roundtable: Website: https://deansroundtable.org Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together—building communities where everyone belongs.

Building Trust & Strategic Thinking in School Leadership Teams Are you leading alone, carrying the weight of decisions, culture, and vision without the team support you need? Most educational leaders struggle with trust issues they can barely name—but the impact shows up everywhere. Join leadership consultant Susanne Carpenter for an honest conversation about building the high-trust, strategically focused teams that transform schools. Susanne Carpenter is the founder and principal of Carpenter Leadership Consulting, specializing in executive coaching and high-performing team development. A Gallup Certified Strengths Coach and former Assistant Head of School at Walnut Hill School for the Arts, she brings extensive educational leadership experience to her work helping teams unlock strategic thinking and build trust-based cultures. In this episode, you'll learn how to recognize the hidden signs of low trust (including the dreaded "meeting after the meeting"), create psychological safety where teams disagree openly and productively, quiet organizational noise that blocks strategic clarity, develop leaders who ask powerful questions instead of needing all the answers, and apply the counterintuitive principle of "go slow to go fast" to accelerate team performance. Whether you're navigating your first leadership role or transforming an established team, Susanne offers practical frameworks grounded in real school leadership experience. Discover why trust isn't just a nice-to-have—it's the foundation that determines whether your team thrives or merely survives. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Connect with Bridget Johnson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Table Podcast Series: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

School Leadership Support: Building Communities of Practice That Prevent Burnout School leaders today face unprecedented isolation while carrying immense emotional weight for their communities. The traditional professional development model isn't working—leaders need connection, reflection, and judgment-free spaces to grow. Join Bridget Johnson with Jennifer Dubey and Kyle Conley, co-founders of Building Leaders, for an essential conversation about transforming how we support school leaders. Drawing from their combined 45+ years of experience in education leadership and development, Jen and Kyle share the critical gap they've witnessed between the robust support systems for new teachers and the stark isolation faced by school leaders. This episode explores practical solutions through communities of practice, cross-context learning experiences, and collaborative professional development that actually meets leaders where they are. In this episode, you'll learn: Why traditional professional development often fails school leaders and what makes communities of practice different from conventional PD approaches How to create judgment-free spaces where leaders can practice new approaches, be vulnerable, and learn from failure without career consequences The transformative power of embedded school visits and learning from diverse educational contexts beyond your immediate environment Practical strategies for building sustainable leadership practices that prevent burnout while driving meaningful innovation in your school community How to access peer-driven collaborative learning experiences that provide both practical tools and emotional support for the leadership journey Featured Guests: Jennifer Dubey is a leadership coach and facilitator with over 20 years of experience helping educators reflect, grow, and lead with clarity and heart. Her journey from highly-supported teacher to isolated school leader drove her passion for creating the developmental spaces leaders desperately need. She has held learning spaces for school leaders at Teachers College, Achieve Miami, Teach For America, and within several school districts. Kyle Conley is an equity-centered systems leader with 25+ years of experience designing powerful adult learning environments. As a former principal who led a school turnaround, she experienced firsthand the isolation and under-preparation many leaders face. At Teach For All, she launched the Global Communities of Practice, connecting hundreds of school leaders worldwide for peer-driven improvement. Her focus remains on creating meaningful adult learning experiences with unwavering commitment to equity and access. Recommended Resources: Building Leaders: building-leaders.org Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/  The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Mental Health in Schools: Dr. Olivia Moorehead-Slaughter on Supporting Students & Educators How do we normalize mental health conversations in K-12 schools? What does psychological first aid look like for parents and educators? Join Bridget Johnson and child clinical psychologist Dr. Olivia Moorehead-Slaughter for an essential conversation about building emotionally healthy school communities while protecting educator well-being. Dr. Olivia Moorehead-Slaughter brings 35+ years of experience supporting children, families, and educators, including 26 years as a school psychologist at The Park School in Brookline, MA. Now a Clinical Associate Professor at Boston University School of Medicine and Recording Secretary of the APA Board of Directors, she shares practical wisdom from decades of creating accessible, integrated mental health support in schools. As author of "Parents Guide to Psychological First Aid," Dr. Moorehead-Slaughter offers actionable strategies for navigating developmental challenges, crisis situations, and the emotional labor of student life work. In this episode, you'll learn: How to normalize mental health conversations and build emotional vocabulary with students from early childhood through adolescence, creating a culture where taking care of mental health is simply part of being healthy The integrated, accessible approach to school-based mental health support that removes stigma and makes help-seeking a natural part of student development Practical psychological first aid techniques for educators and parents navigating student crises, developmental transitions, and challenging "mismatch years" Essential self-care strategies for student life professionals managing the emotional labor of their work, including setting boundaries, building community support, and maintaining daily wellness practices Long-game thinking for navigating difficult school years: How to find growth opportunities, build professional stamina, and maintain your north star during seasons of challenge Featured Guest: Dr. Olivia Moorehead-Slaughter is a child clinical psychologist with over 35 years of experience in schools, courts, community health centers, and universities. She served for 26 years at The Park School, pioneering an open-door approach to mental health as a natural part of school life. Currently Clinical Associate Professor at Boston University School of Medicine, she consults with independent schools nationwide on diversity, equity, inclusion, and student well-being. Her leadership includes chairing the APA Ethics Committee, the Massachusetts Board of Licensure for Psychologists, and currently serving as Recording Secretary of the APA Board of Directors. Her book "Parents Guide to Psychological First Aid" helps caregivers navigate everything from early childhood through young adulthood. Recommended Resources: "Parents Guide to Psychological First Aid" by Dr. Olivia Moorehead-Slaughter Dr. Jessica Henderson Daniel - Mentorship and leadership in psychology Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/  The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Measuring Student Emotions with Neuroscience: AgileBrain with Dr. Bill Nolen & Margot Moses What if your school could measure student emotions as precisely as academic performance? In this groundbreaking episode, host Bridget Johnson sits down with Dr. Bill Nolen and Margot Moses from Leading Indicator Systems to explore AgileBrain—a revolutionary neuroscience-based platform that's transforming how schools understand and support student emotional wellbeing and motivation. Dr. Nolen, Chief Scientist and co-founder with a doctorate in Psychometrics from Boston University, shares the fascinating neuroscience behind AgileBrain's unique image-based assessment approach. Margot Moses, Senior Advisor for Student Wellbeing with nearly 30 years in independent school leadership, provides practical insights into how schools nationwide are using emotional data to create more caring, connected, and resilient communities. This conversation challenges traditional wellbeing surveys and self-reporting methods, revealing how neuroscience-based emotional measurement provides actionable insights that help every student—and every educator—thrive. You'll discover why emotions aren't obstacles to learning but essential partners in human functioning, and how schools can leverage this understanding to transform student support services. In this episode, you'll learn: How AgileBrain's 3.5-minute image-based assessment measures emotions without using any words, providing insights traditional surveys miss The neuroscience breakthrough that revealed emotions aren't just feelings—they're fundamental to all human decision-making and functioning Why the "Big Five" emotional motivators (achievement, connection, growth, power, and significance) matter more than you think for student success How to move beyond anecdotal wellbeing data to evidence-based emotional measurement that drives targeted interventions Practical applications for deans, advisors, counselors, and administrators to use emotional data in advisory programs, crisis response, and student support Why measuring emotions helps identify individual student superpowers and strengths, not just deficits or problems The critical difference between qualitative self-reporting and quantitative neuroscience-based assessment for student wellbeing Real-world case studies from schools successfully implementing emotional measurement to improve student life programs Featured Guests: Dr. Bill Nolen serves as Chief Scientist and co-founder at Leading Indicator Systems. With all three degrees from Boston University, including his doctorate in Psychometrics, Bill has designed assessments measuring human thinking, feeling, and behavior throughout his distinguished career—from corporate leadership programs to his groundbreaking work on the original Apple Macintosh team. He brings deep expertise in neuropsychology and assessment design to the emotional framework that powers AgileBrain. Margot Moses is an experienced educational leader with nearly 30 years in independent schools. As Senior Advisor for Student Wellbeing at Leading Indicator Systems, she designs and implements wellbeing programs integrating emotional measurement and neuroscience into educational practice. A Klingenstein Center graduate from Teachers College, Columbia University, Margot has held leadership roles at Carolina Day School, The Madeira School, The Holderness School, and The Breck School, where she guided student life, curriculum, and faculty development. Learn more about AgileBrain: https://www.agilebrain.com Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/  The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.

