The Catholic School Leaders Podcast

The Catholic School Leaders PodcastHost: John MihalyoGuest: Dr. Trevor Timmerberg, Assistant Superintendent, Archdiocese of LouisvilleEpisode OverviewBeing a principal can be a lonely job. In this episode, John and Dr. Trevor Timmerberg unpack how a strong, healthy leadership team helps you lead with clarity, build trust, and move your school forward—without carrying everything on your own.What You’ll LearnMission-driven vs. maintenance-driven leadership teamsHow to choose the right people (not just the right positions)The right team size and meeting lengthHow to prevent “meetings after meetings”Simple agenda structures that drive action and accountabilityEmpowering others to lead (so it’s not all on you)Key TakeawayA great leadership team strengthens culture, improves decisions, and keeps your school focused on mission—not just managing the daily fires.Call to ActionNeed help building or refining your leadership team? Reach out to John Mihalyo to talk about your school.

Episode SummaryIn this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, John uses the turnaround of Indiana University football to challenge Catholic school leaders to rethink what’s possible for their schools.Indiana went from an afterthought to a national champion because leadership refused to accept average. Catholic schools can experience the same kind of transformation—when culture, expectations, and people are aligned.Key TakeawaysEvery turnaround starts with “no more.” Stop accepting excuses and lowering expectations.Culture comes before results. Strong schools expect excellence—they don’t just hope for it.People matter most. Hire for culture, not just experience, and support people to rise to high expectations.Success must be sustainable. One good year isn’t success—consistent growth is.There are no shortcuts. Real change takes time, investment, and commitment.Final ThoughtFive years from now, your Catholic school can be the standard—but only if you start building that culture today.Ready to Take the Next Step?If you want help moving your school forward, visit www.elementaryadvancement.com to connect and explore resources.Schedule a time to meet with me here!

The Catholic School Leaders PodcastHost: John MihalyoGuest: Sarah Schneider, Associate Director of Enrollment, Catholic Schools Center of Excellence (CSCOE)Episode SummaryIn this episode, John sits down with Sarah from the Catholic Schools Center of Excellence in Minnesota to discuss how collaboration, visibility, and intentional leadership are driving enrollment growth and strengthening Catholic school communities.Sarah shares how CSCOE supports 151 Catholic schools across Minnesota through enrollment support, professional development, grants, and shared learning—helping schools avoid isolation and move forward together. The conversation focuses on the real challenges principals face when wearing multiple hats, and practical ways leaders can stay visible, build relationships, and use time more intentionally.This episode is packed with realistic advice for principals, pastors, and Catholic school leaders navigating limited time, limited resources, and big expectations.Key Topics CoveredWhat the Catholic Schools Center of Excellence (CSCOE) is and how it supports schoolsWhy collaboration matters more than competitionThe reality of principals wearing “all the hats”Why visibility of school leaders builds trust and enrollmentSimple ways principals can use video and social media effectivelyScheduling time intentionally instead of reacting all dayHow transparency builds trust with parents and staffThe importance of knowing and clearly articulating your school’s differentiatorWhy Catholic schools must confidently share what makes them uniqueSchedule a Time to Meet with John Mihalyo HereVisit the Catholic Schools Center for Excellence website here. 

The Catholic School Leaders PodcastHost: John MihalyoTitle: From Chaos to Clarity: Creating an Advancement Strategy That WorksEpisode SummaryIn this episode, John continues his planning series by focusing on why Catholic schools need a clear advancement game plan—and why advancement is about far more than raising money.Without a plan, fundraising feels chaotic, rushed, and inconsistent. John explains what happens when schools rely on hope instead of strategy, and how intentional advancement planning builds trust, strengthens donor relationships, and creates long-term sustainability.Listeners will learn how strong advancement efforts move from transactional giving to meaningful partnerships that support the school’s mission for years to come.Key TakeawayStrong advancement doesn’t happen by accident. It requires clear planning, consistent communication, and a mission-driven approach that builds trust and sustainability.Call to ActionNeed help building an advancement plan that works?👉 Visit elementaryadvancement.com or click the link here to schedule a conversation with John.

