Advertise on podcast: Culture Eats Everything

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Tom Willis sits down with Emily Callahan, a school superintendent from Indiana, to explore her journey from struggling student to teacher, principal, and superintendent. Emily shares how a visit to an innovative public school in San Diego completely changed the way she viewed education and inspired her to create new opportunities for students. Emily and Tom also discuss redesigning the traditional high school experience, including student-run businesses, entrepreneurship, mastery-based education, and helping students discover their strengths, interests, and values from an early age. They explore the importance of allowing students to experience failure, take risks, and learn through real-world experiences. Click here to buy our book: 📚✨ 🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement 🔹 Guest: Emily Callahan 🔹 Host: Tom Willis 🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/ 🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange 🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5M Tom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book 👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights! #CultureEatsEverything #Leadership #EducationLeadership #SchoolLeadership #Superintendent #TEDx #StudentLeadership #EducationalInnovation #LeadershipDevelopment #StudentAgency #EmilyCallahan #TomWillis

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Kevin Davis sits down with David Brooks, Executive Director of St. Anne's Terrace in Atlanta, to discuss what it really takes to build and sustain a thriving organizational culture. Having worked his way up from driving the bus and washing dishes to leading the entire community, David shares how every role shaped his leadership philosophy. The conversation explores the importance of hiring for attitude over experience, creating a workplace where employees genuinely enjoy coming to work, and why culture is the greatest competitive advantage in attracting and retaining both staff and residents. David also reflects on the challenges of stepping into executive leadership, learning to trust his team, embracing vulnerability, and understanding that great leaders don't have all the answers—they empower others to contribute theirs. Whether you're leading a business, managing a team, or aspiring to grow into leadership, this episode is packed with practical insights on servant leadership, transparency, humility, and building a culture people never want to leave. Click here to buy our book: 📚✨ 🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-brooks-15889826a/ Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinjohndavis 🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/ 🎭 Interchange: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange 🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast: 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5M 📖 Check out our book: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book 👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Tom Willis sits down with Dr. Stephen Bigelow, an experienced educator and former superintendent who traded Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for life and leadership in Salvador, Brazil. Together, they explore the concept of “cultures within cultures” and discuss how living and leading in a completely different environment challenged Stephen’s assumptions about healthcare, education, relationships, and leadership itself. Stephen shares how confronting his own preconceived notions opened the door to deeper learning, stronger relationships, and a greater appreciation for cultural differences. The conversation highlights the importance of humility, adaptability, and surrounding yourself with people who challenge your thinking. They also discuss how leadership principles remain universal even when cultural norms, communication styles, and expectations vary dramatically. Click here to buy our book: 📚✨ 🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement 🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-bigelow/🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: https://www.phoenixperform.com/ 🎭 Interchange: https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange 🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis: 📖 Check out our book: https://www.phoenixperform.com/book 👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights! #Leadership #CultureEatsEverything #OrganizationalCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #EducationalLeadership #InternationalLeadership #CrossCulturalLeadership #PersonalGrowth #LeadershipPodcast #CultureWithinCulture #Adaptability #LeadershipLessons #TomWillis #StephenBigelow #CultureMatters

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Tom and Nicole discussed recent flooding situations in Wisconsin and compared them to experiences in other states, while sharing their backgrounds in senior care and leadership roles. They explored the importance of authentic leadership and vulnerability, particularly during crises, with Nicole sharing examples from her experience as CEO of Cedar Community and her broadcasting background. The conversation concluded with discussions about leadership challenges, transparency, and future plans for collaboration at the Leading Age conference.Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolepretre🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Tom and Matt shared their experiences and perspectives on teaching and education leadership, discussing their personal journeys and the challenges of small-town life. They explored topics including the importance of kindness and directness in teaching, the evolution of Matt's teaching approach, and the role of leadership in creating positive school cultures. The conversation concluded with discussions about organizational culture, collaboration, and the evolving nature of educational leadership, including plans for future video projects and sharing educational practices.Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-condon-311ab616/🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Host Tom Willis sits down with former superintendent Dan Cox, who opens up about the hidden pressures school leaders face.👨‍🏫 From the shifting roles of superintendents to the emotional toll of constant leadership, Dan shares:👉Why average tenure is shrinking fast (down to 2.5 years!)👉The emotional armor leaders wear without knowing👉How sabbaticals, even mini ones, can be game changers👉The powerful realization of separating what you do from who you areClick here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-w-cox-32266892🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

In this powerful episode of Culture Eats Everything , Tom sits down with Kathy Martin, CEO of Glenmeadow in Massachusetts. Kathy shares how lessons from field hockey shaped her leadership journey, the difference between reacting and responding, and how leaders must move beyond their “default success strategy.” She also reveals how Glenmeadow is redefining aging—not as a decline, but as a vibrant phase full of growth and potential. A must-listen for aspiring leaders and anyone rethinking what it means to grow older with purpose.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insightful episodes!Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-martin-a45a095/🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Tom sit down with Monica Schroeder, Deputy Superintendent of Northshore School District 112. Monica shares her inspiring journey, how she advocated for herself as a Latina female leader, and the power of intentional succession planning.If you’re a school board member, aspiring superintendent, or anyone passionate about leadership, culture, and education, this conversation is packed with lessons on advocacy, resilience, and driving positive change.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insightful episodes!Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monica-schroeder-36167ab4/🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

