Lead with HOPE

Dr. Brandi Kelly

Lead With HOPE Podcast is a faith-forward leadership podcast hosted by Dr. Brandi Kelly, designed to inspire leaders to live, lead, and serve with purpose. Rooted in faith, real stories, and hope, each episode features meaningful conversations, practical insights, and testimonies of resilience that remind you God is still at work; even in hard seasons. Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or navigating a season of growth or uncertainty, this podcast will refuel your faith, strengthen your leadership, and reignite hope so you can lead with clarity, courage, and impact. Faith. Stories. HOPE.

  1. 2D AGO

    Episode 94 | The Self-Awareness Gap in Leadership (and How to Fix It)

    Episode Summary You don’t need more leadership strategies... you need more self-awareness. In this episode, Brandi Kelly unpacks one of the most overlooked gaps in leadership today: the lack of understanding around how you are actually wired. You can work hard, care deeply, and show up consistently and still feel misaligned, overwhelmed, or exhausted in your leadership. Why? Because when you don’t understand yourself, you end up fighting yourself. Brandi introduces the DISC Assessment as a practical tool to help leaders gain clarity around communication styles, decision-making patterns, and stress responses. When leaders understand their wiring, everything shifts... from how they lead others to how they lead themselves. This episode will help you move from confusion to clarity, and from striving to alignment. The DISC Assessment reveals how you communicate, decide, and respond under pressureSelf-awareness leads to less stress, better communication, and healthier leadershipReal leadership rest comes from alignment, not overperformancePractical Leadership Reset StepsChapters 00:00 The Importance of Self-Awareness in Leadership 04:58 Understanding DISC Styles for Effective Leadership 06:56 Practical Steps for Leadership Clarity 08:06 Embracing Leadership and Hope Links & Resources 👉 Learn more about the DISC Leadership Clarity Session 📩 Reach out to Brandi Kelly to schedule your personalized DISC assessment walkthrough ✨ Limited to 10 spots for May – DISC Leadership Clarity Sessions Visit our Legacy Partner, Conversari Press @ https://www.conversaripress.com Keywords Leadership development, self-awareness in leadership, DISC assessment, emotional intelligence in leadership, leadership coaching, leadership burnout, communication styles, leadership growth, Christian leadership, school leadership, executive leadership coaching, personal development podcast, Brandi Kelly podcast, Lead with Hope podcast, leadership clarity, healthy leadership habits