Systems of Care: How Schools Can Support Educators Beyond Self-Care You cannot out-self-care a toxic environment. In this powerful finale to the Grace, Growth, and Greatness series, host Bridget Johnson welcomes back Dr. Keba Rogers to explore how educational institutions can move beyond wellness buzzwords to create sustainable systems of care that truly support the people doing this challenging work. Dr. Keba Rogers, psychologist and founder of Keba Speaks LLC and Rooted, Resilient, and Rising LLC, brings over twenty years of experience supporting educational communities through meaningful change. She challenges the myth that individual self-care can compensate for toxic institutional cultures and offers practical strategies for building school environments where organizational responsibility and personal wellness work together to create sustainable leadership. This episode brings together the complete Grace, Growth, and Greatness framework, showing how schools can establish foundations of belonging, build capacity through continuous improvement, and achieve purpose-aligned excellence that honors both high expectations and deep care for the humans doing the work. In this episode, you'll learn: Why relying solely on individual self-care initiatives fails to address systemic workplace toxicity in schools The critical difference between organizational culture and climate, and how to assess both effectively Practical strategies for creating authentic systems of care within educational institutions How to redefine success and greatness in ways that align with institutional mission and individual capacity The three-phase Grace, Growth, and Greatness framework for sustainable school leadership Actionable approaches for balancing high expectations with genuine support for educators and administrators Featured Guest: Dr. Keba Rogers is a psychologist, educator, and organizational wellness expert dedicated to strengthening school communities. As CEO and founder of multiple organizations including Keba Speaks LLC, Third Avenue Psychological Services PLLC, and Rooted, Resilient, and Rising LLC, she has spent over two decades helping children, families, and educators build mental, emotional, and social wellbeing. Her Grace, Growth, and Greatness framework provides educational leaders with research-backed strategies for creating cultures where everyone belongs and can do their best work. Recommended Resources: Belonging Affirmation and Motivation Conference (December 3-5) - Registration available on Eventbrite Grace, Growth, and Greatness Series (Episodes 33-36) - Available on all podcast platforms Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/  Connect with Dr. Keba Rogers: LinkedIn: Dr. Keba M. Rogers Instagram: @dr.kebaspeaks, @gracegrowthgreatness, @rootedresilientrizing Rooted, Resilient, and Rising: 2nd Annual Belonging, Affirmation, and Motivation Conference December 3-5 (Virtual) - Early Bird Pricing Available on Eventbrite For Individual therapy and School Neuropsychological Assessments - Third Avenue Psychological Services, PLLC, www.doctorkebag3.com The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.

Curiosity Over Judgment: Dr. Keba Rogers on Empathetic Leadership What if the most powerful leadership tool you possess is simply asking "tell me more"? In this compelling conversation, psychologist and educator Dr. Keba Rogers reveals why curiosity remains one of the most underutilized yet transformative skills in school leadership—and how our defensiveness prevents us from accessing it. As part three of the Grace, Growth, and Greatness framework series, Dr. Rogers and host Bridget Johnson explore the hidden costs of pretending to know everything, the ego protection that drives us toward judgment instead of questions, and practical strategies for shifting from reactive defensiveness to responsive curiosity. Through real examples and actionable techniques, Dr. Rogers demonstrates how asking the right questions can strengthen collaboration, deepen empathy, and transform challenging interactions into opportunities for connection and growth. In this episode, you'll learn: Why busyness and the pressure to appear perfect cause leaders to forget the powerful tools they already possess, including curiosity The two primary reasons school leaders default to judgment—and how ego protection sabotages authentic leadership and team collaboration Five essential questions that help leaders bridge the gap from judgment to curiosity while strengthening connections with staff and students How to interpret behavior as communication and recognize what staff absences, student actions, and workplace dynamics are really telling you Practical techniques for creating space to pause and respond rather than react, even in high-pressure educational environments where time feels scarce Featured Guest: Dr. Keba Rogers is a psychologist, educator, and CEO and founder of Keba Speaks LLC, Third Avenue Psychological Services PLLC, and Rooted, Resilient, Rising LLC. With over two decades of experience helping children, families, and educators strengthen their mental, emotional, and social wellbeing, Dr. Rogers specializes in sustainable leadership practices through her Grace, Growth, and Greatness framework. Her expertise in educational psychology and restorative practices makes her a trusted guide for schools building more compassionate, effective communities. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/  Connect with Dr. Keba Rogers: LinkedIn: Dr. Keba M. Rogers Instagram: @dr.kebaspeaks, @gracegrowthgreatness, @rootedresilientrizing Rooted, Resilient, and Rising: 2nd Annual Belonging, Affirmation, and Motivation Conference December 3-5 (Virtual) - Early Bird Pricing Available on Eventbrite For Individual therapy and School Neuropsychological Assessments - Third Avenue Psychological Services, PLLC, www.doctorkebag3.com The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.

