Lead with HOPE

The conversation explores the concept of hope and leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-care, reflection, and connection. It delves into personal stories, challenges, and the five R's of the Hope Reset, offering a practical tool for leaders to navigate difficult times. The hosts also introduce the Hope Collective, a coaching and networking opportunity for leaders. Takeaways Hope is essential for leadership Self-care and reflection are crucial for effective leadership The five R's of the Hope Reset provide a practical tool for leaders The Hope Collective offers coaching and networking opportunities for leaders Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Facebook Live Challenges 03:14 Navigating Technical Difficulties 08:03 Personal Stories and Childhood Dreams 15:46 The Five R's of the Hope Reset 34:21 The Hope Collective and Conclusion Resources Join the HOPE Collective https://sparkhopeedu.com/thehopecollective

Matt Thoman shares his powerful journey of overcoming adversity and building mental toughness. He emphasizes the importance of intentional practice and positivity in achieving mental health and success. The conversation delves into the impact of mental health in athletics, education, and leadership, highlighting the need for intentional habits and a positive mindset. Takeaways Mental toughness is built through intentional practice Positivity is a mindset that can be developed over time Small choices make a big impact Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Recovery 06:26 Adversity and Resilience 12:56 The Impact of Mental Health in Athletics and Education 25:04 Creating Hope-Fueled Cultures 33:48 Intentional Habits and Positive Mindset Resources: Join The HOPE Collective Sign up here: https://sparkhopeedu.com/thhopecollective Check out Matt Thomann's Podcast, the Mental Mettle Podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-164-hope-is-aggressive-with-dr-brandi-kelly/id1690960664?i=1000777529617

This episode of the Lead with HOPE Podcast is about embracing your story, the shaping power of experiences, and the renewed commitment to self-care and well-being. It emphasizes the connection between health and purpose, and the importance of prioritizing self-care as a leader. Takeaways Embracing personal stories shapes leadership and life. Prioritizing self-care is essential for leading with hope and purpose. Chapters 00:00 Embracing Your Story and Leading with Hope 01:43 The Shaping Power of Stories 03:39 Taking Better Care of Myself 04:41 Redefining Health and Wellness 07:25 The Connection Between Health and Purpose 08:27 Prioritizing Self-Care and Well-Being 12:17 Renewed Commitment to Self-Care Resources Visit https://sparkhopeedu.com/thehopecollective to sign up for The HOPE Collective - forming now

The conversation explores the evolution of leadership, the journey in education, leadership lessons from adversity, vulnerability, compassionate leadership, mindset work, writing and sharing personal stories, daily habits for personal growth, the importance of mentorship and coaching, transitioning beyond the principal role, and hope in the future of education. Takeaways Evolution of leadership through personal growth and experience Importance of vulnerability and compassionate leadership Chapters 00:00 Evolution of Leadership 02:16 The Journey in Education 06:00 Leadership Lessons from Adversity 08:08 Here I Am vs. There You Are Leadership 09:20 Vulnerability and Compassionate Leadership 10:07 Mindset Work and Control of Thoughts 17:30 Writing and Sharing Personal Stories 23:49 Daily Habits for Personal Growth 27:10 The Importance of Mentorship and Coaching 32:16 Transitioning Beyond the Principal Role 35:47 Hope in the Future of Education Resources: Join The HOPE Collective by emailing Dr. Kelly @ bkelly@sparkhopeedu.com Visit sparkhopeedu.com

Dr. Brandi Kelly shares her personal reflections on her birthday and the goals she has set for the next year of her life. She emphasizes the importance of intentional living, health, focus, and presence in her journey of becoming the person she is called to be. Takeaways Intentional living leads to purposeful growth Health, focus, and presence are key elements of personal development Chapters 00:00 Reflections on Birthdays and Intentional Living 02:46 Setting Health Goals and Embracing Change 06:35 Building with Focus and Purpose 08:24 Being Present and Living with Intention 12:03 Invitation to the Hope Collective Resources Join the HOPE Collective - a VIP Coaching and Networking Group by emailing me at bkelly@sparkhopeedu.com Visit: sparkhopeedu.com

