Lead with HOPE

Dr. Brandi Kelly

Lead with H.O.P.E. is a leadership podcast hosted by Dr. Brandi Kelly that equips leaders to grow through challenge, lead with purpose, and create lasting impact. Rooted in faith and real-life stories, each episode explores resilience, leadership, and the power of hope in action; especially in seasons that feel uncertain or heavy. Through meaningful conversations and practical insight, you’ll be encouraged to strengthen your mindset, elevate your leadership, and remember that God is still at work; even in hard seasons. Whether you’re leading in education, business, or your personal life, this podcast will help you lead with clarity, courage, and hope.

  1. 5d ago

    Episode 112 | The Leadership Blueprint: Dream, Design, Build

    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 intentionallyLeadership 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 Blueprint02:35 Dreaming with Purpose04:06 Intentional Design06:07 Building Faithfully

  2. Jul 18

    Episode 111 | Thrive as a Giver: Simple Strategies for Educators

    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

  3. Jul 11

    Episode 110 | The Secret to Sustainable School Leadership

    Episode SummaryAs 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 ConnectIf 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.

  4. Jul 4

    Episode 109 | Leadership of the Heart with Vernon Wright

    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 PinkThe 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. MaxwellAtomic Habits by James ClearThe 4 Disciplines of Execution by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, and Jim HulingMan's Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklEveryone Communicates, Few Connect by John C. MaxwellPodcasts and Concepts:At the Table with Patrick Lencioni (Working Genius)The John C. Maxwell Leadership PodcastHQIM: High-Quality Instructional MaterialsKaizen: The Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement Contact Information Guest: Vernon Wrighthttps://www.instagram.com/thewrightleader/ Host: Dr. Brandi KellyPodcast: https://sparkhopeedu.com SponsorConversari Press and Craig Williams: https://www.conversaripress.com/

  5. Jun 27

    Episode 108 | The Elephant and the Rope: What’s Really Holding You Back?

    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 limitationsHow beliefs—not ability—often determine actionThe connection between mindset and leadership growthHow to begin rewriting your internal story using H.O.P.E.Take the Next Step: Leadership Clarity AssessmentIf 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.comFeatured 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.

  6. Jun 20

    Episode 107 | Reclaim Your Worth with Steve Wormer

    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 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 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

  7. Jun 19

    Episode 106 | The Secret to Speaking So People Actually Listen with David Swihart

    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 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 hope Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lead with Hope Podcast06:00 Crafting and Delivering Impactful Speeches30:00 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[]=45388914Visit https://sparkhopeedu.com to learn more about Dr. Brandi Kelly and Hope-Fueled Leadership

  8. Jun 18

    Episode 105 | Positive School Culture & Hope in Education with Danny Steele

    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 Culture09:40 Paradigm Shift in School Leadership16:15 The Power of Making a Difference22:09 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/

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About

Lead with H.O.P.E. is a leadership podcast hosted by Dr. Brandi Kelly that equips leaders to grow through challenge, lead with purpose, and create lasting impact. Rooted in faith and real-life stories, each episode explores resilience, leadership, and the power of hope in action; especially in seasons that feel uncertain or heavy. Through meaningful conversations and practical insight, you’ll be encouraged to strengthen your mindset, elevate your leadership, and remember that God is still at work; even in hard seasons. Whether you’re leading in education, business, or your personal life, this podcast will help you lead with clarity, courage, and hope.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Brandi Kelly
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    112
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Dr. Brandi Kelly
  • Show Website
    Lead with HOPE