Grace in Leadership: Why Educators Struggle with Self-Compassion with Dr. Keba Rogers Why do you easily extend grace to struggling students and overwhelmed colleagues, but criticize yourself relentlessly when you make mistakes? In part two of this groundbreaking four-part series, Bridget Johnson and psychologist Dr. Keba Rogers tackle the self-compassion crisis plaguing educational leaders. Dr. Keba reveals why so many student life professionals don't believe they deserve the same grace they freely give others—and how cultural conditioning, systemic messages, and the pressure to perform create leadership patterns that prioritize everyone's wellbeing except their own. This conversation moves from recognition to restoration, exploring how grace transforms leadership authority into authentic connection and service. Learn why grace isn't just a reaction to crisis but should be the foundation of school culture, discover practical strategies for recognizing your strengths and limitations without shame, and understand Dr. Keba's trademarked framework: "Extend Grace, Encourage Growth, Expect Greatness"—where greatness means your best effort in each moment, not impossible perfection. In this episode, you'll learn: How to transform leadership authority into genuine connection through grace-centered practices Why educators withhold self-compassion and practical steps to break this destructive cycle How cultural conditioning impacts your ability to prioritize self-care in leadership roles Strategies for recognizing strengths and limitations under constant performance pressure How to create school cultures where grace becomes the norm, not emergency response Why valuing people over performance dramatically elevates team effectiveness and loyalty Featured Guest: Dr. Keba M. Rogers is a psychologist, educator, and CEO with nearly two decades supporting children, families, and educators. Her trademarked Grace, Growth, and Greatness framework has helped 15+ schools and organizations transform leadership practices. She's delivered 90+ presentations and consultations, specializing in mental health, emotional regulation, and sustainable leadership for educational communities. Recommended Resources: The Nap Ministry by Tricia Hersey 2nd Annual B.A.M. Conference: Rooted, Resilient, and Rising (December 3-5, Virtual) Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/  Connect with Dr. Keba Rogers: LinkedIn: Dr. Keba M. Rogers Instagram: @dr.kebaspeaks, @gracegrowthgreatness, @rootedresilientrizing Rooted, Resilient, and Rising: 2nd Annual Belonging, Affirmation, and Motivation Conference December 3-5 (Virtual) - Early Bird Pricing Available on Eventbrite For Individual therapy and School Neuropsychological Assessments - Third Avenue Psychological Services, PLLC, www.doctorkebag3.com The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Restorative Practices in Schools: Building Community with Julia Getty & Beth Smull What if the key to transforming school culture isn't a new discipline policy—but a fundamental shift in how we build and repair relationships? In this essential episode of The Dean's Roundtable, host Bridget Johnson sits down with Julia Getty and Beth Smull from the International Institute for Restorative Practices to explore how restorative approaches create school communities where everyone truly belongs. Moving beyond the misconception that restorative practices are only about conflict resolution, Beth and Julia reveal how proactive relationship-building, authentic listening, and the balance of accountability with support can revolutionize educational environments. They tackle real challenges facing student life professionals today, from navigating staff burnout and resistance to change, to creating space for adult relationships amid demanding school cultures, to implementing sustainable practices that honor both individual needs and community wellbeing. In this episode, you'll learn: How to reframe restorative practices from reactive discipline to proactive community building Why adult relationships and staff wellbeing are foundational to sustainable school culture change Practical implementation strategies including starting small, identifying allies, and building momentum gradually The transformative power of listening circles for creating authentic connection and shared understanding How to balance accountability and support in ways that repair harm while maintaining relationships Featured Guests: Beth Smull is Director of Continuing Education Instruction at IIRP Graduate School with over 20 years advancing restorative practices across education, justice, and community systems. Julia Getty is an IIRP instructor and implementation coach who bridges restorative practices with holistic wellness, having trained educators nationwide and worked for a decade in independent school education as wellness curriculum developer and Eighth Grade Dean. Recommended Resources: International Institute for Restorative Practices: www.iirp.edu "On Becoming a Leader" by Warren Bennis "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz IIRP Graduate Programs and Certificates Listening Circles Training Workplace Conflict Resolution Training Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.

When the Job Is Too Big: Leadership Sustainability with Dr. Keba Rogers - A Dean's Roundtable Four-Part Series Feeling like you're drowning under the weight of your student life leadership role? You're not alone. In this powerful first episode of a four-part series, host Bridget Johnson sits down with psychologist Dr. Keba M. Rogers to explore what happens when roles we love become unsustainable—and how to navigate that reality with grace, clarity, and compassion. Dr. Keba brings nearly 20 years of mental health expertise working with children, families, and educators, plus her innovative Grace, Growth, and Greatness framework for sustainable leadership. This conversation addresses the silent crisis many deans and student affairs professionals face: unrealistic expectations, capacity overload, and the dangerous trap of tying self-worth to impossible job demands. In this episode, you'll learn: How to recognize the warning signs when your role outpaces your capacity before burnout takes over Why "this job is too big" really means unrealistic expectations—and how to reframe that conversation productively Strategic language for discussing sustainability concerns with supervisors without appearing weak or incapable The critical importance of giving yourself permission to learn your role during your first year instead of demanding perfection How extending grace to yourself directly impacts your ability to see and support the humanity in your team members Featured Guest: Dr. Keba M. Rogers is CEO and Founder of Keba S.P.E.A.K.S., LLC, Third Avenue Psychological Services, PLLC, and CEO/Co-founder of Rooted, Resilient, and Rising LLC. With nearly two decades as a mental health professional, speaker, and educator, Dr. Keba has assisted thousands in strengthening their mental, emotional, and social wellbeing. She developed parent education programs and faculty training initiatives as a private school administrator in NYC before opening her private practice in 2019. Since then, she has delivered over 90 presentations and consultations with more than 15 schools and organizations. Recommended Resources: Rooted, Resilient, and Rising 2nd Annual Belonging, Affirmation, and Motivation Conference - December 3-5 (Virtual) Pre-Conference Institute on Implicit Bias - December 3 18 Facilitated Discussions on Belonging, Affirmation, and Motivation - December 4-5 Early Bird tickets available on Eventbrite Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Connect with Dr. Keba Rogers: LinkedIn: Dr. Keba M. Rogers Instagram: @dr.kebaspeaks, @gracegrowthgreatness, @rootedresilientrizing Rooted, Resilient, and Rising: 2nd Annual Belonging, Affirmation, and Motivation Conference December 3-5 (Virtual) - Early Bird Pricing Available on Eventbrite For Individual therapy and School Neuropsychological Assessments - Third Avenue Psychological Services, PLLC, www.doctorkebag3.com The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Building Conflict-Resilient School Cultures: Proactive Strategies for Student Life Leaders What if conflict in your school wasn't something to fear—but an opportunity to strengthen community? Dr. Brooke Carroll, former head of school and founder of AC Strategies, joins Bridget Johnson to challenge how student life professionals think about and respond to conflict at every organizational level. This conversation moves beyond crisis management to explore proactive frameworks that prevent escalation, build trust, and create clarity when tensions arise. Dr. Carroll shares hard-won insights from her years as a head of school, current work as a board chair, and extensive consulting with independent schools nationwide. From understanding when boards should (and absolutely shouldn't) get involved, to creating consistent processes that work across all divisions, this episode provides the practical guidance that deans, division heads, and student life leaders need right now. Whether you're navigating faculty tensions, parent complaints, or board dynamics, you'll discover why clear expectations and relationship-building aren't just nice to have—they're essential infrastructure for healthy school communities. In this episode, you'll learn: How to distinguish between routine conflict (that can be resolved peer-to-peer) and challenging conflict requiring structured intervention Why having written conflict resolution policies in every handbook—from faculty to parent to board—prevents confusion and builds institutional trust The critical role of power dynamics and positional authority in conflict situations, and how leaders can model productive disagreement Specific strategies for middle leaders (deans, division heads, assistant heads) who often find themselves in the crossfire between stakeholders When and how to escalate conflict appropriately—avoiding both the trap of holding on too long and passing problems up too quickly Featured Guest: Dr. Brooke Carroll is founder of AC Strategies, specializing in leadership coaching, governance development, and strategic planning for small independent schools. As a former head of school and experienced board member, she understands conflict dynamics from every angle. Her recent collaborative work on building conflict-resilient school cultures addresses a critical gap in how educational institutions prepare for and respond to disagreement. Dr. Carroll coaches board chairs, heads of school, and senior leadership teams across the country, with particular expertise in helping small schools navigate complex governance challenges. She is author of "Governing the Small School." Recommended Resources: "Governing the Small School" by Dr. Brooke Carroll Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Connect with Dr. Brooke Carroll: www.acstrategies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-carroll-acies/ The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Character Education That Works: Dr. Marvin Berkowitz's PRIMED Framework Are your character education efforts actually working—or are they inadvertently undermining the very goals you're trying to achieve? Dr. Marvin Berkowitz, one of America's foremost experts in character development, joins Bridget Johnson to share his research-backed PRIMED framework that's transforming schools worldwide. After four decades studying moral development and character education—from his postdoctoral work with Lawrence Kohlberg at Harvard to training thousands of educators globally—Dr. Berkowitz has identified six essential principles that separate effective character education from feel-good programs that miss the mark. In this conversation, he challenges common practices like reward assemblies and student-of-the-month programs, revealing why these approaches often breed resentment and reduce intrinsic motivation rather than building lasting character. In this episode, you'll learn: How the PRIMED framework's six principles work together to create authentic character development in schools Why strategic relationship-building must go beyond hoping connections happen naturally, especially for marginalized students Practical structures for advisory programs that transform school culture, including multi-age groupings and student-led curriculum How to shift from punishment-based discipline to developmental approaches that leave positive lifelong imprints Why building healthy adult culture in your school is the principal's most important job—and how it impacts everything else Concrete first steps for implementing research-based character education, even when resources and time feel limited Featured Guest: Dr. Marvin Berkowitz is the Founder's Professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis and Co-Director of the Center for Character and Citizenship. His books "PRIMED for Character Education" and "PRIMED to Compete" translate decades of research into practical frameworks used by schools and youth sports programs worldwide. His work demonstrates that effective character education isn't just good for students—it's the foundation that makes academic achievement possible. Resources Mentioned: "PRIMED for Character Education" by Marvin Berkowitz "PRIMED to Compete" by Marvin Berkowitz Responsive Classroom advisory resources Sean Covey's advisory curriculum Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.

