The Catholic School Leaders Podcast John Mihalyo

In this episode, John Mihalyo discusses effective strategies for Catholic school leaders to analyze and improve their advancement, development, and fundraising efforts. 
Drawing from his experience and expertise, John highlights common pitfalls in setting goals that are either too high or too low and emphasizes the importance of realistic planning, communication, sponsorship, budgeting, and offering desirable items or experiences at fundraising events. 
He also stresses the significance of timing, venue selection, and the power of saying 'thank you' to sponsors and donors. 
Throughout the episode, John offers practical advice on creating a culture of giving and forging strong community partnerships to support Catholic education worldwide.
00:00 Introduction to the Catholic School Leaders Podcast
00:34 Reflecting on the School Year and Advancement Efforts
01:06 Analyzing Fundraising Efforts and Identifying Improvement Areas
02:19 Common Reasons for Not Meeting Fundraising Goals
05:01 The Importance of Proper Event Planning and Timing
07:16 Maximizing Communication and Sponsorship Opportunities
16:49 Ensuring Your Fundraising Offers What People Want
20:29 Choosing the Right Venue and Recognizing Sponsors
24:43 Avoiding Donor Fatigue with Strategic Fundraising
27:18 Budgeting and Event Feedback for Future Success
31:05 Conclusion and Invitation to Connect

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, John Mihalyo talks with Dr. Jacob Imam, Founder and Vice President of Finance at the College of St. Joseph the Worker College in Steubenville, Ohio. 
Dr. Imam discusses his unique background, transitioning from a Muslim home to Catholicism, and his journey through education, culminating in his role at the college. 
He delves into the college’s innovative approach to higher education, which integrates rigorous academics with hands-on trade skills, aiming to foster well-rounded, financially savvy, and morally grounded graduates. 
The podcast explores the six-year educational model that combines a Bachelor's degree with a journeyman’s card, emphasizing the value of trades, the importance of leadership, and the college’s mission to provide an education that is both enriching and practical. 
Dr. Imam highlights future plans for the college, including the development of new trade tracks and a local construction company, to further enhance student learning and community service.
00:07 Meet Dr. Jacob Imam: From Muslim to Catholic Convert
01:27 The Genesis of College of St. Joseph the Worker
02:44 A Unique Educational Model: Merging Theology with Trades
03:43 The Financial and Practical Benefits of the College's Program
10:38 Exploring the Academic Curriculum Beyond Trades
27:39 Leadership and Catholic Values in Trades and Education
37:03 Future Plans and Closing Thoughts

This episode features an enriching conversation with Fr. Tim Anastos, a chaplain at St. John Paul II Newman Center at the University of Illinois, Chicago. 
The discussion delves into innovative methods of engaging students in their faith, the importance of Catholic education, and how Catholic school leaders can inspire both students and educators to grow in their relationship with Christ. 
Father Tim shares his journey to developing a deeper relationship with Jesus and emphasizes the role of authenticity and consistency in nurturing faith among the youth. 
The episode also explores the impact of social media in evangelization, the significance of the Eucharist in Catholic faith, and strategies for Catholic school leaders to foster a vibrant, faith-filled community in their schools. 
Father Tim's insights into making the faith alive and relevant, alongside his own initiatives like Real Homilies and his book 'Jesus, Make Me Fully Alive,' offer practical advice and inspiration for Catholic school leaders aiming to rekindle faith and identity within their institutions.
00:31 Spotlight on Father Tim: Chaplain at St. John Paul II Newman Center
02:48 Father Tim's Journey of Faith and Relationship with Jesus
06:18 Developing a Relationship with Christ in Busy Lives
11:36 Engaging the Youth: Reel Homilies and Social Media Evangelization
18:39 The Power of Prayer and Identity in Christ for the Youth
34:16 Empowering Catholic School Leaders and Teachers
37:01 Father Tim's Book: A Guide to Spiritual Growth
41:11 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

This episode features an insightful conversation between host John Mihalyo and guest Barbara Flowers, a seasoned principal and certified life coach with a doctorate in K-12 leadership. 
The discussion centers on the concept of leadership efficacy, particularly within the context of Catholic school administration. 
Barb shares her extensive experiences and the importance of self-efficacy among educational leaders, emphasizing the drastic changes in the roles and challenges faced by principals in recent years. 
Key topics include:
The impact of principal efficacy on career performanceStrategies for overcoming self-doubtThe significance of prioritizing well-being and setting boundariesThe value of continuous professional development. Managing burnoutDelegating effectively, and Fostering a growth mindset among staffThe importance of reflectionPlanning for improvement00:18 Introducing Barb Flowers: A Principal with a Mission
01:18 Exploring Leadership Efficacy in Catholic Education
02:12 The Evolving Role of Principals Post-COVID
04:26 Building Self-Efficacy and Delegating Effectively
08:50 The Importance of Professional Development for Principals
16:24 Addressing Principal and Teacher Burnout
29:18 Reflecting and Planning for a Strong School Year Finish

In this episode, John Mihalyo interviews Greg Morrissey, founder of the Mountain Goat Movement and a dedicated educator who intertwines his Catholic faith with outdoor adventures. 
Morrissey, who has spearheaded numerous expeditions for students in environments ranging from urban landscapes to international treks, emphasizes the role of adventures in character building and faith development. 
He reflects on how his own experiences in nature solidified his connection to God and inspired him to integrate outdoor experiences into Catholic education. 
He discusses the significance of these adventures for students, highlighting the transformative impact on their confidence, empathy, and spiritual growth. 
Morrissey's innovative approach not only enriches students' educational journeys but also aims to cultivate the next generation of empathetic community leaders through meaningful engagement with nature and exploration.
00:17 Introducing Greg Morrissey
01:49 Catholic Education and Outdoor Adventures
03:53 Creating Transformative Experiences for Students
10:51 The Impact of Adventure on Personal Growth
14:26 Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence
17:58 Making Adventure Accessible to All
27:28 Future Plans and Expanding the Mountain Goat Movement
31:04 How to Connect and Collaborate with Mountain Goat Movement

In this episode our guest Tim Breslin, Senior Development Director at Duke University, who shares his extensive experience in school advancement and fundraising. 
The discussion covers the importance of advancement for schools at various stages - contemplating, starting, and improving their efforts. 
Tim offers advice on getting started with advancement, including the significance of leadership and the need to invest time and resources. He emphasizes the importance of asking for donations, utilizing community resources, and respecting the culture of giving within the school community. 
Strategies for thanking donors creatively and the role of leadership in supporting advancement efforts are also shared. 
Tim encourages schools to focus on fundamentals, utilize indicators of potential donors within their community, and leverage opportunities like matching gifts to maximize their fundraising potential.
00:23 Introducing Tim Breslin: A Journey Through Advancement
01:48 The Three Stages of School Advancement
02:33 Starting Your School's Advancement Journey: Tips and Strategies
05:32 Building a Culture of Giving: Engaging Teachers and Parents
09:16 Transforming Parent Organizations: From Fundraisers to Friend-Raisers
22:36 Maximizing Success in School Advancement: Strategies and Insights
28:49 Navigating Challenges and Rebuilding Credibility in Advancement Efforts
35:47 Fundamental Strategies for Elevating Your School's Advancement Efforts
39:01 Closing Thoughts and the Importance of Community Engagement