Episode 288: Building Belonging Through Microinclusions with Tom Walls
About this episode
Darrin Peppard interviews Tom Walls about the importance of microinclusions in building belonging and trust within teams and organizations.
Relationships don't happen by accident. The strongest classrooms, teams, and organizations are built through intentional habits that communicate one simple message: You matter here. In Episode 288 of Leaning Into Leadership , Darrin sits down with veteran educator, football coach, and leadership speaker Tom Walls to discuss the power of what he calls microinclusions —small, repeatable actions that create belonging, trust, and buy-in without requiring hours of preparation. Drawing from more than 30 years of experience in classrooms and on football fields across the United States and Canada, Tom shares practical strategies that any leader can begin using immediately. Among the topics discussed: Why great culture is built through consistent daily rituals—not occasional big moments The surprising leadership power of a simple handshake How repetition creates belonging and shared identity Why relationships—not lesson plans—became the most rewarding part of Tom's teaching career The importance of helping people feel seen, heard, and valued Why leaders should embrace finesse over force when influencing others How asking better questions uncovers the hidden learning gaps our students and…
More episodes of Leaning into Leadership
- Episode 287: Becoming the BISON - Leading Classrooms with Intention with Kim Gameroz
- Episode 286: Building the Bench - Growing the Next Generation of Leaders with Joshua Stamper
- Episode 285: The Future of School Leadership with Debra Wilson
- Episode 284: Great Schools Start with Great Leadership Teams
- Episode 283: Leadership Is the Intentional Creation of Conditions
- Episode 282: The New School Leader's Playbook with Erika Bare & Tiffany Burns
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