
Advertise on podcast: Lead with HOPE
Rating
4.3from
This podcast has
121 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Dr. Brandi KellyExplicit
No
Date created
2023/11/11
Latest episode
2026/09/26
Average duration
24 min.
Release period
7 days
Description
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.
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Check latest episodes from Lead with HOPE podcast
Episode 121 | Reframe Your Past,
Embrace Intentional Growth & Think Bigger
2026/09/26
Dr. Rebel Heasley shares her journey from nursing to leadership, overcoming adversity, and the power of intentional growth. She emphasizes the importance of mindset, resilience, and self-awareness in leadership and life.
Takeaways
Resilience and intentional growth are key to overcoming adversity.Self-awareness and mindset shifts are essential for personal and professional growth.
Chapters
00:00 Journey from Nursing to Leadership03:01 Overcoming Adversity10:07 The Power of Intentional Growth15:05 Self-Awareness and Leadership20:01 Defining Excellence and Finding Hope
Resources
Join The HOPE Collective: https://sparkhopeedu.com/thehopecollective
Follow Rebel on LikinedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebel-heasley-dnp/
Visit https://sparkhopeedu.com
Episode 120 | The H.O.P.E. Reset: Reset your Leadership & Reclaim your Purpose.
2026/09/19
The conversation explores the concept of hope and leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-care, reflection, and connection. It delves into personal stories, challenges, and the five R's of the Hope Reset, offering a practical tool for leaders to navigate difficult times. The hosts also introduce the Hope Collective, a coaching and networking opportunity for leaders.
Takeaways
Hope is essential for leadershipSelf-care and reflection are crucial for effective leadershipThe five R's of the Hope Reset provide a practical tool for leadersThe Hope Collective offers coaching and networking opportunities for leaders
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Facebook Live Challenges03:14 Navigating Technical Difficulties08:03 Personal Stories and Childhood Dreams15:46 The Five R's of the Hope Reset34:21 The Hope Collective and Conclusion
Resources
Join the HOPE Collective
https://sparkhopeedu.com/thehopecollective
Episode 119 | Why Mental Toughness is a Daily Practice, Not a Personality Trait
2026/09/12
Matt Thoman shares his powerful journey of overcoming adversity and building mental toughness. He emphasizes the importance of intentional practice and positivity in achieving mental health and success. The conversation delves into the impact of mental health in athletics, education, and leadership, highlighting the need for intentional habits and a positive mindset.
Takeaways
Mental toughness is built through intentional practicePositivity is a mindset that can be developed over timeSmall choices make a big impact
Chapters
00:00 The Journey of Recovery06:26 Adversity and Resilience12:56 The Impact of Mental Health in Athletics and Education25:04 Creating Hope-Fueled Cultures33:48 Intentional Habits and Positive Mindset
Resources:
Join The HOPE Collective
Sign up here: https://sparkhopeedu.com/thhopecollective
Check out Matt Thomann's Podcast, the Mental Mettle Podcast here:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-164-hope-is-aggressive-with-dr-brandi-kelly/id1690960664?i=1000777529617
Episode 118| Embrace Your Story & Lead with H.O.P.E.
2026/09/05
This episode of the Lead with HOPE Podcast is about embracing your story, the shaping power of experiences, and the renewed commitment to self-care and well-being. It emphasizes the connection between health and purpose, and the importance of prioritizing self-care as a leader.
Takeaways
Embracing personal stories shapes leadership and life.Prioritizing self-care is essential for leading with hope and purpose.
Chapters
00:00 Embracing Your Story and Leading with Hope01:43 The Shaping Power of Stories03:39 Taking Better Care of Myself04:41 Redefining Health and Wellness07:25 The Connection Between Health and Purpose08:27 Prioritizing Self-Care and Well-Being12:17 Renewed Commitment to Self-Care
Resources
Visit https://sparkhopeedu.com/thehopecollective to sign up for The HOPE Collective - forming now
Episode 117 | Overcome & Lead with Hope: Leadership, Adversity, and Rebuilding After Loss
2026/08/29
The conversation explores the evolution of leadership, the journey in education, leadership lessons from adversity, vulnerability, compassionate leadership, mindset work, writing and sharing personal stories, daily habits for personal growth, the importance of mentorship and coaching, transitioning beyond the principal role, and hope in the future of education.