    9 min

  2. APR 25

    Episode 93 | Turning Pain Into Purpose with Preston Zeller

    In this powerful and deeply reflective conversation, Brandi Kelly sits down with Preston Zeller to explore how grief, creativity, and faith intersect to shape leadership and purpose. Preston shares his journey through the sudden loss of his brother and how painting every day for a year became both a healing practice and a transformative leadership lesson. That creative discipline eventually led to The Art of Grieving, a documentary capturing his year-long artistic response to loss. The conversation expands into faith, resilience, and technology as Preston introduces Psalm Log, an AI-powered biblical journaling and guidance app designed to help believers engage Scripture in a more personal, reflective, and accessible way. Together, Brandi and Preston unpack what it means to lead through uncertainty, how to cultivate emotional and spiritual resilience, and why self-awareness is foundational for strong leadership. Key Takeaways Grief can a catalyst for purpose when processed through creativity and reflection instead of avoidance.Leadership begins with self-leadership—you cannot lead others well without first leading yourself well.Creative expression can unlock healing that logic alone cannot reach.Faith and discipline help anchor resilience in seasons of uncertainty and pressure.AI can be a tool for spiritual reflection when used with discernment, not replacement of personal faith.Hope is built through focus on what you can control—your thoughts, actions, and obedience in the present moment.Growth often comes through discomfort and refinement, not ease or certainty.Resources & Links Psalm Log (AI Biblical Journaling App): https://psalmlog.com/The Art of Grieving Documentary - Available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV: https://theartofgrievingfilm.com/Connect with Preston Zeller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonzeller/Conversari Press - Legacy Partner of the Lead with HOPE Podcast: https://www.conversaripress.com/Spark HOPE Edu: https://sparkhopeedu.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Credibility 00:56 Preston’s Personal Story and Loss of Brother 02:08 The Creative Process and Grief 03:57 Lessons Learned from Artistic Expression 07:10 The Power of Visual Art in Healing 09:09 Sharing Preston’s Artwork and Documentary 09:56 The Final Artwork and Its Meaning 12:29 Faith’s Role in Creating Psalm Log 12:49 Using AI for Biblical Guidance 14:54 The Purpose of Psalm Log as a Supportive Tool 16:15 Addressing Fears Around AI and Technology 19:27 Faith and Resilience in Uncertain Times 22:39 Building Hope and Community Through Faith 26:29 The Importance of Self-Reflection and Faith 29:11 What Gives Preston Hope Today 30:47 Practical Steps for Cultivating Hope and Faith SEO Keywords leadership podcast, Christian leadership podcast, faith and leadership, grief and healing, emotional resilience, spiritual growth podcast, Christian mindset, AI and faith, Psalm Log app, biblical journaling, faith based productivity, overcoming grief, creativity and healing, leadership development podcast, optimistic outlook, Brandi Kelly podcast, Lead with Hope podcast, Preston Zeller interview, tech and spirituality, Christian entrepreneurship

    34 min

  3. APR 18

    Episode 92 | How to Do a Quick Thought Audit (When Your Mind Starts Spiraling)

    Have you ever had a moment where everything feels off—but you can’t explain why? Your energy shifts, your confidence dips, and suddenly you’re questioning yourself for no clear reason. In this episode, Brandi Kelly unpacks what’s really happening in those moments: not external chaos, but internal thoughts running unchecked. Through a personal story and practical teaching, she introduces a simple but powerful 5-step Thought Audit to help you pause, notice, and shift the thoughts shaping your emotions and decisions. This is the quiet work of leadership most people never talk about—the ability to lead your thoughts before they lead you. Key Takeaways Your emotional shifts are often driven by unexamined thoughts, not external eventsThe brain naturally creates “stories” to make sense of situations—often leaning negative for protectionYou cannot change what you don’t noticeSelf-awareness is a leadership skill, not just a personal development ideaSmall mental shifts can create powerful changes in behavior, confidence, and clarityProgress begins with awareness, not perfection Chapters 00:00 Recognizing Subtle Shifts in Energy 03:50 The Five-Step Thought Audit for Self-Awareness 08:26 Embracing Leadership and Hope Resources Mentioned Spark Hope Community (for deeper leadership and mindset work)👉 Learn more about Spark Hope: ⁠⁠https://sparkhopeedu.com⁠⁠👉 Legacy Partner - Conversari Press: https://www.conversaripress.com/ SEO Keywords thought audit, self awareness, leadership mindset, emotional regulation, overthinking, mindset shift, personal development podcast, women in leadership, burnout recovery, cognitive reframing, mental clarity, leadership coaching, stress management, inner leadership, Spark Hope, Brandi Kelly podcast

