The CharacterStrong Weekly

A quick 2 to 3 minute episode with a low-burden, high-impact strategy to transform your daily work

4 at the Door + 1 More 03/05/2025

4 at the Door + 1 More What if you could do one simple thing every day to increase classroom engagement by 20% in just an hour? In today’s episode, we share one of our favorite relational strategies that’s backed by research. Tune in to learn how this small daily practice can make a big difference in your classroom! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322680

Team Notetaking 03/05/2025

Team Notetaking Looking for a versatile strategy to boost collaboration and engagement? In today’s video, we introduce Team Notetaking—a tool perfect for brainstorming, get-to-know-you sessions, or academic review activities. Tune in to discover how this flexible approach can enhance learning and connection in your classroom! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322620

Puzzled 03/05/2025

Puzzled Ever feel stuck in a rut, searching for fresh ways to help students process and engage? In today’s 2-minute episode, we introduce an activity we love called "Puzzled." Tune in to learn how this creative strategy can spark curiosity and active learning in your classroom! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322585

The Power of the Post-It Note Pt. 2 03/05/2025

The Power of the Post-It Note Pt. 2 Feeling overwhelmed by adding one more thing to your to-do list? Here’s a low-burden, high-impact strategy that can help ease the stress—all you need is a stack of Post-its and a pen or pencil! In today’s 2-minute episode, we’ll show you how a small Post-it can create a BIG impact in your classroom. Tune in to learn more! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322520

The Magic Umbrella 03/05/2025

The Magic Umbrella Bringing a little fun to the classroom—while fostering connection, sharing, and thinking—isn’t just one more thing on the plate; it is the plate. In today’s 2-minute episode, we introduce The Magic Umbrella and how this engaging activity can transform your classroom environment. Tune in to learn how to incorporate it into your day! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322490

Positive Notes Home 03/05/2025

Positive Notes Home In a world filled with electronic communication, handwritten notes can feel especially meaningful. Encouraging students to write notes to any important adult in their lives can create powerful connections. In today’s 2-minute episode, we share a simple question to inspire this practice and how you can incorporate it into your day. Tune in to learn more! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322475

Reconnect and Repair in Order to Restore Pt. 3 03/05/2025

Reconnect and Repair in Order to Restore Pt. 3 All healthy, secure relationships will experience negative interactions at some point—it’s how we handle them that matters most. In today’s quick 2-minute episode, we introduce five communication strategies to use with students and dive deeper into one you can start using right away. Tune in to strengthen your connections through thoughtful communication! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322455

Reconnect and Repair in Order to Restore Pt. 2 03/05/2025

Reconnect and Repair in Order to Restore Pt. 2 Acknowledging that there are two sides to every negative interaction—and that adults can make mistakes too—can be powerful for building trust with students. In today’s 2-minute episode, we share a key question that can help foster mutual understanding and growth. Tune in to learn how to incorporate this approach into your day! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322410

The Power of Redirection 03/05/2025

The Power of Redirection Did you know that implementing just two simple strategies can reduce 75% of challenging student behavior? In today’s 3-minute episode, we unpack the findings from a recent study and share practical tips to create a more positive classroom environment. Tune in to learn more! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322360

Neutral Thinking 03/05/2025

Neutral Thinking Have you ever been frustrated, only to hear someone say, "Just be positive," making you feel even more annoyed? In today’s episode, we share a thoughtful strategy to help navigate tough days without dismissing your emotions. Tune in to discover how to approach challenges with grace and resilience. Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322270

About Face Discussion 03/05/2025

About Face Discussion Looking for creative ways to group students and grab their attention? In today’s 2-minute episode, we share a few simple and effective strategies to make the process seamless and engaging. Tune in to learn practical tips you can use right away! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322220

The I Spy Mentality 03/05/2025

The I Spy Mentality Ask yourself, "Am I an adult that students see throughout the day, or do they have to hunt to find me?" In today’s quick 2-minute episode, we explore the importance of visibility and how being present can strengthen your connections with students. Tune in to discover simple ways to heighten your visibility and make a lasting impact. Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322210

Lead With The Positive 03/05/2025

Lead With The Positive Receiving feedback about falling short or needing improvement can be tough—for adults and students alike. In today’s 2-minute episode, we discuss the power of Leading With The Positive and how intentional affirmations can make a difference. Tune in to learn how this simple practice strengthens connections and fosters growth in your students. Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322195

The Whip Around 03/05/2025

The Whip Around A quick, reflective exit activity can make all the difference after a lesson, but finding the time isn’t always easy. In today’s 2-minute episode, we share a simple tweak to your technique that makes this process effortless and impactful. Tune in to learn how to wrap up lessons with intention and ease! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322130

Say, Mean, Matter 03/05/2025

Say, Mean, Matter When introducing new information to students, a simple question like, "What does it say? What do you notice?" can encourage observation and engagement. In today’s quick 2-minute episode, we dive into how this approach fosters critical thinking and curiosity. Tune in to learn how to easily incorporate this strategy into your day! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322115

