Lead with HOPE

Have you ever had a moment where everything feels off—but you can’t explain why? Your energy shifts, your confidence dips, and suddenly you’re questioning yourself for no clear reason.

In this episode, Brandi Kelly unpacks what’s really happening in those moments: not external chaos, but internal thoughts running unchecked. Through a personal story and practical teaching, she introduces a simple but powerful 5-step Thought Audit to help you pause, notice, and shift the thoughts shaping your emotions and decisions.

This is the quiet work of leadership most people never talk about—the ability to lead your thoughts before they lead you.

Key Takeaways

• Your emotional shifts are often driven by unexamined thoughts, not external events
• The brain naturally creates “stories” to make sense of situations—often leaning negative for protection
• You cannot change what you don’t notice
• Self-awareness is a leadership skill, not just a personal development idea
• Small mental shifts can create powerful changes in behavior, confidence, and clarity
• Progress begins with awareness, not perfection

Chapters

00:00 Recognizing Subtle Shifts in Energy

03:50 The Five-Step Thought Audit for Self-Awareness

08:26 Embracing Leadership and Hope

Resources Mentioned

• Spark Hope Community (for deeper leadership and mindset work)

👉 Learn more about Spark Hope: ⁠⁠https://sparkhopeedu.com⁠⁠👉 Legacy Partner - Conversari Press: https://www.conversaripress.com/

SEO Keywords

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In this inspiring episode of the Lead with Hope Podcast, we sit down with educator, author, and speaker Andrea Bittner to explore how hope-driven leadership transforms classrooms and lives. With over 20 years of experience supporting English learners (ELs), Andrea shares powerful stories, practical strategies, and mindset shifts that help educators foster inclusive, high-expectation learning environments.

Key Takeaways

• Hope is a leadership strategy: Students thrive when educators create clear pathways and belief systems for success.
• Connection fuels learning: Linking student interests to real-world opportunities increases engagement and motivation.
• Collaboration is essential: Great educators grow by learning from others beyond their immediate environment.
• Gratitude transforms culture: Recognizing teachers and mentors strengthens morale and purpose.
• Resilience requires support: Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness—for both students and educators.

Resources & Links

• Andrea's Website: https://www.andreabitnerbooks.com/
•  Click Here to Read more about Take Me Home and Click Here to Learn More about my second book When Niagara Falls.

  Click Here for Andrea's free weekly newsletter sign up. She sends to more than 2,500 educators to support their work with English Learners.  

• Lead withHOPE Legacy Sponser: Conversari: https://www.conversaripress.com/
• Spark HOPE Edu Website: https:sparkhopeedu.com

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome to Lead with Hope00:47 – Andrea Bittner’s Journey into Education02:50 – Teaching Struggling Readers & Finding Purpose05:09 – “Touch the Dream”: Motivating Students08:17 – Lessons in Leadership: We Before Me10:19 – Burst Your Bubble: Growing as an Educator13:17 – Finding Joy in Life and Teaching15:24 – About Take Me Home15:33 – Inside When Niagara Falls18:33 – Gratitude for Teachers & Impact Stories22:52 – What Gives Andrea Hope Today25:32 – Where to Connect & Final Thoughts

Keywords (SEO)

education leadership, English learners, EL students, teaching strategies, culturally responsive teaching, student motivation, teacher inspiration, Andrea Bittner, Lead with Hope podcast, literacy education, inclusive classrooms, teacher mindset, educational leadership podcast, resilience in education, inspiring educators, school leadership development

Episode Summary

Feeling overwhelmed or emotionally drained? In this solo episode of the Lead with HOPE Podcast, Brandi Kelly shares practical tools to help you manage stress, regulate emotions, set healthy boundaries, and reconnect with purpose. Through the framework of Acknowledge, Reflect, and Reset, this episode offers hope-filled strategies for building resilience, protecting your well-being, and leading with clarity.

Key Topics

• Managing overwhelm and emotional exhaustion
• The power of acknowledging your emotions
• The neuroscience of naming what you feel
• Reflection as a leadership and self-awareness tool
• Setting healthy boundaries to protect your well-being
• Reconnecting with your purpose and values
• Small resets and micro-rests for emotional regulation
• Building resilience through hope, self-care, and connection

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leading with Hope
01:21 The Power of Acknowledgment
04:25 Reflecting on Stress and Needs
06:36 The Importance of Resetting

Links & Resources

Connect with Brandi Kelly and explore more tools for hope-fueled leadership, resilience, and personal growth:

• Follow the Lead with HOPE Podcast
• Share this episode with a leader, educator, or friend who needs a reset
• Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, mindset, resilience, emotional wellness, and hope

Resources/Links:

• Visit your sparkhopeedu.com
• Learn more about Conversari Press
• Do you need a HOPE-Fueled Leadership Kickstart? Learn more here!

