Lead with HOPE

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.TakeawaysEvolution of leadership through personal growth and experienceImportance of vulnerability and compassionate leadershipChapters00:00 Evolution of Leadership02:16 The Journey in Education06:00 Leadership Lessons from Adversity08:08 Here I Am vs. There You Are Leadership09:20 Vulnerability and Compassionate Leadership10:07 Mindset Work and Control of Thoughts17:30 Writing and Sharing Personal Stories23:49 Daily Habits for Personal Growth27:10 The Importance of Mentorship and Coaching32:16 Transitioning Beyond the Principal Role35:47 Hope in the Future of EducationResources: Join The HOPE Collective by emailing Dr. Kelly @[email protected] 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.TakeawaysIntentional living leads to purposeful growthHealth, focus, and presence are key elements of personal developmentChapters00:00 Reflections on Birthdays and Intentional Living02:46 Setting Health Goals and Embracing Change06:35 Building with Focus and Purpose08:24 Being Present and Living with Intention12:03 Invitation to the Hope CollectiveResourcesJoin the HOPE Collective - a VIP Coaching and Networking Group by emailing me at [email protected]: 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.TakeawaysLeadership extends to self-care and personal well-being.Educating the public on the impact of screen time is crucial for positive change. Adversity shapes leadershipFaith and values influence leadershipChapters00:00 Leadership and Running04:26 Leadership and Self-Care07:19 Introduction and Professional Background09:37 Transition to Phone-Free Schools15:17 Impact of Cell Phones on Students18:49 Educating the Public on Screen Time23:02 Parenting and Technology24:08 Adversity and Leadership31:49 Faith and Values33:35 Habits and Routine37:34 Family-First Culture41:16 The Power of HopeResources:Sign up for the ROE #11 Book Study - The Anxious Generation: https://events.roe11.org/event/48a22e58-05f7-478a-b17e-b5fc92e51fa7Reach out to learn more about the DISC Assessment here: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/tdpdiscovery-e57cf8be-1fb0-470c-966d-f9ffb843015aVisit 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.TakeawaysPractical leadership toolsBuilding hopeChapters00:00 Feeling Stuck and Overwhelmed01:40 Navigating Seasons of Uncertainty03:09 The Five-Step Reset06:29 Leadership and HopeResources:Learn more about he Hope Collective by emailing Dr. Brandi Kelly @[email protected] Resource: 5 - Step Reset - https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/tl2K6BJwvL6ccdpax8pWVisit 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.TakeawaysPrioritizing self-reflection and self-awarenessThe importance of creating healthy margins in lifeThe power of scheduling priorities in the calendarThe impact of adversity on leadership and the value of resilienceThe hope found in the next generation of young peopleResources Mentioned📘 The Blueprint by Todd Bloomer🌐 Connect with Todd BloomerWebsite: https://toddmbloomer.com🌟 FREE H.O.P.E.-Fueled Culture SystemDownload 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 Eduhttps://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 KeywordsEducational 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.