In this episode, Dr. Brandi Kelly interviews Dr. Kyle Thompson, the superintendent of the Regional Office of Education #11. They discuss leadership, self-care, professional background, the transition to phone-free schools, the impact of cell phones on students, educating the public on screen time, and parenting in the digital age. The conversation covers themes of adversity, faith, habits, family-first culture, and the power of hope. Kyle shares personal experiences of facing adversity and how it has shaped his leadership. He also discusses the role of faith, the importance of habits, and the impact of a family-first culture in the workplace. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the power of hope in leadership and life. Takeaways Leadership extends to self-care and personal well-being. Educating the public on the impact of screen time is crucial for positive change. Adversity shapes leadership Faith and values influence leadership Chapters 00:00 Leadership and Running 04:26 Leadership and Self-Care 07:19 Introduction and Professional Background 09:37 Transition to Phone-Free Schools 15:17 Impact of Cell Phones on Students 18:49 Educating the Public on Screen Time 23:02 Parenting and Technology 24:08 Adversity and Leadership 31:49 Faith and Values 33:35 Habits and Routine 37:34 Family-First Culture 41:16 The Power of Hope Resources: Sign up for the ROE #11 Book Study - The Anxious Generation: https://events.roe11.org/event/48a22e58-05f7-478a-b17e-b5fc92e51fa7 Reach out to learn more about the DISC Assessment here: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/tdpdiscovery-e57cf8be-1fb0-470c-966d-f9ffb843015a Visit my website @ sparkhopeedu.com

The episode explores the experience of feeling stuck and overwhelmed, providing practical leadership tools and emphasizing the importance of building hope. It introduces a five-step reset for navigating uncertainty and discusses the connection between leadership and hope, concluding with an invitation to join the Hope Collective for leadership development and support. Takeaways Practical leadership tools Building hope Chapters 00:00 Feeling Stuck and Overwhelmed 01:40 Navigating Seasons of Uncertainty 03:09 The Five-Step Reset 06:29 Leadership and Hope Resources: Learn more about he Hope Collective by emailing Dr. Brandi Kelly @ bkelly@sparkhopeedu.com Complimentary Resource: 5 - Step Reset - https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/tl2K6BJwvL6ccdpax8pW Visit sparkhopeedu.com

The conversation with Todd Bloomer covers the importance of self-reflection, the impact of adversity on leadership, and the hope found in the next generation of young people. Todd shares insights on prioritizing self-care, creating healthy margins in life, and the power of scheduling priorities in the calendar. His journey from New York to San Antonio and the lessons learned from navigating adversity provide valuable takeaways for leaders and educators. The conversation emphasizes the need for principal coaching and the impact of resilience and high expectations on leadership. Todd's message resonates with the hope and potential of the next generation, inspiring a sense of optimism for the future. Takeaways Prioritizing self-reflection and self-awareness The importance of creating healthy margins in life The power of scheduling priorities in the calendar The impact of adversity on leadership and the value of resilience The hope found in the next generation of young people Resources Mentioned 📘 The Blueprint by Todd Bloomer 🌐 Connect with Todd Bloomer Website: https://toddmbloomer.com 🌟 FREE H.O.P.E.-Fueled Culture System Download your complimentary leadership resource packed with communication templates, difficult conversation strategies, first-day agenda resources, team-building tools, and practical leadership guides to help you build a thriving school culture. 👉 https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/vgzwyCOCT6P8SuSNruxR 🌐 Learn more about Spark HOPE Edu https://sparkhopeedu.com 🎙️ Subscribe to the Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast for weekly conversations designed to help educational leaders reflect, reset, and rise. SEO Keywords Educational leadership, principal leadership, school leadership, instructional leadership, principal coaching, leadership coaching, leadership habits, teacher retention, school culture, positive school culture, educational leadership podcast, leadership development, school administrator, principal mindset, resilient leadership, self-efficacy, hope theory, educational coaching, leadership resilience, educator burnout, work-life balance for principals, educational podcast, school improvement, leadership growth, professional development for educators, educational leaders, Dr. Brandi Kelly, Todd Bloomer, Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast, Spark HOPE Edu, H.O.P.E.-Fueled Culture System, leadership wellness, thriving schools, educational excellence, leadership communication, school climate.

