Interventions and Detentions

In this episode, I sit down with principal and author Brian Kulak to talk about why adult SEL isn’t optional and how emotionally intelligent leadership shapes everything that happens in a school. We dig into what leaders can do to support the people who care for kids, the impact on students when adult SEL is ignored, and why strong staff culture is the foundation of every great school.

this episode of Interventions & Detentions, Brad opens up about the emotional realities of school leadership — the weight you carry, the pressure you absorb, and the moments that make the job feel heavier than anyone realizes. Drawing on his journey from a 5th-grade classroom in 1997 to 22 years in the principal’s chair, Brad shares honest reflections on burnout, staying grounded, and what it...

This week, Brad dives into how adult actions, tone, and consistency shape everything kids do — and how real change starts with us. Because better behavior doesn’t begin with rules… it begins with relationships. Interventions and Detentions — Where the Real Learning Begins.

In this special episode of Interventions and Detentions, I share a heartfelt tribute to my late father, who passed away at the age of 91. The episode opens with his obituary and reflects on his life growing up on a farm in Wawaka, Indiana, his time in the Army, his years as an IHSAA official and youth coach, and his deep love for IU basketball, the Indy 500, and his family. It’s a touching look at...

What really drives student behavior? In this episode, Brad dives deep into the power of connection over control, exploring why relationships, regulation, and understanding matter more than punishment. From practical interventions that actually work to reflections on the quiet kids who often go unnoticed, this episode looks at the heart of what education is all about: people. Because every kid has...

Episode 2.8 – The Primary Grind What’s a day in the life really like for a primary school principal? In this episode, Brad welcomes special guest Kim Kabrich, principal of Lakeland Primary School, for a real and relatable look into the joys, challenges, and surprises of leading a building full of little learners. From morning drop-off chaos to heartwarming classroom moments and everything in betwe...

What’s it really like growing up as the principal’s kid? In this week’s episode of Interventions and Detentions, I sit down with my daughters, Madi and Meredith, to find out! They share the real story of being “PKs” — from tagging along to school events when they were little, to walking the halls of the same school where their dad was in charge.

Episode 2:6 – So I Married a Principal Interventions and Detentions – Where the Real Learning Begins In this special episode, Brad welcomes his wife, Shari Targgart, to the mic. Together they share stories, laughs, and honest reflections about what it’s like to be married to a school principal. From the everyday challenges to the lighter moments, this behind-the-scenes conversation gives listeners...

Why are so many good teachers leaving the profession? In this solo episode, I dig into the research, share some honest reflections, and ask the hard questions: •Is burnout worse in teaching than in other professions? •Why do the days of teachers staying 30 years in the same grade feel like a thing of the past? •And most importantly — what can we do to keep great teachers in our schools? It’s a mix...

Episode 2:4 – Just Say No In this episode, I open up about one of my biggest struggles—saying no. As a principal who also teaches driver’s ed, drives a bus, and takes on extra side opportunities, I’ve learned how always saying yes can spread me too thin. I talk about why it’s so hard to say no, the personal and professional costs of overcommitting, and how boundaries can actually make your yes mor...

This week I sit down with Scott Helmkamp, CEO of the LaPorte County Family YMCA, to talk about the incredible ways the Y is shaping and inspiring tomorrow’s leaders. From real-life stories of impact to the values that carry kids into adulthood, this conversation is packed with encouragement and purpose.

Seth Carter has worn a lot of hats — insurance agent, entrepreneur, podcast host… and yes, teacher. He stepped away from the classroom for a time, but guess what? The classroom called him back. This week on Interventions and Detentions, we talk about how just one year of teaching changed Seth’s perspective on life and leadership, and why he decided to return. It’s real, it’s inspiring, and it’s on...

I’m kicking things off solo to reintroduce the podcast, share what’s new, and give you a sneak peek at the incredible guests lined up this season. From grading philosophies to SEL for adults, YMCA leadership stories, and even a few family episodes, you won’t want to miss what’s ahead.

School’s back in session… and so is Interventions & Detentions! I’m your host, Bradley T., and Season 2 is just around the corner—packed with new stories, fresh perspectives, and conversations that challenge, inspire, and maybe even make you laugh a little. We’re bringing you the voices and ideas that matter most in education—and beyond. So grab your coffee, sharpen your pencils, and get ready...

In the latest episode of the Interventions and Detentions podcast, Kylie and I dig into what summer looks like through every stage of the teaching journey — from childhood nostalgia, to those early-career summers, to what it feels like now as veteran educators.

In Episode 1:21 of Interventions and Detentions, we’re reminiscing about all the chaos, laughter, and nostalgia that comes with wrapping up a school year—from our childhood days to our teaching years to life as administrators. 🚌 Field trips gone wrong 📦 Classroom clean-outs 🎓 That last-day energy 😎 And yes… summer countdowns! Whether you’re a student, teacher, or just someone who loves a good...

Are our youngest students growing up too fast online? 🤳 This episode of Interventions and Detentions explores: 🔹 What early screen use really looks like in K–3 🔹 The effects on behavior, sleep, and emotions 🔹 What educators and parents can actually do 👀 If you’ve ever heard a 6-year-old quote TikTok—you’ll want to hear this.

Ep 1:19 – “Is It Worth It? Debating Life’s Petty Dilemmas” Brad & Kylie are overthinking the little stuff—drive-thru waits, reheated leftovers, parking spot strategy—because hey, sometimes the petty stuff is the big stuff.

We welcome special guest, Jodie Jordan, to the podcast this week to discuss our very own KinderForest outdoor learning program!

In this episode of Interventions and Detentions, hosts Brad and Kylie dive into the fascinating world of slang, tracing its journey from the 1800s to the present day. Join them as they explore weird and wonderful phrases like "giggle mug" and "mutton shunter" from the 1800s, moving through the "bee's knees" of the early 20th century, and the vibrant expressions of the 80s and 90s. Don't miss their...

Welcome back to the 15th episode of the Interventions and Detentions podcast, where Brad and Kylie take a bold leap into an unplanned, unscripted adventure. Join them as they explore a myriad of random thoughts, from the quirks of sharks to vacation musings, spontaneous existential musings, and everything in between. Inspired by the essence of Seinfeld, this episode relishes in the beauty of conve...

Episode Title: Ice Packs & Band-Aids – A Day in the Life of a School Nurse In this episode of Interventions & Detentions, we sit down with Central Noble Primary’s very own school nurse, Natalie Woods, to uncover what really happens behind the nurse’s office door. From handling everyday bumps and bruises to navigating major health concerns, Natalie gives us a firsthand look at the vital rol...

In this episode, Kylie and Brad embrace the art of conversation with absolutely no agenda. No lesson plans, no special guests—just two educators reminiscing, sharing random thoughts, and seeing where the conversation takes them. From school stories to off-the-wall tangents, this is the episode about nothing… and maybe everything.

Join us as we welcome Amy Young as our special guest to this weeks podcast to talk all things school Transportation. Amy is the central Noble community schools Director of Transportation.

Sharing and discussing all the things teachers do after the bell ring.