Coffee With the Custodian: A New Principal, an Unexpected Teacher, and Lessons in Leadership (Leadership lessons through the power of a story) Perfect Paperback – March 11, 2026

Embrace a transformational approach to educational leadership. In this powerful EduFable™, Brad Johnson shares the story of a principal and custodian who discover that true leadership is built on connection. This story-centered guide reveals 10 transformational principles rooted in presence, trust, and relational intelligence. Use the included study guide to build lasting leadership and leave your entire school community better than you found it. Current and aspiring K–12 leaders using this book can: Reevaluate their leadership expectations with a stronger focus on service and team buildingConsider how engaged presence builds trust and fosters connectionLearn how noticing and acknowledging others’ contributions strengthen team rapportUnderstand the balance between leading from the front and allowing others to shineValue the leadership capacity of all school employees, including behind-the-scenes staff Contents: Prologue Chapter 1: Just Keeping the Seat Warm Chapter 2: The First Cup Chapter 3: The List Chapter 4: A Paper Jam Chapter 5: The Thermostat Chapter 6: No Such Thing as a Team of One Chapter 7: The Strength in the Room Chapter 8: A Moment of Change Chapter 9: Beyond Recognition Chapter 10: In the Middle of It All Chapter 11: Leaders Worth Following Chapter 12: Plans and Schedules Chapter 13: Stories in Every Corner Chapter 14: The Quiet Ones Chapter 15: Adding Value Chapter 16: Balance and Boundaries Chapter 17: R.Q. > I.Q. Chapter 18: Protecting the Culture Chapter 19: Showing Up With a Broom Chapter 20: The Day the Rhythm Broke Chapter 21: When to Speak, When to Sweep Chapter 22: Not a Placeholder Chapter 23: The Lead Custodian Chapter 24: What You Build Chapter 25: Better Than They Found It Coffee With the Custodian Leadership Study Guide Read more