Takeaways
Evolution of leadership through personal growth and experienceImportance of vulnerability and compassionate leadership
Chapters
00:00 Evolution of Leadership02:16 The Journey in Education06:00 Leadership Lessons from Adversity08:08 Here I Am vs. There You Are Leadership09:20 Vulnerability and Compassionate Leadership10:07 Mindset Work and Control of Thoughts17:30 Writing and Sharing Personal Stories23:49 Daily Habits for Personal Growth27:10 The Importance of Mentorship and Coaching32:16 Transitioning Beyond the Principal Role35:47 Hope in the Future of Education
Resources:
Join The HOPE Collective by emailing Dr. Kelly @[email protected]
Visit sparkhopeedu.com
Episode 116 | My Birthday Reset:
3 Goals for the Next Season
2026/08/22
Dr. Brandi Kelly shares her personal reflections on her birthday and the goals she has set for the next year of her life. She emphasizes the importance of intentional living, health, focus, and presence in her journey of becoming the person she is called to be.
Takeaways
Intentional living leads to purposeful growthHealth, focus, and presence are key elements of personal development
Chapters
00:00 Reflections on Birthdays and Intentional Living02:46 Setting Health Goals and Embracing Change06:35 Building with Focus and Purpose08:24 Being Present and Living with Intention12:03 Invitation to the Hope Collective
Resources
Join the HOPE Collective - a VIP Coaching and Networking Group by emailing me at [email protected]
Visit: sparkhopeedu.com
Episode 115 | HOPE-Fueled Leadership: Phone-Free Schools & Student Wellness with Dr. Kyle Thompson
2026/08/15
In this episode, Dr. Brandi Kelly interviews Dr. Kyle Thompson, the superintendent of the Regional Office of Education #11. They discuss leadership, self-care, professional background, the transition to phone-free schools, the impact of cell phones on students, educating the public on screen time, and parenting in the digital age. The conversation covers themes of adversity, faith, habits, family-first culture, and the power of hope. Kyle shares personal experiences of facing adversity and how it has shaped his leadership. He also discusses the role of faith, the importance of habits, and the impact of a family-first culture in the workplace. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the power of hope in leadership and life.
Takeaways
Leadership extends to self-care and personal well-being.Educating the public on the impact of screen time is crucial for positive change. Adversity shapes leadershipFaith and values influence leadership
Chapters
00:00 Leadership and Running04:26 Leadership and Self-Care07:19 Introduction and Professional Background09:37 Transition to Phone-Free Schools15:17 Impact of Cell Phones on Students18:49 Educating the Public on Screen Time23:02 Parenting and Technology24:08 Adversity and Leadership31:49 Faith and Values33:35 Habits and Routine37:34 Family-First Culture41:16 The Power of Hope
Resources:
Sign up for the ROE #11 Book Study - The Anxious Generation: https://events.roe11.org/event/48a22e58-05f7-478a-b17e-b5fc92e51fa7
Reach out to learn more about the DISC Assessment here: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/tdpdiscovery-e57cf8be-1fb0-470c-966d-f9ffb843015a
Visit my website @sparkhopeedu.com
Episode 114 | When You Feel Stuck: A 5-Step Reset to Move Forward with H.O.P.E.
2026/08/08
The episode explores the experience of feeling stuck and overwhelmed, providing practical leadership tools and emphasizing the importance of building hope. It introduces a five-step reset for navigating uncertainty and discusses the connection between leadership and hope, concluding with an invitation to join the Hope Collective for leadership development and support.