SEO Keywords

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Summary

In this episode of the Lead with Hope podcast, host Dr. Brandi Kelly is joined by Melissa Wilkinson, the founder of Anchored with Purpose. Melissa shares her powerful transition from leading a $28 million retail organization with over 200 employees to becoming a faith-based entrepreneur and podcaster.

Together, they explore the profound questions leaders face during seasons of change:

• Who am I beyond my title? Understanding identity when careers and roles shift.
• What happens when God calls us to pivot? Navigating the move from corporate leadership to motherhood and entrepreneurship.
• How do we stay grounded in hope? Learning to trust the Holy Spirit’s guidance when life feels uncertain.

Key Topics

Faith-Based Leadership: Redefining success and leadership through a Christ-centered lens.

Identity Shifts: Finding your true self when moving between corporate roles, motherhood, and business.

Overcoming Adversity: Using prayer and the Holy Spirit to navigate anxiety and spiritual attacks.

Dreaming Big: How to host "Dream Workshops" and give yourself permission to pursue your calling.

Daily Faith Practice: Practical steps to start habit-stacking prayer and scripture reading.

Habit Audits: Identifying what to start, stop, or continue to lead with optimism.

Episodes

00:00 — Introduction to Melissa Wilkinson and Anchored with Purpose

04:35 — Transitioning from Corporate Retail to Motherhood

05:53 — The Struggle of Identity and Finding a New Calling

09:38 — Navigating Adversity and Spiritual Attacks

14:31 — God’s Better Vision: The Story of the Dream House

19:42 — Helping Women Dream Big Through Workshops

24:29 — Cultivating Optimism and Taking Thoughts Captive

30:57 — Why Do Bad Things Happen? Trusting God’s Will

32:19 — Resources and Connecting with Melissa

Resources & Links

YouVersion Bible App: Bible.com

Bible Plan: "From Lent to Lifestyle" by Melissa Wilkinson

Anchored with Purpose Podcast: Listen Here

Melissa Wilkinson Website: anchoredwithpurpose.com

Spark HOPE Edu: https://sparkhopeedu.com

Legacy Partner: Craig Williams at Conversari - https://www.conversaripress.com/

Keywords: Faith Leadership, Christian Leadership, Identity in Christ, Women of Faith, Overcoming Anxiety, Purpose-Driven Life, Spiritual Growth, Hope-Fueled Leadership, Daily Faith Practice, Faith-Based Entrepreneurship.

In this powerful episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., Brandi Kelly dives into one of the biggest barriers in leadership—perfectionism—and reframes it through the lens of resilience, faith, and forward momentum. Grounded in the message of Philippians 3:12–14, this conversation challenges leaders to release the pressure of perfection and instead pursue consistent progress.

Brandi shares real-world leadership insights and practical strategies to help you stay anchored in hope, navigate setbacks with confidence, and continue moving forward—even when the path feels unclear. If you’ve ever felt stuck, discouraged, or like you're falling short, this episode will remind you: growth isn’t about getting it perfect—it’s about pressing on with purpose.

Resource Links

• leadership development, resilient leadership, progress over perfection, leadership mindset, personal growth, self-efficacy, hope in leadership, overcoming setbacks, leadership motivation, growth mindset, faith-based leadership, Philippians 3:12-14, leadership habits, perseverance, intentional leadership

Episode Summary

In this episode of Lead with Hope, Dr. Kristen Weikle shares insights from her 30-year career in education, including her experiences as a teacher, principal, and superintendent. She reflects on the importance of staying grounded as a leader, surrounding yourself with supportive people, and maintaining a positive mindset in challenging environments.

Dr. Weikle also discusses the unique challenges female leaders can face in education, including navigating double standards and expectations. Throughout the conversation, she offers practical strategies for fostering well-being within organizations, leading with honesty and clarity, and creating cultures where people feel supported and empowered.

Key Takeaways

This episode is a thoughtful conversation about leadership, resilience, and the power of hope in education.

• Surround yourself with supportive people who keep you grounded.

• Self-awareness and reflection are essential for effective leadership.

• Address biases and double standards to promote equity in leadership.

• Honest, direct conversations strengthen teams and build trust.

