Episodes

✨ In this inspiring episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. Podcast, host Dr. Brandi Kelly sits down with Cheryl Mitchell—a former educator, corporate trainer, keynote speaker, and author—whose story reminds us that purpose often grows from unexpected transitions. Cheryl shares her journey from being a first-grade teacher to leading in the corporate and consulting world, revealing how mindset, resilience, and faith have guided her path. Together, Brandi and Cheryl explore what it means to live a life...

This month, we’re shining a light on the incredible Macoupin County CEO Program — a transformative experience preparing the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs! 🌟 In today’s episode, I’m joined by current students from the CEO program who share their insights, ambitions, and what they’re learning about leadership, resilience, and purpose. Their stories will remind you that the future is bright — and filled with HOPE. ✨ Tune in to be inspired by their drive, creativity, and courage ...

In this episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., Brandi sits down with Erin Shook, a passionate high school teacher and mom of four, who is redefining what it means to thrive as both an educator and a parent. With more than 17 years in the classroom, Erin brings a wealth of experience in building supportive, balanced environments where students learn not just academics, but also essential life skills like resilience, time management, and emotional well-being. Together, Brandi and Erin explore: The uniqu...

In this episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. podcast, we welcome Danny Bauer, a true “Ruckus Maker” who challenges traditional education and inspires leaders to create schools worth showing up for. We dive into leading with love, reimagining education, and fostering environments where students, teachers, and leaders thrive. Tune in to discover actionable strategies for doing school differently—and join our mission to share hope in education. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with a ...

Are you an educator feeling exhausted and questioning your future? In this episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. podcast, we're joined by Dr. Chris Jochum, author of "The Department Chair: A Practical Guide to Effective Leadership" and the upcoming "You Don't Have to Leave to Lead: A Practical Guide to Teacher Leadership." Discover how to reignite your passion, build healthy organizational cultures, and rediscover joy in your daily work. Dr. Jochum shares insights on leadership as influence through ...

In this deeply personal episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., Brandi Kelly reflects on her father’s life and the lasting leadership lessons left behind. Through stories of warmth, humor, resilience, and quiet strength, Brandi shares how her dad’s legacy shaped her perspective on leadership, connection, and hope. Listeners will discover: 💡 The greatest leadership gift: making people feel truly seen, valued, and special. 🌱 Quiet resilience in leadership: how strength, humility, and perspective can gui...

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. podcast, we sit down with educator, leader, and podcaster Gerrie Spellmann—co-host of Love, Sweat, and Tears—to explore what it truly means to lead with heart in the midst of challenge. With decades of experience in education, Gerrie brings grounded wisdom, unfiltered honesty, and a deep passion for reconnecting to joy and purpose. From stories of faith over fear to moments of vulnerability and laughter, this conversation is a lif...

In this empowering episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. podcast, I sit down with William D. Parker—executive coach, educator, speaker, and founder of Principal Matters, LLC. With decades of experience as an award-winning teacher and principal, Will shares practical strategies for leading with Habits, Optimism, Purpose, and Excellence in today's rapidly changing education landscape. 🎧 Tune in as we discuss: ✅ Why educators need to stop waiting for permission to lead boldly ✅ How to build intentiona...

In this inspiring episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. podcast, we’re joined by Kijuan Amey, founder and CEO of Amey Motivation, U.S. Air Force veteran, and motivational speaker. After a life-altering motorcycle accident left him blind in 2017, Kijuan refused to let adversity define him. Instead, he chose to lead with purpose, resilience, and vision. Through his work with the Blinded Veterans Association and the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program, Kijuan empowers others to transform pain into purpo...

In this special solo episode of the Lead with HOPE podcast, Brandi Kelly shares her personal journey of loss, resilience, and purpose. From the tragic loss of her brother Brandon to over 20 years as an educator and school leader, Brandi reveals how she discovered the true power of HOPE—Habits, an Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, and Excellence—in both life and leadership. Listeners will learn practical strategies for leading with HOPE using Brandi’s H.O.P.E. Cycle - Assess → Envision → Focus → Meas...

In this inspiring episode of the Lead with HOPE Podcast, Brandi Kelly sits down with Gretchen Bridgers—educator, coach, speaker, and founder of Always A Lesson. With over two decades of experience empowering teachers and transforming classrooms, Gretchen shares her journey from the classroom to coaching, the pivotal moments that shaped her mission, and how she continues to uplift educators through her podcast, courses, and coaching. Whether you're a teacher, leader, or lifelong learner, this co...

In this inspiring episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. podcast, Dr. Brandi Kelly welcomes Amanda Younts, leadership and personal growth expert known as The Midlife Catalyst. With over two decades of experience in education, psychology, and advocacy, Amanda shares her deeply personal journey of transitioning from a career in education to becoming a sought-after speaker, coach, and wellness advocate. Amanda opens up about how her parents’ illnesses sparked a shift in perspective—leading her to reeva...

