What does it mean to be a dealer in hope — not as the source of hope, but as someone who helps others discover it for themselves?

In this first episode of 2026, Darrin sits down with longtime friend and colleague Dr. Mark Brown for a powerful conversation about leadership, hope, and intentional presence. Mark shares the story behind his “Hope Dealer” philosophy, why hope is for everyone (not just those in crisis), and how leaders can create cultures where people feel seen, supported, and empowered.

As a first-year high school principal, Mark also reflects on the transition from assistant principal to principal, the importance of asking for help, and how modeling leadership behaviors matters more than any directive. The conversation closes with a reminder many leaders need to hear: taking care of yourself is not selfish — it’s essential.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

1. What it really means to be a “Hope Dealer”
2. Why leaders shouldn’t try to be the source of hope for others
3. Lessons from Mark’s transition into the principalship
4. Empowering others by asking for input — even when you don’t need it
5. Modeling leadership through presence, attitude, and behavior
6. Why self-care is a leadership responsibility, not a luxury

Connect with Dr. Mark Brown:

1. Instagram: @heymarkbrown
2. Website: www.markbrownedu.com
3. Book: Hope Dealer: Leaning In to Lift Others

This episode is sponsored by digiCOACH — an easy-to-use mobile platform that empowers school leaders to provide teachers with positive, actionable feedback tied to research-based instructional practices, with real-time data to support fidelity and instructional decision-making.

Learn more at digicoach.com (mention the show for partner pricing)

This episode is also brought to you by HeyTutor - HeyTutor delivers customized, evidence-based, high-dosage Math and ELA tutoring to K–12 school districts nationwide. Their focus is on in-person tutoring, while also offering flexible online options — all tailored to meet diverse student needs and aligned with state standards.

Head over to HeyTutor.com to learn more - tell them you heard about them on the Leaning into Leadership podcast.