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Coffee With the Custodian
A New Principal, an Unexpected Teacher, and Lessons in Leadership
This unique story-centered guide uses the narrative of a principal and custodian to reveal 10 transformational leadership principles. Learn to lead with relational intelligence, build deep trust, and connect with every member of your school community, from the classroom to the bus.
Leadership lessons through the power of a story
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 building
- Consider how engaged presence builds trust and fosters connection
- Learn how noticing and acknowledging others’ contributions strengthen team rapport
- Understand the balance between leading from the front and allowing others to shine
- Value the leadership capacity of all school employees, including behind-the-scenes staff
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“Coffee With the Custodian is a quiet, powerful reminder that the most important leadership lessons rarely come from boardrooms or books, but from listening deeply to the people who hold an organization together. Brad Johnson shows that humility, presence, and curiosity—not titles—are what transform a principal into a true leader. This book will change how you see leadership, and more importantly, how you see the people right in front of you.”
“Coffee With the Custodian offers a powerful reflection on leadership that begins with presence and human connection. It captures the loneliness of leadership and the profound impact of listening to those who know a school's culture best. This book is a meaningful read for both teachers and leaders who want to feel more grounded and reminded why people are always at the heart of our work.”
“In Coffee With the Custodian, Brad Johnson gets to the heart of leadership—what it means to be present as a leader, to truly see people, and to build trust one day at a time. Effective leadership isn’t a matter of playing the lone hero—it’s about building relationships, listening, and developing leadership in others. Both new and experienced leaders will find encouragement and guidance in this timeless leadership parable.”
“Coffee With the Custodian is a powerful reminder that the most meaningful leadership doesn’t come from titles or authority—it comes from presence, humility, and genuine care for people. Brad Johnson beautifully illustrates how culture is built in everyday moments, often by those we overlook the most. This book is a must-read for leaders who want to lead with heart, not ego.”
“Coffee With the Custodian is a refreshing reminder that effective school leadership begins with listening, slowing down, and intentionally building meaningful relationships. Brad Johnson challenges leaders to move away from control and toward trust, reinforcing that empowering others strengthens both staff and school culture. This book offers timely clarity for educators seeking to lead with authenticity, purpose, and a renewed focus on people first.”
“Coffee With the Custodian is a powerful reminder that the people who shape school culture most often are the ones we overlook. Reading this book felt like sitting across the table from a trusted colleague who reminds you why you chose this work in the first place. It captures leadership the way it actually happens: quietly, relationally, and with deep humanity. If you believe schools are influenced through trust, not titles, this book belongs on your desk.”
