The Catholic School Leaders Podcast

John Mihalyo
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Leadership in a Catholic school can be a challenging vocation. Whether you are in a current leadership role at your school or are aspiring to be a future leader, this podcast will help you walk with other exceptional leaders from all over the country to grow Catholic education for the next generation.

  1. Lessons Catholic School Leaders Can Learn From a Hollywood Movie Set

    MAR 23

    Lessons Catholic School Leaders Can Learn From a Hollywood Movie Set

    What does a Hollywood film set have to do with leading a Catholic school? More than you'd think. In this episode, John Mihalyo takes us back to 2010 — when he was a Catholic school principal in Weirton, West Virginia, and received a call that still stands out as one of the most unexpected of his career. Paramount Pictures was filming JJ Abrams' Super 8 in town, and they wanted local principals as extras. John said yes — and what happened over the next several weeks became one of the richest leadership experiences of his life. From preparation to buzz-building, from sweating the details to saying thank you, John walks through 8 practical lessons from the film set that apply directly to advancement, enrollment, and community building in Catholic schools. Whether you're a principal, an advancement director, or an enrollment leader — there's something in this episode for you. 🔗  RESOURCES & LINKS MENTIONED • Super 8 (2011) — directed by JJ Abrams, produced by Steven Spielberg • Schedule a Discovery Call with John  📣  ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? If this episode gave you something to think about, share it with a fellow Catholic school leader who needs to hear it. And if you haven't already — subscribe so you never miss an episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast. 📬  CONNECT WITH JOHN • Website: www.elementaryadvancement.com • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johnmihalyo • Email: john@elementaryadvancement.com Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance:   As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

    29 min
  2. Kenny Loggins, Yacht Rock, and Catholic School Leadership

    MAR 4

    Kenny Loggins, Yacht Rock, and Catholic School Leadership

    Host: John Mihalyo The Catholic School Leaders Podcast Episode Overview What does Kenny Loggins have to do with Catholic schools? More than you might think. In this episode, John uses the example of Kenny Loggins—known for songs like Footloose and Danger Zone—to explore how institutions sometimes forget the people who helped build them. Catholic schools can fall into the same trap, losing touch with former parents, volunteers, board members, and donors who once played a major role in the school’s success. Strong schools intentionally remember and steward those relationships. Key Takeaways 1. Graduation is a transition, not an exit. Families should remain part of the school community even after their children graduate. 2. Stay connected with former leaders. Invite past board members, volunteers, and event leaders back for occasional gatherings or appreciation events. 3. Practice specific gratitude. Reach out annually with a personal note recognizing the impact of their service. 4. Capture your school’s stories. Record and share stories from former families and leaders to preserve your school’s culture and mission. Challenge for This Week Identify three former leaders or families your school has lost touch with. Call one. Write one a note. Invite one back into the story. Learn More John Mihalyo works with Catholic schools across the country through Elementary Advancement Solutions, helping leaders strengthen enrollment, advancement, and long-term sustainability. Learn more at www.elementaryadvancement.com Schedule a time to meet with John here! Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance:   As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

    24 min
  3. Pastor-Principal Partnerships: One Mission, One Team

    FEB 21

    Pastor-Principal Partnerships: One Mission, One Team

    Episode Title: Pastor + Principal Partnerships: One Mission, One TeamHost: John MihalyoGuests: Julie Capirchio (Principal) + Fr. Gregory Stowe (Pastor) Summary Julie and Fr. Stowe share what a healthy pastor–principal partnership really looks like: shared mission, constant communication, honest disagreement behind closed doors, and a united front in public. They explain how parish and school can function as one community, why “no surprises” matters, and how trust is built over time—especially through hard seasons. Key Takeaways One campus, one mission: parish + school thrive when they act as one body.No secrets, no surprises: steady communication prevents division and drama.Disagree privately, support publicly: unity strengthens culture and trust.Model collaboration at the top: staff and families follow what leaders demonstrate.Reciprocity matters: schools should actively support parish life (service, visibility, relationships).Practical Advice For pastors: listen deeply, discern wisely, and set the principal up to succeed.For principals: be direct, ask questions, admit mistakes, and stay focused on what’s best for kids. Closing Line “Keep it real and don’t hold grudges.” Set up a Time to Meet with John Mihalyo to Talk About Your GoalsClick here to schedule a time Visit Elementary Advancement Solutions for great resources for Catholic school leaders!  Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance:   As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

    55 min
  4. Creating a Strong Leadership Team in Your Catholic School

    FEB 3

    Creating a Strong Leadership Team in Your Catholic School

    The Catholic School Leaders PodcastHost: John Mihalyo Guest: Dr. Trevor Timmerberg, Assistant Superintendent, Archdiocese of Louisville Episode Overview Being a principal can be a lonely job. In this episode, John and Dr. Trevor Timmerberg unpack how a strong, healthy leadership team helps you lead with clarity, build trust, and move your school forward—without carrying everything on your own. What You’ll Learn Mission-driven vs. maintenance-driven leadership teamsHow to choose the right people (not just the right positions)The right team size and meeting lengthHow to prevent “meetings after meetings”Simple agenda structures that drive action and accountabilityEmpowering others to lead (so it’s not all on you)Key Takeaway A great leadership team strengthens culture, improves decisions, and keeps your school focused on mission—not just managing the daily fires. Call to Action Need help building or refining your leadership team? Reach out to John Mihalyo to talk about your school. Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance:   As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

    56 min
  5. Is Your Catholic School the Next Indiana University Football Team?

