- "A-muse" = Anti-think: Jake Baskin
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Jake Baskin, Senior Philanthropic Advisor at Baylor University, about raising curious, resilient children in a culture competing for their attention. Jake and his wife, Meredith, share their intentional approach to parenting in The Happiness Crisis, and this conversation takes a deeper look at what that looks like in everyday family life.
From limiting passive screen time to making room for reading, nature, sports, creativity, and even boredom, Jake explores how parents can help children slow down, pay attention, and become captivated by what is true.
Mentioned:
- The Happiness Crisis by Jon Eckert
- The End of Reading is Here The Atlantic
- Why it pays to be bored article by Arthur Brooks
- Bible Reading with your Kids by Jon Nielson
- The Wright Brothers by David McCullough
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45m - Sep 8, 2026 - Parental Joy: Grace Eckert
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with his daughter, Grace Eckert, an incoming Baylor freshman, about launching into adulthood and what she has learned along the way. On move-in day, Grace reflects on her own struggles with belonging, her time in Central Asia, and the experiences that have shaped how she sees herself and the world around her.
Grace and Jon talk about the importance of getting outside of yourself, whether that's through serving others, traveling, suffering, or simply being willing to see life from a perspective beyond your own. They also discuss parenting, boundaries, faith, and what it takes to build meaningful community as you step into a new season of life.
Mentioned:
- The Happiness Crisis by Jon Eckert
- Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
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29m - Aug 25, 2026 - Joy Through Friendship: Matt Burchett
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Dr. Matt Burchett, who leads philanthropy and social impact at Thrive Restaurant Group, about his work to invest in people and strengthen communities. Matt also reflects on his 15 years at Baylor leading student life and the relationships that have shaped his own journey.
Matt talks about saying yes to friendships without knowing where they will lead, trusting that something good can come from the people God puts in our path. From a friendship that led Jon and Matt to Mississippi to the philosophy that “you bet on people, not on programs,” this conversation explores how relationships can shape who we become and can lead to meaningful work along the way.
Mentioned:
- The Happiness Crisis by Jon Eckert
- Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson
- Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
- Comment Magazine: Public Theology for the Common Good
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53m - Aug 11, 2026 - Building Belonging and Status: Regan Davis
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Regan Davis, middle school teacher at Langley Christian School, Baylor M.A. in School Leadership student, and one of the educators featured in The Happiness Crisis, about why belonging and healthy status are so important during the middle school years. Through Langley's four-day sailing trip, Regan shares how experiences outside the classroom can help students build confidence, strengthen friendships, and see themselves in new ways.
This conversation explores practical ways schools can foster belonging without lowering expectations. Regan explains why students need more than comfort and convenience. They need opportunities to take risks, contribute to their community, and discover what they're capable of.
Mentioned:
The Happiness Crisis by Jon Eckert
10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People by David Yeager
The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
How to Know a Person by David Brooks
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23m - Jul 28, 2026 - Joy in Schools Communities: Tracey Beal
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Tracey Beal, founder of School Connect, about what happens when schools stop trying to do everything alone and communities step in to help. Drawing on more than two decades of connecting schools with churches, businesses, nonprofits, and volunteers, Tracey shares how building a "village" around students can strengthen not only schools, but entire communities.
From supporting teacher retention and literacy to creating meaningful partnerships that meet the unique needs of each school, this conversation explores how educators don't just need more resources. They need more people. Tracey reminds us that while education continues to evolve, one thing won't change: every student needs caring adults who show up, believe in them, and walk alongside them.
Mentioned:
Who Not How: The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamwork by Dan Sullivan
School Connect: https://schoolconnectaz.org/
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25m - Jul 14, 2026 - A Rule for the Rest of Us: Jen Michel
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Jen Pollock Michel, author of the upcoming A Rule for the Rest of Us, about how small, intentional practices can help us find joy in the ordinary rhythms of life. Jen shares why a "rule of life" isn't about perfection or productivity, but about creating habits that keep us rooted in what matters most.
From navigating grief and embracing life's limits to resisting the constant pull of novelty and self-optimization, this conversation explores how joy is often found in faithfulness rather than excitement.
Mentioned:
- A Rule for the Rest of Us by Jen Pollock Michel
- The Rule of St. Benedict
- Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer
- Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara
- The Good Life by Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz
- The Upswing by Robert Putnam and Shaylyn Romney Garrett
- Unfettered Hope: A Call to Faithful Living in an Affluent Society by Marva J. Dawn
- Renovation of the Heart by Dallas Willard
- The Happiness Crisis by Jon Eckert
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34m - Jun 30, 2026 - Beyond Superheroes: Lindsay Whorton
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Dr. Lindsay Whorton, President of the Holdsworth Center and author of A New School Leadership Architecture, about why the future of school leadership depends less on superheroes and more on sustainable systems. Drawing on her work with districts across Texas, Lindsay shares how schools can rethink leadership roles to better support teachers, develop future leaders, and create conditions where both educators and students can flourish.
