Episodes

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 ...

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 con...

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 exp...

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 kin...

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 ...

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 ch...

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 ...

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 co...

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 va...

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 an...

A special thank you to Craig Williams and Conversari for supporting this episode! Learn more about their work at https://www.conversaripress.com In this empowering episode of Lead with HOPE, we give you a sneak peek of the first session of EmpowerHER Mastermind, Heart, Home, and Hustle. If you’re a woman leader feeling the pressure to constantly do more, hold it all together, and push through even when your heart is tired, this episode is for you. We explore the danger of hustle in leadership, ...

🤝 Legacy Sponsor This episode of the Lead with Hope Podcast is proudly supported by our Legacy Sponsor, Conversari - ⁠https://www.conversaripress.com/ What happens when strong, capable leaders reach the end of what an unsustainable system demands of them? In this powerful and deeply human episode of the Lead with Hope Podcast, host Dr. Brandi Kelly is joined by Dr. Lindsey Hall—educator, former superintendent, mentor, and coach—for a candid conversation about leadership, burnout, boundaries, and...

In this episode of the Lead with Hope podcast, Dr. Brandi Kelly discusses the challenges of leadership, particularly in the context of burnout and emotional exhaustion. She shares her personal journey of feeling depleted while leading a school district and emphasizes the importance of self-efficacy, alignment with personal values, and the role of community in leadership. The conversation highlights key lessons learned from 2025, including the significance of recognizing burnout as a signal for ...

In this episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., Brandi Kelly welcomes Dr. Robert Thornell, Ed.D.—a veteran educator, school leadership coach with The Center for Model Schools, and bestselling author of Inside the Principal’s Office and Juggling the Job. With more than 30 years of experience as a principal, deputy superintendent, and leadership mentor, Dr. Thornell shares powerful insights on what it takes to thrive in school leadership today. Together, Brandi and Rob dive into: 📘 The 5 keys for effecti...

CEO of Journey12—an organization dedicated to helping schools, especially in rural America, reclaim their narratives and strengthen community connections through authentic storytelling and strategic communication. Craig shares his powerful insights on how storytelling builds trust, how adversity fuels resilience, and how hope and purpose drive meaningful leadership. Together, Brandi and Craig explore what it means to lead with authenticity, connect communities through communication, and keep pu...

There are more than 1.2 million paraprofessionals working in schools across the United States—supporting instruction, building relationships with students, and keeping classrooms running every day. Many of them dream of becoming certified teachers, but cost, time, and access often stand in the way. Gracelyn University is changing that. In today’s episode, we talk with Dr. Matthew Flippen, Founder and President of Gracelyn University—an accredited, affordable online institution built specificall...

In this episode of Lead with HOPE, Dr. Brandi Kelly interviews Bethany Rees, an experienced educator, administrator, and leadership coach. Bethany, author of Leadership on the Rocks, helps leaders simplify complexity, build strong teams, and lead with clarity and confidence. She shares her insights on navigating the "wilderness of leadership," offering practical strategies and mindset shifts to move from survival mode to intentional leadership. Learn more about Bethany Rees at leadershipontheroc...

What if your breaking point was actually your launching point? In this episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., host Brandi Kelly sits down with Amy Wadlington, author, speaker, and host of the Prophetic Breakthrough for Christian Women podcast. After 15 years in Corporate America, Amy’s life shifted in 2020 when she was laid off. What followed was a “wilderness season” marked by illness, financial hardship, and uncertainty. But through it all, God led her into a deeper faith—teaching her how to renew her...

In this episode, we’re honored to be joined by Carman Murray—speaker, coach, and author who helps educators reconnect with what matters most without sacrificing themselves in the process. With over 20 years in education, including 15 years in the classroom, Carman brings the heart of a teacher and the insight of a coach. From her early days in a Grade 1/2 split class to her years inspiring middle school students through foods, leadership, and student leadership conferences, Carman believes that ...

In this powerful episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast, host Dr. Brandi Kelly sits down with Ben and Crystal Woods, founders of The Brave Way Home and leaders of the Look Out for the Left Out (LOFTLO) movement. For more than 25 years, Ben and Crystal have served in vocational ministry—touring musically, mentoring young adults, and leading campus and community ministries. But their most profound ministry was born out of deep grief and unshakable faith. Through their story, listeners will dis...

In this special solo episode, Dr. Brandi Kelly offers a timely, heartfelt reflection on community, self-awareness, and the transformative power of HOPE as we close out the year. Tying into the December theme of “You Can’t Do This Alone,” Brandi explores why leaders often carry emotional weight differently—and why tending to your own mental well-being isn't a luxury, but a leadership necessity built on strong support systems.She shares lessons from recent guest conversations, including powerful i...

Welcome to Lead with Hope! In this episode of Lead with Hope, Dr. Brandi Kelly sits down with Tommy Campbell, 2025 Macoupin CEO Alum, to explore how mentors and coaches shape young leaders. Tommy shares what he learned from football, youth group, and his early work experiences—and why showing up, listening, and staying coachable can change everything. If you’d like to connect with Tommy, you can reach him at 217-556-9181. Interested in leadership coaching? As a two-time Principal of the Year w...

In this episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., Brandi Kelly sits down with Jack Kessinger to explore the power of relationships, networking, and leadership development through the CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) program. Jack shares his unique experiences as a student leader, reflecting on how the program shaped his mindset, confidence, and ability to connect with others. Together, Brandi and Jack discuss: 🚀 How the CEO program builds leadership and entrepreneurial skills in students. 🤝 ...

In this episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast, host Brandi Kelly, Ed.D., LCSW sits down with Macie Wright, a 2025 graduate of Gillespie High School and current Millikin University student studying art therapy. Macie is also the founder of Coloring the County Coloring Books, a creative business that blends history, community, and art to inspire learners of all ages. Together, Brandi and Macie dive into the lessons learned through the CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) Program, the ...