Leading with Vulnerability: Nicole McDermott on Trust & Courage What if vulnerability isn't a leadership weakness—but the very foundation of trust, growth, and resilient school communities? In this transformative episode, host Bridget Johnson welcomes Nicole McDermott, ICF-certified coach, Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator trained by Brené Brown, and former independent school head with over 20 years of experience, for an honest conversation about courageous leadership in student life and K-12 education. Nicole shares her journey from knowing she wanted to be a teacher in second grade to leading a school for 18 years (starting at age 26) to now supporting educational leaders through Quality Matters leadership development and Educational Directions search consulting. Through powerful stories—including leading a school community through COVID-19 and the transformative impact of Brené Brown's research on shame versus guilt—Nicole reveals why the most effective student life professionals and school leaders embrace vulnerability as a strategic leadership practice, not a personal failing. This conversation offers practical wisdom for deans, student affairs professionals, heads of school, and educational leaders navigating uncertainty, building trust in small moments, and supporting others through complex transitions. Nicole's grounded approach, anchored by daily meditation and gratitude practices, demonstrates how intentional leadership creates school cultures where everyone truly belongs. In this episode, you'll learn: Why vulnerability is the foundation for transparent, risk-taking, accountable school cultures How to build trust in small moments even when you're moving at 100 miles per hour The critical difference between shame and guilt language in student discipline and adult self-talk Practical strategies for leading through uncertainty and giving yourself grace during crisis Why new leaders need permission to pause, set boundaries, and ask more questions than they answer How daily meditation and gratitude practices can fundamentally change your leadership presence and perception Featured Guest: Nicole McDermott is an educator, leader, ICF-certified coach, facilitator, and consultant with 20+ years of experience in independent school leadership. As a former longtime head of school and Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator trained directly by Brené Brown, Nicole brings deep expertise in trust-building, leadership transitions, and creating courageous school cultures. Her Quality Matters leadership development work and Educational Directions consulting support student life professionals and school leaders through executive coaching, team facilitation, and search transitions—all grounded in mutual trust, warmth, integrity, and vulnerability. Recommended Resources: "Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown "The Thin Book of Trust" by Charles Feldman "Unreasonable Hospitality" by Will Guidara Quality Matters Leadership Development Educational Directions: Supporting schools with leadership search and transition Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/  The Table Podcast: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together  

Change Leadership Strategies with Nissi Ozigbu | Leading Transformation in Schools Leading meaningful change in schools requires more than new initiatives—it demands empathy, strategic clarity, and the courage to address hidden barriers keeping your organization stuck. When student life professionals and educational leaders understand change management principles, they can navigate transformation with confidence while honoring the human experience. In this powerful conversation, Nissi Ozigbu shares why integrated leadership matters for deans, student affairs directors, and administrators working to transform their school communities. Drawing from 15+ years leading organizational change across sectors, Nissi reveals how hidden commitments and limiting beliefs undermine even well-intentioned change efforts, why transparency builds psychological safety during transitions, and practical strategies for dismantling barriers that prevent progress. You'll discover why change literacy should be foundational knowledge for every educator, the critical mistakes schools make when launching transformation initiatives, and how to lead with both strategic rigor and human compassion. In this episode, you'll learn: How to align your personal values with your leadership approach for more authentic, effective change management in educational settings Why change literacy empowers every member of your school community to ask better questions and engage proactively during organizational transitions The hidden commitments and mental models that keep schools stuck even when leadership genuinely wants to move forward Why attempting too many change initiatives simultaneously creates organizational dysfunction and how to avoid this common trap Practical strategies for building trust and psychological safety when leading difficult transformations in student life departments What emerging educational leaders need to step into leadership roles with confidence in today's rapidly evolving environment Featured Guest: Nissi Ozigbu is a change leadership strategist and founder of The Growth Hut. With over 15 years' experience leading transformation across finance, government, life sciences, consulting, and non-profits, she brings a systems thinking, human-centred approach to organizational change. Her two-fold mission drives her work: equipping current and future generations of change managers to step beyond task delivery and become sought-after strategic leaders, and supporting all change makers to lead in ways that are both human and strategic. At the heart of her work is integrated leadership—aligning who you are, what you believe, and how you lead—because when leaders show up with presence, honesty, and self-awareness, change becomes something people can trust, not just follow. Known for blending empathy with strategic rigour and using storytelling as a tool for clarity and connection, Nissi equips leaders and change makers to create transformation that lasts. Recommended Resources: Diary of the CEO Podcast Peter Senge's work on systems thinking and mental models Immunity to Change by Robert Kegan and Lisa Lahey Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/  The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

From NFL Glory to Leadership: Tim Hightower on Resilience & Trust Former NFL running back Tim Hightower joins Bridget Johnson for a powerful conversation about resilience, leadership transitions, and building trust in high-performance environments. Tim shares his journey from scoring the game-winning touchdown that sent the Arizona Cardinals to their first Super Bowl to leading cultural transformation as Senior Director of Alumni Relations for the Washington Commanders. This episode explores the critical skills needed when transitioning from one high-stakes environment to another, offering valuable insights for educators and student life professionals navigating their own career changes and organizational challenges. Tim's perspective on psychological safety, healthy confrontation, and creating structures that support both individual and team success provides actionable strategies for building stronger school communities. In this episode, you'll learn: How to maintain consistency while adapting to major life and career transitions The importance of psychological safety in creating environments where people can speak truthfully Strategies for leading through crisis and building trust during organizational change How to let go of perfectionism while maintaining high standards in new roles The value of mentorship and peer relationships in professional development Featured Guest: Tim Hightower combines his experience as a professional athlete who overcame career-threatening injury with his current leadership role in one of sports' most dramatic organizational turnarounds. As author of "A Dream Worth Fighting For," he brings unique insights into resilience, purpose, and the kind of leadership that creates lasting change. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/  Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Student Life Community of Practice: https://www.treyeducation.com/event/student-life-professionals/ The Table: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Leadership Burnout & Community Support with Sara Katz Razzaghi & Jabari Peddie As educators step into another challenging school year, many leaders are carrying the weight of recent years - burnout, isolation, and constant pivoting. This episode offers an honest conversation about recognizing when you're struggling, building authentic support systems, and creating sustainable leadership practices that serve both you and your students. Sara Katz Razzaghi, Executive Director of Inspiring Educators, brings expertise in adaptive leadership development focused on presence, communication, and emotional intelligence. Her work recognizes the proven relationship between adult wellbeing and student outcomes, shaped by her experience as an early childhood educator and deep commitment to educational equity. Jabari Peddie, Chief of Leadership Development at BES, is a dynamic executive coach who develops culturally responsive school leaders. From launching turnaround schools to co-founding a nonprofit for educators of color, Jabari combines strategic insight with fierce commitment to justice, helping leaders build the skills needed for sustainable success. In this episode, you'll learn: How to recognize signs of leadership burnout before hitting a wall Why vulnerability is a leadership strength, not weakness Practical strategies for creating pause and presence in high-pressure environments How to build reciprocal support communities that sustain you Frameworks for distinguishing between urgent and truly important priorities Featured Guests: Sara brings experience running programs for Boston Public Schools and advocacy work in early childhood education, while holding degrees from Washington University and Harvard Graduate School of Education. Jabari, a Morehouse College graduate and certified executive coach, began as a Teach For America corps member before becoming a founding principal of Boston's largest turnaround school. Recommended Resources: The Daily Stoic, Eisenhower Matrix for priority management, somatic exercises for leadership presence Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Student Life Community of Practice: https://www.treyeducation.com/event/student-life-professionals/ The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.