Taking Ownership 03/05/2025

Taking Ownership Taking ownership doesn’t mean making something up—it’s about identifying specific moments you could have handled better. In today’s quick 2-minute episode, we share tips on using ownership as an effective restorative communication technique. Learn how to reflect and respond with the intention to strengthen relationships and create positive outcomes. Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34322035

Shareouts 03/05/2025

Shareouts "Creating engagement, equity, and accountability in classroom discussions isn’t just one more thing on the plate—it is the plate." In today’s quick 2-minute episode, we share a simple yet powerful strategy that gets students excited to participate in shareouts. Discover the question that can transform your discussions and learn how to seamlessly incorporate it into your day! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34321980

The First 5 03/05/2025

The First 5 The first 5 minutes of class set the tone for the entire day. What students need most is a safe environment built on consistency. In this week’s episode, we share three practical strategies to help you create that space for your students. Tune in to learn how these simple tools can make a big difference in your classroom! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34321960

What Can They Predict? 03/05/2025

What Can They Predict? Research tells us that one of the most powerful ways to support students who have experienced trauma is by creating a consistent and predictable environment. In this week’s episode, we challenge you to focus on the first 5 minutes of your students’ day. Tune in to learn how small adjustments during this key time can set the tone for a safe and supportive classroom experience. Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34321805

What Can You Control? 03/05/2025

What Can You Control? Principal Todd Whitaker once said, "The best part about being a teacher is that it matters. The hardest part about being a teacher is that it matters Every. Single. Day." In today’s quick 2-minute episode, we share a practical strategy to support you through the challenging moments of education. Tune in for a reminder that you’re not alone—and that small, intentional actions can make a big difference. Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34321670

Pre-Correction 02/26/2025

Pre-Correction Have you ever looked at your lesson plan and anticipated exactly where your students might struggle or lose focus? In today’s episode, we share a practical strategy you can implement right away to guide your students toward success. Learn how to proactively encourage the behaviors and performance you want to see—starting today! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34321630

The Power of Pairing Strategies Part 2 02/26/2025

The Power of Pairing Strategies Part 2 How often do you ask students to find a partner during the day? It’s a common classroom practice, but without intentionality, students often stick with the same partners repeatedly. In today’s episode, we share a fun and creative strategy to mix things up and ensure all students feel included and engaged. Tune in to learn a fresh approach to partnering up in your classroom! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34321575

The Power of Pairing Strategies 02/26/2025

The Power of Pairing Strategies How often do you ask students to find a partner during the day? It’s a common classroom practice, but without intentionality, students often stick with the same partners repeatedly. In today’s episode, we share a fun and creative strategy to mix things up and ensure all students feel included and engaged. Tune in to learn a fresh approach to partnering up in your classroom! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34321550

Increasing Belonging 02/26/2025

Increasing Belonging At CharacterStrong, we believe the most important work starts with YOU—the educator. In this short 2-minute episode, we share practical tips to help you strengthen relationships and implement effective check-ins with your students. These small but impactful actions can create a lasting ripple effect in your classroom. Listen now to learn how to build meaningful connections! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34321515

Sticky Note System 02/26/2025

Sticky Note System Did you know your words and actions as an educator can transform a student’s entire day? In this episode, we’ll share two simple, low-burden systems that help you intentionally create moments of connection with your students. These strategies are designed to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule while making a powerful impact. Tune in to learn how small shifts can lead to big changes! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34321485

Tell Me More 02/26/2025

Tell Me More What if three simple words could transform the way your students feel and interact in your classroom? In this episode, we explore the power of saying, "Tell me more." Discover how this simple phrase, paired with thoughtful boundaries like “after class,” creates space for meaningful conversation, fosters understanding, and strengthens relationships with students—all while maintaining classroom flow. Tune in to learn how these three words can make a lasting impact. Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34321435

The Character Card Process 02/26/2025

The Character Card Process Imagine the impact of asking students every week: 'What did you do for others today?' and helping them set intentional goals to reflect on it. In today’s podcast, John shares a powerful weekly process that inspired incredible results! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34292785

The Triple Win 02/26/2025

The Triple Win This week’s podcast challenges you to build connections by emailing 3-5 families with positive notes about their student. We've even included scripts to make it easy! End your day on a high note and start the next one even stronger. Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34292760

What will your students thank you for? 02/26/2025

What will your students thank you for? On today’s podcast, we explore a powerful strategy that helps you create meaningful connections your students will remember long after graduation. What will they thank you for? Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34292715

Showcasing Behaviors You Wish to See 02/26/2025

Showcasing Behaviors You Wish to See Discover how one school boosted positive behaviors with a simple yet powerful strategy in this week’s CharacterStrong Weekly! Learn More About CharacterStrong: • Learn more about the • Access FREE • Attend our next live • Visit the /episode/index/show/564df293-b127-4c4a-bf54-ee03844ac1b1/id/34292680

The CharacterStrong Weekly

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