How One Principal is Making Kids LOVE School Again

In this inspiring episode of American Glutton, Ethan Suplee sits down with school principal and viral motivator Zac Bowermaster. Zac shares how a personal battle with anxiety and depression reshaped his approach to leadership, connection, and community. From fist bumps in the hallways to “Protein with the Principal,” Zac’s story is packed with lessons on empathy, resilience, and building a culture where everyone feels seen.

They also dive into work-life rhythm, overcoming obsessive tendencies, and why small, consistent habits matter more than lofty one-time goals. A heartfelt, practical conversation that will leave you motivated to lead with purpose.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Welcome & Boy Meets World nostalgia

02:59 Zac’s first-day-of-school perspective shift

04:29 Viral videos and the power of small moments

09:05 Battling anxiety, depression, and learning to open up

12:22 Sharing stories to connect and heal

19:05 Embracing challenges as part of life’s rhythm

22:45 Living day by day & morning habits

26:16 Balancing health goals with family life

34:41 Helping kids develop healthy habits

40:50 Positivity that resonates

44:44 Finding support after achieving big goals

48:37 Small habits toward big ambitions

50:13 Closing thoughts & gratitude

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