Dr. Brandi Kelly shares a powerful analogy of building a home to illustrate the importance of creating a blueprint for leadership. She emphasizes the need to dream, design, and build intentionally in order to become the leader one aspires to be. Takeaways Dream, design, and build intentionally Leadership requires intentional planning and action Resources: Visit sparkhopeedu.com and book a Leadership Clarity Call with Dr. Brandi Kelly The Leadership Well Being Blueprint - Complimentary Resource Chapters 00:00 The Power of a Blueprint 02:35 Dreaming with Purpose 04:06 Intentional Design 06:07 Building Faithfully

In this episode, Phil Januszewski shares his journey from a physics teacher to a motivational speaker focused on helping educators and givers thrive without burnout. Discover practical strategies for building resilience, finding joy, and creating sustainable leadership in challenging times. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Phil Januszewski 01:14 Phil's Journey from Teaching to Speaking 02:17 Strategies for Avoiding Burnout 05:04 Adversity and Resilience in Education 06:55 Building Sustainable Habits 09:12 Finding Your Flow State 10:54 The Importance of Small Changes 15:15 Hope in Uncertain Times 16:34 Engaging with Audiences through Humor 17:18 How to Connect with Phil Januszewski 18:31 Embracing Leadership and Hope Keywords resilience, positive psychology, burnout prevention, educator well-being, sustainable leadership Resources Connect with Phil Januszewski: Email: phil.januszewski@gmail.com Connect with Dr. Brandi Kelly: https://sparkhopeedu.com

Episode Summary As school leaders prepare to welcome students and staff back this fall, it's easy to focus on schedules, staffing, professional learning, and school improvement plans. While those responsibilities are important, this episode offers a different perspective: What if the most important thing you bring into your building this year is the hope you cultivate and the joy you model? In this episode, Dr. Brandi Kelly explores why hope and joy are not simply emotions... they are intentional leadership strategies that shape school culture, strengthen resilience, and help educators thrive even during challenging seasons. As you prepare for a new school year, remember: The hope you build. The joy you model. The culture you create. Those may be the most important leadership decisions you make all year. Resources Mentioned 🎁 Free Resource: H.O.P.E.-Fueled Culture System Looking for practical strategies to strengthen your school culture this year? Download the complimentary H.O.P.E.-Fueled Culture System, filled with communication templates, leadership tools, first-day agenda ideas, and practical strategies to help you intentionally build a culture where people thrive. Download here: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/vgzwyCOCT6P8SuSNruxR 🌐 Learn more about leadership coaching, professional development, keynote speaking, and additional free resources at: https://sparkhopeedu.com Let's Connect If this episode encouraged you, would you take a moment to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another school leader? Together, we can create schools where hope grows, joy is contagious, and every leader has the confidence to make a lasting impact. Remember... Lead with H.O.P.E. because the world needs more leaders who inspire others to believe that tomorrow can be better than today.

Summary This episode of the Lead with Hope podcast features veteran leader, mentor, and speaker Vernon Wright. Dr. Brandi Kelly and Wright discuss the fundamental role of self-awareness and intentional connection in human-centered leadership. Wright shares insights from his journey, emphasizing that leadership is a lifelong process of "reflecting and refining" to elevate humanity. Key Takeaways The Law of the Lid : A leader's own level of efficacy and learning acts as a "lid" for their organization; the organization's impact can only grow as high as the leader's own growth. Kaizen (Reflecting and Refining) : Effective leadership requires a commitment to being a lifelong learner who constantly reflects on and improves their practice. Leading vs. Lagging Indicators : Many organizations focus too heavily on "lagging indicators" (outcomes) rather than the "leading indicators" (daily habits and processes) that actually drive success. Network Big, Circle Small : While branding and professional connections require a large network, personal growth and resilience depend on a small "inner circle" of trusted "grace-givers and truth-tellers". Service as Life's Fulfillment : True fulfillment is found when a leader commits their life to causes beyond themselves and focuses on elevating humanity through service. Value-First Relationships : Rather than approaching others with an "ask," transformational leaders should focus on what thing of value they can offer first. Resources Books Mentioned : Drive by Daniel Pink The 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell Atomic Habits by James Clear The 4 Disciplines of Execution by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, and Jim Huling Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John C. Maxwell Podcasts and Concepts : At the Table with Patrick Lencioni (Working Genius) The John C. Maxwell Leadership Podcast HQIM : High-Quality Instructional Materials Kaizen : The Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement Contact Information Guest: Vernon Wright https://www.instagram.com/thewrightleader/ Host: Dr. Brandi Kelly Podcast : https://sparkhopeedu.com Sponsor Conversari Press and Craig Williams: https://www.conversaripress.com/