Hope Is Not a Strategy: Building a Real Enrollment Game PlanHost: John MihalyoEpisode SummaryIn this episode, John explains why hope, tradition, and “we’ve always done it this way” are not strategies for enrollment growth. Schools that lack a clear game plan end up reacting, scrambling, and relying on luck instead of intentional, data-driven decisions.John kicks off a new series focused on building strategic plans for enrollment, advancement, leadership, and culture—starting with enrollment.Key TopicsWhy hope is not a strategyWhat happens when schools don’t have an enrollment planInconsistent follow-up, unclear messaging, and weak toursThe importance of marketing to current familiesWhy consistency matters in tours and communicationRecruiting for graduation, not just enrollment dayWhat a strong enrollment game plan includes:A clear process from inquiry to first day of schoolDefined roles and responsibilitiesConsistent, personalized follow-upKey TakeawayPredictable enrollment results come from intentional planning. When everyone knows the plan, enrollment becomes less stressful—and more effective.Call to ActionWant help creating an enrollment game plan that works?👉 Click the calendar link here to schedule a conversation with John.

As Catholic school leaders prepare for budgeting, tuition setting, and planning for the months ahead, many struggle with how to spend money wisely. In this episode, John explores two common extremes: fear-based spending that leads to cutting corners, and undisciplined spending that creates confusion and shortfalls. The answer lies in strategic, mission-driven investment that strengthens schools for the long term.This episode challenges leaders to move beyond scarcity or carelessness and instead invest with clarity, confidence, and purpose.Key TakeawaysFear-based spending hurts mission, morale, and growthCheap choices often cost more in the long runSpending should be intentional, strategic, and aligned with missionWise investments produce real ROI in enrollment, advancement, and cultureStrong schools balance stewardship with confidence—not fearCall to ActionIf you’re ready to invest in your school with clarity and a clear game plan—without fear or overspending—I’d love to talk. Schools I work with are seeing meaningful growth in enrollment, advancement, and leadership.👉 Learn more or schedule a conversation with John Mihalyo here. Visit Elementary Advancement Solutions at www.elementaryadvancement.com

Title: New Workshop Coming December 11th!Host: John MihalyoEpisode OverviewIn this short episode, John introduces an upcoming free workshop for Catholic school leaders: “The Five Reasons Your School Is Consistently Missing Its Enrollment Goal.” The workshop will be held Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 12 PM EST and will break down the often-overlooked factors behind enrollment shortfalls—and how to correct them before they impact your budget and school stability.What You’ll Hear AboutWhy enrollment growth is the number one driver of school sustainabilityCommon mistakes that keep schools from hitting enrollment goalsThe stress schools face when they enter a new year under-enrolledHow strengthening your enrollment systems can turn stress into stabilityDetails on how to register for this free workshop and what you’ll gain from attendingWorkshop RegistrationRegister for the free December 11th workshop at www.elementaryadvancement.com — and explore additional resources while you're there.Want Personalized Support?Want to reach out directly to talk more about their enrollment challenges and how coaching can help? Click here to set up a time!

Catholic School Leaders Podcast:What Black Friday Teaches Us About Recruitment in Catholic SchoolsHost: John MihalyoAs Black Friday ads start flooding inboxes and stores jump straight into holiday sales, John invites Catholic school leaders to look at what these shopping “mega-events” can teach us about enrollment. From excitement and anticipation to joy and commitment, the emotions shoppers experience on Black Friday mirror what families should feel during your school’s recruitment process.In this episode, John unpacks how schools can harness that same energy to build stronger interest, deeper engagement, and meaningful partnerships with future families.In This EpisodeExcitement: Are you building buzz around next school year the way retailers build hype for Black Friday?Anticipation: What are you doing today to make future families eager for their “first day” with you?Visitors: Just like holiday shoppers, some families are ready to enroll—and others are just browsing. How are you welcoming both?Joy: When families tour, are they leaving with the feeling that they’ve found something special?Happiness & Mission: Enrollment should feel like joining a community rooted in faith, joy, and partnership—not just signing paperwork.John challenges leaders to bring Black Friday–level enthusiasm into their recruitment efforts and create schools where families feel the same happiness every day that they feel when an exciting package arrives at their doorstep.Connect With JohnLooking to build enrollment excitement at your school?Set up a conversation with John by clicking here!📍 Website: www.elementaryadvancement.com

Catholic School Leaders PodcastHost: John MihalyoIn this episode, John talks about an often–overlooked part of fundraising events: what happens after the gala, dinner, or major celebration ends. He walks advancement directors and school leaders through the importance of gathering your team soon after the event to reflect, celebrate, and identify opportunities for improvement.In This EpisodeWhy every major event needs a post-event auditThe key questions to guide your reflection:What worked—and why?What didn’t work—and why not?What should we keep, stop, or change for next year?How honest feedback builds stronger events and stronger cultureWhy involving event chairs, committee members, and parent volunteers leads to better insightsHow reflection helps refresh stale traditions and spark new energyConnect With JohnWant help reviewing your recent event or planning for the next one?Visit www.elementaryadvancement.comClick here to set up a time to meet with John Mihalyo!

