In this episode, Craig welcomes Matt Sloan, 2024 New York State Principal of the Year at Middleburg Junior Senior High School, who shares his insights on implementing mindfulness programs in schools and creating a distraction-free learning environment.

Here’s a glimpse into the profound insights you can expect:

• The Thief in the Empty Room: Matt shares his interpretation of the podcast's namesake koan, relating it to the importance of inner peace and setting aside desires to be present.  

• From Urban to Rural: A Principal's Journey: Matt discusses his diverse career path, from working with urban youth in Boston to observing the disparities in resource allocation and ultimately leading change in a rural New York district.  

• Mindfulness and a Distraction-Free Environment: Explore Matt's initiatives to introduce mindfulness practices, address social-emotional needs, and implement a cell phone policy to encourage a more focused and supportive school community.