Episode #129: What If We Can? - Guest Jessica Brooks

Tara Schwerdt, School Counseling Coordinator in Shasta County, joins Shyana for a conversation full of clarity, warmth, and hope. Supporting counselors and ALT Ed leaders across the region, Tara shares what she's learning about believing big things for students, building trust within teams, and infusing shared humor and joy into the work. You'll leave with simple, culture-centered ideas you can use right away—including a playful "game board" perfect for sparking connection at your next staff meeting. Grab a copy of the game board template by visiting: https://www.learningforliving.com/culture-ideas

In this episode, Phil and Shyana talk about noticing the glimmers, the small wins and moments of good that can get lost in the busyness of the school day. They share simple ways to make noticing a habit: celebrating wins at staff meetings, sharing "Best Day Ever" stories, and prioritizing people and culture. By noticing these moments, leaders can spark energy, connection, and joy across their teams, even during the busiest weeks.

Once upon a time, Olive Chapel Elementary wasn't the school families lined up for. Today, it has a waitlist and thriving academics — thanks to the intentional leadership of Principal Ms. May and her incredible staff. In this conversation, Shyana Frost sits down with Ms. May to uncover what turned things around — from meaningful staff meetings to bringing core values to life in real ways. You'll hear how she empowers her team to dream big, stay aligned, and build a culture where every person matters. It's an inspiring look at what's possible when a leader believes in people first.

On this episode, Phil is joined by Blake Hiemstra, middle school principal at Valley Christian School in Visalia, California—leader of what his staff proudly calls The Dream Team. Blake shares powerful (and practical) ways his team keeps their culture thriving: from one-minute video shoutouts and the "Final Bell Salute" to the Awesome Cup and the Can of Awesome. It's an inspiring look at what happens when leaders intentionally create tiny moments that make people feel seen and celebrated. As Blake reminds us, the key to great leadership (and great schools) is to pay ferocious attention—to kids, to staff, and to the little moments that matter most. Listen in for ideas you can bring to your own campus this week—and a reminder that culture isn't built in big events, but in everyday actions that make people feel valued.

In this episode of School Culture by Design, Phil Boyte sits down with Shyana Frost, to unpack the heart behind the People First framework. They explore why leading well starts with taking care of yourself, building authentic relationships, and cultivating trust through everyday "tiny moments." From retreat stories to real-life examples of administrators transforming their schools, this conversation highlights practical ways leaders can prioritize people and create lasting impact.

When Jessica Brooks opened a brand-new school, she set out to put relationships and trust at the center. Leading from a place of resilience and a 'What If We Can' mindset, she and her team have built a culture where staff, students, and the community feel they truly belong. Now, heading into year three, Jessica shares how this approach has transformed their school—and why strong connections are the key to lasting impact. If you need a fresh reminder of why your work on culture matters, this episode will inspire you.

With new legislation pushing cell phones out of classrooms, Phil Boyte and Jason Jedamski see a huge opportunity to build something deeper: real community. During this podcast episode, they share intentional, simple, and fun strategies that get students moving, laughing, and connecting beyond the lesson. Packed with practical ideas, this episode helps every student feel seen, heard, and truly part of the group. Ready to bring more purpose and heart to your classroom culture? This conversation is exactly what you need.

In this energizing conversation, Phil Boyte sits down with Principal Rob Sousa to unpack how he cultivates a culture of joy, connection, and service on his campus. From empowering staff to lead meetings to creating laugh-filled weekly newsletters (complete with baby name polls!), Rob shares practical strategies for building a team that feels seen, supported, and inspired. Tune in to hear how their "one heart, one mind" approach turns everyday leadership into something extraordinary.

In this episode, Dr. Jacqueline Johnson shares how she built connection and culture during her first year as principal at Lockport Township High School in Illinois. From storytelling and team retreats to monthly themed events and fun traditions like "Three Fun Facts and a Weird Thing," she's focused on making her team feel seen, supported, and human. Despite early challenges like safety incidents, Jacqueline prioritized visibility, collaboration, and joy—believing that strong relationships are the foundation of great schools.

In this vibrant and heart-filled conversation, Phil Boyte has a conversation with Bentli Lewis, a middle school principal who believes school should feel like an experience—not just for kids, but for adults, too. From inflatable dragon costumes to competitive staff egg hunts, she shares how her team creates joy and connection on campus every week. But the real magic? Her leadership philosophy centers on communication, consistency, and visibility. She opens up about earning trust after leadership turnover, hosting pulse checks, and engaging in courageous conversations—all while keeping student and staff well-being front and center. If you want your school to feel more like summer camp and less like a stress zone, this one's for you.