Barb Flowers:
Welcome to The Principal’s Handbook, your go-to resource for principals looking to revamp their leadership approach and prioritize self-care. I’m Barb Flowers, a certified life coach with eight years of experience as an elementary principal.

Tune in each week as we explore strategies for boosting mental resilience, managing time effectively, and nurturing overall wellness. From tackling daily challenges to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, we’ll navigate the complexities of school leadership together.

Welcome to a podcast where your well-being is the top priority.

Barb:
Hi everyone, welcome! I’m so excited to be here today with our guest, John Mihalyo. He’s the founder and president of Elementary Advancement Solutions and the host of The Catholic School Leaders Podcast. John works with Catholic school leaders to improve their schools, and he brings over 25 years of experience in education—including 20 years in administrative roles.

He’s served as principal at three different Catholic schools and has led initiatives that significantly boosted enrollment, fundraising, and strategic marketing. He even directed a $5.5 million high school renovation project. We’re thrilled to learn from his expertise today.

John Mihalyo:
Thanks, Barb. It’s great to be here!

Barb:
Today, we’re talking about masterminds, something John leads regularly. Can you start by explaining what a mastermind group is and how it benefits school leaders?

John:
Absolutely. The concept of a mastermind group was introduced by Napoleon Hill. When he studied great leaders, he found that many of them collaborated with others regularly. That collaboration helped them grow.

Our mastermind groups give Catholic and faith-based school principals the opportunity to meet bi-weekly—twice a month—for one hour. It’s a safe, supportive space to discuss relevant challenges and strategies with other leaders in similar roles.

Some groups are for principals, others are for fundraising officers, aspiring principals, or enrollment directors. The goal is real-time collaboration and support.

Barb:
I’ve personally participated in a mastermind, and I found it so powerful. I connected with leaders from all over the country—Nevada, Missouri, I’m in Ohio—and despite our different school settings, we shared so many of the same challenges.

John:
That’s the beauty of it. When you’re in a group with people outside your immediate diocese or district, you can really let your guard down. You’re not competing for the same resources. It’s a judgment-free space to ask, “Has anyone else dealt with this?” And often, you find others have—and they’re eager to share what worked.

Barb:
Exactly. As a principal, it can feel isolating. I remember wanting a space where I could be truly open and get real feedback. Coaching and mastermind groups offer that in ways typical professional development doesn’t.

John:
Right. Especially in Catholic schools, principals often wear multiple hats—curriculum leader, HR, fundraiser, enrollment manager. You’re essentially the CEO. And while diocesan HR might exist, a lot still falls on your shoulders.

If enrollment drops or a campaign underperforms, that’s a major financial hit. Having a space to brainstorm and get support can make a huge difference.

Barb:
And it helps combat that loneliness of the role. Plus, when you know you’re meeting regularly, you can bring your questions and challenges to that group and walk away with actionable ideas.

John:
Exactly. Some weeks you’re getting help, and other weeks you’re the one offering insight. That variety of perspectives—from new principals to seasoned veterans—adds so much value. And regardless of school size or location, 98% of the issues we face are universal.

Barb:
So true. But time is such a barrier for principals. What do you say to leaders who think they’re too busy to commit to something like this?

John:
Great question. We’re only talking about two hours a month. That’s it. And I always say: if you can’t carve out two hours, then you probably need this more than anyone.

We schedule the meetings during the school day, so you’re not taking time from your family. Shut your door, put up a sign, and let your staff know you’re in a virtual PD session. That actually models great leadership—you’re investing in yourself.

Barb:
I always felt I showed up better—for my staff and my family—after that time. Like the oxygen mask analogy on a plane: you have to put yours on first before helping others.

John:
Exactly. And if you don’t, you risk becoming an obstacle to others. That recharge from collaboration can carry you through the next two weeks. Plus, it’s ongoing—unlike a one-time conference.

We start each meeting with a prayer and then review the goals you set during the last session. That accountability matters. You’re more likely to follow through when you’ve shared it with others.

Barb:
Yes! It’s just like instructional coaching for teachers—ongoing support and accountability. You don’t leave overwhelmed; you leave focused and inspired.

John:
Absolutely. And if the idea of two hours a month feels like too much, that’s even more reason to join. That likely means your schedule is out of balance. Masterminds can help you identify what to delegate and where to streamline.

Barb:
What’s the cost of joining a mastermind compared to the value it offers?

John:
Most groups are between $1,500 and $2,000 for the year. That breaks down to a fraction of what it costs to attend a big conference—plus, this is ongoing support.

It’s also Title II eligible because it’s professional development. And we’re flexible—if you have multiple team members who want to join, we work with schools to make it affordable.

Barb:
And beyond principals, you also offer mastermind groups for advancement directors, enrollment coordinators, and aspiring principals, right?

John:
Yes, exactly. And in the fall, we’re launching a group specifically for first-time Catholic school principals. Whether you’re new to administration or transitioning from public to Catholic schools, this group offers targeted support.

All our groups are intentionally small—six to ten people—so everyone can participate meaningfully. If a group grows too large, we split it. The goal is real collaboration, not lectures.

Barb:
That’s such a great setup. Where can people go to sign up or learn more?

John:
Visit www.elementaryadvancement.com. You’ll find information about all the mastermind options and a calendar to schedule a call with me. I’m also active on LinkedIn—just search John Mihalyo or Elementary Advancement Solutions.

We currently have members from the U.S., Canada, and Australia, and we’re happy to work with your schedule.

Barb:
We’ll also include those links in the show notes. John, thank you so much for being here today. Whether you’re a Catholic school leader or not, I hope this conversation encourages every listener to prioritize their own professional development.

Taking time for yourself is what allows you to lead your school well and stay connected to your purpose. Thanks again, John.

John:
Thank you, Barb. It was a pleasure!