Podcast appearances and mentions of phil boyte

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.

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 student and staff well-being front and center. If you want your school to feel more like summer camp and less like a stress zone, this one's for you.

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.

When leaders casually drop by classrooms, do staff feel supported—or scrutinized? In this episode, Phil Boyte and Shyana dive into the subtle yet powerful ways leaders can transform a gotcha culture into one where teachers 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 culture where every visit feels like a celebration of growth. Learn more about building trust with your team: https://learningforliving.com/ School Culture Summit: https://learningforliving.com/school-culture-summit People First Cohort: https://learningforliving.com/peoplefirstcohort Tiny Moment Challenge: https://learningforliving.com/tiny-moment-challenge  

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!

Phil Boyte has traveled the continent for over 35 years working with educators in thousands of schools to transform school culture. He believes in the power of sharing our stories in order to build relationships and trust so everyone can say: I belong here, I am safe here, I can learn and grow here.He is the founder of Learning for Living and the creator of nationally known programs including, Link Crew, WEB, and Breaking Down the Walls. Phil authored the book, “School Culture By Design,” and is host of the "School Culture By Design" Podcast. Most recently, Phil launched People First Administrators Training.Connect with Phil on his website: https://www.learningforliving.com/phil-boyteGet your autographed copy of Road to Awesome: The Journey of a Leader here at a special price of $20 (use code FOBA)Book Darrin to speak at your school or conference contact us hereGrab your copy of Darrin's FREE e-book Walk in Your Purpose Check out Darrin's blog for great leadership tips and ideasSign up for the Road to Awesome email list and newsletterHave a book idea you'd like to submit to Road to Awesome? Click here

This edWeb podcast is sponsored by Ripple Effects.The webinar recording can be accessed here.Listen to renowned school culture expert Phil Boyte and Fresno Unified School District Principal Abraham Olivares share the strategies and tools they use to engage and connect with students and adults to improve academic, behavioral, and mental health outcomes. In this edWeb podcast, listeners  learn:How to create connections with students so they feel like they belong and want to come to your school—even when coming from multiple feeder schoolsFort Miller Middle School's secret to achieving a 95% non-recurring suspension rateA cost-effective “one-stop-shop” digital tool for all MTSS tiers that improves behavior AND connection to schoolWhat “people first, professionals second” means and practical applications to enhance staff and student relationshipsThis edWeb podcast is of interest to PreK-12 school and district leaders, teachers, school counselors and social workers, federal program coordinators, and those involved in supporting students' and families' mental health.Ripple Effects Proven effective SEL & Mental Health Digital Programs for preK-12 students and staffLearn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.

Phil Boyte and guest Dr. Deborah Beagle, Director of Student Activities, share activities that build connections and school culture! From playdough, coins, balloons, to paper airplanes, hear how Debbie uses common items with activities to teach lessons of being intentional, kind, seizing the moment, and more! Check out our Culture Blog for resources to download, including Debbie's paper airplane example to inspire positivity. 

Phil Boyte and guest Stephanie Haynes, veteran educator, speaker, coach, and author, discuss causes of educator burnout and provide ways to cope with it. Don't miss their ideas on building connections, including the classroom activity, “Uplift Jar.”

Phil Boyte and Dr. John Eick, Executive Director at Westlake Charter School, share ideas on how to celebrate staff, create opportunities to share stories, and build a school culture prepared for disruptive change. Don't miss Dr. Eick's relationship building activity everyone can do with a photo on their cell phone. 

Phil Boyte and guest Paul Lundberg share ideas on leadership and prioritizing “people first.” Paul breaks down 3 ways for managers to evolve into leaders. Leaders invest in their people, create fellow leaders, and inspire by listening. He further states how listening and being engaged in a conversation without tapping out builds strong relationships and breaks down conflict. 

In this episode, Phil Boyte and Laurie Beyer, Principal at Maidu Elementary School in Roseville, California, share ideas on how to connect with kids, build trust with staff, and build community on campus. Laurie reminds us of the importance of focusing on what is going well and being present. Listen in to hear more about her superpower of knowing every student's name. 

In Episode 95, Phil Boyte and guest Aaron Ragon, Lead Counselor for Douglas County School District in Colorado, share ways to support staff and student well-being. Listen in to hear how Aaron builds community and trust with his team of counselors. He also reminds us to find moments of humor in our day. 