Catholic School Leaders PodcastHost: John MihalyoIn this solo episode, John talks about something every Catholic school leader knows well—the joy and energy leading up to Christmas… followed by the dreaded return in early January. With enrollment season approaching and Catholic Schools Week right around the corner, John shares practical ways to keep your school community motivated, positive, and focused once everyone comes back.In This EpisodeHow to set a positive tone when returning from Christmas breakWhy visibility and genuine check-ins matter more than everWays to support faculty emotionally after the holidaysKey communications to prioritize in JanuaryUsing Catholic Schools Week and Lent to strengthen cultureThe importance of leaders taking care of themselvesResources & LinksLent resource collection here!www.elementaryadvancement.comContact information: john@elementaryadvancement.comSchedule a time to meet with John here!

Episode Title: Building A.I. Literacy in Our Catholic SchoolsHost: John Mihalyo • Guest: Chelsea Lopez (The Social Institute)Overview:AI is here to stay—and your school can use it without losing the human touch. John and Chelsea unpack what AI really is, where it already shows up, and practical ways leaders can use it to save time, personalize learning, and strengthen culture.Key Takeaways:Simple definition of AI and why it matters nowTeacher time-savers (ideas, differentiation, drafts) without outsourcing judgmentStudent ownership: how to disclose AI use on assignmentsTiered, ongoing PD beats one-and-done workshopsBuild living policies: involve students/families, pilot first, revise oftenClear parent communication prevents confusion and builds trustResources:The Social InstituteConnect & Next Steps:Want help crafting AI PD, communication, or policy for your school? Book a 30-min call with John.

Episode Title: The Mastermind Advantage for Your School Leadership!In this short episode, John shares why Catholic school leaders don’t have to lead alone. Drawing on his own experience as a principal, he recalls the many times he wished for someone else to bounce ideas off of. That’s exactly why he created the Catholic School Mastermind cohorts at Elementary Advancement Solutions.In this episode, you’ll learn:What a mastermind group is and how it works.Why gathering with peers from outside your diocese provides a safe, confidential space for open conversation.The structure of the groups: prayer, accountability, discussion, and takeaways.How principals, advancement directors, and enrollment/marketing leaders are using mastermind groups to grow their schools.Why affordability and accessibility are priorities—especially for smaller schools.These cohorts meet twice a month for one hour, giving you the chance to share ideas, troubleshoot challenges, celebrate successes, and grow in leadership alongside other Catholic school leaders across the country.Resources & Next StepsWant to explore joining a Mastermind cohort? Schedule a 30-minute call with John to learn more.Learn more about Elementary Advancement Solutions at www.elementaryadvancement.comSubscribe to the Catholic School Leaders Podcast for more practical insights and encouragement.

Episode Title: Creating Memories Through Catholic School TraditionsShow Notes:Welcome back to another short but impactful episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast. In this episode, John Mihalyo reflects on the power of school traditions and how they shape culture, community, and memories that last a lifetime.Drawing on his own story of working at an amphitheater—where fans always expected to hear the most beloved songs—John compares those expectations to the cherished traditions within Catholic schools. Just like a concert wouldn’t feel the same without the classics, our schools wouldn’t feel complete without those meaningful traditions that students, parents, and alumni look forward to year after year.From senior sunrise and sunset ceremonies to long-standing celebrations unique to each community, traditions build excitement, strengthen culture, and give families something to anticipate and remember. John also reminds leaders to distinguish between traditions worth celebrating and practices that exist only because “that’s the way we’ve always done it.”Key Takeaways:Traditions create lasting memories and foster a strong, positive school culture.Students, parents, and alumni look forward to these moments and often measure their school experience by them.Not all traditions are equal—leaders must protect those that truly build community while letting go of outdated practices without purpose.Sharing traditions through storytelling and communication strengthens school pride and alumni connection.Call to Action:If you’d like to talk about how to strengthen culture, enrollment, and advancement at your Catholic school, schedule a time with John here. 