Managing Up in Schools: Navigating Authority Changes with Julie Faulstich Managing authority transitions requires strategic relationship building and clear communication. Join Bridget Johnson with Julie Faulstich, founder of Stony Creek Strategy and former head of school, for essential insights on navigating leadership changes in educational settings. Julie shares practical strategies for building trust with new leadership while maintaining professional integrity. Drawing from 25+ years in educational leadership roles from department chair to head of school, she offers actionable advice on understanding your orientation to authority, creating shared reality with new leaders, and avoiding common pitfalls that damage working relationships. This episode addresses the unique challenges of managing up in independent schools, where the "family" culture can complicate professional boundaries and authority structures. Julie's expertise in organizational change and governance provides valuable frameworks for both seasoned administrators and emerging leaders. In this episode, you'll learn: How to assess your natural orientation to authority and approach new leadership relationships strategically Practical techniques for building authentic professional relationships without over-sharing or inappropriate boundaries Strategies for creating "shared reality" between your perspective and new leadership's vision Methods for navigating disconnect between stated organizational values and actual practices Tools for maintaining team stability and focus during leadership transitions Featured Guest: Julie Faulstich founded Stony Creek Strategy to champion "applied leadership" - practical application of leadership theory in educational settings. Her background includes Academic Dean and Assistant Head at Walnut Hill School for the Arts and Head at Westover School. She writes the widely-read "Talking Out of School" Substack newsletter providing leadership insights to education professionals. Recommended Resources: "Conscious Leadership" book (referenced in episode), Stony Creek Strategy website, Talking Out of School Substack newsletter Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Student Life Community of Practice: https://www.treyeducation.com/event/student-life-professionals/ The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together. Tags: Educational Leadership Managing Up Authority Transitions School Leadership Independent Schools Student Affairs Professional Development Applied Leadership  

Nervous System Awareness for Student Life Leaders with Alan Brown Ever wonder why some situations leave you completely drained while others energize you? In this transformative episode, resilience educator and former dean Alan Brown shares how understanding your nervous system can revolutionize your effectiveness as a student life professional. Diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome in sixth grade, Alan spent years trying to control his body before discovering a different path through mindfulness and nervous system-informed practices. His journey from overwhelmed dean to resilience educator offers powerful insights for any student life professional navigating the complexity of modern education. In this episode, you'll learn: How to recognize when your nervous system is overwhelmed and what to do about it Practical tools for managing difficult conversations and crisis situations with greater ease Why working with your body rather than against it leads to better leadership outcomes How nervous system awareness connects to creating more just and equitable school communities Simple practices you can implement today to feel steadier and more resourced Featured Guest: Alan Brown brings over 15 years of experience in schools as both classroom teacher and administrator, combined with specialized training as a mindfulness teacher trainer with Mindful Schools. His work with The Trevor Project as an LGBTQ+ youth crisis counselor and collaboration with leading hospitals on mindfulness clinical trials provides a unique evidence-based perspective on nervous system regulation in educational settings. Alan helps schools and organizations foster cultures of connection and wellbeing through practical, compassionate approaches to nervous system awareness. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Student Life Community of Practice: https://www.treyeducation.com/event/student-life-professionals/ The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Immunity to Change: Breaking Through Hidden Barriers to Personal and Organizational Transformation Why do 6 out of 7 people fail to make important changes—even when their lives depend on it? Join host Bridget Johnson as she explores this compelling question with Richard Lawrence and Peter Green, experts in the powerful Immunity to Change framework developed by Robert Kegan and Lisa Lahey. This episode reveals how hidden competing commitments and unconscious assumptions act like an internal immune system, protecting us from perceived threats while simultaneously preventing the growth we desperately want. Richard and Peter share practical strategies for identifying these hidden barriers and creating sustainable transformation in both individuals and organizations. In this episode, you'll learn: Why traditional change efforts fail and how to overcome competing commitments The three essential jobs of management for empowering organizations How to transform resistance into valuable information for better change strategies Practical techniques for moving from punitive to relational leadership approaches Why psychological safety is crucial for adult development and organizational transformation Featured Guests: Richard Lawrence is a Scrum Alliance Certified Enterprise Coach who brings together diverse disciplines from software engineering to anthropology to help teams solve complex problems. Peter Green is co-founder of Humanizing Work and helps leaders create outcomes they care about most, drawing from his unique background spanning music composition, agile transformation at Adobe, and organizational coaching. The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together. Connect with Richard Lawrence and Peter Green: https://www.humanizingwork.com/ Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected]  Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Student Life Community of Practice: https://www.treyeducation.com/event/student-life-professionals/  

Student Mental Health Crisis Prevention with SchoolPulse's Iuri Melo Discover how one Licensed Clinical Social Worker transformed student mental health support from reactive crisis intervention to proactive prevention, reaching hundreds of thousands of teens nationwide. Join Bridget Johnson as she speaks with Iuri Melo, co-founder of SchoolPulse, about his revolutionary approach to student wellness that emerged from tragedy in his Utah community. After experiencing multiple teen suicides, Iuri helped create a text-based support system that now serves over 300 schools in 25+ states, providing 24/7 mental health support and positive psychology tools directly to students' phones. In this episode, you'll learn: How to shift from waiting for crisis to proactively supporting student mental health Why text-based engagement removes traditional barriers to help-seeking behavior Practical strategies for supporting overwhelmed school counselors and administrators How to build authentic connections with teens through privacy and accessibility Evidence-based approaches to suicide prevention and wellness programming Featured Guest: Iuri Melo brings over 20 years of clinical social work experience as co-founder of SchoolPulse, a nationwide student support service that proactively engages teens through text messaging and evidence-based content. As author of "Know Thy Selfie" and "Mind Over Grey Matter," father of five, and creator of adventure-based therapy, Iuri's mission to "bless the human family" has created comprehensive mental health resources reaching students with positive psychology, growth mindset tools, and crisis prevention strategies while supporting school staff with practical, non-burdensome solutions. Recommended Resources: Know Thy Selfie, Mind Over Grey Matter, SchoolPulse Mental Health Resource Page Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] S tudent Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Student Life Community of Practice: https://www.treyeducation.com/event/student-life-professionals/ The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.