    JAN 26

    Is Your Catholic School the Next Indiana University Football Team?

    Episode Summary In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, John uses the turnaround of Indiana University football to challenge Catholic school leaders to rethink what’s possible for their schools. Indiana went from an afterthought to a national champion because leadership refused to accept average. Catholic schools can experience the same kind of transformation—when culture, expectations, and people are aligned. Key Takeaways Every turnaround starts with “no more.” Stop accepting excuses and lowering expectations.Culture comes before results. Strong schools expect excellence—they don’t just hope for it.People matter most. Hire for culture, not just experience, and support people to rise to high expectations.Success must be sustainable. One good year isn’t success—consistent growth is.There are no shortcuts. Real change takes time, investment, and commitment.Final Thought Five years from now, your Catholic school can be the standard—but only if you start building that culture today. Ready to Take the Next Step? If you want help moving your school forward, visit www.elementaryadvancement.com to connect and explore resources. Schedule a time to meet with me here! Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance:   As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

    21 min
  6. Why Visibility, Collaboration, and Clarity Matter in Catholic Schools

    JAN 21

    Why Visibility, Collaboration, and Clarity Matter in Catholic Schools

    The Catholic School Leaders PodcastHost: John Mihalyo Guest: Sarah Schneider, Associate Director of Enrollment, Catholic Schools Center of Excellence (CSCOE) Episode Summary In this episode, John sits down with Sarah from the Catholic Schools Center of Excellence in Minnesota to discuss how collaboration, visibility, and intentional leadership are driving enrollment growth and strengthening Catholic school communities. Sarah shares how CSCOE supports 151 Catholic schools across Minnesota through enrollment support, professional development, grants, and shared learning—helping schools avoid isolation and move forward together. The conversation focuses on the real challenges principals face when wearing multiple hats, and practical ways leaders can stay visible, build relationships, and use time more intentionally. This episode is packed with realistic advice for principals, pastors, and Catholic school leaders navigating limited time, limited resources, and big expectations. Key Topics Covered What the Catholic Schools Center of Excellence (CSCOE) is and how it supports schoolsWhy collaboration matters more than competitionThe reality of principals wearing “all the hats”Why visibility of school leaders builds trust and enrollmentSimple ways principals can use video and social media effectivelyScheduling time intentionally instead of reacting all dayHow transparency builds trust with parents and staffThe importance of knowing and clearly articulating your school’s differentiatorWhy Catholic schools must confidently share what makes them uniqueSchedule a Time to Meet with John Mihalyo Here Visit the Catholic Schools Center for Excellence website here.  Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance:   As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

    39 min
  7. From Chaos to Clarity: Creating an Advancement Strategy That Works

    JAN 13

    From Chaos to Clarity: Creating an Advancement Strategy That Works

    The Catholic School Leaders PodcastHost: John MihalyoTitle: From Chaos to Clarity: Creating an Advancement Strategy That Works Episode Summary In this episode, John continues his planning series by focusing on why Catholic schools need a clear advancement game plan—and why advancement is about far more than raising money. Without a plan, fundraising feels chaotic, rushed, and inconsistent. John explains what happens when schools rely on hope instead of strategy, and how intentional advancement planning builds trust, strengthens donor relationships, and creates long-term sustainability. Listeners will learn how strong advancement efforts move from transactional giving to meaningful partnerships that support the school’s mission for years to come. Key Takeaway Strong advancement doesn’t happen by accident. It requires clear planning, consistent communication, and a mission-driven approach that builds trust and sustainability. Call to Action Need help building an advancement plan that works?👉 Visit elementaryadvancement.com or click the link here to schedule a conversation with John. Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance:   As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

    38 min
  8. Hope Is Not a Strategy: Why You Need a Game Plan for Enrollment!

    12/19/2025

    Hope Is Not a Strategy: Why You Need a Game Plan for Enrollment!

    Hope Is Not a Strategy: Building a Real Enrollment Game Plan Host: John Mihalyo Episode Summary In this episode, John explains why hope, tradition, and “we’ve always done it this way” are not strategies for enrollment growth. Schools that lack a clear game plan end up reacting, scrambling, and relying on luck instead of intentional, data-driven decisions. John kicks off a new series focused on building strategic plans for enrollment, advancement, leadership, and culture—starting with enrollment. Key Topics Why hope is not a strategyWhat happens when schools don’t have an enrollment planInconsistent follow-up, unclear messaging, and weak toursThe importance of marketing to current familiesWhy consistency matters in tours and communicationRecruiting for graduation, not just enrollment dayWhat a strong enrollment game plan includes:A clear process from inquiry to first day of schoolDefined roles and responsibilitiesConsistent, personalized follow-upKey Takeaway Predictable enrollment results come from intentional planning. When everyone knows the plan, enrollment becomes less stressful—and more effective. Call to Action Want help creating an enrollment game plan that works?👉 Click the calendar link here to schedule a conversation with John. Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance:   As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

    25 min
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Leadership in a Catholic school can be a challenging vocation. Whether you are in a current leadership role at your school or are aspiring to be a future leader, this podcast will help you walk with other exceptional leaders from all over the country to grow Catholic education for the next generation.

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