In this special takeover episode of Love, Sweat, and Tears, guest host Martin Silverman sits down with three dynamic Montana school leaders — John “Johnny Montana” Conan, Travis Niemeyer, and Brian Miller — for a deep dive into one of the most powerful drivers of school success: staff culture.

Together, they explore how staff rooms and shared spaces can either drain morale or build a thriving, positive community. The conversation unpacks why some spaces become centers of negativity, how “toxic empathy” shows up in schools, and what leaders can do to transform staff interactions into solution-focused, encouraging, and relationship-rich moments.

Listeners will hear practical strategies on:

• Building trust through daily walk-throughs and morning check-ins

• Learning personal details to strengthen connections with staff

• Shifting from venting to problem-solving

• Designing intentional staff spaces that promote belonging

• Leading with presence — not just managing from the office

Packed with stories, real-world examples, and honest reflection, this episode is a must-listen for principals, superintendents, APs, and anyone passionate about creating a school culture where people feel seen, supported, and valued.

The Principal’s Playlist: Culture – Part 2 dives deeper into the everyday habits that shape positive school culture. Gerrie Spellmann and Todd Nesloney share simple but meaningful strategies—like handwritten notes, warm welcomes, and intentional moments of connection—that help every student and staff member feel valued. It’s a practical look at how authentic leadership creates a culture that lasts.

In The Principal’s Playlist: Culture, Gerrie Spellmann and Todd Nesloney explore simple, powerful ways to build a school where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. From handwritten notes to student greeters, discover how authentic leadership creates lasting campus culture.

Get ready for a powerful takeover of Love, Sweat & Tears by one of education’s most thoughtful and experienced leaders. In Marty Takes the Mic, Responsive Learning hands the mic to Martin “Marty” Silverman, a longtime educator, principal, mentor, and champion of school culture, reflection, and relational leadership.

Who is Marty Silverman?
Martin Silverman has dedicated over four decades to public education in San Antonio, Texas. He served as a teacher, bilingual educator, and eventually a principal at Salinas Elementary School, working in urban, suburban, and rural schools.

Marty is deeply passionate about nurturing school culture, supporting teachers, and developing future leaders — particularly through reflective practice, family and community connection, and building strong, inclusive environments for all students.

In this special takeover of Love, Sweat & Tears, Marty Silverman — veteran educator, principal, and author — takes the mic to share insights and strategies for school leaders. Joined by Andrea Johnson and Mark Horner

In this episode of Love, Sweat, and Tears, hosts Gerrie Spellmann and Stacey Savage discuss the importance of zero waste initiatives in schools. Stacey shares her journey from a background in the oil and gas industry to becoming a zero waste advocate, highlighting key legislative achievements and practical steps schools can take to reduce waste. The conversation emphasizes the financial benefits of waste reduction, the role of students and custodial staff in sustainability efforts, and the need for a cultural shift towards environmental responsibility in educational institutions.

In this episode of Love, Sweat, and Tears, hosts Gerrie Spellmann and Stacy Savage discuss the importance of zero waste initiatives in schools. Stacey shares her journey from a background in the oil and gas industry to becoming a zero waste advocate, highlighting key legislative achievements and practical steps schools can take to reduce waste. The conversation emphasizes the financial benefits of waste reduction, the role of students and custodial staff in sustainability efforts, and the need for a cultural shift towards environmental responsibility in educational institutions.

✨ Part 2 is here! ✨ In this episode, Dr. Bruce Gearing dives deeper into how school leaders can harness AI and technology to drive positive change, empower students, and create lasting impact in today’s digital age. Dr. Gearing currently serves as Superintendent of Leander ISD (Texas), where he leads more than 42,000 students across nearly 200 square miles. Originally from South Africa, he began his career teaching science and math before moving into leadership roles as an elementary principal, assistant superintendent, and eventually superintendent in several Texas districts—including Dripping Springs ISD and Marshall ISD. ‍ Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on leading with purpose, innovation, and heart. ❤️ #SchoolLeadership #AIinEducation #EdLeadership #NextGenLeaders #PurposefulPD #EducationInnovation

In this episode, Bruce shares how school leaders can harness AI and technology to drive positive change, empower students, and create meaningful impact in today’s digital age.

Don’t miss this conversation on leading with purpose, innovation, and heart. ❤️

Dr. Gearing currently serves as Superintendent of Leander ISD (Texas), leading over 42,000 students across nearly 200 square miles.
Community Impact

Originally from South Africa, he began his career teaching science and math—both locally and
Over time, he advanced through roles as an elementary principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent in several Texas districts (including Dripping Springs ISD and Marshall ISD).

In this episode, Bruce shares how school leaders can harness AI and technology for good—to empower students, strengthen instruction, and lead with purpose in today’s fast-changing world.