Collaborative Conversations: Equipping and Empowering Christian EdLeaders

May is one of the most meaningful (and most demanding) months in any school leader's calendar. In this episode, we sit down with Josh Thurston, Principal at North Heights Christian Academy, to talk about how to lead well when the calendar feels like it's running the show.

Josh brings a refreshing perspective on the "fourth quarter" of the school year — one rooted in rhythms, intentionality, and keeping the mission front and center even when everything feels urgent. From protecting chapel time and creating space for staff worship, to asking the hard question of why your school does the events it does, Josh offers practical and faith-grounded wisdom for any leader navigating the beautiful chaos of spring.

You'll walk away encouraged to shift from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance, to know your staff's gifts deeply enough to deploy them wisely, and to give yourself the grace to be human in a season that demands a lot.

Whether you're a head of school, a principal, or a teacher leader, this conversation is for you.

In this episode: leading with people first, protecting joy in busy seasons, the power of solitude, blocking your calendar with purpose, and why Christian education has an advantage.

Join hosts Amanda and Joanna as they sit down with veteran school leader—and 2010 "High School Principal of the Year" (MN Association of Secondary School Principals)—Dr. Bruce Locklear to explore the art and science of leading effective board meetings. With decades of experience across seven school districts, Bruce shares hard-won wisdom on one of the most critical (and often challenging) responsibilities in Christian school leadership. 

What You’ll Learn: Bruce unpacks what makes a board meeting truly effective by centering three essentials: mission alignment, communication clarity, and space for every voice. He shares practical strategies for building trust with your board chair, preparing well-crafted agendas, and following up with intention. You’ll hear stories and examples that emphasize why the real work of board leadership begins long before the meeting and continues after the room clears. 

This episode also speaks directly to new leaders, offering encouragement rooted in patience, prayer, and the value of mentors. Ultimately, Bruce reminds us that leading a school board isn’t about control. It’s about partnership, stewardship, and surrendering outcomes to God’s leading. 

Key Takeaways:

• Anchor decisions in mission, communicate with clarity, and invite authentic voice.
• Meet regularly with your board chair.
• Use agendas, shared docs, and prep conversations to avoid long, unfocused meetings.
• Always follow up: clarify assignments, check in, and serve board members well.
• Navigate misalignment with courage and keep the "main thing" the main thing.

In this inaugural episode of Collaborative Conversations, we sit down with Joel Nydam, Lower School Principal at Legacy Christian Academy, to explore why choosing a theme—not just a goal—can transform a school’s focus, culture, and clarity.

Joel shares practical ways he’s used themes to align teams, encourage staff, and ground school rhythms in Gospel purpose. We also talk about how leaders can discern their theme, keep it present throughout the year, and use it to foster shared language and lasting impact.

If you’re feeling the tension between wanting focus and avoiding overload, this episode will offer both inspiration and next steps. Bonus: Joel also shares favorite books, creative routines, and why prayer—and board games—matter in leadership.

Theme Spotlight: Exceptional Experiences through Radical Servanthood
Bonus Resource: Our Theme Finder guide for personal and professional reflection

Launching January 2026