Youth Health Crisis: Dr. John Lucas on Fentanyl, Marijuana & School Safety Join host Bridget Johnson with Dr. John Lucas, licensed family physician and veteran educator, for an essential discussion on the critical health challenges facing today's students. Dr. Lucas brings a unique dual perspective to youth health challenges - he's both a licensed family physician and an experienced educator with over 15 years in the classroom, graduating from Georgetown University Medical School and completing his family medicine residency at Fairfax Family Practice in Virginia. This episode addresses the most pressing health concerns in schools today, from the fentanyl crisis to emerging nicotine products, providing evidence-based strategies for parents, educators, and students. Dr. Lucas shares practical approaches for discussing sensitive health topics and offers concrete prevention strategies that work. In this episode, you'll learn: How to implement Narcan programs and address fentanyl risks in schools The hidden dangers of today's high-potency marijuana on student learning Effective strategies for preventing early substance use and addiction How to navigate politically sensitive health conversations professionally Warning signs and risks of emerging nicotine products targeting youth Featured Guest: Dr. John Lucas combines medical expertise as a licensed family physician with hands-on educational experience working with students who have language-based learning differences. He has served as dean of students at the Silver Spring campus of the Siena School and currently contracts with schools nationwide to provide health education on substance use, sexual health, and mental wellness. A Maryland resident for nearly 30 years with four children, he brings both professional expertise and personal insight into the challenges facing today's young people. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Student Life Community of Practice: https://www.treyeducation.com/event/student-life-professionals/ The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Data-Driven Student Wellbeing: Millbrook's Revolutionary Approach Discover how Millbrook School is revolutionizing student wellbeing through innovative data integration and relationship mapping. This groundbreaking episode features Billy Thom (LCSW), Eve Whitehouse (Academic Dean), and JJ Morrissey (Dean of Student Engagement and Well-Being) sharing their transformative approach to moving from reactive to proactive student support. Learn how this exceptional team developed their data-driven methodology after years of feeling like they were "playing Whack-a-Mole" with student issues. They reveal their innovative "Connect the Dots" relationship mapping program, Wellington Education Initiative integration, and the remarkable 0.8 correlation they discovered between faculty-student relationships and academic success. In this episode, you'll learn: How to implement practical data collection tools that take just 5 minutes to complete Strategies for moving from reactive crisis management to proactive student support The "three T's" approach: targeted, tailored, and timely interventions Ethical frameworks for student wellbeing data collection and usage Building faculty buy-in through incremental change and demonstrating the "why" behind relationship building Featured Guests: Billy Thom brings 12 years of experience helping adolescents navigate developmental challenges through his work as a licensed social worker, teacher, and coach. Eve Whitehouse serves as Academic Dean overseeing 9th and 10th grades with expertise in holistic education and curriculum development. JJ Morrissey leads student engagement initiatives with 17 years in education, implementing evidence-based methodologies that create environments where students flourish. Recommended Resources: "The Good Life" by Robert Waldinger and Marc Schultz - 87-year Harvard longitudinal study proving relationships are the #1 factor in health and happiness Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Student Life Community of Practice: https://www.treyeducation.com/event/student-life-professionals/ The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together

Data-Driven Student Wellbeing with Authentic Connections Leaders Discover how schools can transform their approach to student mental health through comprehensive data collection and relationship-focused interventions. Nina Kumar and Nicole Hager from Authentic Connections share insights on moving beyond crisis response to proactive wellbeing strategies that support entire school communities. This episode explores the critical shift from reactive dean work—constantly "putting out fires"—to strategic, data-informed decision making that addresses root causes of student struggles. Learn how anonymous surveys reveal hidden challenges affecting marginalized students and provide schools with actionable recommendations for creating authentic connections between students and trusted adults. In this episode, you'll learn: How to identify wellness challenges that traditional observation methods miss Strategies for using demographic data to focus intervention efforts effectively Best practices for surveying students, faculty, and parents to capture comprehensive community perspectives Methods for building authentic student-adult relationships that prevent crisis situations Approaches to addressing political polarization and maintaining civil discourse in educational settings Featured Guests: Nina Kumar combines computer science and psychology expertise as Co-Founder and CEO of Authentic Connections, helping schools understand how climate affects community mental health. Nicole Hager brings nearly 30 years of independent school administration experience, with specialized focus on supporting students of color and LGBTQ+ students in boarding and day school environments. Recommended Resources: Authentic Connections wellbeing surveys, Dr. Sonya Luther's resilience research, relationship mapping exercises for faculty and students Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Student Life Community of Practice: https://www.treyeducation.com/event/student-life-professionals/ The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Supporting School Leaders: From Dean of Students to Process Consultant Discover how to build effective support systems for education leaders in this essential conversation between Bridget Johnson and veteran educator Lukie Wells. With 35+ years in independent schools, Lukie shares invaluable insights on the unique challenges facing deans of students, the critical importance of authentic feedback for heads of school, and strategies for creating accountability while maintaining collaborative culture. This episode explores the often-overlooked support needs of school leaders, from the isolation experienced by deans of students to the complex dynamics affecting senior administrative teams. Lukie's journey from dean to process consultant provides a unique perspective on what leaders truly need to succeed, including the power of debriefing difficult conversations and building trust within teams. In this episode, you'll learn: Why deans of students face unique challenges and how to provide meaningful support How to assess and improve trust dynamics within senior administrative teams Strategies for giving and receiving authentic feedback as a school leader Methods for creating accountability systems that preserve collaborative culture The importance of professional coaching and mentoring throughout your career Featured Guest: Lukie Wells, Senior Partner at Design Group International, brings extensive experience as former Dean of Students at Milton Academy and Darrow School. She developed the NAIS Coaches Corner and holds certifications in process consulting and organizational dynamics, making her uniquely qualified to address the support needs of education professionals. Recommended Resources: NAIS Coaches Corner, Design Group International process consulting services Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] Student Life Assessment Program: https://deansroundtable.org/k-12-student-life-assessment-program-independent-school-evaluation/ Student Life Community of Practice: https://www.treyeducation.com/event/student-life-professionals/ The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Beyond Zero Tolerance: How Student Voices Are Revolutionizing School Substance Prevention with Soundcheck Prevention Network Discover how centering student voices can transform substance use prevention in schools. Will Straughan and Lee Bergeron from Soundcheck Prevention Network share their innovative approach to creating healthier school environments through authentic engagement and evidence-based programming. Both guests bring personal recovery journeys to their professional work, offering unique perspectives on breaking down barriers between adults and students. Their nonprofit organization develops student-centered programming that moves beyond traditional classroom education to embed prevention mindsets throughout school culture, linking substance use prevention with broader mental health and wellbeing initiatives. This conversation explores the evolution of school substance policies, from zero tolerance approaches to sanctuary policies, and examines current trends affecting students including the rise of nicotine pouches and continued vaping concerns. Will and Lee discuss their "Soundboards" methodology—qualitative assessments that gather perspectives from students, faculty, parents, and administrators to identify risk and protective factors within school communities. In this episode, you'll learn: Why student-centered approaches are more effective than traditional prevention education How to balance clear disciplinary policies with supportive non-disciplinary pathways Current substance use trends among students that educators should know about Strategies for integrating mental health considerations into prevention programming International perspectives on prevention that can inform American school practices Featured Guests: Will Straughan, founder and CEO of Soundcheck Prevention Network, has taught substance abuse prevention to thousands of young people across more than 20 states and internationally. Lee Bergeron, LMSW, serves as Director of Program Development, bringing clinical social work experience and specialized expertise in youth and family therapy to prevention work. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org  Check out the Deans' Roundtable Community:  https://bit.ly/drt-community-profile  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Conflict Resolution Mastery: From Hostage Negotiator to Leadership Coach - Ryan Dunlap What if the skills used to defuse hostage situations could transform your most challenging workplace conversations? Join Bridget Johnson as she sits down with Ryan Dunlap, a former SWAT hostage negotiator turned conflict management expert, who reveals how high-stakes communication principles can revolutionize leadership in educational settings. Ryan's remarkable journey from law enforcement through ministry to becoming an internationally recognized conflict coach offers unique insights into managing pressure, building instant trust, and navigating emotionally charged conversations. As founder of Conflict-ish and creator of The Real Tact Model® used by organizations like Chick-fil-A and Yale, Ryan shares practical frameworks that help leaders move from reactive responses to strategic relationship building. This conversation tackles the real challenges educational leaders face daily - from difficult parent conversations to managing consistently negative team members. Ryan reveals why facts don't resolve feelings, how to be right and wrong simultaneously, and the critical difference between communicating with care versus communicating carefully. In this episode, you'll learn: How to build instant trust and rapport in high-pressure situations without pre-existing relationships The three unconscious questions every person asks when meeting someone new and how to address them Why validating emotions must come before presenting facts in any difficult conversation How to recognize when you're doing the right thing the wrong way and pivot gracefully Practical strategies for managing team members who consistently bring negative energy to workplace dynamics Featured Guest: Ryan Dunlap combines over 20 years of experience in law enforcement, ministry, and executive leadership as founder and Chief Conflict Officer at Conflict-ish. He holds an M.S. in Communication and Leadership from Purdue University and brings over 3,600 hours of specialized training including FBI Interviews & Interrogations and SWAT operations. His background as an SVU Detective, SWAT hostage negotiator, and crisis intervention officer provides unique insights into pressure management and strategic communication. Ryan serves as co-faculty at the University at Buffalo School of Management and expert advisor to state governments including the Georgia Sexual Assault Response Team and Tennessee Human Trafficking Advisory Council. Recommended Resources: • The Art of Tact 60-day training program  • The Real Tact Model® conflict management framework  • "How to Untie a Balloon" book Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org Check out the Deans' Roundtable Community: https://bit.ly/drt-community-profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Leadership Beyond Titles: Developing Student Agency with Jeremy LaCasse What if leadership isn't just for those with formal titles? In this illuminating conversation, Jeremy LaCasse shares how intentional leadership education can transform students and educational communities alike. Jeremy brings a unique perspective as both former boarding school student and current Assistant Head of School for Student Life at Taft School. Drawing from his 22 years with the Gardner Carney Leadership Institute, he explains how leadership can be taught through everyday experiences in any educational setting. At its core, this approach helps students develop agency, self-awareness, and collaborative skills that extend beyond classroom walls. In this episode, you'll learn: How to redefine leadership as skills that can be taught rather than innate talents Practical ways to incorporate leadership education into existing academic settings Techniques for creating psychologically safe spaces through effective feedback loops Strategies for building faculty cultures that model collaborative leadership How leadership education helps students develop agency in the face of social media pressures Why relationships, not transactions, should be at the heart of education Featured Guest: Jeremy LaCasse is Assistant Head of School for Student Life at Taft School in Connecticut and executive director of the Gardner Carney Leadership Institute. His impressive career spans roles as acting assistant head at Cheshire Academy, head of school at Kents Hill School, head of senior school at Shady Side Academy, and dean of students at Fountain Valley School. A graduate of Berkshire School and Bowdoin College, Jeremy holds a master's from Columbia's Teachers College. Throughout his career, he has taught history, coached skiing and crew, and led outdoor programs while speaking at numerous NAIS and TABS conferences. Recommended Resources: Gardner Carney Leadership Institute (gclileadership.org) offers professional development through their Leadership Lab: June 16-22 at Fountain Valley School, Colorado Springs. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org Check out the Deans' Roundtable Community Website: https://bit.ly/drt-community-profile  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-johnson510/ Email: [email protected] The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