The culture within companies is widely accepted as a critical element to success, but what is the culture within a school? Dustin Odham and Phill Boyte discuss the possibilities that open up when a school caters to a welcoming environment for students and staff. According to Boyte, connecting students fosters a healthy environment. The team has more influence, and students' success extends beyond the results of tests. Odham believes the critical takeaway from the conversation can be distilled down into “people first, professionals second.” It means that schools need to create cultures with genuine connections and investments in each other's lives. “The work I have always done is about connection,” said Boyte. His work comes down to connecting students with staff and students with students. “I have been a connector my entire life,” said Boyte. Boyte was inspired to work in education as early as his senior year of high school. As a senior student council member, he spent a day at a lecture series, where he was inspired to approach education nontraditionally. He believes he's been a connector from early on in his life. After a school shooting in 1993, Boyte was inspired to write his book ‘School Culture by Design' to reconnect with the students and help them feel safe again. “People want to feel safe with each other,” said Boyte. His program gives kids a structure to discover their commonalities. Through commonalities, people find connections. They feel a sense of community when they realize they are more alike than different. The link makes it a safer environment. When schools create a culture, students “relax, [have] higher level of trust, engagement,” said Boyte. School culture is unique and essential to individuals. Advantages to people in education living and working this way. Student achievement and measurables over the individual. Achievement matters. We want our students to be prepared to compete in the world. Relationships lead to students wanting to be in their classrooms.

The culture within companies is widely accepted as a critical element to success, but what is the culture within a school? Dustin Odham and Phill Boyte discuss the possibilities that open up when a school caters to a welcoming environment for students and staff. According to Boyte, connecting students fosters a healthy environment. The team has more influence, and students' success extends beyond the results of tests. Odham believes the critical takeaway from the conversation can be distilled down into “people first, professionals second.” It means that schools need to create cultures with genuine connections and investments in each other's lives. “The work I have always done is about connection,” said Boyte. His work comes down to connecting students with staff and students with students. “I have been a connector my entire life,” said Boyte. Boyte was inspired to work in education as early as his senior year of high school. As a senior student council member, he spent a day at a lecture series, where he was inspired to approach education nontraditionally. He believes he's been a connector from early on in his life. After a school shooting in 1993, Boyte was inspired to write his book ‘School Culture by Design' to reconnect with the students and help them feel safe again. “People want to feel safe with each other,” said Boyte. His program gives kids a structure to discover their commonalities. Through commonalities, people find connections. They feel a sense of community when they realize they are more alike than different. The link makes it a safer environment. When schools create a culture, students “relax, [have] higher level of trust, engagement,” said Boyte. School culture is unique and essential to individuals. Advantages to people in education living and working this way. Student achievement and measurables over the individual. Achievement matters. We want our students to be prepared to compete in the world. Relationships lead to students wanting to be in their classrooms.

Phil Boyte and guest Jason Jedamski, School Culture Coach and owner of Ignite2Unite, share ideas on creating irresistible experiences, building campus and community connections, and creating a school no one wants to leave. Stay tuned until the end for an exciting announcement about the future of Breaking Down the Walls!

In this episode, Phil Boyte and guest Deborah Beagle, Director of Student Activities at Vernon Hills HS, Illinois, discuss school culture, leadership development, and the value of a supportive school community. Debbie shares her inspirational journey with breast cancer and how her school and network supported and encouraged her. Listen in to hear about her Hakuna Matata theme that helped her stay positive during her cancer journey and the encouragement she gives to have “no worries.”

In this episode, Phil Boyte and Shyana Frost, COO of Learning for Living, talk about how tiny moments everyday help build trust and relationships on campus. Shyana shares examples why it is important to communicate effectively and acknowledge the dedication, achievements, and hard moments that our colleagues and students are experiencing.  Also, stay tuned until the end to hear an announcement about a NEW leadership program for administrators, “People First Administrator Training.” Learn more:  https://www.learningforliving.com/administrator-training

Phil Boyte and guest Lianna Gantz, Central HS Teacher and 2021 Texas Student Council Advisor of the Year, discuss school culture and mental wellness. Lianna and her students work together to plan “Mental Wellness” Week and “Stop the Silence” Week to increase awareness and understanding of mental health and suicide prevention. Listen in to hear her ideas on sharing positivity, creating a caring campus, and building relationships with a “10 Gives, 1 Ask” approach.

Phil Boyte and guest Maureen Stover, 2021 National Teacher of the Year finalist, discuss redefining education coming out of the pandemic. Opportunities include creating a culture of trust, support, and intentional communications. Also, hear about Maureen's equity in education initiative with her North Carolina regional team.

In this episode, Phil Boyte and guest Scott Backovich, founder of ENVOLVE Schools, share “Student Engagement Ideas.” Scott shares his approach on being a silver lining specialist, the importance of staff and student acknowledgement, and student activities you can do this spring to increase student involvement and create community.

