Episode #130 - The People First Framework
School Culture By Design
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.
info_outline
Episode #129: What If We Can? - Guest Jessica Brooks
School Culture By Design
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.
info_outline
Episode #128 - What to do when the cell phones are gone - Phil Boyte and Jason Jedamski
School Culture By Design
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.
info_outline
Episode #127 - One Heart, One Mind: Leading with Joy and Connection with Guest Rob Sousa
School Culture By Design
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.
info_outline
Episode #126 - Rooted in People with Guest Dr. Jacqueline Johnson
School Culture By Design
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.
info_outline
Episode #125 - Clarity, Consistency, and a Dash of Fun with Guest Bentli Lewis
School Culture By Design
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...
info_outline
Episode #124 - The Power of the Pause: Small Moments, Lasting Impact
School Culture By Design
In this episode, Phil Boyte and Shyana Frost explore how simple pauses can create deeper connections. From a barista’s unexpected kindness to a school leader’s thoughtful follow-up, they share powerful stories that highlight the impact of slowing down and truly seeing people. Tune in for practical ways to bring more presence and care into your daily interactions both at home and at work.
info_outline
Episode #123: Avoiding the Gotcha Culture
School Culture By Design
Every interaction—whether in a meeting, hallway, or casual drop-in—should build trust, confidence, and connection. But too often, staff feel watched instead of supported. In this episode, Phil Boyte and Shyana dive into the subtle yet powerful ways leaders can transform a gotcha culture into one where staff welcome visitors with confidence. Through tiny moments of presence, intentional encouragement, and shared leadership, we explore how to build a school environment rooted in trust. Tune in for real stories and practical strategies to shift mindsets, strengthen relationships, and create a...
info_outline
Episode #122 – Finish Strong: Inspiring Insights with Phil Boyte and Shyana Frost
School Culture By Design
In this uplifting episode, Phil and Shyana dive into the powerful concept of “a mint in your tongue”—a fresh perspective on leaving a lasting impact. Discover practical strategies to uplift and encourage staff and students as the semester closes out, while also prioritizing your own well-being during the holiday season. Tune in to gain actionable tips and inspiration to close the year on a high note!
info_outline
Episode #121 - The Contagious Power of the Energy We Bring - Guest Danny Steele
School Culture By Design
Welcome to today’s episode, where we dive into the world of Danny Steele, a veteran educator with 31 years of experience as a Principal, Assistant Principal, Teacher, Coach, and Assistant Professor. Celebrated as Alabama’s ‘Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year’ in 2005 and ‘Secondary Principal of the Year’ in 2016, Danny’s approach centers on the contagious power of positive energy. He emphasizes the importance of remembering your 'why,' bringing positive energy, and fostering an environment where vulnerability is embraced. Join us as we explore his insights on...
info_outlineLeslie Loewen has served California’s Central Valley as a teacher, coach, club sponsor, and administrator for more than 24 years. She is focused on active learning, positive relationship-building, and planting the seeds of knowledge and leadership through student engagement. During this podcast, she and Phil talk about how slowing down and truly listening to people can help cultivate a healthier culture. She also talks about the power of building relationships with the “forgotten” staff members and how to cultivate a “check-me” culture.