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 seasonsSteve’s personal story of faith, family, and rediscovering his purpose as a leaderThe significance of understanding your strengths and vulnerabilities through assessments like DISCThe role of coaching, accountability, and cultivating a healthy circle of influencePractical habits for building confidence, clarity, and resilience dailyThe power of gratitude and mindset work in rewiring the brain for positivityEmbracing change and growth in your circle and leadership journeyHow childhood dreams and hope fuels can reignite your purpose later in lifeFinding hope amidst global struggles and personal trialsSteve’s impactful work with the You Are Worthy Network and his message to those feeling unworthyTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Moving from pain to purpose in leadership00:29 - Steve’s faith journey and family background01:06 - The importance of understanding ourselves through DISC assessments02:55 - Embracing strengths and growth as a leader04:24 - The power of resilience and patience in leadership07:55 - The role of coaching in refining character and leadership skills10:12 - Building a healthy circle of influence for success13:37 - Navigating change in relationships and maintaining surrender in growth15:04 - Daily habits for confidence, clarity, and communication16:44 - The impact of mindset work and self-love exercises19:08 - How focus and gratitude reshape our brains21:03 - Walking with hope through life’s seasons and global challenges27:22 - Steve’s vision for future dreams and growth30:31 - Connecting with Steve Warmer and the You Are Worthy Network34:02 - The story of overcoming unworthiness and embracing purpose35:04 - Encouragement for those feeling unworthy today37:08 - Closing thoughts: Hope as the foundation for leadershipResources & Links:Steve Wormer- Connect and learn more about his journeyCoversari Press - Thanks to Craig Williams, a Legacy Partner of the Lead with HOPE PodcastHope-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.TakeawaysLeadership starts with what one carries on the insideCrafting a message of purpose requires healing from painEffective speech delivery involves customizing content to the audienceThe younger generation's renewed interest in Christianity is a source of hopeChapters00:00 Introduction to Lead with Hope Podcast06:00 Crafting and Delivering Impactful Speeches30:00 Renewed Interest in ChristianityResources and LinksCoversari Press: https://www.conversaripress.com/Book a Call with David Swihart: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/8c320544/appointment/45388914/calendar/3483949?appointmentTypeIds[]=45388914Visit 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.TakeawaysPositive school culture is built through purposeful leadership.Redefining light bulb moments and making a difference are key to staying inspired in education.Chapters00:00 Building a Positive School Culture09:40 Paradigm Shift in School Leadership16:15 The Power of Making a Difference22:09 Finding Hope in EducationResources and LinksVisit Conversari Press - https://www.conversaripress.com/Visit Spark HOPE Edu - https://sparkhopeedu.com/hopefueledpd26Danny 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.TakeawaysEmbracing clarity and confidence in leadershipThe power of hope and resilience in adversityChapters00:00 Embracing Clarity and Confidence05:24 Finding Joy in the Journey13:07 Cultivating Habits for Effective Leadership20:40 Defining Success and Excellence29:04 Recognizing Unique Gifts and TalentsResources and LinksConversari (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 @sparkhopeeduposts a new video on youtube!Website - sparkhopeedu.comEmail [email protected]: @hopefueled_leadersLinkedIn: 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.TakeawaysTurning pain into purposeThe power of persistenceChapters00:00 Introduction to Family Promise06:06 The Power of Persistence13:59 Finding Purpose and Passion19:15 Building Community and Kindness25:29 Hope in HumanityLinks 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 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.TakeawaysConnection 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Gratitude05:01 Creating Breathing Room in Life10:09 Self-Care and Self-Worth15:16 Hope in Daily Acts of Kindness21:15 Choosing Hope and Optimism26:16 Connection and Kindness in the World32:20 Acts of Kindness and Love38:30 Choosing Hope and Optimism44:39 Hope in Daily Best and FaithLinks & ResourcesConversari 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!

What started as a podcast became a movement.In this special 100th episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., Dr. Brandi Kelly reflects on the lessons, stories, and conversations that have shaped the journey. From the power of human connection to the responsibility of holding hope for others, this milestone episode is a reminder that leadership is less about programs and more about people.Key TakeawaysHope isn't a feeling—it's a practice.People matter more than programs.Great leaders hold hope for others until they can hold it for themselves.Chapters00:00 – Celebrating 100 Episodes06:21 – The Most Important Leadership Lesson: Holding Hope for OthersResources and LinksConversari (Legacy Partner): https://www.conversaripress.com/Start Your Year Strong Resource Guide: https://www.startyouryearstrong.com/guideVisit Spark HOPE Edu to learn about Dr. Brandi Kelly's work: https://sparkhopeedu.com/hopefueledpd26

Are you feeling overwhelmed as a leader? Discover how focusing on joy can be an unexpected but powerful tool for inspiring your team and cultivating hope in education. In this episode, we explore superintendent George Philhower's innovative approach to leadership that emphasizes the importance of joy, connection, growth, and success—culminating in the inspiring annual Joy Jam conference.Key Topics Covered:The importance of intentional joy in education and leadershipHow Joy Jam was born out of strategic promises focused on joy, connection, growth, and successPractical ways to embed moments of joy into daily school experiencesThe impact of self-awareness and shifting out of autopilot to create hope and purposeTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome 00:34 - Introducing George Philhower01:24 - George's background02:43 - The influence of early teaching experiences and impactful moments04:43 - The significance of adults modeling joy and hope for students05:37 - Challenges in recruiting and retaining educators07:06 - How joy and intentionality are integrated into leadership and school culture08:17 - The origins and evolution of Eastern Hancock’s core promises09:14 - Deep dive into the concept of layers of joy and meaningful moments10:13 - Making joyful moments memorable and impactful in learning12:28 - Building connection and creating a safe space for vulnerability13:24 - Focus on growth and lifelong learning for students and staff13:53 - Ensuring academic success while cultivating a positive culture14:23 - The origin story of Joy Jam and its purpose15:48 - The experiential and fun elements of Joy Jam (circus, puppies, memorable moments)16:57 - Extending the strategic vision through educator conferences18:09 - Feedback from Joy Jam attendees and its influence on school culture20:45 - Overcoming setbacks and creating a safe environment to grow21:44 - Personal story of vulnerability and embracing mistakes24:40 - Reimagining education through personal challenges and resilience25:22 - How personal adversity fuels the passion for joyful leadership26:23 - The importance of contagious joy in inspiring communities27:38 - Practical strategies for sharing joy and hope 29:12 - The significance of intentionality 30:35 - The role of self-awareness in cultivating hope and joy31:58 - How to connect with Joy Jam and start spreading joy in your community32:50 - What gives George hope today33:29 - Last words and encouragement Resources & Links:Joy Jam 2026 – Information on upcoming Joy Jam conferenceLead with H.O.P.E. - Book by Dr. Brandi Kelly– Gain insight into hope-fueled leadership practicesLegacy Partner: Conversari Press – Guided dialogue that listens deeply, probes thoughtfully, and reveals what truly matters