    9 min

  4. APR 11

    Episode 91| The Power of Touching Dreams with Andrea Bitner

    In this inspiring episode of the Lead with Hope Podcast, we sit down with educator, author, and speaker Andrea Bittner to explore how hope-driven leadership transforms classrooms and lives. With over 20 years of experience supporting English learners (ELs), Andrea shares powerful stories, practical strategies, and mindset shifts that help educators foster inclusive, high-expectation learning environments. From debunking myths about English learners to creating “touch the dream” opportunities for students, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for teachers, school leaders, and anyone passionate about education, equity, and student success. Andrea also discusses her books Take Me Home and When Niagara Falls, highlighting themes of resilience, cultural understanding, and the importance of asking for help. If you're looking to reignite your purpose in education or lead with greater impact, this episode will leave you motivated and equipped. Key Topics Covered Supporting and empowering English learners (ELs)Building inclusive and culturally responsive classroomsThe “Touch the Dream” strategy for student motivationLeadership mindset: We before MeBreaking out of the “educator bubble” for growthThe power of alumni connections and real-world exposureTeacher resilience, gratitude, and impactAndrea Bitner’s books and storytelling approach in educationKey Takeaways Hope is a leadership strategy: Students thrive when educators create clear pathways and belief systems for success.Representation matters: “If they can see it, they can be it” isn’t a slogan—it’s a classroom practice.Connection fuels learning: Linking student interests to real-world opportunities increases engagement and motivation.Collaboration is essential: Great educators grow by learning from others beyond their immediate environment.Gratitude transforms culture: Recognizing teachers and mentors strengthens morale and purpose.Resilience requires support: Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness—for both students and educators.Resources & Links Andrea's Website: https://www.andreabitnerbooks.com/ Click Here to Read more about Take Me Home and Click Here to Learn More about my second book When Niagara Falls. Click Here for Andrea's free weekly newsletter sign up. She sends to more than 2,500 educators to support their work with English Learners.   Lead withHOPE Legacy Sponser: Conversari: https://www.conversaripress.com/Spark HOPE Edu Website: https:sparkhopeedu.com Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to Lead with Hope00:47 – Andrea Bittner’s Journey into Education02:50 – Teaching Struggling Readers & Finding Purpose05:09 – “Touch the Dream”: Motivating Students08:17 – Lessons in Leadership: We Before Me10:19 – Burst Your Bubble: Growing as an Educator13:17 – Finding Joy in Life and Teaching15:24 – About Take Me Home15:33 – Inside When Niagara Falls18:33 – Gratitude for Teachers & Impact Stories22:52 – What Gives Andrea Hope Today25:32 – Where to Connect & Final Thoughts Keywords (SEO) education leadership, English learners, EL students, teaching strategies, culturally responsive teaching, student motivation, teacher inspiration, Andrea Bittner, Lead with Hope podcast, literacy education, inclusive classrooms, teacher mindset, educational leadership podcast, resilience in education, inspiring educators, school leadership development

    26 min

  5. APR 4

    Episode 90 | Reset and Reclaim Your Power: A Guide to Overcoming Overwhelm | Lead with HOPE Podcast

    Episode Summary Feeling overwhelmed or emotionally drained? In this solo episode of the Lead with HOPE Podcast, Brandi Kelly shares practical tools to help you manage stress, regulate emotions, set healthy boundaries, and reconnect with purpose. Through the framework of Acknowledge, Reflect, and Reset, this episode offers hope-filled strategies for building resilience, protecting your well-being, and leading with clarity. Key Topics Managing overwhelm and emotional exhaustionThe power of acknowledging your emotionsThe neuroscience of naming what you feelReflection as a leadership and self-awareness toolSetting healthy boundaries to protect your well-beingReconnecting with your purpose and valuesSmall resets and micro-rests for emotional regulationBuilding resilience through hope, self-care, and connection Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leading with Hope01:21 The Power of Acknowledgment04:25 Reflecting on Stress and Needs06:36 The Importance of Resetting Links & Resources Connect with Brandi Kelly and explore more tools for hope-fueled leadership, resilience, and personal growth: Follow the Lead with HOPE PodcastShare this episode with a leader, educator, or friend who needs a resetSubscribe for more conversations on leadership, mindset, resilience, emotional wellness, and hopeResources/Links: Visit your sparkhopeedu.comLearn more about Conversari PressDo you need a HOPE-Fueled Leadership Kickstart? Learn more here! SEO Keywords leadership podcast, overwhelm, burnout recovery, stress management, emotional regulation, resilience, self-awareness, mental health for leaders, leadership development, self-care, healthy boundaries, purpose-driven leadership, hope, emotional wellness, reflection, mindset, educator burnout, leadership mindset, personal growth, Brandi Kelly, Lead with HOPE Podcast