Takeaways
Practical leadership toolsBuilding hope
Chapters
00:00 Feeling Stuck and Overwhelmed01:40 Navigating Seasons of Uncertainty03:09 The Five-Step Reset06:29 Leadership and Hope
Resources:
Learn more about he Hope Collective by emailing Dr. Brandi Kelly @[email protected]
Complimentary Resource: 5 - Step Reset - https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/tl2K6BJwvL6ccdpax8pW
Visit sparkhopeedu.com
Episode 113 | From Surviving to Thriving: Leadership Habits Every Principal Needs
2026/08/01
The conversation with Todd Bloomer covers the importance of self-reflection, the impact of adversity on leadership, and the hope found in the next generation of young people. Todd shares insights on prioritizing self-care, creating healthy margins in life, and the power of scheduling priorities in the calendar. His journey from New York to San Antonio and the lessons learned from navigating adversity provide valuable takeaways for leaders and educators. The conversation emphasizes the need for principal coaching and the impact of resilience and high expectations on leadership. Todd's message resonates with the hope and potential of the next generation, inspiring a sense of optimism for the future.
Takeaways
Prioritizing self-reflection and self-awarenessThe importance of creating healthy margins in lifeThe power of scheduling priorities in the calendarThe impact of adversity on leadership and the value of resilienceThe hope found in the next generation of young people
Resources Mentioned📘 The Blueprint by Todd Bloomer
🌐 Connect with Todd Bloomer
Website: https://toddmbloomer.com
🌟 FREE H.O.P.E.-Fueled Culture System
Download your complimentary leadership resource packed with communication templates, difficult conversation strategies, first-day agenda resources, team-building tools, and practical leadership guides to help you build a thriving school culture.
👉 https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/vgzwyCOCT6P8SuSNruxR
🌐 Learn more about Spark HOPE Edu
https://sparkhopeedu.com
🎙️ Subscribe to the Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast for weekly conversations designed to help educational leaders reflect, reset, and rise.
SEO KeywordsEducational leadership, principal leadership, school leadership, instructional leadership, principal coaching, leadership coaching, leadership habits, teacher retention, school culture, positive school culture, educational leadership podcast, leadership development, school administrator, principal mindset, resilient leadership, self-efficacy, hope theory, educational coaching, leadership resilience, educator burnout, work-life balance for principals, educational podcast, school improvement, leadership growth, professional development for educators, educational leaders, Dr. Brandi Kelly, Todd Bloomer, Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast, Spark HOPE Edu, H.O.P.E.-Fueled Culture System, leadership wellness, thriving schools, educational excellence, leadership communication, school climate.
Episode 112 | The Leadership Blueprint: Dream, Design, Build
2026/07/25
Dr. Brandi Kelly shares a powerful analogy of building a home to illustrate the importance of creating a blueprint for leadership. She emphasizes the need to dream, design, and build intentionally in order to become the leader one aspires to be.
Takeaways
Dream, design, and build intentionallyLeadership requires intentional planning and action
Resources:
Visit sparkhopeedu.com and book a Leadership Clarity Call with Dr. Brandi Kelly
The Leadership Well Being Blueprint - Complimentary Resource
Chapters
00:00 The Power of a Blueprint02:35 Dreaming with Purpose04:06 Intentional Design06:07 Building Faithfully
Episode 111 | Thrive as a Giver: Simple Strategies for Educators
2026/07/18
In this episode, Phil Januszewski shares his journey from a physics teacher to a motivational speaker focused on helping educators and givers thrive without burnout. Discover practical strategies for building resilience, finding joy, and creating sustainable leadership in challenging times.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Phil Januszewski
01:14 Phil's Journey from Teaching to Speaking
02:17 Strategies for Avoiding Burnout
05:04 Adversity and Resilience in Education
06:55 Building Sustainable Habits
09:12 Finding Your Flow State
10:54 The Importance of Small Changes
15:15 Hope in Uncertain Times
16:34 Engaging with Audiences through Humor
17:18 How to Connect with Phil Januszewski
18:31 Embracing Leadership and Hope
Keywords
resilience, positive psychology, burnout prevention, educator well-being, sustainable leadership
Resources
Connect with Phil Januszewski: Email: [email protected]
Connect with Dr. Brandi Kelly: https://sparkhopeedu.com
Episode 110 | The Secret to Sustainable School Leadership
2026/07/11
Episode SummaryAs school leaders prepare to welcome students and staff back this fall, it's easy to focus on schedules, staffing, professional learning, and school improvement plans. While those responsibilities are important, this episode offers a different perspective:
What if the most important thing you bring into your building this year is the hope you cultivate and the joy you model?