In this empowering episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., host Brandi Kelly sits down with two trailblazing women in education—Dr. Courtney Orzel, Superintendent of Lemont, IL, and Dr. Kate Koch, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. Both are educators, speakers, authors, and authentic leaders dedicated to building people-centered school cultures that thrive on trust, belonging, and psychological safety. If you're a leader, aspiring leader, or educator seeking inspiration, this episode is packed...

Have you ever learned a leadership lesson in the most unexpected place? In this episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., Brandi Kelly shares how a simple weekend bike ride with family turned into three powerful insights for school and organizational leaders. Discover why: :1️⃣ Your circle matters – Who you spend time with can accelerate or stall your growth. 2️⃣ Investing in yourself is non-negotiable – Leadership requires time, energy, and resources to thrive. 3️⃣ The right systems and tools prevent ...

Welcome to Lead with HOPE, the podcast where we explore leadership, resilience, and purpose-driven living. I’m your host, Brandi Kelly—and today’s guest truly embodies what it means to flourish through adversity. Christian Ray Flores is an entrepreneur, evangelist, international pop star, and philanthropist. Born into political exile and shaped by a global upbringing, Christian has lived an extraordinary life—from music stages to mission-driven startups, and now as founder of the Xponential net...

In this powerful episode of Lead with HOPE, Brandi Kelly sits down with Kevin McNicholas to reflect on the ROE #40 SEL Summit and explore what it means to find HOPE in the hard places. Kevin opens up about his experience attending the SEL Summit four years ago, a time when he was navigating challenges and considering a change in his profession. Together, Brandi and Kevin discuss the importance of social-emotional learning in schools, how community and connection can be lifelines in difficult se...

In this inspiring episode, Brandi sits down with Chris Culver—educator, thought leader, and founder of Orange Sparrow—to explore the transformative power of kindness in leadership, education, and everyday life. With over a decade of experience in educational leadership, Dr. Culver shares how the Science of Kindness is reshaping schools and organizations across the country. As a Gen Z/Alpha expert, he offers powerful insight into how to build inclusive cultures where everyone feels seen, heard, ...

Ready to build a life that’s rooted in purpose—not pressure? In this episode of Lead With Hope, we explore the power of mastery goals: goals that focus on growth over perfection, and progress over comparison. Inspired by last week’s interview with Glenn Forbes and Jenni Donohoo, we dive into what the research says (including insights from John Hattie’s research) and why setting mastery goals fuels agency, resilience, and hope. You'll learn: ✔️ What mastery goals are and why they are important...

In this episode of the Lead with HOPE Podcast, we’re joined by two distinguished educators and thought leaders—Dr. Jenni Donohoo and Glenn Forbes. Today, they will share about their new book - Collective Impact: Overcoming the 12 Enemies of Teacher Efficacy. Together, Jenni and Glenn share invaluable insights on fostering collective efficacy, elevating professional learning, and driving sustainable school improvement. Don’t miss this deep dive into the micro moves that empower educators and tran...

In this episode, I’m sharing something close to my heart and a major source of hope for the future: The Restore Network. This incredible organization is doing transformative work in the foster care system, providing support, community, and real solutions for vulnerable children and the families who care for them. If you’ve ever wondered how you can make a difference in the lives of children in need, I encourage you to learn more at therestorenetwork.org. Whether it’s fostering, supporting foste...

Today on Lead with HOPE, I'm joined by Michael D. Toth — founder and CEO of Instructional Empowerment, acclaimed author, and visionary thought leader in education. With more than 25 years of experience, Michael has partnered with influential voices like Robert Marzano, published groundbreaking research, and guided school districts across the country in transforming instructional practices. In this inspiring conversation, we dive into what it really takes to bring joy back to learning — for both...

In this powerful episode of the Lead with HOPE Podcast, I’m opening up about the heart, the journey, and the mission behind Spark HOPE Edu — a mission and movement rooted in healing, purpose, and community. 🌱✨ This isn’t just a story about founding a business. It’s about growing, creating spaces where everyone feels supported, and establishing a system of HOPE to sustain us. 💥 Tune in to here the 5 reasons why...and how leading with HOPE can spark lasting change. 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, l...

In this episode of the Lead with HOPE Podcast, I sit down with Amy P. Kelly, a best-selling author, keynote speaker, executive coach, and performance consultant, to explore the powerful role of HOPE in leadership. Amy shares insights on how hope can transform leadership, mindset, and team dynamics. We discuss actionable strategies for cultivating hope, shifting from a fixed to a growth mindset, and creating environments where hope can thrive. Tune in for practical tools to inspire yourself and y...

Welcome back to Lead with Hope , the show where we ignite leadership with heart, purpose, and real results. I’m your host, Brandi Kelly—and today, we’re cutting through the noise and getting straight to what’s actually holding schools back. My guest is the dynamic Casey Watts —educator, coach, and clarity queen! With 20 years in the trenches of teaching, coaching, and leading, Casey knows what it’s like to sit through leadership meetings where “collaboration” really just means more confus...