During 30+ years of wandering the continent, visiting schools and listening to school people share their joys and frustrations, Phil Boyte has learned a lot about building great school culture. In this podcast you will hear examples Phil has seen work to enhance school culture, stories from some of his heroes in education and simple ideas to start implementing on your campus today! We invite you along on this listening journey. You will hear simple and transformative stories about building…
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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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
