The Catholic School Leaders Podcast

Teaching Religion Class with Passion in Our Catholic Schools with Greg Aitchison, Part Two

This is the second part of John Mihalyo's interview with Greg Aitchison, a passionate religion teacher known for making faith come alive in the classroom. Greg shares practical advice for teachers on how to integrate technology, show genuine care, and create engaging lessons that resonate with students. The conversation also highlights the importance of involving parents in faith education, building relationships with students, and sharing valuable resources for Catholic educators. 01:59 Innovat...

Teaching Religion Class with Passion in Our Catholic Schools with Greg Aitchison, Part One

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, host John Mihalyo interviews Greg Aitchison, a religion teacher and founder of CatholicReligionTeacher.com. John and Greg discuss the importance of teaching religion with the same passion as other subjects, Greg's personal faith journey, and practical tips for engaging students in the classroom. This is the first part of a two-part series where Greg shares his unique approach in teaching religion with passion. 04:56 Greg's Background and Jo...

Financial Literacy in Schools Through "Wealthy Habits" with Tracy Tanner

In this episode, John chats with Tracy Tanner, President and CEO of Wealthy Habits, about the importance of financial literacy for youth. They explore how Wealthy Habits' engaging and practical approach to financial education helps students develop smart money habits, make informed financial decisions, and understand the long-term impact of their financial choices. Tracy shares her journey in creating Wealthy Habits, the success stories of the students, and why financial literacy is crucial for ...

Developing Future Leaders in Catholic Education with John Marinucci

In this episode, John Mihalyo discusses the development of future Catholic school leaders with John Marinucci, principal of St. Francis College in Brisbane, Australia. They explore the journey of becoming a Catholic school leader, the importance of faith in leadership, and strategies for nurturing the next generation of administrators. 00:00 Introductio 05:04 Guest Introduction: John Marinucci 07:53 John Marinucci's Leadership Journey 08:58 Advice for Current and Future Leaders 20:31 Business an...

Surviving Your First Year as a Catholic School Principal with Jamison Mahar

In this episode John sits down with Jamison Mahar, Principal of Our Lady of Loretto Catholic School, to discuss her experiences and insights from completing her first year in the role. Topics include: leadership strategies community engagement managing school culture advice for new principals the importance of a strong prayer life 00:00 Introduction 03:51 Challenges and Strategies in the First Year 04:20 Building Community and School Culture 04:20 Managing Time and Tasks 05:05 Balancing Responsi...

The Value of STEM in Our Catholic Schools with Amy Ely

In this episode, John interviews Amy Ely, director of the STEM program at Detroit Catholic Central High School. They discuss the incredible STEM initiatives led by Amy, the vision behind these programs, and the impact on students and the broader community. Amy shares her journey from industrial hygiene chemist to passionate STEM educator, highlighting innovative projects like the aviation program, outreach with Gleaners Food Bank, and the integration of STEM across various disciplines. 00:00 Int...

Walking with our Seminarians with Seminarian Rob Lane

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders podcast, host John Mihalyo sits down with seminarian Rob Lane to discuss his journey to the priesthood and how Catholic schools can support seminarians. Rob shares insights from his formation, experiences in seminary life, and the importance of support from Catholic communities. 01:18 Guest Introduction 02:36 Rob Lane's Upbringing and Faith 04:25 Discernment Journey 11:04 Typical Day in the Seminary 31:09 Challenges in Seminary Life 34:56 Supporting...

Ways to Provide Professional Development on a Limited Budget

In this episode, John discusses the significance of meaningful professional development in Catholic schools. He addresses common challenges schools face in implementing it and offers solutions. Topics include: budget constraints time management subject area diversity teacher reluctance benefits of on-campus professional development 00:00 Introduction 00:31 Importance of Professional Development 02:02 Common Challenges and Solutions 02:29 Overcoming Budget Constraints 06:03 Maximizing Time for Pr...

Are You Talking or Actually Communicating?

In this episode, John discusses the critical differences between talking and effective communication for Catholic school leaders. He offers various strategies for enhancing communication within the school community, including consistency, use of social media, and the importance of clear and relevant content. John also shares practical tips for implementing a reliable communication plan and emphasizes the significance of keeping the school community engaged and informed. 00:00 Introduction 00:45 ...

Is it "Prime Day" at Your School?