AI-Generated Deep Fakes in Schools: Protection Strategies with Evan J Harris School leaders are facing an alarming new crisis: AI-generated non-consensual intimate images affecting students. This urgent conversation provides essential guidance for educational institutions navigating this challenging digital landscape. Join Bridget Johnson and digital safety expert Evan Harris as they decode the complex issues around AI deep fakes and their impact on students. With recent data showing 11% of students age 9-17 admit knowing classmates creating fake nude images, schools need immediate response strategies. In this episode, you'll learn: How to develop effective policies and protocols for NCII incidents Legal requirements and the newly passed Take It Down Act Evidence handling best practices that keep staff legally protected Strategies for supporting victims while addressing perpetrators How to prepare your school community through proactive education Future AI threats on the horizon for educational institutions Check out Evan's "A Parents Guide to NCIIs" Featured Guest:  Evan Harris is the president of Pathos Consulting Group, where he helps independent schools develop real-world policies and incident response plans to address emerging digital threats, including deepfake sexual abuse and sextortion. With over a decade of experience as teacher and administrator, he holds a master's in private school leadership from Teachers College and has furthered his studies in tech ethics at Stanford's Human-Centered AI Institute. Evan has collaborated with the general counsel of NAIS, the Texas State Senate, and the Office of the First Lady on initiatives to strengthen school safety and student protection in the age of AI. Recommended Resources: Special parent resources for preventing and addressing AI-generated deep fakes Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org Check out the Deans' Roundtable Community: https://bit.ly/drt-community-profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deans-roundtable Email: [email protected] The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Academic Integrity in the Age of AI - A Conversation with Derek Newton How should schools develop AI policies that are both effective and fair? What happens when academic integrity meets cutting-edge technology? Join us for this eye-opening episode where we tackle one of education's most pressing challenges. In this compelling conversation, Derek Newton, publisher of the Cheat Sheet newsletter and academic integrity expert, shares insights on why departmental approaches to AI policy might work better than blanket rules, how online education has expanded the opportunity for misconduct, and the concerning trend of students hiring attorneys to fight academic misconduct allegations. In this episode, you'll learn: Why clear, consistent policies are crucial for addressing AI use in education How teachers and students can use AI responsibly in academic settings Practical strategies for detecting AI misuse in student work The impact of technology on assessment validity in online education Why administrator support for teachers reporting misconduct is essential Featured Guest: Derek Newton is recognized as one of the 10 education influencers to follow in 2024. His analysis on academic integrity has appeared in prestigious publications including the Washington Post, the Atlantic, and Forbes, where he serves as a contributing writer. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org Check out the Deans' Roundtable Community:  https://bit.ly/drt-community-profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deans-roundtable Email: [email protected] Check out Derek's Substack, "The Cheat Sheet": https://thecheatsheet.substack.com/ The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Building a Culture of Care with Jayde Bennett - Supporting Student Safety in Independent Schools How can independent schools create environments where all students feel safe, supported, and held accountable? In this episode, we explore the powerful CARE model that's transforming student life programs nationwide. Jayde Bennett, School Support Specialist at Learning Courage, shares their journey from independent school student to administrator and now consultant. Drawing from their experience as Director of Residential Life and Associate Dean of Students, Jayde provides practical insights on building consistent, accountable, responsive, and empathetic student support systems. This conversation explores both the challenges and solutions for creating communities where students can thrive. In this episode, you'll learn: How to implement clear, consistent policies that students actually understand and follow Strategies for building authentic relationships that create psychological safety for students Why restorative approaches must begin with relationship-building, not just conflict resolution How to maintain institutional knowledge through leadership transitions Ways to balance accountability with empathy in disciplinary situations Practical approaches for day and boarding schools to educate students on boundaries and safety Featured Guest: Jayde Bennett brings their experience as both a former independent school student and administrator to their work at Learning Courage, where they help schools develop ethics of care that center healing and survivorship while remaining responsive to community needs. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: Website: https://www.deansrountable.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deans-roundtable Email: [email protected] Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

