Episode 281: Be the Light with Dr. Chris Culver
From Leaning into Leadership by Darrin Peppard
June 7, 2026 · 25 min · Season 1 · Episode 281
About this episode
Dr. Chris Culver discusses his book 'Be the Light' and the transformative power of kindness and belonging in leadership.
Dr. Chris Culver returns to Leaning Into Leadership for a powerful follow-up conversation centered around his new book, Be the Light: The Science of Kindness and the Power of Belonging . If you enjoyed Chris's first appearance on Episode 214: The Science of Kindness , you're going to love where this conversation goes next. While Episode 214 explored the research behind kindness, this discussion takes a deeper look at how belonging, empathy, neuroscience, and intentional leadership can transform the cultures we create and the lives we touch. In this episode, Darrin and Chris explore: Why every person is wired for belonging How kindness is a leadership strategy—not a weakness The connection between stress, burnout, and human connection The story behind Be the Light and its journey from darkness to hope The powerful "Light Manifesto" and what it means to choose kindness every day A memorable classroom story that illustrates the importance of perspective and self-compassion Three practical strategies you can implement immediately: The six-second pause Gratitude as a daily leadership practice Self-affirmation and the power of positive identity Throughout the conversation, Chris…
People in this episode
Host: Darrin Peppard
Guest: Dr. Chris Culver
Topics covered
- kindness
- belonging
- leadership
- empathy
- neuroscience
- self-compassion
- burnout
Keywords
- kindness
- leadership strategy
- belonging
- empathy
- neuroscience
- burnout
- self-affirmation
- gratitude
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: Be the Light: The Science of Kindness and the Power of Belonging, Episode 214: The Science of Kindness
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- Episode 278: Compliance Can Control a Team. Alignment Can Transform One. · May 20, 2026 · 17 min
- Episode 277: Redefining Educator Professionalism with Dr. Nason Lollar · May 17, 2026 · 49 min
- Episode 276: The Leadership TAP with Dr. Joy Karavedas · May 10, 2026 · 33 min
- Episode 275: From Compliance to Connection — Rethinking Classroom Engagement with Megan Diede · May 3, 2026 · 31 min
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