In this episode of the Leaning Into Leadership podcast, Darrin sits down with fellow high school principal and podcast host Jeff Linden, Principal of Hastings High School in Nebraska. With a shared passion for culture and leadership, Jeff and Darrin dive into what it really takes to build a thriving school environment—especially for those stepping into leadership roles for the first time.

Jeff opens up about his unconventional path to school leadership, including his service in the U.S. Army Reserves, a career in coaching, and his early days as a rookie head football coach and math teacher. He shares what inspired his transition to administration and how a single conversation set him on a leadership journey grounded in systems thinking and relationship building.

Topics covered include:

• The power of systems to reduce chaos and create consistency
• A 60-90-30 day transition plan for new school leaders
• How to foster collective buy-in to support schoolwide accountability
• Jeff’s approach to culture-first leadership and his school’s cell phone policy journey
• Why listening is a non-negotiable skill for new administrators
• How podcasting helps Jeff sharpen his leadership skills

If you're stepping into school leadership—or looking to sharpen your systems and culture-building strategies—this episode is packed with insight and practical takeaways. Plus, Jeff shares how his podcast, Educational Leadership with Principal JL, is helping leaders grow and connect.

📩 Connect with Jeff:

• Email: the.principal.jl@gmail.com
• Podcast: Educational Leadership with Principal JL (available on all major platforms)
• Social Media: Find his handles through his podcast page
• More contact info: https://dot.cards/principal_jl

Jeff Linden is the Principal of Hastings High School in Nebraska and the host of t the Educational Leadership with Principal JL podcast. With over 17 years in education, Jeff brings a wealth of experience as a teacher, coach, and school leader. A military veteran, Jeff’s leadership is grounded in discipline, systems thinking, and a passion for building strong school culture. He holds multiple advanced degrees in leadership and curriculum and is committed to empowering educators, supporting student success, and fostering collaborative school communities.

In this episode of Leaning Into Leadership, Darrin sits down with Joe LaTorre, a middle school English teacher, team coordinator, and founder of the Bridges program in Long Island, NY. Joe shares how looping, relationship-building, and culturally responsive practices help him build classroom communities rooted in trust and student empowerment. They dive deep into the origin and impact of Bridges, a student leadership and cultural exchange initiative, and explore how educators can go beyond curriculum to foster belonging and long-term engagement.

Joe and Darrin discuss everything from rethinking first-day icebreakers to helping students tackle real-world issues like mental health and community leadership. You’ll hear stories about students taking charge, serving their communities, and building relationships that last beyond the school walls. If you’re looking for actionable ways to build student agency and school culture—this episode delivers.

🎧 About Joe LaTorre:

Joe LaTorre’s unconventional journey—from finance to an unexpected stint with the Teletubbies—ultimately led him to his true calling: education. What began as a passion for inspiring a love of reading and writing grew into a mission to equip students and adults with the skills and mindsets needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. Through leadership development, innovation, and a focus on purpose, his work challenges apathy and unlocks potential.

As the founder of Bridges, a partnership between two Long Island school districts, Joe has helped teenagers develop leadership and communication skills to shape their futures. A two-time New York State Teaching Award winner, he has led district-wide initiatives, presented at regional and national forums, and been featured in multiple media outlets. Known for bringing people together and fostering cultures of success, Joe continues to explore new ways to create transformative educational experiences.

📱 Follow Joe on Instagram: @TheJoeLaTorre

🌐 Learn more at: www.JosephLaTorre.net