Dr. Brandi Kelly shares her journey of self-discovery and the importance of hope in leadership. She emphasizes the role of self-awareness, belief, and purpose in effective leadership, and introduces a system of hope to sustain leadership excellence.TakeawaysLeadership starts with self-awarenessHope is essential for leadershipChapters00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery05:18 Leadership and BeliefResources and LinksLegacy Partner - Conversari Press: https://www.conversaripress.com/Spark HOPE Edu Coaching Packages: https://sparkhopeedu.com/coachingpackages

Feeling overwhelmed by leadership, burnout, or uncertainty about your purpose?In this powerful episode, Dr. Eric Moyer explores how understanding your identity in Christ can transform the way you lead, grow, and navigate life’s challenges. Through a faith-based conversation on authentic leadership, biblical identity, and personal growth, listeners will discover practical strategies for overcoming counterfeit identities, aligning their principles and priorities with God’s truth, and leading with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose. This podcast episode offers encouragement for leaders seeking spiritual growth, leadership development, and hope while balancing the pressures of leadership and life transitions. Topics include overcoming leadership burnout, purpose-driven leadership, faith and leadership, spiritual transformation, Christian personal growth, mindset shifts, and becoming the leader God created you to be.Chapters with timestamps:Introduction to Identity and Growth (0:03)Dr. Eric Moyer's Journey (1:06)Identity-Based Leadership (5:14)Counterfeit Identities (5:36)Aligning with God's Vision (8:16)The Four Ps of Identity (13:01)Leadership and Priorities (17:31)The Story of Jonah (29:52)Hope and Transformation (43:08)Resources and Links:Conversari Press - a Legacy Partner of the Lead with HOPE PodcastConnect with Dr. Eric Moyer:https://redeemingidentity.com/Keywords:Educational PsychologyBiblical TruthIdentity-Based LeadershipDr. Eric MoyerRedeeming IdentityCounterfeit IdentitiesLeadership DevelopmentChristian FaithSpiritual GrowthJonah StoryAligning with GodFour Ps of IdentityLeadership PrioritiesHope and Transformation

In this inspiring episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., Brandi Kelly reflects on two powerful experiences that reinforced a life-changing realization: she is no longer asking for a seat at the table—she’s changing the table.Drawing from her experience attending the first-ever Mic Drop Live event and speaking at Full Armor Christian Academy, Brandi explores authentic leadership, courage, purpose, kindness, and the importance of creating healthier spaces for future generations.This episode challenges listeners to stop shrinking themselves to fit environments that no longer align with their values and instead begin building the culture, community, and world they truly want to live in.If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, burnout, people-pleasing, or waiting for permission to fully step into your purpose, this conversation will encourage you to lead boldly, protect your light, and create meaningful change right where you are.Chapters00:00 — Embracing Your True SelfBrandi shares the realization that came from attending Mic Drop Live and why purpose doesn’t wait for permission.03:14 — The Power of Kindness and LeadershipLessons learned from sharing Spreading Sunshine with Kindness with students at Full Armor Christian Academy.05:32 — Building New Rooms for ChangeWhy true leadership means creating healthier spaces, cultures, and communities instead of trying to fit into broken systems.09:10 — Stop Waiting for PermissionBreaking free from people-pleasing, perfectionism, and the fear of being “too much.”12:02 — Build the World You WantHow everyday leadership decisions shape the future for our children, communities, and workplaces.Takeaways✨ You do not need permission to begin leading with purpose and authenticity.✨ Real leadership is not about fitting into existing systems... it’s about building healthier ones.✨ Protecting your light and using your voice boldly can create lasting impact for future generations.✨ Kindness, hope, and courage are leadership strengths not weaknesses.✨ The culture you create in your home, workplace, and community matters deeply.Resources & Links:Legacy Partner/Conversari: https://www.conversaripress.com/📘 Spreading Sunshine with Kindness by Brandi Kelly Available on Amazon: https://shorturl.at/6vc2k🎙️ Follow the Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast for weekly conversations on leadership, mindset, faith, purpose, and personal growth.🌟 Connect with Brandi Kelly for speaking, coaching, and leadership development opportunities at https://sparkhopeedu.comKeywordsleadership podcast, authentic leadership, women in leadership, leadership development, purpose-driven life, mindset growth, personal growth podcast, hope-fueled leadership, emotional intelligence, educator leadership, faith-based leadership, confidence, courage, workplace culture, kindness, burnout recovery, motivation, empowerment, community impact, purpose, culture change, inspirational podcast, leadership coaching, resilience, changemaker mindset