In this episode, John explores the excitement and anticipation of Prime Day, drawing parallels to creating that same level of engagement within Catholic schools. He offers insights on building excitement for the new school year and fostering a sense of community and investment among families. 00:00 Introduction 01:21 Prime Day Introduction 03:54 Excitement in Schools 05:50 Building Anticipation 08:09 Visitor Engagement 10:11 Creating Happiness 12:20 Conclusion...

What I Learned in Italy About Being a Better Catholic School Leader

In this episode, John shares invaluable lessons from his recent trip to Italy. He reflects on how this unique experience has taught him to be a better Catholic school leader. From seizing opportunities and meeting new people, to tackling unexpected challenges and appreciating what you have, John's insights offer practical advice for educators in leadership roles. Tune in for an inspiring recount of his travels and the leadership wisdom he gained. 00:00 Introduction 3:08 #1: Take Opportunities to...

A Podcast with New Catholic School Leaders in Mind

In this episode, John Mihalyo, shares invaluable advice for new Catholic school leaders. This includes principals, assistant principals, advancement directors, deans, recruitment directors, athletic directors, and other leadership roles in Catholic education. John emphasizes the importance of understanding school culture, establishing key partnerships, investing in personal growth, and maintaining clear communication, consistency, and curb appeal in schools. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:...

Helping Our Youth Hear God's Calling with Father Luke Rawicki

In this episode, John Mihalyo sits down with Father Luke Rawicki, the chaplain at Cardinal Gibbons High School, to explore his journey from architectural studies to the priesthood. Father Luke shares his experiences in Catholic education, his worldwide missionary work, and the unique challenges and joys of engaging with young people in a faith-based setting. The discussion also covers the powerful impact of events like World Youth Day and practical strategies for fostering vocations in a modern,...

How a Great Summer Can Lead to an Even Better School Year Ahead

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, John discusses key strategies for Catholic school leaders during the summer break. John emphasizes the importance of resting and recharging, the value of leadership team retreats, and how to conduct effective audits of communications and office organization. Additional topics include updating handbooks, analyzing the past year, setting future goals, involving the school community in event planning, and the benefits of reading impactful book...

Strategies for Communicating How Your Fundraising Dollars Were Used

In this episode, John follows up with a discussion on why recent fundraising efforts may have fallen short. He delves deeper into the importance of transparency in how funds are spent, emphasizing the necessity of clearly communicating goals and outcomes to donors. Practical advice is given on how to build and maintain trust through integrity in the fundraising process, including specific strategies such as end-of-year recognition, annual reports, and personalized thank yous. The episode also un...

An Interview with Bishop William Byrne

This episode features and interview with Bishop William D. Byrne of Springfield, Massachusetts. They discuss the bishop's background in Catholic education, his roles as a columnist, YouTube personality, and now bishop, and delve into the importance of Catholic education from various perspectives. The conversation includes the significance of Catholic schools in spiritual life and community, challenges faced by Catholic schools such as funding and staffing, the role of leadership in supporting ed...

12 Reasons Why Your Fundraiser Flopped

In this episode, John Mihalyo discusses effective strategies for Catholic school leaders to analyze and improve their advancement, development, and fundraising efforts. Drawing from his experience and expertise, John highlights common pitfalls in setting goals that are either too high or too low and emphasizes the importance of realistic planning, communication, sponsorship, budgeting, and offering desirable items or experiences at fundraising events. He also stresses the significance of timing,...

The College of St. Joseph the Worker with Dr. Jacob Imam

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, John Mihalyo talks with Dr. Jacob Imam, Founder and Vice President of Finance at the College of St. Joseph the Worker College in Steubenville, Ohio. Dr. Imam discusses his unique background, transitioning from a Muslim home to Catholicism, and his journey through education, culminating in his role at the college. He delves into the college’s innovative approach to higher education, which integrates rigorous academics with hands-on trade ski...

A Relationship with Christ with Fr. Tim Anastos

This episode features an enriching conversation with Fr. Tim Anastos, a chaplain at St. John Paul II Newman Center at the University of Illinois, Chicago. The discussion delves into innovative methods of engaging students in their faith, the importance of Catholic education, and how Catholic school leaders can inspire both students and educators to grow in their relationship with Christ. Father Tim shares his journey to developing a deeper relationship with Jesus and emphasizes the role of authe...