• Hope in education grows through community support and intentional leadership.

  
  

Episode Chapters

00:00 — Introduction and Dr. Kristen Weikle’s Background

01:48 — Kristen’s Career Path and Leadership Roles

02:31 — Staying Grounded During Leadership Challenges

03:59 — The Power of Encouragement and Support Systems

04:54 — Personal Joys and Family Life

06:34 — Lessons from Different Roles in Education

08:22 — The Role of Self-Awareness in Leadership

09:05 — Barriers for Women in Leadership

11:34 — Fostering Well-Being and Organizational Culture

14:18 — Having Honest and Direct Conversations

18:10 — Leadership in Action and Stories of Hope

21:03 — Support Systems and Moving Forward

23:49 — Community Support and Giving Back

24:37 — How to Connect with Dr. Kristen Weikle

25:20 — Embracing Leadership and Hope

Keywords

education leadership, female leaders, well-being in schools, honest communication, school administration, leadership lessons, superintendent leadership, hope in education, leadership mindset

Links & Resources

Learn more about the Conversari framework:https://www.conversaripress.com/

Explore leadership resources at Spark Hope Education:https://sparkhopeedu.com

What can a children’s book teach us about leadership, culture, and hope?

In this episode, host Dr. Brandi Kelly shares the inspiration behind her new children’s book Spreading Sunshine with Kindness and explores the powerful leadership truths hidden in its message.

Through the story of two boys learning kindness from their grandparents, Brandi unpacks three essential leadership principles that apply to classrooms, homes, organizations, and communities.

In this episode, you’ll discover why kindness is a powerful leadership strategy, how small repeated actions transform culture, and why consistent acts of encouragement and service build connection, trust, and resilience.

Brandi also shares a deeply personal story about the loss of her brother Brandon, and how the small acts of kindness from their community became a lifeline during one of the most difficult seasons of her life.

If you are a leader, educator, parent, or someone who wants to build a culture of hope, this episode will challenge you to take one small action this week to spread some sunshine.

Episode Chapters

00:00 – IntroductionBrandi introduces the leadership message behind her new children’s book Spreading Sunshine with Kindness.

00:07 – Leadership Truth #1: Kindness Is ModeledWhy culture is shaped by what leaders do, not just what they say.

01:02 – Leadership Truth #2: Kindness Is ConsistentHow small repeated acts of kindness transform culture and relationships.

01:33 – Leadership Truth #3: Kindness Is EnergizingWhy kindness strengthens connection and protects leaders from burnout.

01:55 – A Personal Story of KindnessBrandi shares the story of her brother Brandon and the small acts of kindness that carried her family through grief.

02:18 – The Power of Small ActsWhy we don’t need big opportunities to make a difference.

03:35 – The Sunshine Stack ChallengeBrandi challenges listeners to practice one intentional act of kindness this week.

04:24 – Building a Culture of HopeHow tiny repeated actions create meaningful change in homes, schools, and organizations.

05:15 – Call to ActionShare your Sunshine Stack and spread kindness in your community.

05:45 – Preview of Next Week’s EpisodeA conversation with superintendent Kristen Weikle on leadership, reflection, and resilience.

06:20 – Closing EncouragementLead with hope, embrace your purpose, and shine your light.

Links

🌐 Spark HOPE Edu
Spark HOPE Edu
https://sparkhopeedu.com

📚 Legacy Partner of the Lead with HOPE Podcast
Conversari
https://conversari.com

SEO Keywords

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In this episode of Lead with Hope, Dr. Brandi Kelly sits down with educational leader Toby Travis to explore one essential truth: trust is the foundation of effective leadership in education.

If you care about trust, leadership, education, communication, empowerment, sustainability, change management, school improvement, and community impact, this conversation delivers both inspiration and practical strategy.

When leaders provide clarity of voice and direction, culture stabilizes. When values align with action, teachers feel empowered. When communication is consistent and transparent, schools thrive.

As Toby shares:

• “Clarity of voice is essential for leaders.”

• “Building trust starts at the top.”

• “Setting clear goals is vital for success.”

Trust is built in everyday interactions not grand gestures. It grows when leadership decisions reflect core values and when communication is frequent, focused, and authentic.

✔ Clarity fuels confidence. Clear mission and vision prevent drift and build stability.
✔ Core values must match behavior. Culture erodes when values are performative.
✔ Empowering teachers strengthens engagement. Reducing busy work and trusting educator expertise improves outcomes.
✔ Sustainability requires leadership development. Schools need future leaders, not heroic burnout cycles.
✔ Change management takes time and community. Sustainable school improvement requires data, SMART goals, and stakeholder investment.
✔ The future of education is student-centered. Schools are shifting toward personalized, community-driven approaches.

