Lead with HOPE

Dr. Brandi Kelly
  • 4.1 (9)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
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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. 1D AGO

    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

  2. MAR 7

    Episode 86 | Spreading Sunshine with Kindness

    What can a children’s book teach us about leadership, culture, and hope? In this episode, host Dr. Brandi Kelly shares the inspiration behind her new children’s book Spreading Sunshine with Kindness and explores the powerful leadership truths hidden in its message. Through the story of two boys learning kindness from their grandparents, Brandi unpacks three essential leadership principles that apply to classrooms, homes, organizations, and communities. In this episode, you’ll discover why kindness is a powerful leadership strategy, how small repeated actions transform culture, and why consistent acts of encouragement and service build connection, trust, and resilience. Brandi also shares a deeply personal story about the loss of her brother Brandon, and how the small acts of kindness from their community became a lifeline during one of the most difficult seasons of her life. If you are a leader, educator, parent, or someone who wants to build a culture of hope, this episode will challenge you to take one small action this week to spread some sunshine. Episode Chapters 00:00 – IntroductionBrandi introduces the leadership message behind her new children’s book Spreading Sunshine with Kindness. 00:07 – Leadership Truth #1: Kindness Is ModeledWhy culture is shaped by what leaders do, not just what they say. 01:02 – Leadership Truth #2: Kindness Is ConsistentHow small repeated acts of kindness transform culture and relationships. 01:33 – Leadership Truth #3: Kindness Is EnergizingWhy kindness strengthens connection and protects leaders from burnout. 01:55 – A Personal Story of KindnessBrandi shares the story of her brother Brandon and the small acts of kindness that carried her family through grief. 02:18 – The Power of Small ActsWhy we don’t need big opportunities to make a difference. 03:35 – The Sunshine Stack ChallengeBrandi challenges listeners to practice one intentional act of kindness this week. 04:24 – Building a Culture of HopeHow tiny repeated actions create meaningful change in homes, schools, and organizations. 05:15 – Call to ActionShare your Sunshine Stack and spread kindness in your community. 05:45 – Preview of Next Week’s EpisodeA conversation with superintendent Kristen Weikle on leadership, reflection, and resilience. 06:20 – Closing EncouragementLead with hope, embrace your purpose, and shine your light. Links 🌐 Spark HOPE EduSpark HOPE Eduhttps://sparkhopeedu.com 📚 Legacy Partner of the Lead with HOPE PodcastConversarihttps://conversari.com SEO Keywords leadership podcast, kindness leadership, leadership habits, leadership mindset, acts of kindness leadership, hope leadership, educational leadership podcast, school leadership strategies, women leadership podcast, positive leadership habits, culture building leadership, social emotional leadership, leadership inspiration, Brandi Kelly podcast, lead with hope podcast, spreading sunshine with kindness book, kindness in leadership