Free Workshop: The Pillars of Enrollment GrowthEpisode OverviewIn this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, John shares an exciting announcement—our next free workshopis coming up on October 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM EST.Whether your school has hit its enrollment goal, built a waitlist, or fallen short this year, this session will give you the tools to grow. John will walk through the Pillars of Enrollment Growth—the same strategies that have helped Catholic schools across the country increase enrollment by nearly 20% in just 18 months.What You’ll LearnWhy enrollment growth matters for long-term financial healthThe five pillars that drive sustainable growth in Catholic schoolsPractical, budget-friendly strategies you can use right awayHow to connect with other school leaders for shared insightsRegister Now📅 October 15, 2025 | 1:00 PM EST💻 Free Virtual Workshop👉 Register hereShare this opportunity with other school leaders in your network—it’s free, practical, and designed to help schools thrive.

Episode Title: The Power of Personal Connections in Our Catholic SchoolsIn this short episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, John shares a simple but powerful lesson for Catholic school leaders—why personal connection matters more than ever.Drawing from his recent experience of switching insurance agents, John highlights the parallels between customer service in business and the way Catholic schools communicate with families. Too often, schools only reach out when money is due or when something is needed. But that kind of transactional relationship doesn’t inspire loyalty—or retention.Instead, John challenges leaders to think about how their schools can:Go beyond financial transactions to build authentic, ongoing relationships with families.Celebrate and communicate good news regularly, not just when you need something.Create opportunities for personal connection that inspire parents to share their positive experiences with others.Avoid waiting until families decide to leave before addressing concerns—by being proactive and present.This episode is a quick reminder that relationships are the heartbeat of Catholic school advancement and enrollment. When families feel seen, valued, and connected, they don’t just stay—they become your best ambassadors.Resources & Next StepsWant help strengthening your school’s messaging and parent engagement? Schedule a call with John to talk through strategies.Subscribe to the Catholic School Leaders Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes filled with practical insights for your school.

Episode Title📢 Free Workshop: The Five Pillars of a Successful Catholic School Advancement ProgramHostHosted by John Mihalyo, Founder & CEO of Elementary Advancement SolutionsEpisode IntroductionIn this short episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, John shares an exciting opportunity for Catholic school leaders and advancement professionals: a free, one-hour workshop designed to help you strengthen and grow your school’s advancement program.This is your chance to learn the Five Pillars of a Successful Catholic School Advancement Program—a proven framework to inspire generosity, engage your community, and create a foundation for long-term growth.Whether your school already has an advancement office or you’ve been considering starting one, this workshop will give you practical insights and tools you can apply right away.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy advancement is critical for the long-term health of Catholic schoolsThe five pillars that every successful advancement program needsHow this free workshop can help your school strengthen its advancement workWhat to expect during the session (sharing ideas, asking questions, and learning together with other Catholic school leaders)How to register and reserve your spot for this live trainingEvent Details🗓 Date: Tuesday, September 10, 2025⏰ Time: 1:00 PM EST (one hour only!)💻 Location: Online via Zoom💲 Cost: FREE👉 Register here for the free workshopRegister now using the link above and join Catholic school leaders from across the country for this practical and inspiring session. Don’t miss this opportunity to step back, evaluate your school’s advancement efforts, and gain clarity on how to move forward with confidence.Set Up a Time to Meet with John MihalyoIf you’d like to talk further about how John and Elementary Advancement Solutions can help your school grow, you can also set up a time to connect here. 

🎙️ Episode Title: Thank You Without Asking: A Gratitude Call👤 Host: John Mihalyo🎧 Episode Summary:In this heartfelt short episode, John shares a touching story about receiving an unexpected message from a former student—a reminder of the lasting impact Catholic school leaders have. Inspired by that moment, John challenges fellow principals, advancement directors, and Catholic educators to pause and do something powerful: reach out and say thank you.No agenda. No ask. Just a sincere word of appreciation.Whether it’s a parent ambassador, generous donor, or someone who consistently shows up for your school, today’s episode is a call to recognize and celebrate the people who make our school communities special.💡 What You’ll Take Away:A reminder of the lasting influence you have on your students—even years later.A challenge to reconnect with key supporters of your school.Why gratitude without an ask can deepen trust and build stronger relationships.Simple ideas for who to thank and how to make it meaningful.✅ Action Step:Today, pick 2–3 people who’ve made a difference for your school.📞 Call, text, or email them just to say:“Thank you. I appreciate you.”No ask. No campaign. Just gratitude.🙏 Final Thought:This vocation is sacred—and we never do it alone. Don’t wait until the end of the year or the next gala to show appreciation. The best day to say thank you is today.☕ Let’s Connect📅 Book a virtual coffee with me and let’s talk about how to bring more collaboration into your leadership.

