School Culture By Design

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 educa...

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...

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,...

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...

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 on...

  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...

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...

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 us...

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 team...

Once upon a time, Olive Chapel Elementary wasn't the school families lined up for. Today, it has a waitlist and thriving academics — thanks to the intentional leadership of Principal Ms. May and her incredible staff. In this conversation, Shyana Frost sits down with Ms. May to uncover what turned things around — from meaningful staff meetings to bringing core values to life in real ways. You'll he...

On this episode, Phil is joined by Blake Hiemstra , middle school principal at  Valley Christian School in Visalia, California —leader of what his staff proudly calls The Dream Team. Blake shares powerful (and practical) ways his team keeps their culture thriving: from one-minute video shoutouts and the "Final Bell Salute" to the Awesome Cup and the Can of Awesome. It's an inspiring look at what h...

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 conversa...

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 th...

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...

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...

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,...

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 cent...

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.

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 encourageme...

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 no...

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 emphas...

Join us as we welcome our longtime friend, Efa Huckaby, the 2024 ACSA Secondary School Principal of the Year for California, and Dana Johnston, Assistant Principal from Liberty High School.  Grab a notepad as they discuss how they have taken a PEOPLE FIRST approach to fostering TRUST across their school.  They share practical ideas, such as Monday morning check-in's, Efa's approach for empowering...

Phil and Shyana want to leave you feeling encouraged as you head into the final weeks of the school year. Together they share simple ideas that will leave your team feeling connected, reminded why they matter, and with anticipation as they look to return next year. They remind us all that creating a PEOPLE FIRST culture is truly in the tiny moments. 

Mike Brasier is an innovation Principal in his fourth year leading Thompson Junior High School and has a deep passion for building schools that provide equity, empowering kids and teachers to do what they love, and creating opportunities to do so.  Mike shares how leveraging the 'Four P's' - Passion, Peers, Play and Projects, has empowered his people and created unity and excitement across his cam...