In this powerful episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast, Dr. Brandi Kelly explores a simple but transformational story about an elephant and a rope—and how it mirrors the invisible limits many leaders place on themselves. You’ll hear how past experiences can quietly shape present beliefs, and how those beliefs often become the “rope” that holds us back long after we’ve grown beyond them. This episode challenges listeners to examine the internal narratives that limit growth, leadership confidence, and personal potential. Through the lens of the H.O.P.E. System—Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, and Excellence—you’ll be encouraged to reframe old stories, rebuild self-belief, and step into a more empowered way of leading and living. Key Takeaways: Why past failure can create invisible limitations How beliefs—not ability—often determine action The connection between mindset and leadership growth How to begin rewriting your internal story using H.O.P.E. Take the Next Step: Leadership Clarity Assessment If this episode resonated with you, you may be carrying a “rope” that’s no longer serving your leadership growth. Schedule your complimentary Leadership Clarity Assessment to gain insight into your strengths, identify growth opportunities, and gain clarity on your next leadership steps. 👉 Schedule here: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/tdpdiscovery-e57cf8be-1fb0-470c-966d-f9ffb843015a Or visit: https://sparkhopeedu.com and click the Schedule button in the upper right-hand corner. Explore More & Connect: Website: https://sparkhopeedu.com Featured Resource: Conversari Press — https://www.conversaripress.com/ Keep building your System of H.O.P.E. and remember: the rope only holds you if you believe it still can.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the weight of leadership and life's challenges? In this episode of Lead with HOPE, we explore how hope, faith, and intentional habits can transform obstacles into opportunities for growth and purpose. Join us as Steve Warmer shares his journey from self-doubt to confident leadership, emphasizing the importance of community, mindset, and unwavering hope. In this episode: How hope serves as a core leadership strategy, especially during tough seasons Steve’s personal story of faith, family, and rediscovering his purpose as a leader The significance of understanding your strengths and vulnerabilities through assessments like DISC The role of coaching, accountability, and cultivating a healthy circle of influence Practical habits for building confidence, clarity, and resilience daily The power of gratitude and mindset work in rewiring the brain for positivity Embracing change and growth in your circle and leadership journey How childhood dreams and hope fuels can reignite your purpose later in life Finding hope amidst global struggles and personal trials Steve’s impactful work with the You Are Worthy Network and his message to those feeling unworthy Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Moving from pain to purpose in leadership 00:29 - Steve’s faith journey and family background 01:06 - The importance of understanding ourselves through DISC assessments 02:55 - Embracing strengths and growth as a leader 04:24 - The power of resilience and patience in leadership 07:55 - The role of coaching in refining character and leadership skills 10:12 - Building a healthy circle of influence for success 13:37 - Navigating change in relationships and maintaining surrender in growth 15:04 - Daily habits for confidence, clarity, and communication 16:44 - The impact of mindset work and self-love exercises 19:08 - How focus and gratitude reshape our brains 21:03 - Walking with hope through life’s seasons and global challenges 27:22 - Steve’s vision for future dreams and growth 30:31 - Connecting with Steve Warmer and the You Are Worthy Network 34:02 - The story of overcoming unworthiness and embracing purpose 35:04 - Encouragement for those feeling unworthy today 37:08 - Closing thoughts: Hope as the foundation for leadership Resources & Links: Steve Wormer - Connect and learn more about his journey Coversari Press - Thanks to Craig Williams, a Legacy Partner of the Lead with HOPE Podcast Hope-Fueled Leadership Kickstart - Book your free discovery session to reignite your leadership purpose

What if the reason your message isn't landing has nothing to do with your speaking skills and everything to do with your healing? In this powerful episode of Lead with H.O.P.E. , Dr. Brandi Kelly sits down with pastor, speaker, and speech coach David Swihart to uncover what separates forgettable presentations from messages that truly transform lives. David shares the surprising truth about storytelling, why unresolved pain can undermine your impact, and how leaders can turn their experiences into messages that inspire action, connection, and purpose. Whether you're speaking from a stage, leading a team meeting, teaching in a classroom, or simply trying to influence others more effectively, this conversation will change the way you think about communication. Takeaways Leadership starts with what one carries on the inside Crafting a message of purpose requires healing from pain Effective speech delivery involves customizing content to the audience The younger generation's renewed interest in Christianity is a source of hope Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lead with Hope Podcast 06:00 Crafting and Delivering Impactful Speeches 30:00 Renewed Interest in Christianity Resources and Links Coversari Press: https://www.conversaripress.com/ Book a Call with David Swihart: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/8c320544/appointment/45388914/calendar/3483949?appointmentTypeIds[]=45388914 Visit https://sparkhopeedu.com to learn more about Dr. Brandi Kelly and Hope-Fueled Leadership