🎙️ Episode Title: Introducing: Catholic School Leaders Podcast Shorts👤 Host: John Mihalyo🎧 Episode Summary:In this special kickoff episode, John introduces a brand-new format for The Catholic School Leaders Podcast: short, focused, and timely episodes designed to support Catholic school leaders in just 5–7 minutes.These “Podcast Shorts” will tackle quick-hit topics, real-life challenges, and questions submitted by listeners—perfect for your morning drive or coffee break. John also shares how you can get involved by submitting your own questions and ideas for future episodes.Whether you're navigating faculty culture, planning events, or just looking for a boost of inspiration, these new mini-episodes are here to meet you where you are, when you need it most.💡 What You’ll Learn:What are Podcast Shorts and how they’ll serve you this school year.Why quick, practical episodes are a great companion to in-depth interviews.How to submit your own questions or leadership challenges for future episodes.John’s commitment to confidentiality and relevance in each topic covered.✉️ Submit Your Questions:Have a topic or challenge you’d like John to cover in a short episode?📬 Email: john@elementaryadvancement.com📌 Subject Line: Podcast Question🗓️ What’s Coming Up:Full-length expert interviews and solo episodes will continue weekly.Podcast Shorts will pop up throughout the month with real-time support and quick inspiration.🙏 Final Word:John wraps up with a word of encouragement for the new school year and a reminder that you’re not alone in your leadership journey. He’s praying for you—and ready to help.

🎙️ Episode Title: "You’ve Got This: Advice for New (and Veteran) Catholic School Principals"👤 Host: John Mihalyo👥 Guest: Julie Delaney, Retired Catholic School Principal & Parish Development Leader🎧 Episode Summary:In this reflective and wisdom-packed episode, John sits down with recently retired principal Julie Delaney to explore the most valuable lessons she learned from 17 years of leading a Catholic school. Whether you’re a brand-new administrator or a seasoned principal, Julie’s honest, insightful, and faith-filled reflections offer practical takeaways for building stronger school communities.From managing parent relationships and navigating tough conversations, to the importance of mission, faculty culture, and self-care—this episode is a must-listen for Catholic school leaders at every stage of their journey.💡 What You’ll Learn:Why your mission, vision, and goals must be visible and lived—not just written.The importance of face-to-face conversations and how empathy can defuse tension.How to balance transparency with confidentiality in parent communication.Tips for effective faculty hiring—and the cost of desperation hires.Why over-communicating isn't overkill—and how to do it without being repetitive.How to use discipline as formation rooted in mercy and faith.The blessing and challenge of evangelization in today’s Catholic schools.How to guard your time, avoid burnout, and take care of yourself without guilt.Julie’s advice to her first-year self—and to anyone starting their leadership journey.🔗 Resources Mentioned:🎧 Listen to Julie’s earlier episode on Pastor–Principal Partnerships☕ Book a virtual coffee conversation with John at Elementary Advancement Solutions:👉 Schedule hereVisit Elementary Advancement Solutions for great resources and a list of services offered to help you grow Catholic education at YOUR school!📬 Subscribe & ShareIf this episode encouraged you, inspired you, or gave you something to think about, share it with a fellow leader and leave us a review. Your support helps spread the mission of strong Catholic education leadership.

✨ Podcast Show NotesEpisode: PLCs That Work: Building Collaborative Catholic School CulturesGuest: Dr. Trevor Timmerberg, Assistant Superintendent, Archdiocese of LouisvilleHost: John Mihalyo, Catholic School Leaders PodcastDescription:In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Trevor Timmerberg to explore how Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) can become transformational forces within Catholic schools—not just for student achievement, but for culture, leadership, and teacher growth.Trevor shares how his former school earned international recognition as a Model PLC School, what it takes to build a guiding coalition, and how to implement PLCs even when you're the only teacher in your grade level.We also talk about:✅ The 4 essential questions that drive PLCs✅ How to structure collaboration when you only have one teacher per grade✅ Why you don’t need more money or time—you need more focus✅ Leveraging PLCs for vertical alignment and long-term student growth✅ How to design your master schedule with intentionality✅ Creating a culture where peer leadership flourishes✅ The impact of PLCs on MAP testing growth and school-wide successWhether you’re a Catholic school principal, advancement director, or classroom teacher, this episode offers practical advice and real inspiration for leading your school forward through collaboration.🔗 Resources Mentioned💬 Connect with Dr. Trevor Timmerberg on LinkedIn🤝 Learn more about Catholic School Mastermind Groups: Set up a call☕ Let’s ConnectCurious about how a mastermind group can help you grow as a Catholic school leader?📅 Book a virtual coffee with me and let’s talk about how to bring more collaboration into your leadership.