In this episode, Dr. Brandi Kelly explores why hope and joy are not simply emotions... they are intentional leadership strategies that shape school culture, strengthen resilience, and help educators thrive even during challenging seasons.
As you prepare for a new school year, remember:
The hope you build.
The joy you model.
The culture you create.
Those may be the most important leadership decisions you make all year.
Resources Mentioned🎁 Free Resource: H.O.P.E.-Fueled Culture System
Looking for practical strategies to strengthen your school culture this year? Download the complimentary H.O.P.E.-Fueled Culture System, filled with communication templates, leadership tools, first-day agenda ideas, and practical strategies to help you intentionally build a culture where people thrive.
Download here:
https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/vgzwyCOCT6P8SuSNruxR
🌐 Learn more about leadership coaching, professional development, keynote speaking, and additional free resources at:
https://sparkhopeedu.com
Let's ConnectIf this episode encouraged you, would you take a moment to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another school leader? Together, we can create schools where hope grows, joy is contagious, and every leader has the confidence to make a lasting impact.
Remember...
Lead with H.O.P.E. because the world needs more leaders who inspire others to believe that tomorrow can be better than today.
Episode 109 | Leadership of the Heart with Vernon Wright
2026/07/04
Summary
This episode of the Lead with Hope podcast features veteran leader, mentor, and speaker Vernon Wright. Dr. Brandi Kelly and Wright discuss the fundamental role of self-awareness and intentional connection in human-centered leadership. Wright shares insights from his journey, emphasizing that leadership is a lifelong process of "reflecting and refining" to elevate humanity.
Key Takeaways
The Law of the Lid: A leader's own level of efficacy and learning acts as a "lid" for their organization; the organization's impact can only grow as high as the leader's own growth.Kaizen (Reflecting and Refining): Effective leadership requires a commitment to being a lifelong learner who constantly reflects on and improves their practice.Leading vs. Lagging Indicators: Many organizations focus too heavily on "lagging indicators" (outcomes) rather than the "leading indicators" (daily habits and processes) that actually drive success.Network Big, Circle Small: While branding and professional connections require a large network, personal growth and resilience depend on a small "inner circle" of trusted "grace-givers and truth-tellers".Service as Life's Fulfillment: True fulfillment is found when a leader commits their life to causes beyond themselves and focuses on elevating humanity through service.Value-First Relationships: Rather than approaching others with an "ask," transformational leaders should focus on what thing of value they can offer first.Resources
Books Mentioned:Drive by Daniel PinkThe 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. MaxwellAtomic Habits by James ClearThe 4 Disciplines of Execution by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, and Jim HulingMan's Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklEveryone Communicates, Few Connect by John C. MaxwellPodcasts and Concepts:At the Table with Patrick Lencioni (Working Genius)The John C. Maxwell Leadership PodcastHQIM: High-Quality Instructional MaterialsKaizen: The Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement
Contact Information
Guest: Vernon Wrighthttps://www.instagram.com/thewrightleader/
Host: Dr. Brandi KellyPodcast: https://sparkhopeedu.com
SponsorConversari Press and Craig Williams: https://www.conversaripress.com/
Episode 108 | The Elephant and the Rope: What’s Really Holding You Back?
2026/06/27
In this powerful episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast, Dr. Brandi Kelly explores a simple but transformational story about an elephant and a rope—and how it mirrors the invisible limits many leaders place on themselves.
You’ll hear how past experiences can quietly shape present beliefs, and how those beliefs often become the “rope” that holds us back long after we’ve grown beyond them. This episode challenges listeners to examine the internal narratives that limit growth, leadership confidence, and personal potential.
Through the lens of the H.O.P.E. System—Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, and Excellence—you’ll be encouraged to reframe old stories, rebuild self-belief, and step into a more empowered way of leading and living.