    8 min

  3. FEB 28

    Episod 85 | Building Trust in Leadership: A Conversation with Toby Travis

    In this episode of Lead with Hope, Dr. Brandi Kelly sits down with educational leader Toby Travis to explore one essential truth: trust is the foundation of effective leadership in education. If you care about trust, leadership, education, communication, empowerment, sustainability, change management, school improvement, and community impact, this conversation delivers both inspiration and practical strategy. When leaders provide clarity of voice and direction, culture stabilizes. When values align with action, teachers feel empowered. When communication is consistent and transparent, schools thrive. As Toby shares: “Clarity of voice is essential for leaders.” “Building trust starts at the top.” “Setting clear goals is vital for success.” Trust is built in everyday interactions not grand gestures. It grows when leadership decisions reflect core values and when communication is frequent, focused, and authentic. ✔ Clarity fuels confidence. Clear mission and vision prevent drift and build stability.✔ Core values must match behavior. Culture erodes when values are performative.✔ Empowering teachers strengthens engagement. Reducing busy work and trusting educator expertise improves outcomes.✔ Sustainability requires leadership development. Schools need future leaders, not heroic burnout cycles.✔ Change management takes time and community. Sustainable school improvement requires data, SMART goals, and stakeholder investment.✔ The future of education is student-centered. Schools are shifting toward personalized, community-driven approaches. High administrative turnover continues to challenge districts nationwide. Sustainable leadership depends on clarity, trust, and systems that support long-term growth. Toby Travis is an educational leader and author dedicated to helping schools build trust-based cultures that drive lasting improvement. Our Legacy Partner, Conversary, supports leaders in strengthening communication and culture within their organizations.Connect with Conversary here: 👉 https://www.conversaripress.com/ Dr. Brandi Kelly is founder of Spark HOPE Edu, leadership consultant, keynote speaker, and author of Lead with H.O.P.E. Through coaching and professional development, she equips school leaders to lead with: Habits Optimistic Outlook Purpose Excellence Learn more or connect at:👉 https://sparkhopeedu.com 🎙️ Listen, subscribe, and share with a school leader committed to building trust, empowering educators, and creating sustainable change in education.

    50 min

  4. FEB 21

    Episode 84 | How to Build Habits When You’re Overwhelmed: The Power of Micro-Actions

    In this episode of the Lead with Hope Podcast, Dr. Brandi Kelly tackles one of the most common leadership and personal development struggles: how to build habits when you’re overwhelmed. If you’ve ever tried to start a new routine, improve your mindfulness, strengthen resilience, or follow through on goals — only to feel stuck — this episode is for you. Rooted in behavioral science and inspired by principles from Atomic Habits, Brandi introduces the power of micro actions — tiny, consistent changes that create massive long-term impact. You don’t need more willpower.You just need a tiny anchor. Instead of chasing dramatic overhauls, you’ll learn how habit stacking makes new behaviors obvious and easy by anchoring them to routines you already do every day. Small change leads to momentum. Momentum builds resilience. Resilience sustains leadership. In this episode, you’ll discover how to: • Use micro actions to build sustainable habits• Apply habit stacking to strengthen goal setting• Practice 60-second mindfulness routines• Avoid burnout through consistency• Adopt the powerful mindset: never miss twice Micro actions are the secret weapon of resilient leaders. Shrink your goals. Anchor them. Stack them. Start today. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Overcoming Overwhelm01:42 – The Power of Micro Actions03:45 – Habit Stacking for Success05:56 – The Challenge of Micro Actions06:43 – EmpowerHER Mastermind Announcement08:24 – Core HOPE Habits for Clarity09:27 – Embracing Leadership and Hope Connect with our Legacy Partner We’re proud to partner with Conversari, helping leaders strengthen communication, trust, and culture. Learn more:👉 https://www.conversaripress.com/ Don’t miss our monthly Midday EmpowerHER Mastermind sessions for women leaders focused on empowerment, sustainable leadership, and intentional growth. Join the Spark HOPE Community here:👉 https://sparkhopeedu.com/drbrandikelly-4049 Find your tiny anchor.Stack your micro action.And lead with H.O.P.E.

