Episode #137 - Building an Infectious School Culture with Guest Paul Nitake

That's a Wrap! After 142 episodes, countless conversations, and more than a decade of podcasting, Shyana Frost sits down with Phil Boyte to wrap up this chapter of the podcast. Together, they reflect on favorite memories from the road, behind-the-scenes stories, leadership lessons that have shaped them, and the people they'll never forget. Phil also shares what continues to give him hope for education and one piece of advice he'd share with every educator wanting to create great culture. Whether you've been with us since Episode 1 or just recently joined the podcast, thank you for being part of the journey. We hope this conversation leaves you encouraged to keep putting people first.

Over the past decade, Shyana Frost has had the opportunity to work alongside incredible educators and leaders across the country alongside Phil Boyte. Through those experiences, she discovered a growing passion for supporting leaders and helping them feel seen in the midst of everything they carry. In this episode, Phil Boyte sits down with Shyana to reflect on her journey, the lessons that shaped her, the story behind the WHAT I SEE movement, and why she's launching Tiny Moment Co. Learn more about her new work at www.tinymomentco.com 

In this episode, Phil Boyte sits down with Dr. Eric Nichols, an educational leader serving rural Oregon, to talk about what it takes to build a culture people want to be part of. Eric shares why his philosophy is simple: get good people, then support the heck out of them. Whether you lead a small rural district or a large school system, the principles are the same. When people feel known, valued, and supported, they become your greatest ambassadors. As Eric says, when people are happy, they advertise the culture for you. Join Phil and Eric for a practical conversation on building relationships, attracting great people, and creating a culture that's worth driving toward.

In this episode, Phil Boyte sits down with Assistant Superintendents David Rodriguez and Brandon Blom from Natomas Unified School District to explore what it looks like to intentionally support the leaders who support everyone else. Together, they share how their district has built a culture where principals and assistant principals genuinely enjoy being together, trust one another, and never feel like they're leading alone. From purposeful leadership meetings and meaningful onboarding to walking alongside leaders through difficult seasons, David and Brandon offer practical ideas any district or school leader can begin implementing right away. Whether you're a superintendent, district leader, or principal, this conversation is full of simple, intentional practices that remind us one truth: when leaders feel known, valued, and supported, they are better equipped to create thriving schools for everyone they serve.

Every school has them. The people who quietly show up, do their job well, and somehow still feel unseen. In this episode, Phil and Shyana talk about how leaders can intentionally notice the people who may be on the edges of the culture, invite them in, learn from them, and help them know they matter. Along the way, they share stories, practical ideas, and simple ways to create a school where no one feels invisible. Because the strongest cultures aren't built by focusing on most people—they're built by making sure everyone belongs.

  In this episode, Phil Boyte sits down with Paul Nitake, Principal of North High School in Torrance, California, to explore what it looks like to build a campus culture that is truly infectious.    Paul shares how his team celebrates people in meaningful ways, partners with the local community to support students and staff, and why he believes storytelling is one of the most powerful tools school leaders have to shape culture, build pride, and help people experience the heart of a school.

Whether you're wrapping up a school year, finishing a big project, or simply trying to catch your breath after a busy season… it takes intention to actually pause long enough to notice what mattered. In this episode, Phil Boyte and Shyana Frost share 3 simple, practical ideas teams can use to slow down and reflect on the little things that often get missed along the way. From honoring progress and celebrating people to creating moments of encouragement for staff, students, and yourself… this conversation is full of tangible ways to build more hope, connection, and meaning into the everyday. Because sometimes the smallest moments are the very things that help people keep going.

Looking for ways to honor the work your team has done and strengthen connections as the second half of the year begins? Phil and Shyana share simple, practical ideas—like photo reflections, a Souper Bowl party, and fun team activities—to celebrate wins, notice progress, and build gratitude. Slow down, connect, and start the next chapter of the year stronger—together.

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.