Principal Efficacy with Barb Flowers

This episode features an insightful conversation between host John Mihalyo and guest Barbara Flowers, a seasoned principal and certified life coach with a doctorate in K-12 leadership. The discussion centers on the concept of leadership efficacy, particularly within the context of Catholic school administration. Barb shares her extensive experiences and the importance of self-efficacy among educational leaders, emphasizing the drastic changes in the roles and challenges faced by principals in re...

Teaching Faith Through Adventure with Greg Morrissey

In this episode, John Mihalyo interviews Greg Morrissey, founder of the Mountain Goat Movement and a dedicated educator who intertwines his Catholic faith with outdoor adventures. Morrissey, who has spearheaded numerous expeditions for students in environments ranging from urban landscapes to international treks, emphasizes the role of adventures in character building and faith development. He reflects on how his own experiences in nature solidified his connection to God and inspired him to inte...

Advancing Your School's Advancement with Tim Breslin

In this episode our guest Tim Breslin, Senior Development Director at Duke University, who shares his extensive experience in school advancement and fundraising. The discussion covers the importance of advancement for schools at various stages - contemplating, starting, and improving their efforts. Tim offers advice on getting started with advancement, including the significance of leadership and the need to invest time and resources. He emphasizes the importance of asking for donations, utilizi...

School and Parish Partnerships with Dr. Julie Delaney

This episode features Dr. Julie Delaney, the principal of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School, focusing on the integral relationship between Catholic school principals and pastors for successful school environments. John and Dr. Delaney discuss her extensive experience in Catholic education, the importance of regular meetings and trust-building between principals and pastors, and the role of prayer in fostering these relationships. She also shares strategies for engaging pastors without microma...

Teaching Catholic Schools to Win at Social Media with Laura Tierney

In this episode, John talks with Laura Tierney, the founder and CEO of the Social Institute. They delve into how the Social Institute has emerged as a pioneering force in educating over 50,000 students through a gamified social media curriculum, aiming to navigate the complexities of social media and technology with positivity and integrity. Laura's achievements, including recognition by Melinda Gates and being a finalist in the EdTech Leadership Award, underscore the importance of her work. The...

Social Entrepreneurship with Anne-Marie Maw

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, host John Mihalyo interviews Anne-Marie Maw, a seasoned educator with 25 years of experience, currently serving as the principal of St. Agatha's Primary School in Brisbane. She shares her passion for involving students in community service, fostering their generosity, and encouraging social entrepreneurship among young learners. She discusses successful initiatives undertaken by her students, such as crafting and selling jewelry for breast ...

Faculty and Community Engagement with Jamie Lesho

Good Teaching vs. Quality Teaching with Allison Elcoate, Michael Parker and Michael Blundell

This episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast features three friends from Australia discussing their innovative approach to teaching at Trinity College. Principal Allison Elcoate, and educators Michael Blundell and Michael Parker, discuss their shift from traditional teaching to a unique, student-led learning approach. They reveal the improvements seen within the school, particularly in student engagement and academic results. The paradigm shift allowing for adaptive and dynamic teaching s...

Delivering Marketing Joy with Kirby Hasseman

During this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, marketing expert Kirby Hasseman was welcomed to discuss marketing strategies specifically catered for educational institutions. Drawing from his successful marketing career and role as CEO of Hasseman Marketing and Communications, Kirby deconstructed the concepts of marketing, advertising, messaging and branding, and how they intertwine. He also discussed the power of storytelling in marketing, the importance of engaging audiences in a ...

How to be a Top Place to Work with Rebecca Maestas Sanchez

In this podcast episode of the Catholic School Leaders, the guest is Rebecca Maesta Sanchez, a devoted Catholic school leader. She passionately discusses her leadership journey, her educational philosophy, and her unique approach to leading one of Albuquerque's most historical institutions, St. Mary's Catholic School. With a firm belief that Jesus should be at the center of education, Sanchez emphasizes the importance of creating a conducive learning environment where virtuous behavior is taught...

Catholic Culture with Darrell Fulford

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, host John Mihalyo interviews Darrell Fulford, Principal of Saint Thomas More in Chapel Hill. They discuss the importance of forging a strong Catholic identity within the school culture.Darrell shares his personal journey from discovering the Catholic faith as a child to becoming an education leader driven by Catholic principles. He explains the influence of Catholic education in his life and emphasizes the importance of involving the parish...