    10 min
  5. Episode 83 | From Trash Bags to HOPE with Rob Scheer

    FEB 14

    Episode 83 | From Trash Bags to HOPE with Rob Scheer

    In this inspiring episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., I sit down with Rob Scheer, founder of Comfort Cases, to discuss his incredible journey from a child in the foster care system to a successful businessman and social impact leader. Rob shares how small acts of kindness, community involvement, and empathy can transform the lives of vulnerable children. Learn how Comfort Cases provides dignity and hope to children in foster care and why every child deserves a safe, caring start. Key Takeaways: Rob Shear’s foster care journey began at age 12. Small acts of kindness can change lives. Comfort Cases provides essential items to children entering foster care. Dignity and hope are crucial for children entering the system. Comfort Cases has delivered over 300,000 comfort cases. Investing in children is investing in society’s future. Chapters:0:00 – Introduction: Lead with H.O.P.E.2:15 – Rob Shear’s Foster Care Story8:40 – The Birth of Comfort Cases15:30 – The Power of Small Acts of Kindness22:10 – Community Involvement & Social Impact28:45 – Empathy & Teaching the Next Generation35:20 – How You Can Make a Difference40:00 – Closing Thoughts & Call to Action Links & Resources: Legacy Partner – Convesary: https://www.conversaripress.com/ Book a Call with Brandi at Spark HOPE Edu Contact Comfort Cases: https://comfortcases.org Keywords: foster care, Rob Scheer, Comfort Cases, kindness, community, empathy, hope, nonprofit, children's welfare, social impact 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a 5-star rating to help spread hope and inspire leaders to make a difference in the lives of children in foster care!

    31 min

  6. FEB 7

    Episode 82 | Choosing Love: Why My Word for 2026 Is Love

    In this episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. podcast, host Dr. Brandi Kelly explores the profound impact of love and hope in leadership. As Valentine’s Day approaches, Brandi shares personal reflections and leadership insights, drawing powerful lessons from children’s movies to illustrate that love is not merely a romantic idea.. it is a strategic, intentional force that builds connection, fuels growth, and strengthens courage. Brandi also unpacks the Science of Hope, highlighting its cognitive components, goals, pathways, and agency, and explains how love fuels each one. When leaders lead with love, they create environments where people feel safe, valued, and empowered to pursue meaningful goals. This episode is especially for female leaders who are tired of carrying leadership alone. You’ll be reminded that community matters, connection is essential, and leadership becomes truly transformational when love and hope work together. The word guiding Brandi’s leadership for 2026 is love Children’s movies teach powerful lessons about leadership and connection Hope is a cognitive process built on goals, pathways, and agency Love fuels all three components of hope Female leaders often carry heavy burdens alone—community is essential The Spark HOPE Community exists to support and empower female leaders Leadership becomes transformational when love and hope work together Chapters 00:00 – The Power of Love in Leadership06:01 – Hope as a Cognitive Process: Goals, Pathways, and Agency07:55 – Building Community and Connection Through Love Tune in, give us a 5 star rating to help us spread hope to other leaders, and keep leading with H.O.P.E. A special thank you to Craig Williams and Conversari for supporting this episode! Learn more about their work at ⁠https://www.conversaripress.com Join the Spark HOPE community to connect with like-minded women leaders through monthly masterminds, courses, and a supportive network designed to help you lead with heart, alignment, and purpose. Sign up here: ⁠https://sparkhopeedu.com/drbrandikelly-4049⁠ If you want to learn more about HOPE-Fueled leadership, book your free consultation today: ⁠https://sparkhopeedu.com Keywords leadership, love, hope, community, connection, female leaders, personal growth, storytelling, intentionality, empowerment

    8 min

  7. JAN 31

    Episode 81 | Leading Students with HOPE: College Readiness, Scholarships & Purpose with Shellee Howard

