In this episode, I sit down with Alex Gingell to unpack what it actually takes to make instructional coaching work in a school. Alex explains why his first priority wasn’t improving teaching, but stabilizing behavior, curriculum, and trust—and why coaching can only succeed once those foundations are secure. We talk through how he used Steplab to build coaching expertise, removed high-stakes observations to create psychological safety, and modeled vulnerability by being coached himself.
🚨 Exciting news! 🚨
Alex and I are bringing this work to life in person. We’ll be leading a coaching-focused professional development day in New York City on Saturday, January 17, 2026 (8:30 AM–3:30 PM) at FLACS Middle School. 🗽
We’ll dig into the practical mechanics of coaching, rehearsal, and culture-building—no fluff, no theory without application. If this episode resonates with you, you’ll want to be in the room.
👉 Learn more and register here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/steplab1/1878932
The conversation then turns to the knowing–doing gap and the breakthrough that came from regular, low-stakes rehearsal. Alex shares how short, consistent rehearsal routines replaced traditional staff briefings—helping teachers turn insight into classroom habit. We close with reflections on the structural changes that made coaching viable—protecting time, redesigning meetings, narrowing focus—and what Alex would do differently if he were starting again.
Listen to Progressively Incorrect on…
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Looking for great education books?
The podcast you’re listening to is sponsored by John Catt from Hachette Learning and hosted by Dr. Zach Groshell. John Catt publishes some of the best books in education, including my book, Just Tell Them: The Power of Explanations and Explicit Teaching.
Interested in coaching that works for every teacher, every time?
Book a demo of Steplab today!
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