    12 min

  6. MAR 28

    Episode 89 | Leadership & Identity: Anchored with Purpose

    Summary In this episode of the Lead with Hope podcast, host Dr. Brandi Kelly is joined by Melissa Wilkinson, the founder of Anchored with Purpose. Melissa shares her powerful transition from leading a $28 million retail organization with over 200 employees to becoming a faith-based entrepreneur and podcaster. Together, they explore the profound questions leaders face during seasons of change: Who am I beyond my title? Understanding identity when careers and roles shift. What happens when God calls us to pivot? Navigating the move from corporate leadership to motherhood and entrepreneurship. How do we stay grounded in hope? Learning to trust the Holy Spirit’s guidance when life feels uncertain. Melissa opens up about overcoming anxiety and spiritual adversity, sharing how she now helps women clarify their purpose and pursue their God-given dreams with confidence. Listeners will gain practical strategies for building a daily faith practice and cultivating optimism by rooting their thoughts in scripture. Key Topics Faith-Based Leadership: Redefining success and leadership through a Christ-centered lens. Identity Shifts: Finding your true self when moving between corporate roles, motherhood, and business. Overcoming Adversity: Using prayer and the Holy Spirit to navigate anxiety and spiritual attacks. Dreaming Big: How to host "Dream Workshops" and give yourself permission to pursue your calling. Daily Faith Practice: Practical steps to start habit-stacking prayer and scripture reading. Habit Audits: Identifying what to start, stop, or continue to lead with optimism. Action Steps for Listeners Start Small: Dedicate 5 minutes a day to reading a devotional or scripture. Conduct a Habit Audit: Reflect on which habits are fueling your purpose and which are causing noise. Embrace Your Dreams: Write down your dreams, trusting that if the vision comes to you, it is for you. Seek Community: Surround yourself with a circle of support to pray with and encourage you. Episodes 00:00 — Introduction to Melissa Wilkinson and Anchored with Purpose 04:35 — Transitioning from Corporate Retail to Motherhood 05:53 — The Struggle of Identity and Finding a New Calling 09:38 — Navigating Adversity and Spiritual Attacks 14:31 — God’s Better Vision: The Story of the Dream House 19:42 — Helping Women Dream Big Through Workshops 24:29 — Cultivating Optimism and Taking Thoughts Captive 30:57 — Why Do Bad Things Happen? Trusting God’s Will 32:19 — Resources and Connecting with Melissa Resources & Links YouVersion Bible App: Bible.com Bible Plan: "From Lent to Lifestyle" by Melissa Wilkinson Anchored with Purpose Podcast: Listen Here Melissa Wilkinson Website: anchoredwithpurpose.com Spark HOPE Edu: https://sparkhopeedu.com Legacy Partner: Craig Williams at Conversari - https://www.conversaripress.com/ Keywords: Faith Leadership, Christian Leadership, Identity in Christ, Women of Faith, Overcoming Anxiety, Purpose-Driven Life, Spiritual Growth, Hope-Fueled Leadership, Daily Faith Practice, Faith-Based Entrepreneurship.

    37 min

  7. MAR 21

    Episode 88 | Consistency, Not Perfection: The Resilient Leader's Rule for Never Missing Twice

