From Howard Stern to Inner Peace: How Brian Simmons Used Comedy and Meditation to Transform NYC Schools

Is humor the missing ingredient in educational leadership? Brian Simmons went from scripting laughs at Comedy Central and the Howard Stern Show to redefining success in New York City’s toughest schools. Twenty years ago, I hired Brian as an English teacher—today, he’s a recognized leader in Career and Technical Education (CTE). Together, we unpack the transformative strategies that turned chaos into career pathways, proving authenticity and mindfulness can profoundly impact student outcomes.

Join me, Joe Clausi (The Traveling Principal), in this insightful conversation on leadership, humor, and education innovation.