High administrative turnover continues to challenge districts nationwide. Sustainable leadership depends on clarity, trust, and systems that support long-term growth.

Toby Travis is an educational leader and author dedicated to helping schools build trust-based cultures that drive lasting improvement.

Our Legacy Partner, Conversary, supports leaders in strengthening communication and culture within their organizations.
Connect with Conversary here:

👉 https://www.conversaripress.com/

Dr. Brandi Kelly is founder of Spark HOPE Edu, leadership consultant, keynote speaker, and author of Lead with H.O.P.E. Through coaching and professional development, she equips school leaders to lead with:

• Habits

• Optimistic Outlook

• Purpose

• Excellence

Learn more or connect at:
👉 https://sparkhopeedu.com

🎙️ Listen, subscribe, and share with a school leader committed to building trust, empowering educators, and creating sustainable change in education.

In this episode of the Lead with Hope Podcast, Dr. Brandi Kelly tackles one of the most common leadership and personal development struggles: how to build habits when you’re overwhelmed.

If you’ve ever tried to start a new routine, improve your mindfulness, strengthen resilience, or follow through on goals — only to feel stuck — this episode is for you.

Rooted in behavioral science and inspired by principles from Atomic Habits, Brandi introduces the power of micro actions — tiny, consistent changes that create massive long-term impact.

You don’t need more willpower.You just need a tiny anchor.

Instead of chasing dramatic overhauls, you’ll learn how habit stacking makes new behaviors obvious and easy by anchoring them to routines you already do every day. Small change leads to momentum. Momentum builds resilience. Resilience sustains leadership.

In this episode, you’ll discover how to:

• Use micro actions to build sustainable habits• Apply habit stacking to strengthen goal setting• Practice 60-second mindfulness routines• Avoid burnout through consistency• Adopt the powerful mindset: never miss twice

Micro actions are the secret weapon of resilient leaders. Shrink your goals. Anchor them. Stack them. Start today.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Overcoming Overwhelm01:42 – The Power of Micro Actions03:45 – Habit Stacking for Success05:56 – The Challenge of Micro Actions06:43 – EmpowerHER Mastermind Announcement08:24 – Core HOPE Habits for Clarity09:27 – Embracing Leadership and Hope

Connect with our Legacy Partner

We’re proud to partner with Conversari, helping leaders strengthen communication, trust, and culture.

Learn more:
👉 https://www.conversaripress.com/

Don’t miss our monthly Midday EmpowerHER Mastermind sessions for women leaders focused on empowerment, sustainable leadership, and intentional growth.

Join the Spark HOPE Community here:
👉 https://sparkhopeedu.com/drbrandikelly-4049

Find your tiny anchor.Stack your micro action.And lead with H.O.P.E.

In this inspiring episode of Lead with H.O.P.E., I sit down with Rob Scheer, founder of Comfort Cases, to discuss his incredible journey from a child in the foster care system to a successful businessman and social impact leader. Rob shares how small acts of kindness, community involvement, and empathy can transform the lives of vulnerable children. Learn how Comfort Cases provides dignity and hope to children in foster care and why every child deserves a safe, caring start.

Key Takeaways:

• Rob Shear’s foster care journey began at age 12.

• Small acts of kindness can change lives.

• Comfort Cases provides essential items to children entering foster care.

• Dignity and hope are crucial for children entering the system.

• Comfort Cases has delivered over 300,000 comfort cases.

• Investing in children is investing in society’s future.

Chapters:
0:00 – Introduction: Lead with H.O.P.E.
2:15 – Rob Shear’s Foster Care Story
8:40 – The Birth of Comfort Cases
15:30 – The Power of Small Acts of Kindness
22:10 – Community Involvement & Social Impact
28:45 – Empathy & Teaching the Next Generation
35:20 – How You Can Make a Difference
40:00 – Closing Thoughts & Call to Action

Links & Resources:

• Legacy Partner – Convesary: https://www.conversaripress.com/

• Book a Call with Brandi at Spark HOPE Edu

• Contact Comfort Cases: https://comfortcases.org

Keywords: foster care, Rob Scheer, Comfort Cases, kindness, community, empathy, hope, nonprofit, children's welfare, social impact

🎧 Listen, share, and leave a 5-star rating to help spread hope and inspire leaders to make a difference in the lives of children in foster care!