    In this powerful episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., Brandi Kelly dives into one of the biggest barriers in leadership—perfectionism—and reframes it through the lens of resilience, faith, and forward momentum. Grounded in the message of Philippians 3:12–14, this conversation challenges leaders to release the pressure of perfection and instead pursue consistent progress. Brandi shares real-world leadership insights and practical strategies to help you stay anchored in hope, navigate setbacks with confidence, and continue moving forward—even when the path feels unclear. If you’ve ever felt stuck, discouraged, or like you're falling short, this episode will remind you: growth isn’t about getting it perfect—it’s about pressing on with purpose. Resource Links ⁠Schedule your Free HOPE Leadership Clarity Assessment⁠ Conversari Press - Legacy Sponsor of the Lead with HOPE Podcast - ⁠https://www.conversaripress.com/⁠Website: ⁠⁠https://sparkhopeedu.com⁠Book: ⁠⁠Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self-Efficacy⁠⁠ Chapters 00:00 – Navigating Setbacks as a Leader04:18 – The Pursuit of Progress Over Perfection06:37 – Building Resilience and Hope in Leadership06:39 – Pressing On with Purpose Key Takeaways Progress—not perfection—is the true measure of effective leadership Resilience is built in the decision to keep going, not in avoiding failure Setbacks are not the end—they are part of the growth process Every small step reinforces your identity as a leader Clarity, intention, and belief fuel sustainable momentum Hope is not passive—it’s a disciplined, daily practice Keywords leadership development, resilient leadership, progress over perfection, leadership mindset, personal growth, self-efficacy, hope in leadership, overcoming setbacks, leadership motivation, growth mindset, faith-based leadership, Philippians 3:12-14, leadership habits, perseverance, intentional leadership

    7 min

  8. MAR 14

    Episode 87 | Grounded Leadership: Kristen Weikle on Courage, Culture, and Hope

    Episode Summary In this episode of Lead with Hope, Dr. Kristen Weikle shares insights from her 30-year career in education, including her experiences as a teacher, principal, and superintendent. She reflects on the importance of staying grounded as a leader, surrounding yourself with supportive people, and maintaining a positive mindset in challenging environments. Dr. Weikle also discusses the unique challenges female leaders can face in education, including navigating double standards and expectations. Throughout the conversation, she offers practical strategies for fostering well-being within organizations, leading with honesty and clarity, and creating cultures where people feel supported and empowered. Key Takeaways This episode is a thoughtful conversation about leadership, resilience, and the power of hope in education. Surround yourself with supportive people who keep you grounded. Self-awareness and reflection are essential for effective leadership. Address biases and double standards to promote equity in leadership. Honest, direct conversations strengthen teams and build trust. Hope in education grows through community support and intentional leadership. Episode Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Dr. Kristen Weikle’s Background 01:48 — Kristen’s Career Path and Leadership Roles 02:31 — Staying Grounded During Leadership Challenges 03:59 — The Power of Encouragement and Support Systems 04:54 — Personal Joys and Family Life 06:34 — Lessons from Different Roles in Education 08:22 — The Role of Self-Awareness in Leadership 09:05 — Barriers for Women in Leadership 11:34 — Fostering Well-Being and Organizational Culture 14:18 — Having Honest and Direct Conversations 18:10 — Leadership in Action and Stories of Hope 21:03 — Support Systems and Moving Forward 23:49 — Community Support and Giving Back 24:37 — How to Connect with Dr. Kristen Weikle 25:20 — Embracing Leadership and Hope Keywords education leadership, female leaders, well-being in schools, honest communication, school administration, leadership lessons, superintendent leadership, hope in education, leadership mindset Links & Resources Learn more about the Conversari framework:https://www.conversaripress.com/ Explore leadership resources at Spark Hope Education:https://sparkhopeedu.com

    27 min
See All (94)

4.2
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Lead With HOPE Podcast is a faith-forward leadership podcast hosted by Dr. Brandi Kelly, designed to inspire leaders to live, lead, and serve with purpose. Rooted in faith, real stories, and hope, each episode features meaningful conversations, practical insights, and testimonies of resilience that remind you God is still at work; even in hard seasons. Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or navigating a season of growth or uncertainty, this podcast will refuel your faith, strengthen your leadership, and reignite hope so you can lead with clarity, courage, and impact. Faith. Stories. HOPE.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Brandi Kelly
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    94
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Brandi Kelly
  • Show Website
    Lead with HOPE

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