    In this episode of the Lead with HOPE Podcast, Dr. Brandi Kelly sits down with Shellee Howard, founder of College Ready, mother of four, and champion for student empowerment. Shellee shares how her personal journey navigating the college admissions process led her to build a system that has helped students earn over $10.3 million in scholarships proving that a debt-free college education is possible. Together, they explore the critical role of self-discovery, leadership development, and core values in preparing students not just for college but for life. Shellee offers practical guidance for parents who want to support their children without pressure or judgment, empowering students to confidently articulate who they are during the admissions process. This conversation is a must-listen for parents, educators, leaders, and anyone passionate about college readiness, leadership, and infusing hope into our lives and leadership. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Shellee Howard’s Journey 02:22 – The Birth of College Ready 03:09 – Navigating Today’s College Admissions Landscape 04:40 – Empowering Students and Parents 05:52 – Leadership Lessons from Life Experiences 07:24 – Why Self-Discovery Matters for College Admissions 10:52 – Creating Opportunities for Students 11:57 – Inspiring Change in the Next Generation 13:21 – Final Thoughts, Resources, and Support 19:51 – A Call for Leadership in Challenging Times Key Takeaways 🎓 Students can graduate college without debt with the right guidance and strategy 🌱 Understanding core values helps students confidently navigate admissions conversations 💬 Parents should create open, judgment-free dialogue about dreams and aspirations 🧭 Self-discovery is essential for students to clearly articulate who they are to colleges 🤝 Leadership skills grow through service, courage, and stepping outside comfort zones 💡 Encouragement and affirmation from adults significantly shape leadership identity 🏆 Over $10.3 million in scholarships proves what’s possible with intentional preparation Ready to lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose? The HOPE-Fueled Leadership Kickstart - a short, powerful private coaching experience. With expert guidance and key assessments, I’ll help you clarify your vision, gain confidence in your decision making, and build lasting connection and community so you can finally get a clear roadmap to maximize your resources, people, and impact as a leader.  👉 Join the HOPE-Fueled Leadership Kickstart: https://sparkhopeedu.com/home--spark-hope-edu Thank you to Craig Williams and Conversari for being a legacy partner of the Lead with HOPE Podcast. Learn more about Conversari: https://www.conversaripress.com/ College Ready, College Admissions, Debt-Free College, Student Empowerment, Shellee Howard, HOPE-Fueled Leadership Kickstart, Dr. Brandi Kelly Leadership Development, Parenting Teens, Scholarships, Education Leadership, Self-Discovery

    22 min

  8. JAN 24

    Episode 80 | Stressed Leaders Stay in the Game: Burnout, Purpose and Thriving in Leadership

    Are you a leader feeling the stress? Join us as we talk with Dan Stecken, a superintendent, former varsity head coach, and founder of the Stressed Leaders Retreat. Dan shares his unique approach to wellness and vulnerability and what it takes to thrive under pressure in leadership.In this episode, you will learn about: Dan's Journey and Book: Dan wrote his book, Stressed Leaders Stay in the Game, to himself from five years ago, during his first overwhelming year as a superintendent. The book and the retreat grew out of a desire to support colleagues who were also struggling.The Power of Vulnerability: Writing his book was a cathartic opportunity for reflection. Dan discusses why he chose to remain vulnerable in his writing despite a publisher's caution, believing it is vital to help other stressed leaders.Stressed Leaders Retreat: Dan founded the retreat to help educators build the stamina for passionate, purposeful leadership. The retreat has grown into a powerful network that is not limited to educators; it welcomes healthcare professionals, small business owners, entrepreneurs, accountants, and firemen—leaders across various industries. Dan discusses plans to expand the retreat to a new market in the Indianapolis area in June 2026, in addition to the event in Illinois.Mental Health and Wellness: Learn how Seneca High School fosters a culture that prioritizes student and staff mental health and wellness. Dan also reflects on the importance of self-care and finding "me time," even for high-flying workaholics.Connect with Dan: Find out more about the book, upcoming events, and how to sign up for the Stressed Leaders Retreat by visiting stressedleers.com. A special thank you to Craig Williams and Conversari for supporting this episode! Learn more about their work at ⁠https://www.conversaripress.com ✨ Learn more about Dr. Brandi Kelly's ⁠H⁠OPE-Fueled Leadership Kickstart⁠ ⁠and book a free discovery call at sparkhopeedu.com.  Key Topics/Keywords: Leadership, Stress, Wellness, Vulnerability, Superintendent, Stressed Leaders Retreat, Mental Health, Education, Purpose, Passion, Lead with Hope Podcast, Dan Stecken.

    31 min
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4.1
out of 5
9 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
    87
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Brandi Kelly
  • Show Website
    Lead with HOPE