Take a journey on the “Road to Awesome” with Phil Boyte and guest Darrin Peppard, keynote speaker, author, and former teacher and administrator. Darrin shares ideas on how to build positive school culture and how focusing on what people are doing right changed his mindset.

Listen in to the CULTURE LEVER series finale and hear ideas on how you can CELEBRATE and SUPPORT your staff. It starts by creating and building genuine connections with colleagues. Phil Boyte shares ideas to consider this fall, such as relationship builders, check-in's, and the Love List to get to know your staff and how they like to be celebrated or supported.  Download the staff Love List (plus some student love list questions in this blog post):  https://www.learningforliving.com/cultureblog/2020/8/18/the-love-list

Next up in the CULTURE LEVER series, join Phil Boyte and guest Shyana Frost, Learning for Living COO, for an episode packed with ideas and tips on how you can intentionally build connections at your GATHERINGS from staff meetings to social events.  #PeopleFirst

In this episode of the School Culture By Design CULTURE LEVER series, Phil Boyte welcomes back guest Ted Goergen, Director of Student Activities at Adlai E. Stevenson HS in Lincolnshire, Illinois.  Ted views this fall as an opportunity to recalibrate and reimagine school culture and shares ideas on “Welcoming Students Back.”

Continuing the Culture Lever mini podcast series, this episode focuses on the “Onboarding/Reboarding” lever and gives ideas for welcoming staff back to your campus this fall. Hear how to communicate “we are so glad you are here” from day one with culture at the forefront.

Listen in as Phil Boyte provides an overview of the CULTURE LEVERS, four core areas that can be leveraged to intentionally build thriving school culture.  In this episode, Phil focuses on the COMMUNICATION lever and shares simple ways to take a “people first” approach to communicate with your staff leading into the fall semester. 

Spring is here and before we know it school will be out for summer, so what a great time to pause and consider the potential we have before staff and students leave for the year. During this mini podcast, Phil shares the concept of "intent versus capacity" and thoughts on prioritizing this spring for optimal impact.

This was a super fun conversation I had with my good buddy, Phil Boyte, right before the holidays. We talked about school culture, baseball, traveling, beaches, and a whole lot about self-care. Enjoy!

In this episode, Phil Boyte interviews guest Jennifer Duston, former teacher and administrator, and current Client Partner with Franklin Covey Education. Hear Jennifer’s views on celebrating hard work, being yourself, and how leadership skills prepare students for life after school. She also shares a virtual spin on making “emotional bank account” deposits to help increase engagement and build relationships among the school community while distance learning.

In this mini podcast, Phil Boyte encourages you to take a moment to REFLECT on what is positive in your life and to CELEBRATE those around you! This year we have challenged ourselves in many new ways… be sure to celebrate the incredible, resilient person that you are.

In this episode, Phil Boyte and his guest, Sabrina Goodwin Monday, Global National Sales Director of Mary Kay Cosmetics, encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and think in an innovative way.   Get a dose of positive mental attitude (PMA) as Sabrina shares many inspirational ideas on how to motivate others, the importance of listening and understanding, and working with an end goal in mind.  

Listen in as Phil Boyte and his guest Mark Schumacher, former high school teacher turned keynote speaker and stand up comedian, share some educational humor!  Mark has a brilliant way of finding humor in the classroom setting or staff meetings. Take Mark’s challenge on how you can find more humor around you! Also, he shares tips on what you can do if a comedic student becomes a distraction and ideas to bring laughter into the virtual classroom environment.  

In this episode, Phil Boyte and Steve Bollar, a.k.a. Stand Tall Steve, an educational thought leader and former superintendent and principal, share IDEAS TO CONNECT VIRTUALLY with staff and students as many of us begin the school year with remote learning. One approach Steve recommends is to go “old school” during these virtual times to help build connections… from picking up the phone, defining classroom values, supporting social emotional needs, to learning about new students and staff… because we are people first! Don't miss Phil and Steve demonstrate a Relationship Builder, “HIGH, LOW, CHEER,” that you can also easily use to create connections with staff and students in a virtual environment this fall.

During Episode #60, Phil Boyte talks with Jimmy Gleich, Director of Activities at Bishop Gorman High School, about re-thinking how we return to school this fall. While the start of every school year is important, this fall we have a tremendous opportunity to change how we welcome back students and staff! In their conversation, Jimmy shares ideas and activities to build connections as you kick-off the fall semester… whether that is in-person or distance learning, or a hybrid. Looking for ideas on how to plan an unforgettable Day 1, how to create time/places for students to socialize while social distancing, how to utilize social media to create connections, and more… then don’t miss this episode!

