In this episode of Leaning Into Leadership, Dr. Chris Culver brings the energy, insight, and authenticity that’s made him a rising national voice in school leadership and culture. A former principal and cabinet-level administrator, Chris now leads Orange Sparrow, a consulting practice built on the Science of Kindness and a deep understanding of generational learning needs.

Chris and Darrin dive into:

• Why building trust, belonging, and relationships is non-negotiable
• Practical ways to shift from rows to collaboration
• How to engage a phone-based generation of learners
• Creating emotionally grounded classrooms and leadership environments
• The power of gratitude, intentional reflection, and grace

Chris shares his powerful 5+1 framework rooted in his doctoral research and personal journey—and leaves listeners with a call to lead through kindness, not just because it feels good, but because it works.

Bio: Dr. Christopher Culver is a highly sought-after, dynamic, and engaging speaker. He is a proud product of Oklahoma public education. Raised in a divorced family, he split his time between Tulsa during the week, a 300-acre farm in Wyandotte, OK, and several times throughout the year in Fayetteville, NC.

For more than a decade, Dr. Culver has served educational communities as a classroom teacher, secondary principal, and, most recently, as a cabinet-level administrator. He is the former President of the Oklahoma Association for Bilingual Education and currently serves as Vice President of the Oklahoma Citizens for Education nonprofit. Today, he works as a speaker and leading thought partner on the Science of Kindness, a consultant with expertise in culture and Gen Z/Gen Alpha understanding, and a part-time professor at Oklahoma City University, where he teaches future teachers and leaders.

Earning an EdD through research on culture and the collective impact on motivation, Dr. Culver is dedicated to spreading kindness, improving mindsets, and creating spaces where everyone is seen, heard, valued, and respected. He believes that if you cannot find the light, be the light!

Website: www.orangesparrow.org

Email/contact info: [email protected]

Social Media: @DrChrisCulver