Bonus: The Ruler Shortcut and the Cost of Convenience
In this short solo episode of Aspire to Lead, I share a lesson from the art room that turned into a leadership metaphor I never forgot. Every year, students tried to “hack” an art project using the width of a ruler instead of following directions—and every time, it led to more work and frustration. As leaders, we do this too. Whether it’s a hasty email or skipping essential context, shortcuts often backfire. Tune in for this quick leadership reflection and stay to hear an exciting announcement about the brand-new VIBE Edu Podcast, launching soon with an all-star lineup: Kim Gameroz, Mitch Weathers, TJ Vari, and me, Joshua Stamper. Don’t miss this sneak peek into what’s next!
Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper:
Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper
Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast
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Tired of the same old PD that leaves you inspired but still stuck?
What if one night could shift everything?
VIBEEDU: Educators Defining Unity
A one-night revolution — no fluff, no empty inspiration. Just bold ideas, real strategies, and lasting change.
August 1st, 2025 | 5–9 PM | ARTIC, Anaheim, CA
Join authors, educational leaders, neuropsychologists, and advocates for powerful conversations that challenge the status quo.
Designed for district leaders, principals, teachers, and parents of neurodivergent students ready to lead with intention and take action.
Learn More and Register HERE: https://www.teachinginsideout.com/vibe-edu
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Magic Mind
If you are a long time listener, an ASPIRE Leader, You know I only work with brands that I believe in myself and I integrate in my everyday life, so I’m super happy to talk to you guys about Magic Mind!
I started drinking Magic Mind a while back as I was looking for several things, specifically in the afternoon.
- A boost of energy
- Healthy Ingredients
- Easy to drink throughout the day
EXCITING OFFER!
Try Magic Mind for up to 49% off: https://www.magicmind.com/ATLMM20
Use my code ATLMM20 in the checkout
**Shipping is not included
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#1 New Release, “The Language of Behavior” is NOW Available!
The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate.
Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it’s a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders
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Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD?
Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits.
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Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award!
I’m happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio!
It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support!
The book is available for purchase on Amazon.
Review the Podcast
I want to give a huge shout out to those who have taken the time to provide a review on Apple, Spotify or any other podcast platform. It truly means the world to me that you would take the 30- 90 seconds to share how the podcast has positively impacted you or why other educators should check out the show.
This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, The Aspire Podcast gets a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.
About the author, Joshua
Joshua Stamper is the Training and Development Specialist for the Teach Better Team and manages the Teach Better Podcast Network. Prior to Joshua's current position, he was a middle school Administrator, classroom art educator, and athletic coach.
In addition to being on the Teach Better Team, Joshua is the author of Aspire to Lead, podcaster, leadership coach, and education presenter.