Culture Eats Everything

Hosted by Phoenix Performance Partners

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Jun 2026

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About the show

This podcast explores the world of leadership and the power of culture through conversations with CEOs and school Superintendents. Go to https://www.phoenixperform.com/

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60 recent

June 8, 202616 min

Cultures Within Cultures: Leadership, Assumptions, and Adaptation

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Tom Willis sits down with Dr. Stephen Bigelow, an experienced educator and former superintendent who traded Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for life and leadership in Salvador, Brazil. Together, they explore the concept of “cultures within cultures” and discuss how living and leading in a completely different environment challenged Stephen’s assumptions about healthcare, education, relationships, and leadership itself.Stephen shares how confronting his own preconceived notions opened the door to deeper learning, stronger relationships, and a greater appreciation for cultural differences. The conversation highlights the importance of humility, adaptability, and surrounding yourself with people who challenge your thinking. They also discuss how leadership principles remain universal even when cultural norms, communication styles, and expectations vary dramatically.Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-bigelow/🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange: https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book: https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!#Leadership #CultureEatsEverything #OrganizationalCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #EducationalLeadership #InternationalLeadership #CrossCulturalLeadership #PersonalGrowth #LeadershipPodcast #CultureWithinCulture #Adaptability #LeadershipLessons #TomWillis #StephenBigelow #CultureMatters

August 12, 202525 min

From Newsroom to Senior Living: Lessons in Calm Leadership

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Tom and Nicole discussed recent flooding situations in Wisconsin and compared them to experiences in other states, while sharing their backgrounds in senior care and leadership roles. They explored the importance of authentic leadership and vulnerability, particularly during crises, with Nicole sharing examples from her experience as CEO of Cedar Community and her broadcasting background. The conversation concluded with discussions about leadership challenges, transparency, and future plans for collaboration at the Leading Age conference.Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolepretre🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

August 7, 202535 min

Breaking the Cycle of Turnover: Leading with Commitment and Clarity

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Tom and Matt shared their experiences and perspectives on teaching and education leadership, discussing their personal journeys and the challenges of small-town life. They explored topics including the importance of kindness and directness in teaching, the evolution of Matt's teaching approach, and the role of leadership in creating positive school cultures. The conversation concluded with discussions about organizational culture, collaboration, and the evolving nature of educational leadership, including plans for future video projects and sharing educational practices.Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-condon-311ab616/🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

July 28, 202520 min

Beyond the Title: Dan Cox on Rediscovering Purpose After Burnout

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Host Tom Willis sits down with former superintendent Dan Cox, who opens up about the hidden pressures school leaders face.👨‍🏫 From the shifting roles of superintendents to the emotional toll of constant leadership, Dan shares:👉Why average tenure is shrinking fast (down to 2.5 years!)👉The emotional armor leaders wear without knowing👉How sabbaticals, even mini ones, can be game changers👉The powerful realization of separating what you do from who you areClick here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-w-cox-32266892🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

June 13, 202518 min

Using the Right Side of the Stick: Leadership, Growth & Redefining Aging

In this powerful episode of Culture Eats Everything , Tom sits down with Kathy Martin, CEO of Glenmeadow in Massachusetts. Kathy shares how lessons from field hockey shaped her leadership journey, the difference between reacting and responding, and how leaders must move beyond their “default success strategy.” She also reveals how Glenmeadow is redefining aging—not as a decline, but as a vibrant phase full of growth and potential. A must-listen for aspiring leaders and anyone rethinking what it means to grow older with purpose.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insightful episodes!Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-martin-a45a095/🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

May 27, 202533 min

Leading Through Transition: Monica Schroeder on Leadership, Culture & Advocacy in Education

In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, Tom sit down with Monica Schroeder, Deputy Superintendent of Northshore School District 112. Monica shares her inspiring journey, how she advocated for herself as a Latina female leader, and the power of intentional succession planning.If you’re a school board member, aspiring superintendent, or anyone passionate about leadership, culture, and education, this conversation is packed with lessons on advocacy, resilience, and driving positive change.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insightful episodes!Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monica-schroeder-36167ab4/🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

April 14, 202522 min

Part 1 - Succession Planning Conversation | Leadership Legacy & Smooth Transitions with Michael

In Part 1 of this two-part series on succession planning, Michael Lubelfeld, Superintendent of Northshore School District 112, joins the Culture Eats Everything podcast. He reflects on his leadership journey, the intentional planning behind his upcoming retirement, and how he and Deputy Superintendent Monica Schroeder are working together to ensure a seamless leadership transition. A candid conversation filled with lessons on legacy, communication, and the power of thoughtful planning.Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-van-allan-0087646🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaellubelfeld📖 Michael Book: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B06XD9ZWK1?ccs_id=b934121b-e09f-4050-9c02-d02ea4273fb7🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

March 27, 202528 min

Leading with Energy: Creating Positive Cultures in Schools and Beyond with Jim Van Allan

In this episode of Culture Eats Everything Podcast, Jim Van Allan, President of The Energy Bus for Schools, shares powerful insights on leadership, engagement, and fostering positive cultures. With a PhD in educational leadership, he discusses the crossover between building successful schools and thriving organizations. Tune in to discover actionable strategies to energize your culture, whether in education or business!Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-van-allan-0087646🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/🌐 Jim Website: www.EnergyBusForSchools.com🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

March 3, 202524 min

Leadership Growth & Culture: Insights from CEO Jamie LaLonde | Culture Eats Everything

Join us for an insightful conversation with Jamie LaLonde, CEO of Angela Hospice, on leadership growth, workplace culture, and transitioning from executive director to CEO. Learn how Jamie empowers her team, fosters a strong culture, and navigates the challenges of leadership. Don't miss this episode of Culture Eats Everything!🔹 Topics covered:✅ Leadership lessons from Jamie's journey✅ Building a thriving workplace culture✅ Strategies for empowering teams✅ The importance of self-growth as a leaderClick here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalondejamie/🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinjohndavis🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!

February 8, 202530 min

How Improv Can Transform Leadership | Culture Eats Everything Podcast with Joel Zeff

What can improv teach us about leadership? In this episode of the Culture Eats Everything podcast, host Tom interviews Joel Zeff, author of Make the Right Choice, to explore how improv can elevate leadership, boost team engagement, and create a culture of fun. 🎭✨Joel shares powerful insights on:✅ The role of fun in leadership and teamwork✅ How to stay present and make better decisions✅ Using improv to enhance communication and collaboration✅ Building a culture of support and opportunity🔹 Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelzeff/🔹 Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasawillis/Click here to buy our book: 📚✨🔗 https://geni.us/the-great-engagement🌐 Phoenix Performance Partners Website: 🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/🎭 Interchange:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/interchange🎙 Listen to Culture Eats Everything Podcast:🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/culture-eats-everything/id1526731051🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1utf9dZh2PRQKxe6qg5I5MTom Willis:📖 Check out our book:🔗 https://www.phoenixperform.com/book👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more leadership insights!#Leadership #Improv #CultureEatsEverything #JoelZeff #Teamwork #Podcast#Leadership #Improv #CultureEatsEverything #Teamwork #JoelZeff #Podcast #cultureeatseverything