Champions of Hope and Leadership
What does it look like when someone truly leads with heart? Find out on Champions of Hope and Leadership, hosted by Ben Kirby, Superintendent of Forest Hills Public Schools.
Each episode celebrates the remarkable people who show up every single day for kids, families, and communities — the educators, leaders, and difference-makers who build relationships, lift others up, and leave a lasting mark on everyone they meet. These are the champions you might not always hear about, but whose impact you absolutely feel.
Whether you're an educator, a parent, a community member, or simply someone who believes in the power of people to change the world, this podcast is for you. Get ready to be inspired, encouraged, and reminded of what's possible when passion meets purpose.
New episodes dropping soon. Subscribe now and never miss a story worth celebrating.
Episodes
Jun 24, 2026
Jun 24, 2026
20 min
In this episode of Champions of Hope and Leadership, host Superintendent Ben Kirby sits down with Mary Vonck, a longtime Forest Hills Board of Education member whose 20-plus years of service helped shape the district into what it is today. Mary shares the story behind her decades of advocacy, from hiring multiple superintendents to launching the Student Advisory Council and Project CHARLIE, and reflects on what it means to lead with curiosity, humility, and heart. A recipient of the Ben Emdin Guiding Principles in Action Award, Mary opens up about the students who've shaped her, the lessons she's learned about listening to understand, and where she finds hope for the next generation. It's a heartfelt conversation about service, legacy, and what it truly means to cultivate possibility.
Jun 2, 2026
Jun 2, 2026
19 min
In this episode, Superintendent Ben Kirby talks with Melanie Hoeksema, principal of Ada Elementary. As an educator who is retiring, their discussion centers on Melanie's career, which has shaped countless students, teachers, and communities. She shares her wisdom, which comes from a life fully devoted to education spanning over 30 years. And along the way, you'll discover how Petoskey stones, Broadway musicals, and a deep love of literature reveal the curious, joyful spirit that has defined her approach to education all along.
Apr 29, 2026
Apr 29, 2026
18 min
In this episode, Superintendent Ben Kirby talks with Collins Elementary School Principal Mitchell Balingit about his experiences growing up, immigrating to the United States from the Philippines, embracing his culture, and how these experiences shape his leadership style and his work with students.
Mar 30, 2026
Mar 30, 2026
22 min
In Brad Anderson's AP World History classroom at Forest Hills Central High, empires rise and fall before the bell rings, and a game of Risk just might determine the fate of the ancient world. Brad doesn't just teach history…he makes it unforgettable. Whether he's in the classroom or on the wrestling mat, Brad brings a true championship mindset to everything he does. He is an icon, legend, and leader in Forest Hills and a Champion of Hope.