Episode 206: Lead with HOPE - A Conversation with Dr. Brandi Kelly

Leaning into Leadership

In this powerful episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard sits down with Dr. Brandi Kelly—author, speaker, coach, and founder of Spark Hope EDU—to explore what it truly means to Lead with Hope. Dr. Kelly shares her deeply personal story that led her to develop the HOPE framework: Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, and Excellence. Through her new book and nationwide work with leaders, Brandi challenges us to lean into self-reflection, build our self-efficacy, and become the encouragers our schools need more than ever. Whether you're leading a classroom or a district, this episode will reignite your purpose and remind you why culture, connection, and hope matter most.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Brandi Kelly is an accomplished author, speaker, podcaster, coach, and consultant with a passion for building thriving organizational culture. With over 20 years of experience, she is dedicated to empowering leaders to inspire growth, create positive change, and cultivate environments where success thrives. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Maxwell Certified Coach, Dr. Kelly is the recipient of numerous leadership honors, including the NAESP Distinguished Elementary School Principal Award and Middle School Principal of the Year Award. She is also the founder of Spark Hope EDU. Learn more at www.sparkhopeedu.com.

Key Takeaways:

• How personal tragedy inspired Brandi’s journey into education
• The HOPE system and how it builds self-efficacy
• Why reflection isn’t optional for leaders—it’s essential
• The role of optimism, purpose, and habits in resilient leadership
• What it looks like to lead with hope in today’s schools

Links & Resources:

• Connect with Brandi at www.sparkhopeedu.com
• Grab your copy of Lead with Hope (available May 5!)
• Follow Brandi on social media @SparkHopeEDU
• Subscribe to the Lead with Hope Podcast
• Learn more about Darrin’s work and speaking: www.roadtoawesome.net