The Catholic School Leaders Podcast
Host: John Mihalyo
Title: From Chaos to Clarity: Creating an Advancement Strategy That Works
Episode Summary
In 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 Takeaway
Strong advancement doesn’t happen by accident. It requires clear planning, consistent communication, and a mission-driven approach that builds trust and sustainability.
Call to Action
Need 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 Plan
Host: John Mihalyo
Episode Summary
In 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 Topics
Key Takeaway
Predictable enrollment results come from intentional planning. When everyone knows the plan, enrollment becomes less stressful—and more effective.
Call to Action
Want 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 Takeaways
Call to Action
If 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 Mihalyo
Episode Overview
In 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 About
Workshop Registration
Register 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 Schools
Host: John Mihalyo
As 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 Episode
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 John
Looking to build enrollment excitement at your school?
Set up a conversation with John by clicking here!
📍 Website: www.elementaryadvancement.com
Catholic School Leaders Podcast
Host: John Mihalyo
In 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 Episode
Connect With John
Want help reviewing your recent event or planning for the next one?
Visit www.elementaryadvancement.com
Click here to set up a time to meet with John Mihalyo!
Catholic School Leaders Podcast
Host: John Mihalyo
In 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 Episode
Resources & Links
Episode Title: Building A.I. Literacy in Our Catholic Schools
Host: 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:
Resources:
Connect & Next Steps:
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:
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 Steps
Episode Title: Creating Memories Through Catholic School Traditions
Show 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:
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 Growth
Episode Overview
In 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 Learn
Register Now
📅 October 15, 2025 | 1:00 PM EST
💻 Free Virtual Workshop
👉 Register here
Share 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 Schools
In 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:
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 Steps
Episode Title
📢 Free Workshop: The Five Pillars of a Successful Catholic School Advancement Program
Host
Hosted by John Mihalyo, Founder & CEO of Elementary Advancement Solutions
Episode Introduction
In 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 Episode
Event 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 workshop
Register 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 Mihalyo
If 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:
✅ 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:
✉️ 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:
🙏 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:
🔗 Resources Mentioned:
📬 Subscribe & Share
If 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 Notes
Episode: PLCs That Work: Building Collaborative Catholic School Cultures
Guest: Dr. Trevor Timmerberg, Assistant Superintendent, Archdiocese of Louisville
Host: John Mihalyo, Catholic School Leaders Podcast
Description:
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:
Whether 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
☕ Let’s Connect
Curious 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.
🎙️ Episode Title: Mentorship That Matters: Building Stronger Catholic Schools One Teacher at a Time
👤 Host: John Mihalyo
👥 Guest: LaCosta Potter, Superintendent, Diocese of Crookston (MN)
🎧 Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode, John sits down with LaCosta Potter to explore how intentional, faith-driven mentorship is transforming teacher retention and culture across the Diocese of Crookston. LaCosta shares how her diocese has crafted a sustainable and impactful mentorship framework that supports both new and veteran teachers—especially those transitioning from public schools or new to the Catholic faith.
From onboarding with Mass and formation to trust-based observations and diocesan-wide collaboration, LaCosta reveals the systems and spiritual mindset that make their mentorship program both practical and personal. Whether you're a principal, superintendent, or teacher leader, you'll walk away with actionable ideas to implement a mentorship model rooted in mission, clarity, and community.
🧰 Key Takeaways:
🛠️ Mentioned in the Episode:Trust-Based Observations by Craig Randall
Listen to John’s interview with Craig
☕ Ready to Talk Strategy?
Let’s create an enrollment plan that works for your school. Set up a time to chat with John:
👉 Book a Virtual Cup of Coffee
🔔 Don’t Miss an Episode!
If this episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your fellow Catholic school leaders.
A Game-Changer for Catholic Schools: What You Need to Know About the New Federal Tax Credit
with Brian Jodice, Press Secretary, American Federation for Children
📌 Episode Summary:
In this must-listen episode, John Mihalyo welcomes back Brian Jodice—Catholic school dad, advocate, and Press Secretary for the American Federation for Children—to break down one of the most impactful pieces of legislation Catholic education has seen in decades: the new federal tax credit for K-12 scholarships.
This new tax code change, signed into law on July 4, 2025, creates a 100% federal tax credit that is permanent and uncapped, empowering donors and transforming access to Catholic education. Brian and John dig into what this means for dioceses, school leaders, families, and donors—and what needs to happen now to be ready by 2027.
If you’re a Catholic school leader, parent, pastor, board member, or superintendent, this episode equips you with everything you need to understand, advocate for, and act on this opportunity.
💡 What You’ll Learn:
🛠️ Practical Takeaways:
🔗 Resources Mentioned:
Have questions about how this new tax credit could impact your school? Want help planning next steps for your advancement or enrollment strategy? Grab a virtual cup of coffee with me and let’s talk about how we can strengthen your Catholic school.
📅 Schedule a time here
🎙️ Catholic School Leaders Podcast
Episode Title: Mid-Summer Check-In: Budgeting, Staffing, and Setting the Tone
Host: John Mihalyo
In this episode, I dive into what’s keeping Catholic school leaders up at night in July—and what you can do about it. From budget shortfalls and open teaching positions to enrollment follow-ups and planning a meaningful faculty work week, I break down key priorities and offer practical steps you can take right now to set your school year up for success.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
🎯 Need help untying the knots?
Let’s talk: elementaryadvancement.com
🎓 Check out this month’s free workshop while you’re there!