Listen in as Phil Boyte and Hans Appel discuss ideas to cultivate positive culture. Hans reflects from his recent book, “Award Winning Culture” to bring you real life examples of where to start to impact your school and what he does to make himself approachable to students. As we think ahead to fall and what returning to school may look like, Phil and Hans share a reminder of how we can check-in and support the adults and students on campus and build in intentional time.

What a fun opportunity to connect with Phil Boyte and record our conversation on school culture! Make sure to follow his podcast, School Culture by Design, if you don't already!

With only a few weeks before the end of the semester, how can you support staff during an often busy season? Phil Boyte and Jason Jedamski talk about why taking the time to check-in is so important, share a few ideas that could be easily implemented, and leave you empowered to find even just one thing to do over the next few weeks.

During this podcast, Phil Boyte interviews Steve Moos, the lead custodian at Country Lane Intermediate in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Steve has become the heartbeat of his campus and through this highly inspirational interview, we hear why he believes his role is simply a “mentor with a mop.” Phil and Steve talk about creative ways he builds relationships across campus, how he empowers students to help, and simple ways to take care of non-instructional team members. Looking for reminders of how every single person on campus can build thriving culture? You won’t want to miss this episode.

During this podcast, Phil Boyte interviews Robby Riggs, a dynamic consultant focused on unlocking the potential in the 4-generation workplace. Robby shares quick examples of each generation, why great managers take the time to stop and listen, and how people can think about using counter mentors at the school level. Ready for a fast and furious look at building even more trust and communication across your team? Check out the podcast today.

When we celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week back in the spring, we pulsed our School Culture By Design Facebook group followers for teachers who are doing incredible culture work on their campuses. Out of all the great nominees, Kelsey Graham a teacher from Middle Township High School was selected! During this podcast, Phil Boyte interviews Kelsey as she shares a few of the great ideas she implemented on her campus this past year. Listen in as Kelsey shares how they catch students doing great things around campus, support their staff members monthly, and focus on building thriving culture a year long.

When was the last time you took a tour of your campus with culture on the brain? Phil Boyte and Jason Jedamski both know there are some limitations on what can be changed within physical spaces, but during this podcast they share simple ideas for making people feel welcome from the moment they step up to the curb. It is a combination of what it looks like, sounds like, and feels like... so listen in today! 

On this mini podcast episode, Phil Boyte and Jason Jedamski talk about the power of the first day back for faculty. They talk about what a typical first day is expected to look like and contrast that with a variety of ideas that will get your staff excited to be back! Many of the ideas they share don’t take too much time or energy, but can truly set the tone for the rest of the year. Looking to remind the adults on campus that relationships are key to a successful year... you won't want to miss this one! 

On this mini podcast episode, Phil Boyte and Jason Jedamski talk about why welcoming new staff members strategically can have such an impact on culture. Throughout the conversation they share a variety of ideas (some big and some small) that will leave your team re-thinking your on-boarding model. Looking to create a school where no one will ever want to leave… check out this brand new podcast today!

On this mini podcast episode, Phil Boyte and Jason Jedamski share ideas on how to use your graduation ceremony to support the culture you want using the "look like, sound like, feel like" filter. Phil and Jason also discuss the power of traditions at graduation and offer several easy-to-implement ideas to communicate who you are and what you believe as a school. Ready to be more intentional with your messaging at graduation? Check this podcast out today.

On this mini podcast episode, Phil Boyte shares 4 books he would highly recommend picking up to build a great culture. He shares a simple concept he found helpful from each book and reasons to pick them up today!   Want to keep growing? Listen today! 

On this mini podcast episode, Phil Boyte shares three simple ideas to kick-off a new semester. He shares 2 simples ideas for the classroom and 1 idea for the hallway. Looking for easy, yet impactful ways to create connections? Check this podcast out today.

On this episode, Phil Boyte and Jason Jedamski share the importance of building great relationships in the classroom. They talk about the design for a brand new resource called Connected Classroom; a strategic online course (which provides a simple system), that equips teachers to build relationships through PLAY which grows TRUST and engages students to LEARN. To learn more go to www.learningforliving.com

On this episode, Phil Boyte interviews Azul Terronez who is international leader in project based learning, educational entrepreneurship, and innovative practices. During the podcast, Azul and Phil talk about the power of classrooms focused on relationships first and creating a community of care. Azul shares about the importance of celebrating mistakes, an awesome project called "design a classroom," and how to stay fresh as an educator.

Phil Boyte and Becky Latham talk about how she has seen culture on her campus grow rich by being open to feedback, saying YES more and making your leadership programs more accessible. Working at a school with a high number of students with adverse childhood experiences (ACES), Becky and her team have been very intentional to find ways of involving students early on to give them the skills and motivation they need to be great leaders. This podcast is a great reminder of engaging students from diverse backgrounds to be part of building a great campus culture!

