Episodes

In this episode of Lead with HOPE , we’re joined by Kim, a former teacher turned internationally-known motivational speaker, powerhouse, and leading happiness coach. Kim’s mission is to help others tap into their power and live happier, more fulfilling lives, and she brings a unique blend of positivity and science-backed strategies to the conversation. Drawing from the latest in positive psychology, she shares practical tools that can help you manage stress, boost well-being, and create lastin...

🎙️ Welcome to Lead with H.O.P.E., where we explore stories of resilience, purpose, and leadership through the lens of our system of self-efficacy: H is for Habits, O is for Optimistic Outlook, P is for Purpose, Passion, Perseverance, and E is for Excellence. 💛 Today’s episode is especially close to my heart. We’re honoring the memory of my brother, Bub, by sharing a heartfelt story from Mistie Adermann, one of his classmates. After I shared the memory book on social media and invited classmates...

In this episode of the Lead with HOPE podcast, Kurtis Hewson, an award-winning educator and co-author of Collaborative Response: Three Foundational Components That Transform How We Respond to the Needs of Learners (Corwin, 2022), shares insights from his extensive experience in education. Kurtis discusses his journey from teacher to administrator and his current work with schools and districts globally, helping them implement Collaborative Response frameworks. He delves into the three key compon...

In this episode, I sit down with Raul Gastón, the Principal of Gompers Junior High School in Joliet, IL, to discuss the powerful themes of building capacity, fostering collaboration, and shaping a positive school culture. With over two decades of experience in education, Raul has become a trailblazer in the field, and in 2023, he made history as the first Latino President of the Illinois Principals Association. Raul opens up about his remarkable journey—from growing up in poverty to becoming a ...

On this episode of the Lead With HOPE Podcast, we're joined by Sean Gaillard, Principal of Charles England Elementary School in Lexington, NC, and a true champion of creativity, collaboration, and student success. In this inspiring conversation, we dive deep into the importance of family, relationships, and belonging—the essential pillars that fuel hope and drive in both our personal and professional lives. Sean shares his powerful insights on how these connections are at the heart of leadershi...

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Lead with HOPE podcast, where we dive deep into the leadership principles that drive success, growth, and lasting impact. Today, we have a special guest, PJ Caposey, a dynamic leader who’s been making waves in education. PJ is currently leading two school districts, a feat that speaks volumes about his leadership capacity, vision, and commitment to creating positive change. In today’s conversation, PJ shares his journey of managing multiple districts a...

Welcome to another episode of the Lead with HOPE podcast, where we explore the mindsets, strategies, and stories behind success and leadership. Today, we're thrilled to have Martin Silverman as our guest, author of the highly acclaimed book Sustaining Excellence. In his book, Martin dives deep into the principles that allow individuals and organizations not just to achieve excellence, but to maintain it over the long term. Drawing on decades of experience as a leader, coach, and consultant, Mar...

Podcast Description: In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Charles Williams, founder of CW Consulting: Educational Services and the creator of #Educrew, to dive deep into the power of equity, the CHAMP framework, and the importance of leading with HOPE in education. With over 20 years of experience as an educator, school leader, and consultant, Charles shares his expertise on fostering culturally responsive environments, building meaningful relationships, and tackling critical issues like ...

In this inspiring episode of the Lead with HOPE Podcast, we are joined by Lori Franke Hopkins, an educator whose journey has spanned roles from teacher to principal, superintendent, and now consultant. With a wealth of experience in education management, Lori has dedicated her career to transforming school communities and empowering educators at every level. As a highly skilled trainer and consultant, Lori is currently making a significant impact with her companies, Just Be Me Consulting and Wr...

The Lead with HOPE podcast is thrilled to introduce Craig Randall, the developer and author of Trust-Based Observations (TBO), a transformative system for improving teacher observations. Craig has dedicated his career to training school leaders worldwide on how to implement TBO, shifting the focus from traditional evaluations to a model rooted in trust, support, and growth. In this episode, Craig discusses how TBO empowers educators by fostering a growth mindset, promoting teaching innovation, a...

Today, we are honored to welcome Jacki Mjoen to the Lead with HOPE Podcast. Jacki is a 7th grade math teacher, Teach Better Team Ambassador, aspiring author, and brain cancer fighter!. She is serving courageously , and finding purpose, through a diagnosis of brain cancer. Jacki is an inspiration! Y ou will not want to miss this episode!! #LeadwithHOPE #CancerFighter #MiddleSchoolRocks

Todd Nelsoney is my guest on the podcast today. Our conversation was so much fun! He is someone I could talk to all day! We talked about family, boundaries, and so much more! You will not want to miss this episode! Todd Nesloney is the Director of Culture and Strategic Leadership for the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA). He has also served as an award-winning principal of a PreK-5th Grade campus of over 775 students in a rural town in Texas. He has been recognized...