Danny Steele, a 31-year education veteran, shares insights on building a positive school culture, finding purpose in education, and the paradigm shift in school leadership. He discusses the power of redefining light bulb moments, making a difference, collaborating with Todd Whitaker, and finding hope in education. Takeaways Positive school culture is built through purposeful leadership. Redefining light bulb moments and making a difference are key to staying inspired in education. Chapters 00:00 Building a Positive School Culture 09:40 Paradigm Shift in School Leadership 16:15 The Power of Making a Difference 22:09 Finding Hope in Education Resources and Links Visit Conversari Press - https://www.conversaripress.com/ Visit Spark HOPE Edu - https://sparkhopeedu.com/hopefueledpd26 Danny Steele - https://www.steelethoughts.com/

The conversation with Cyndy Walsh Rintzler, VP of Programs and Services at Inroads to Opportunities, explores the themes of embracing clarity and confidence, the power of hope in leadership, resilience and joy in adversity, finding joy in the journey, the impact of consistent empowerment, shifting mindset and paradigm, the role of mindset in leadership, cultivating habits for effective leadership, fostering encouragement and belief, defining success and excellence, recognizing unique gifts and talents, and finding hope in the helpers. Takeaways Embracing clarity and confidence in leadership The power of hope and resilience in adversity Chapters 00:00 Embracing Clarity and Confidence 05:24 Finding Joy in the Journey 13:07 Cultivating Habits for Effective Leadership 20:40 Defining Success and Excellence 29:04 Recognizing Unique Gifts and Talents Resources and Links Conversari (Legacy Partner): https://www.conversaripress.com/ Inroads to Opportunities: http://www.inroadsto.org/ 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and click the little bell icon to be notified when @sparkhopeedu posts a new video on youtube! Website - sparkhopeedu.com Email - bkelly@sparkhopeedu.com Instagram: @ hopefueled_leaders LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brandi-kelly-ed-d-lcsw/

The conversation with Karen Olson, founder and CEO of Family Promise, delves into the power of turning pain into purpose, the importance of persistence, overcoming adversity, finding purpose and passion, building community and kindness, hope in humanity, and concludes with a call to action. Takeaways Turning pain into purpose The power of persistence Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Family Promise 06:06 The Power of Persistence 13:59 Finding Purpose and Passion 19:15 Building Community and Kindness 25:29 Hope in Humanity Links and Resources: Coversari (Legacy Partner: https://www.conversaripress.com/ Karen Olsen: https://www.karenolsonauthor.com/ Family Promise: https://familypromise.org/ Reach out to Brandi Kelly, Ed.D, LCSW at https://sparkhopeedu.com/

The conversation explores the journey of pain and purpose, highlighting the power of hope and leadership. It delves into facing unimaginable circumstances, finding purpose, taking micro steps, and leading at home and in business. The importance of self-care, reflection, and choosing how to respond to pain is emphasized, along with the message of finding hope and purpose in life. Takeaways Pain into Purpose Hope and Leadership Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude 05:12 Finding Purpose and Hope 13:38 Leading at Home and in Business 22:47 Talking to Yourself and Reflecting 31:25 Reflecting on the Journey Links and Resources: Our Legacy Partner - Conversari: https://www.conversaripress.com/ Learn more about Mandi Pratt: https://womenawareandprepared.com/ Learn more about Brandi Kelly @ Spark HOPE Edu: https://sparkhopeedu.com/

The conversation with Rachel Baker explores the themes of hope, resilience, and the power of connection. Rachel shares her journey, emphasizing the importance of daily best, acts of kindness, and the cultivation of hope and optimism. The discussion delves into the significance of self-awareness, prioritizing, and finding fulfillment in education. It also highlights the role of community, faith, and the impact of daily acts of kindness in fostering hope and resilience. Takeaways Connection and community are essential for cultivating hope and optimism. Daily best is enough, and it's important to hold onto hope and faith. Acts of kindness and love can bring hope to others and ourselves. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude 05:01 Creating Breathing Room in Life 10:09 Self-Care and Self-Worth 15:16 Hope in Daily Acts of Kindness 21:15 Choosing Hope and Optimism 26:16 Connection and Kindness in the World 32:20 Acts of Kindness and Love 38:30 Choosing Hope and Optimism 44:39 Hope in Daily Best and Faith Links & Resources Conversari Press (Legacy Partner): https://www.conversaripress.com/ Rachel D. Baker: https://racheldbaker.com/ Visit https://sparkhopeedu.com and schedule a Leadership Clarity Assessment by clicking on the button in the upper right hand corner!