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 115 | HOPE-Fueled Leadership: Phone-Free Schools & Student Wellness with Dr. Kyle Thompson

    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 leadershipFaith and values influence leadership Chapters 00:00 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 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

  2. Aug 8

    Episode 114 | When You Feel Stuck: A 5-Step Reset to Move Forward with H.O.P.E.

    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 toolsBuilding hope Chapters 00:00 Feeling Stuck and Overwhelmed01:40 Navigating Seasons of Uncertainty03:09 The Five-Step Reset06:29 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

  3. Aug 1

    Episode 113 | From Surviving to Thriving: Leadership Habits Every Principal Needs

    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-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 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 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.

  4. Jul 25

    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

  5. 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

  6. 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.

  7. 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/

  8. 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.

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4.3
out of 5
12 Ratings

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
    115
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Dr. Brandi Kelly
  • Show Website
    Lead with HOPE

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