Lori Putnam is a University Development Manager at Grand Canyon University (GCU). She has been a teacher, children and family minister. In November 2021 Lori joined Grand Canyon University as a University Development Counselor. Most recently, Lori has been promoted to and works with a team of counselors in southern Illinois and northern Indiana. Connect with Lori @ lori.putnam@gcu.edu

Today's show is all about building up our teachers, self efficacy, and collective teacher efficacy! I have the the Dynamic Duo, Megan and Kara, on the Podcast today! They are known for their innovative thinking and passion for coaching and empowering educators. As the driving force behind IntegratED, they inspire educators to create engaging, impactful lessons that elevate student learning. With over 20 years of classroom experience and a shared commitment to transforming education, Megan and Ka...

Today, my guest is LaVonna Roth, chief illuminator of Ignite Your Shine! She leads a company committed to a Human-Focused Culture, LaVonna integrates brain science principles into her S.H.I.N.E. As the creator of Ignite Your S.H.I.N.E.®, she's more than a speaker and consultant; she's a collaborator in transforming leadership, helping individuals navigate challenges and step into their greatness. Check out her website at https://www.igniteyourshine.com/

Today, my guest on the podcast is Dan W. Cox! We talked about habits, adversity, and endurance racing. Tune in to listen to this amazing conversation! Dan W. Cox has served as superintendent for more than 16-years and currently serves as Superintendent of Rochester CUSD #3A in Rochester, Illinois. Rochester CUSD #3A is home to 2,100 PK-12 students and is located just 7 miles from the Illinois State Capitol. Dan is passionate about leadership development, executive coaching, communication, welln...

Will Deyamport, III, Ed.D., known as Dr. Will, serves as a District Instructional Technologist in a K12 school district. As noted in his articles for Schoology Exchange, District Administration, EdSurge, iNACOL, and TechEdge magazine, Dr. Will specializes in facilitating educators' transition to going digital, offering in-person and virtual training, coaching sessions, and developing online professional development courses and live webinars for K-12 teachers. Beyond his 9-5, Dr. Will is the cre...

This episode is a must listen. I was in awe of Julie's story about her student, Zach! Check out Julie's bio below! Dr. Julie Schmidt Hasson is a professor, researcher, and resilience trainer who helps educators keep their batteries charged and recharge when they become depleted. Julie is the author of four books, including Pause, Ponder, and Persist in the Classroom. Julie’s Teacher Recharge Framework helps educators navigate challenges in ways that light them up instead of burn them out. Her ...

Get on the Energy Bus today! In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Jim VanAllen! He is the President of The Energy Bus for Schools program through The Jon Gordon Companies, Jim works with schools and districts across the country providing schools the blueprint and framework to remove negativity, empower students, energize teachers, and ultimately, create a positive campus culture. Website: https://energybusforschools.com/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/energy-bu...

Jessica Cabeen is my guest on the Lead with HOPE Podcast today. She is the Principal of Alternative Educational Programs and Austin Online Academy in Austin, Minnesota. Before that, she was the principal at Ellis Middle School and the “Happiest Place in Southeastern Minnesota”, the Woodson Kindergarten Center. She has been an assistant middle school principal, a special education assistant director, and a special education teacher. Jessica is a NAESP Middle-Level Fellow and a Future Ready Princ...

Today, I’m excited to talk to Dr. Amy Dixon! Currently, Dr. Dixon proudly serves as Harrisburg Unit #3 Superintendent. Prior to becoming an administrator, she served in various districts as a school social worker. This episode is full of real talk about hope and all things education! Our conversation was so much fun. You will not want to miss this episode! #LeadwithHOPE

On today's show, I am honored to welcome Dr. Bryan Pearlman! Dr. Pearlman is a veteran educator/school administrator, a mental health therapist, PD leader, keynote speaker, and adjunct professor. His expertise is helping all children to succeed, challenging behaviors, trauma, school improvement, mental health, and self-care. Our discussion covers a wide range of SEL and mental health topics! This is an amazing episode with an even better educator and therapist. Check it out and don't forget to s...

Dr. Gabrielle (Gabe) Rodriguez is in her 8th year as Superintendent of Schools. She has served in educational leadership for over 20 years as a consultant, mentor, coach, elementary teacher, director, central office administrator, and Superintendent. Dr. Gabe shares her vulnerable story of overcoming trauma and abuse and is now living her best life! You are not going to want to miss this episode!!

Today, I want to welcome Cathleen Beachboard to the pod. Cathleen is an award-winning educator, best-selling author, and leading expert in fostering psychological hope. As a highly sought-after speaker on well-being and retention, she equips parents, educators, and leaders with practical strategies to cultivate hope, ensuring every individual can thrive. Connect with Cathleen @ https://theschoolofhope.org/