In Part 1 of this two-part series on succession planning, Michael Lubelfeld, Superintendent of Northshore School District 112, joins the Culture Eats Everything podcast. He reflects on his leadership journey, the intentional planning behind his upcoming retirement, and how he and Deputy Superintendent Monica Schroeder are working together to ensure a seamless leadership transition. A candid conversation filled with lessons on legacy, communication, and the power of thoughtful planning.Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-van-allan-0087646🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaellubelfeld📖 Michael Book: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B06XD9ZWK1?ccs_id=b934121b-e09f-4050-9c02-d02ea4273fb7🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

In this episode of Culture Eats Everything Podcast, Jim Van Allan, President of The Energy Bus for Schools, shares powerful insights on leadership, engagement, and fostering positive cultures. With a PhD in educational leadership, he discusses the crossover between building successful schools and thriving organizations. Tune in to discover actionable strategies to energize your culture, whether in education or business!Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-van-allan-0087646🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Jim Website: www.EnergyBusForSchools.com🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

Join us for an insightful conversation with Jamie LaLonde, CEO of Angela Hospice, on leadership growth, workplace culture, and transitioning from executive director to CEO. Learn how Jamie empowers her team, fosters a strong culture, and navigates the challenges of leadership. Don't miss this episode of Culture Eats Everything!🔹 Topics covered:✅ Leadership lessons from Jamie's journey✅ Building a thriving workplace culture✅ Strategies for empowering teams✅ The importance of self-growth as a leaderClick here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalondejamie/🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinjohndavis🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

What can improv teach us about leadership? In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, host Tom interviews Joel Zeff, author of Make the Right Choice, to explore how improv can elevate leadership, boost team engagement, and create a culture of fun. 🎭✨Joel shares powerful insights on:✅ The role of fun in leadership and teamwork✅ How to stay present and make better decisions✅ Using improv to enhance communication and collaboration✅ Building a culture of support and opportunity🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelzeff/🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!#Leadership #Improv #CultureEatsEverything #JoelZeff #Teamwork #Podcast#Leadership #Improv #CultureEatsEverything #Teamwork #JoelZeff #Podcast #cultureeatseverything

In this episode of Culture Eats Everything, host Kevin sits down with Roger Blake, CEO of Merit Network, to discuss the transformative role of culture in leadership. Roger shares insights from his extensive career in telecommunications and cybersecurity and his nonprofit mission at Merit. They explore his journey, the importance of personal purpose, and the challenges of leading an organization dedicated to closing the digital divide. Roger reflects on the value of professional growth, authenticity, and the impact of storytelling in fostering a connected and inclusive society. Click here to buy our book : https://geni.us/the-great-engagement _____________________________ Roger Blake : https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-blake/ _____________________________ Phoenix Performance Partners Website: https://www.phoenixperform.com/ Interchange: https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange Culture Eats Everything Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051 Culture Eats Everything Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5M Kevin Davis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinjohndavis/ Tom Willis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/ Checkout our book: https://www.phoenixperform.com/book #cultureeatseverything

Join Andrew Abela on the Culture eats Everything podcast as he discusses his new book Superhabits, the distinction between virtues and values, and how cultivating "Superhabits" can transform personal and organizational success. Click here to buy our book : https://geni.us/the-great-engagement _____________________________ Superhabits: https://www.amazon.com/Superhabits-Universal-System-Successful-Life/dp/B0CZD4HS8G Superhabits App: https://superhabits.app/ Superhabits Newsletter: https://superhabit.substack.com/ _____________________________ Phoenix Performance Partners Website: https://www.phoenixperform.com/ Phoenix Interchange: https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange Culture Eats Everything Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051 Culture Eats Everything Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5M Tom Willis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/ Andrew Abela : https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanabela/ Checkout our book: https://www.phoenixperform.com/book #cultureeatseverything

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Tom dives deep into understanding cognitive and emotional biases that affect rational leadership with Lisa Tromba (Managing Partner and Co-Founder at Luisi Tromba Advisors). They discuss the intricacies of "mind knots," exploring how these biases impact decision-making, team dynamics, and organizational culture. Through real-life examples and expert insights, they unpack strategies to recognize and navigate these mental shortcuts, offering a five-step process to enhance leadership effectiveness and optimize organizational success. Click here to buy our book : https://geni.us/the-great-engagement _____________________________ Phoenix Performance Partners Website: https://www.phoenixperform.com/ Culture Eats Everything Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051 Culture Eats Everything Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5M Tom Willis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/ Lisa Tromba : https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisatromba/ Checkout our book: https://www.phoenixperform.com/book #cultureeatseverything