During this episode, Phil Boyte introduces listeners to the newest member of the Learning For Living team, Jason (JJ) Jedamski. JJ joined the team from Broken Arrow High School where he was the Director of Student Activities. During the podcast, JJ shares a tool he used called the “looks like, sounds like, feels like” filter to help students face each event on campus from a strategic standpoint. He talks about the importance of communicating a BIG vision and spreading the word through a number of ways. Looking to take your student culture from good to great? You won’t want to miss this fantastic podcast.

Join Phil Boyte as he talks about how school culture is truly up to all of us. During this podcast, Phil talks about a few different people on campus who may feel a bit like "ghosts" and given the opportunity could bring unbelievable value to the culture. Listen in to hear examples of people you may have never considered and how you might engage them in simple conversations! Great podcast as you head into a new school year.

Where does Phil Boyte find inspiration on #Twitter? Listen in to our latest mini podcast to hear a few of my favorite people to follow and ideas to implement in your classroom. 

“The Undiscussables: Three areas to work with your team to help navigate hard conversations” We have all heard those conversations... the one's that take place in the parking lot or by the water cooler AFTER the meeting. What if instead, your team was encouraged to share the hard stuff DURING the meeting? On this week’s podcast, Phil shares three ways you can foster an environment where people are willing to share the “undiscussables.” 

Building great culture is a year long effort and with the first few weeks under your belt, you may be scratching your head thinking, “now what?!” Join Phil Boyte as he gives a few practical ideas to continue building relationships and trust on your campus a few weeks into the new school year. 

In this mini podcast, Phil Boyte shares the concept of taking “tiny steps” when it comes to shifting a campus culture. He shares ideas he has come across when traveling the country working in a variety of schools. Listen in for ideas you can start using today on your campus!

Listen as Phil Boyte share a bit about his background of working with schools for the past 30 years, what type of guests he will be having on the Podcast and what you can expect to hear on School Culture By Design Podcast.

Are you interested in speaking to youth or a school audience? On today's episode of The Speaker Lab my close friend and mentor Phil Boyte joins us to share his insights on that very topic. Phil focuses exclusively on speaking in schools, everyone from students to teachers to the district administrative team. He begins episode 64 by discussing what speaking looks like for him. He also offers his advice on how to truly make an impact when speaking to young people, and why his assembly schedule works well in the school system. And if you're curious about the most effective way to speak to a young audience Phil talks about that too! Based on his personal experiences speaking to young audiences, he imparts plenty of wisdom on the topics of youth and school audiences.  Listen in to hear all of it on this episode of The Speaker Lab! THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS SHOW Exactly how Phil got his start speaking in schools. What are the three stages of a speaking career? How can you speak effectively to a younger audience? Paul's advice for finding and keeping bookings. How can you become a "category of one"? The difference between the success of a program and the success of an individual. Is there money in the youth and the school market to hire you as a speaker? What Phil has learned about maintaining a healthy personal life. And much, much more! EPISODE RESOURCES Phil Boyte's web site Phil Boyte's speaking web site Breaking Down the Walls, Phil's program Phil Boyte on Twitter The Speaker Lab Facebook group Top Speakers Tips Ready for more speakers? Join our free speaker workshop Got questions? Send them in here Email me! Subscribe on iTunes, and leave us a rating or review

This video podcast is from The Spirit of New Orleans, CADA's most recent state convetion.  In this video you will hear from our panel of experts: Sandi Kurland, Phil Boyte, Bob Vincent, Tyler Durman, Bill Meagher, Peter Cahn, Lyn Fiscus, and Mike Smith as they share with us their knowledge and insight rom their years of experience working with students and advisers. You can view the power point from this presentation by clicking 60-60.  You can also find some of the show notes for a few of our presenters in the links provided.   Bill Meagher:Zen and the Art of Relationship Maintenance for Student Activities Directors Peter Cahn: Finance and Legal Questions Lyn Fiscus: ideas for justifying a student activities program - for more information you can go to Lyn's website at http://www.leadershiplogistics.us/   This is a fairly large podcast, I hope you are able to download the video and enjoy.  If you have any problems, please let me know. tech@cada1.org

Now with the correct volume! In this podcast I meet with Phil Boyte, co-founder of Link Crew as well as Breaking Down Walls, his programs have centered around creating a stronger community on school campuses both in the classroom and within the school as a whole. Phil shares with us his ideas for the first few days and what teachers can do to make his/her classroom inviting.