The Language of Behavior

What if the most powerful academic tool isn’t a textbook—but a relationship? In this episode, Charle and Joshua respond to Velma Knowles’ heartfelt question: “How do you empower students to believe that they can achieve their goals?” Drawing from trauma-informed strategies and years of experience in the classroom, they share practical ways to build trust from day one—through one-on-one conferences...

When students misbehave, emotions run high—for teachers, administrators, and the students themselves. In this episode, Charle and Joshua dive into the complex, often misunderstood world of school suspensions. What role do In-School and Out-of-School Suspensions really play in a student’s growth? How can we hold students accountable without pushing them away? Together, we explore the emotional toll...

Not all behavior supports are created equal—and some do more harm than good. In this episode, Charle and Joshua dive into the listener question: “What behavior supports most influence student learning?” Using John Hattie’s research as a foundation, they unpack the true academic impact of practices like in-school and out-of-school suspension, the over-identification of students for special educatio...

In this episode, Charle and Joshua tackle a timely question from an administrator planning for the year ahead: How do we make real progress when the pressure from the state, district, or politics seems to get in the way? With candor and practical insight, they discuss how to stay rooted in your campus vision while navigating the noise. From creative funding options and neutralizing politically cha...

Sometimes the biggest cries for help are the quietest ones. In this episode, Charle and Joshua respond to a listener’s powerful question: What subtle signs indicate that a child or adult is struggling emotionally or behaviorally? They unpack the vital, often-overlooked clues—like mood swings, sleep changes, irritability, physical illness, sudden grade drops, or disengagement—that might seem like d...

What happens when school staff are emotionally exhausted, unsupported, and silently burning out? In this episode, Charle and Joshua answer a powerful listener question: How does school culture contribute to behavioral issues among staff? They explore the disconnect between what’s said and what’s modeled—especially around mental health. Too often, educators are told to “take care of themselves,” ye...

When students clash, shut each other out, or stir up conflict, it can ripple through your classroom culture. In this episode, Charle and Joshua unpack the listener question, “What do we do when students display negative interactions with peers?” —and offer real strategies to guide students toward better communication, conflict resolution, and meaningful connection. From modeled language to restora...

Not every cry for help is loud. In this episode, Charle and Joshua respond to a listener’s important question: What subtle signs indicate that a child or adult is struggling emotionally or behaviorally? Together, they explore how to become more attuned to the quiet cues—shifts in energy, nonverbal language, out-of-character behavior, and tone—that signal deeper emotional needs. With real-world exa...

What do you do when a student shuts down—refusing to work, withdrawing completely, or staring through you like you’re not even there? In this episode, Charle and Joshua respond to a powerful question from listener Isaya Woytowich and dive deep into what’s really going on beneath the surface. They share real classroom stories of shutdowns caused by boredom, emotional overload, trauma, and even hidd...

In this episode, Charle and Joshua tackle a tough and familiar listener question from Lindsay Ward: "When students manipulate situations and other teachers for certain things, what strategies do you have to use to still feel like they are supported?" With empathy and honesty, they break down the difference between manipulation and unmet needs, share real-world stories, and offer practical language...

Ever find yourself in a standoff with a student and wonder, How did we get here? In this eye-opening episode, Charle and Joshua unpack one of the most common and misunderstood classroom challenges: power struggles. From subtle cues like tone and body language to the words we choose and how we position ourselves, every interaction sends a message. This episode explores how educators may unintention...

Are In and Out of school suspensions really changing student behavior? In this episode, Charle and Joshua answer a listener's question about how restorative practices can be used in both schools and workplaces to address misbehavior in a meaningful way. Through real stories and practical strategies, they explain how to replace outdated discipline systems with restorative steps that help individual...

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Dr. Brandi Kelly joins Charle and Joshua to discuss her new book Lead with Hope and the powerful message behind it. Brandi shares how losing her brother at a young age shaped her journey and ignited her passion to support others through grief, trauma, and depression. Together, they explore how to lean into strengths, boost self-efficacy, and protect o...

How do you hold a student accountable without damaging the fragile relationship you've worked so hard to build? In this episode, Charle and Joshua tackle a powerful listener question about navigating behavior challenges with students who struggle to trust adults. They explore practical strategies for addressing misconduct—especially when evidence is unclear or actions can’t be ignored—while preser...

What if In-School Suspension wasn’t just about separation, but transformation? In this episode, Charle and Joshua respond to a powerful question from educator Leah Hobbs: How can we integrate social emotional learning (SEL) into ISS when students are being disciplined for things like dress code violations or excessive tardies? They dive into the purpose of ISS, how to reimagine it as a proactive l...

In this reflective episode, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper revisit some of the most impactful insights from the Thriving Educator LIVE series—focusing on how our physical environment plays a crucial role in shaping student behavior. Responding to a powerful listener question, they explore real-world examples of sensory tools, calming decorations, and intentional classroom design choices that help...

Ever notice how a simple shift in tone or a slight change in proximity can completely alter a student's response? In this episode, Charle and Joshua dive into the unseen yet powerful impact of presence on student behavior. They uncover how factors like body language, classroom layout, and even the pace of speech shape student engagement and trust. Every move we make as educators sends a message so...

What happens when a student’s behavior seems completely unpredictable? A listener asks how to determine triggers for a student who seems to have none, and in this episode, Charle and Joshua dive deep into the hidden factors behind student outbursts. They share real-life stories, common but often overlooked triggers, and environmental influences that may be fueling unexpected behaviors. Plus, they...

Teachers are facing more challenges than ever when it comes to student behavior, engagement, and emotional well-being. In this powerful episode, special guests Kasey Schultz and Brian Miller join Charle and Joshua to break down what’s really happening in classrooms today. From student behavior interventions to the six key pieces of engagement, they explore why traditional methods are falling short...

Anxiety is one of the most common challenges students and educators face, yet it’s often misunderstood or overlooked. In this episode, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper tackle the big question: How can anxiety be treated, and how can we support those who struggle with it effectively? From building self-awareness to using evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Accelerated R...

At 19, Kevin Hines made the devastating decision to jump off the Golden Gate Bridge. He survived. Today, he is one of the world’s leading voices in mental health and suicide prevention, using his second chance at life to bring hope to others. In this powerful and deeply moving episode, Kevin shares his personal journey, the warning signs of depression and suicidal ideation that often go unnoticed...

Stress is a normal part of life, but when does it cross the line into an anxiety disorder? In this episode, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper break down the key differences between everyday stress and clinical anxiety, especially in the classroom setting. They explore how predictability, classroom norms, and intentional check-ins can help students feel more secure and supported. Plus, they share prac...

Students with ADHD often find themselves at odds with the traditional school model by struggling to sit still, focus, or meet rigid expectations that don’t align with how their brains are wired. So what can educators do to truly support them? In this episode, Charle and Josh dive into the realities of ADHD in schools, backed by research and real-world experiences. They unpack why conventional disc...

February is here, and if you’re feeling the weight of student behaviors reaching their peak, you’re not alone. Research shows that February is the highest month for student referrals , making it one of the most stressful times for educators. But here’s the reality— we can’t effectively manage student behavior if we’re not in the right emotional state ourselves. In this episode, Charle and Josh div...

In this special episode, Joshua Stamper reads the introduction to The Language of Behavior: A Framework to Elevate Student Success . Dive into the heart of the book as Joshua explores key sections like Are We Failing? , Regaining Trust in the System , and Why Traditional Approaches to Misbehavior Aren't Working . Discover how this new approach redefines student behavior support, fosters stronger c...