Let's figure out if we're a good fit.
30 minutes is enough. No pitch — just a real conversation about where you are and what you're trying to build.
Start with a conversation, not a proposal.
Every engagement starts the same way — a short call to understand your context, your goals, and whether there's a right-sized partnership for where you are. No pressure, no deck, no pitch.
Book a 30-min discovery call
Pick a time that works for you. We'll use the call to understand your context and figure out if there's a fit.
Schedule on Calendly →Reach out directly
If you'd rather send a note before booking a call, that works too. Joe reads and responds to every email personally.
joe@joelofstedt.com →Root & Rise
For curriculum directors & principals
The Margin
For superintendents & exec directors
Tell me a bit about what you're working on.
Fill this out and Joe will be in touch within one business day.
"Every school and district has unique goals and challenges. The first step is simple — let's talk."
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Thanks for reaching out — Joe will be in touch within one business day. In the meantime, feel free to book a discovery call if you'd like to talk sooner.
Book a call nowWhat people usually ask before reaching out.
How do I know which service is right for us?
Root & Rise is for districts and schools trying to make a specific curriculum rollout actually work in classrooms. The Margin is for executive leaders trying to build an organization that can execute without depending on them for every decision. If you're not sure — that's what the 20-minute call is for.
Do you work outside of North Carolina?
Currently focused on North Carolina, with plans to expand. If you're outside NC and think there might be a strong fit, reach out anyway — we can talk through what's possible.
What does the discovery call actually involve?
It's a 20-minute conversation — no prep required on your end. We'll talk about your context, what you're trying to solve, and whether there's a right-sized engagement. If there's not a fit, I'll tell you that directly too.
How long are your engagements?
Both Root & Rise and The Margin are 12-month engagements. That's intentional — the kind of change we're building for takes time. Each engagement ends with an explicit exit plan and a Year 2 that belongs entirely to your team.
What kinds of organizations do you work with?
Root & Rise serves K–12 public school districts and schools. The Margin serves a broader set of education and nonprofit leaders — superintendents, executive directors, charter network leaders, and state agency leaders.
What happens if it's not a good fit?
I'll tell you. There's no pressure on the discovery call and no hard sell afterward. If the timing isn't right or your situation calls for something different, I'll say so — and point you toward what might actually help.