The Art of Feedback: Fostering Growth in Educational Settings with Aubry Triptow Effective feedback is essential for growth, yet often challenging to implement. In this insightful episode, Aubry Triptow shares practical strategies for creating feedback cultures that motivate rather than discourage educators. Bridget and Aubry explore the nuances of giving and receiving feedback in educational environments, from establishing psychological safety to handling resistant team members. Through personal stories and professional expertise, they reveal how intentional feedback practices can transform school cultures and enhance leadership effectiveness. In this episode, you'll learn: How to tailor your feedback approach to different communication styles Techniques for creating school-wide systems where feedback is welcomed Strategies for delivering difficult feedback to resistant team members Methods to process feedback effectively and determine what's actionable The vital connection between emotional intelligence and feedback reception Featured Guest: Aubry Triptow leverages her experience from classroom teaching to Texas Education Agency leadership to coach educational leaders nationwide. As founder of The GEAR Leader, she helps administrators build genuine, effective, admirable, and resilient leadership skills, with particular expertise in feedback systems that drive professional growth. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org Check out the Deans' Roundtable Community:  https://bit.ly/drt-community-profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deans-roundtable Email: [email protected] The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

The Power of Mentorship: Building Better Student Life Programs with David Torcoletti Veteran educator David Torcoletti shares how mentorship shaped his own career and why it's essential for student life professionals at every stage. This candid conversation reveals why the most effective deans balance accountability with support and how self-knowledge is the foundation for authentic leadership. In this enlightening episode, host Bridget Johnson reconnects with her own mentor to explore the evolving landscape of student life leadership. From David's unexpected start living in dormitories to becoming a transformative dean, his journey illuminates the delicate balance between building student relationships and holding them accountable. Their discussion covers how artistic perspectives enhance leadership, the value of embracing difficult conversations, and why even experienced deans benefit from ongoing mentorship. In this episode, you'll learn: Why understanding your own triggers and values is essential before leading others How to maintain your personal identity while fulfilling professional responsibilities Techniques for having difficult conversations without compromising relationships When to seek mentorship, regardless of your career stage The balance between restorative practices and accountability in modern student life Why self-care remains crucial for sustained leadership effectiveness Featured Guest: David Torcoletti began as a photography teacher before becoming a campus dean at Northfield Mount Hermon and later Dean of Students at Milton Academy. His experience spans decades of student life leadership, where he developed a philosophy of mentorship that emphasizes self-knowledge, craft development, and balanced perspective. David's artistic background has informed his approach to educational leadership, helping countless administrators find their authentic voice. Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org Check out the Deans' Roundtable Community:  https://bit.ly/drt-community-profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deans-roundtable Email: [email protected] The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

The Art of Improv in Education - Building Communication and Creativity w/Andrew McMasters Discover how the principles of improvisation can revolutionize your team's communication and spark innovation. In this episode, Andrew McMasters shares powerful insights from his decades of experience bridging the worlds of professional acting and corporate training. Andrew and host Bridget Johnson explore the transformative power of "yes, and" thinking and how simple improv techniques can break down barriers to creativity in professional environments. Learn practical methods for fostering psychological safety, enhancing listening skills, and building teams that thrive in rapidly changing circumstances. In this episode, you'll learn: How to apply the core principles of improvisation to overcome workplace challenges Techniques for creating environments where team members feel safe to contribute ideas Practical exercises to improve active listening and responsive communication Methods to adapt leadership styles for different team dynamics and situations Ways to implement "yes, and" thinking to drive innovation and problem-solving Featured Guest: Andrew McMasters is a Seattle-based entrepreneur, corporate trainer, and professional actor who has worked with Fortune 500 companies since 1990. His unique approach combines theatrical improvisation techniques with practical business applications to help organizations communicate more effectively, collaborate seamlessly, and innovate continuously. Recommended Resources: Yes-And Leadership by Andrew McMasters Visit the Deans' Roundtable: https://deansroundtable.org Deans' Roundtable Annual Conference: https://deansroundtable.org/deans-roundtable-annual-conference/  Check out the Deans' Roundtable Community: Website: https://bit.ly/drt-community-profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deans-roundtable Email: [email protected] The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

The Missing Curriculum: Teaching Students How to Have Real Conversations w/Liza Garonzik In an age of increasing polarization and digital distraction, how do we create spaces for authentic dialogue that builds genuine connection and belonging? Join Bridget Johnson and award-winning educator Liza Garonzik as they explore this critical question facing educators today. Through her organization R.E.A.L. Discussion, Liza has partnered with over 70 independent schools to transform how they approach dialogue and community building. Drawing from extensive research and firsthand experience as a teacher, administrator, and trustee, she shares powerful insights about the relationship between discussion skills and belonging in school communities. In this episode, you'll learn: How to break down conversation skills into teachable components for students of all ages Practical strategies for creating psychological safety in classroom discussions Ways to measure and track the impact of structured dialogue on student belonging Techniques for helping students transfer discussion skills to their future careers Why "conversation labs" may be as essential as computer labs were in the 1990s Featured Guest: Liza Garonzik is the Founder of R.E.A.L. Discussion, an organization on a mission to teach discussion skills to young people growing up in today's digital world. A Harvard graduate and award-winning educator, Liza brings unique insights from her research into how structured yet authentic discussions can reshape classroom dynamics and build stronger communities. Recommended Resources: "The Good Life" - Harvard Study on Happiness "How to Know a Person" by David Brooks R.E.A.L. Discussion Framework: Relating, Excerpting, Asking, Listening Visit the Dean's Roundtable: Website: https://deansroundtable.org Community Profile: https://bit.ly/drt-community-profile LinkedIn: /deans-roundtable Email: [email protected] Connect with Liza Garonzik: Website: https://realdiscussion.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liza-garonzik-20988835/ The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.  

Sustainable Leadership: How to Lead Better While Doing Less | Dean's Roundtable with Danielle Pickens Are you trapped in the "always available" leadership cycle? Discover how to create lasting impact without burning out. Leadership expert Danielle Pickens shares game-changing strategies for sustainable leadership in mission-driven organizations. In this transformative episode, we dive deep into the challenges facing education and nonprofit leaders. Danielle draws from her two decades of experience to challenge traditional leadership approaches that lead to burnout. She shares practical insights on breaking free from micromanagement, setting healthy boundaries, and building systems that support both organizational success and personal wellbeing. In this episode, you'll learn: How to identify and break free from unsustainable leadership patterns Practical strategies to delegate effectively without losing quality Ways to push back on the "do more with less" mentality Techniques for building trust while maintaining boundaries Methods to create sustainable systems in resource-constrained environments Featured Guest: Danielle Pickens brings over two decades of experience developing mid to senior-level leaders within K12 education, nonprofits, and mission-driven organizations. As an independent consultant and coach, she helps organizations transform their approach to leadership through her innovative "do less method," proving that you don't have to choose between organizational success and personal wellbeing. Visit Danielle's Website or check out her LinkedIn.  Visit the Deans' Roundtable: • ANNUAL CONFERENCE: https://deansroundtable.org/deans-roundtable-annual-conference/ • Website: https://deansroundtable.org • Community Profile: https://bit.ly/drt-community-profile • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deans-roundtable • Email: [email protected] The Dean's Roundtable: Where student life professionals connect, learn, share, and grow together.