Key Takeaways:Why past failure can create invisible limitationsHow beliefs—not ability—often determine actionThe connection between mindset and leadership growthHow to begin rewriting your internal story using H.O.P.E.Take the Next Step: Leadership Clarity AssessmentIf this episode resonated with you, you may be carrying a “rope” that’s no longer serving your leadership growth.
Schedule your complimentary Leadership Clarity Assessment to gain insight into your strengths, identify growth opportunities, and gain clarity on your next leadership steps.
👉 Schedule here: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/tdpdiscovery-e57cf8be-1fb0-470c-966d-f9ffb843015a
Or visit: https://sparkhopeedu.com and click the Schedule button in the upper right-hand corner.
Explore More & Connect:Website: https://sparkhopeedu.comFeatured Resource: Conversari Press — https://www.conversaripress.com/
Keep building your System of H.O.P.E. and remember: the rope only holds you if you believe it still can.
Episode 107 | Reclaim Your Worth with Steve Wormer
2026/06/20
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the weight of leadership and life's challenges? In this episode of Lead with HOPE, we explore how hope, faith, and intentional habits can transform obstacles into opportunities for growth and purpose. Join us as Steve Warmer shares his journey from self-doubt to confident leadership, emphasizing the importance of community, mindset, and unwavering hope.
In this episode:How hope serves as a core leadership strategy, especially during tough seasonsSteve’s personal story of faith, family, and rediscovering his purpose as a leaderThe significance of understanding your strengths and vulnerabilities through assessments like DISCThe role of coaching, accountability, and cultivating a healthy circle of influencePractical habits for building confidence, clarity, and resilience dailyThe power of gratitude and mindset work in rewiring the brain for positivityEmbracing change and growth in your circle and leadership journeyHow childhood dreams and hope fuels can reignite your purpose later in lifeFinding hope amidst global struggles and personal trialsSteve’s impactful work with the You Are Worthy Network and his message to those feeling unworthyTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Moving from pain to purpose in leadership
00:29 - Steve’s faith journey and family background
01:06 - The importance of understanding ourselves through DISC assessments
02:55 - Embracing strengths and growth as a leader
04:24 - The power of resilience and patience in leadership
07:55 - The role of coaching in refining character and leadership skills
10:12 - Building a healthy circle of influence for success
13:37 - Navigating change in relationships and maintaining surrender in growth
15:04 - Daily habits for confidence, clarity, and communication
16:44 - The impact of mindset work and self-love exercises
19:08 - How focus and gratitude reshape our brains
21:03 - Walking with hope through life’s seasons and global challenges
27:22 - Steve’s vision for future dreams and growth
30:31 - Connecting with Steve Warmer and the You Are Worthy Network
34:02 - The story of overcoming unworthiness and embracing purpose
35:04 - Encouragement for those feeling unworthy today
37:08 - Closing thoughts: Hope as the foundation for leadership
Resources & Links:Steve Wormer- Connect and learn more about his journeyCoversari Press - Thanks to Craig Williams, a Legacy Partner of the Lead with HOPE PodcastHope-Fueled Leadership Kickstart - Book your free discovery session to reignite your leadership purpose
Podcast reviews
Read Lead with HOPE podcast reviews
Bcbaca07 2026/08/09
A Masterclass in Growth
This is an absolute masterclass for anyone serious about elevating their leadership. Every episode cuts through the noise and delivers practical, deep...
Women Aware And Prepared 2026/04/19
Highly recommend
Love how Brandi challenges you in a gentle encouraging way to audit your thoughts and lead yourself better
Ezra7:10dad 2025/11/25
Hope in all things
I appreciate Brandi’s great questions and insights. In a world of negativity and stress she constantly redirects your eyes to the truth there is hope ...
Clwatt 2025/05/06
Honesty at its best!!
I am drawn to the honesty in this show! Brandi is vulnerable and authentic as a host and somehow naturally creates a safe space for her guests to do ...
Ashcar.022 2024/09/30
Great content!
I’ve learned so much and really enjoy this podcast!
Admin 2024 2024/08/21
Great Podcast
I love listening to all the educators stories! Great podcast!
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