Lead with HOPE

Episode 82 | Choosing Love: Why My Word for 2026 Is Love

Lead with HOPE

Show Notes

In this episode of the Lead with H.O.P.E. podcast, host Dr. Brandi Kelly explores the profound impact of love and hope in leadership. As Valentine’s Day approaches, Brandi shares personal reflections and leadership insights, drawing powerful lessons from children’s movies to illustrate that love is not merely a romantic idea.. it is a strategic, intentional force that builds connection, fuels growth, and strengthens courage. Brandi also unpacks the Science of Hope, highlighting its cognitive components, goals, pathways, and agency, and explains how love fuels each one. When leaders lead with love, they create environments where people feel safe, valued, and empowered to pursue meaningful goals. This episode is especially for female leaders who are tired of carrying leadership alone. You’ll be reminded that community matters, connection is essential, and leadership becomes truly transformational when love and hope work together. The word guiding Brandi’s leadership for 2026 is love

Children’s movies teach powerful lessons about leadership and connection

Hope is a cognitive process built on goals, pathways, and agency

Love fuels all three components of hope

Female leaders often carry heavy burdens alone—community is essential

The Spark HOPE Community exists to support and empower female leaders

Leadership becomes transformational when love and hope work together

Chapters 00:00 – The Power of Love in Leadership 06:01 – Hope as a Cognitive Process: Goals, Pathways, and Agency 07:55 – Building Community and Connection Through Love Tune in, give us a 5 star rating to help us spread hope to other leaders, and keep leading with H.O.P.E. A special thank you to Craig Williams and Conversari for supporting this episode! Learn more about their work at ⁠https://www.conversaripress.com Join the Spark HOPE community to connect with like-minded women leaders through monthly masterminds, courses, and a supportive network designed to help you lead with heart, alignment, and purpose. Sign up here: ⁠https://sparkhopeedu.com/drbrandikelly-4049⁠ If you want to learn more about HOPE-Fueled leadership, book your free consultation today: ⁠https://sparkhopeedu.com

Keywords leadership, love, hope, community, connection, female leaders, personal growth, storytelling, intentionality, empowerment

More from Lead with HOPE

Oct 17, 2026

Summary In this episode, leadership coach Dr. Brandi Kelly talks with Will McLean, a principal navigating change and overthinking in leadership. They explore how to shed armor, trust oneself, and lead with authenticity amid challenges. Keywords: leadership, coaching, overthinking, trust, change, education, self-awareness, leadership growth Key Topics The impact of armor and overthinking on leadership The importance of self-awareness and trust Cost of inaction and hesitation in leadership Strategies for celebrating small wins Reframing leadership stories and perceptions Takeaways Leaders often develop armor in high-pressure environments that can hinder authentic leadership. Overthinking and fear of perception can cause hesitation and prevent decisive action. Trusting your experience and mentorship is crucial, even when doubts arise. Celebrating small successes builds confidence and reinforces trust in oneself. The next right step is an intentional, small action that moves leadership forward. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the coaching session 02:13 The impact of armor on leadership effectiveness 05:06 Underlying beliefs and their costs 06:10 The cost of inaction and hesitation 07:33 Strategies for success and celebrating wins 08:51 Hidden opportunities and reframing perceptions 09:31 Advice for other leaders in similar situations 10:24 Summary of key insights and next steps 11:41 Encouragement to take the next right step 12:29 Closing thoughts and call to action Resources: Visit https://sparkhopeedu.com You can still join the HOPE Collective starting on October 21, 2026 but act now. Spots are limited. Learn more at https://sparkhopeedu.com/thehopecollective

Oct 10, 2026

Rob Martinez, the resilience guy, shares his 38-year career journey from school psychologist to superintendent, emphasizing the importance of caring for people and building relationships. He highlights the value of resilience, hope, and positive leadership in the face of adversity. Takeaways Resilience Caring for People Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins 02:11 Transition to Administration 05:22 Leadership in Challenging Times 18:05 Aligning Vision and Values 24:38 Sustaining Clarity and Hope 28:01 The Heart of Education 32:12 Message of Resilience and Hope Resources Connect with Rob Martinez @ [email protected] Visit Spark HOPE Edu and Dr. Brandi Kelly @ sparkhopeedu.com

Oct 3, 2026

In this episode of the Lead with Hope Podcast, Brandy Kelly shares the story of her brother Brandon, highlighting the importance of connection and community in overcoming life's challenges. She emphasizes that true strength lies in recognizing our need for others and encourages listeners to reach out and support one another. Takeaways Connection is essential in leadership Strength includes asking for help Chapters 00:00 Brandon's Story: A Journey of Hope 03:20 The Importance of Connection 06:05 Finding Your People 07:10 Letting Others Help You 09:40 A Call to Action Resources Join the HOPE Collective: https://sparkhopeedu.com/thehopecollective Need someone in your corner? Email me - [email protected] or schedule with me by visiting my website -https://sparkhopeedu.com

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Dr. Rebel Heasley shares her journey from nursing to leadership, overcoming adversity, and the power of intentional growth. She emphasizes the importance of mindset, resilience, and self-awareness in leadership and life.

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The conversation explores the concept of hope and leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-care, reflection, and connection. It delves into personal stories, challenges, and the five R's of the Hope Reset, offering a practical tool for leaders to navigate difficult times. The hosts also introduce the Hope Collective, a coaching and networking opportunity for leaders.

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