From building cultures of ownership instead of buy-in to creating leadership structures that distribute responsibility rather than concentrate it, this conversation explores how schools can meet growing challenges without burning out the people doing the work.
Mentioned:
A New School Leadership Architecture: A Four-Level Framework for Reimagining Roles by Lindsay Whorton
Middlemarch by George Eliot
Inside the Box: How Constraints Make Us Better by David Epstein
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38m - Jun 16, 2026 - Joyful Learning: Bryan Goodwin
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert has a conversation with Bryan Goodwin, Deputy Executive Director, McREL Institute at Region 13, about what joyful learning actually looks like in classrooms. Bryan explores why joy isn't the absence of struggle but often found in the process of learning, growing, and overcoming challenges.
From the power of curiosity and collaborative inquiry to the value of storytelling, boredom, and meaningful questions, Bryan shares how educators can create conditions where students and teachers experience genuine engagement.
This conversation is a reminder that joyful learning isn't about making everything easy. It's about creating opportunities for people to discover, persevere, and find meaning in the work of becoming better.
Mentioned:
The Happiness Crisis by Jon Eckert
The Meaning of Your Life by Arthur Brooks
The Flourishing Factor by Chris Egan Teaching
Reaching Kids Who Don't Fit Inside the Box by Pete Hall
Charlie Hustle by Keith O'Brien
Never Work Harder Than Your Students by Robyn Jackson
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31m - Jun 2, 2026 - Work is Making the Unseen Seen: David Kim
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Rev. Dr. David Kim, CEO and co-founder of Goldenwood, about AI and vocation. David's passion is to help people and organizations see the unseen realities that give rise to the world we create.
David shares why the future will belong not just to efficiency, but to people who can cultivate curiosity, connection, and creativity in a rapidly changing world.
Mentioned:
Every Good Endeavor by Tim Keller and Katherine Leary Alsdorf
Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara
“The Tune of Things” by Christian Wiman
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23m - May 19, 2026 - Real Life Lessons for Humanizing Education and AI: Darren Spyksma
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Darren Spyksma about what it really means to humanize education in a world that keeps pushing toward efficiency and shortcuts.
Darren shares how the real work in schools isn’t fixing kids, it’s helping adults grow in how they show up for them. From turning conflict into an opportunity for deeper relationships to helping teachers and parents stay present instead of outsourcing responsibility to technology, this conversation is a grounded look at what “humazing” education actually looks like. It’s a reminder that the best learning still happens through real relationships, honest conversations, and choosing to do the slower, harder work of being human together.
Mentioned:
10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People by David Yeager
The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
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27m - May 5, 2026 - A Blacksmith's Son Turned AI Education Expert: Sean Riley
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Sean Riley, who’s spent nearly two decades at The Stony Brook School and is now a leading AI expert, about what it looks like to navigate AI in education with wisdom and purpose.
Sean shares his journey from a blue-collar upbringing into education and leadership, and how that formation shapes the way he approaches technology today. From helping schools move beyond fear and policy toward thoughtful, mission-aligned strategy, to reminding educators that AI should serve human relationships, not replace them. This conversation is a reminder that even in the middle of disruption, joy is found in meaningful work, wise decisions, and staying rooted in what matters most.
Mentioned:
That Hideous Strength by C.S. Lewis
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25m - Apr 21, 2026 - Joy Over Happiness in Hollywood and at Home: Alison Sweeney
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Alison Sweeney, actress, director, and host known for her work on Days of Our Lives, The Biggest Loser, and Hallmark films, about how she has learned to pursue joy both in Hollywood and at home.
Alison shares what it’s looked like to grow up in the spotlight while building a family and staying grounded in what matters most. From finding joy in everyday moments as a parent to navigating the pressures of a public career, this conversation explores how joy is not found in achievement alone, but in relationships.
Mentioned:
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Center for School Leadership at Baylor University
Baylor MA in School Leadership
51m - Apr 14, 2026 - AI and Hope for a Better, More Equitable World: Elaine Howard Ecklund
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Elaine Howard Ecklund, Professor of Sociology and Director of the Boniuk Institute for the Study and Advancement of Religious Tolerance, about what it means to stay human in a world increasingly shaped by AI. Drawing on her research and conversations with students, Elaine shares why many young people are less worried about cheating and more concerned about relationships, identity, and what it means to be human.
From slowing down in the classroom to resisting a culture obsessed with efficiency, this conversation explores how educators can create spaces for deep learning, connection, and belonging. It’s a reminder that joy isn’t found in speed or productivity, but in the relationships, practices, and shared struggle that help us grow.
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Center for School Leadership at Baylor University
Baylor MA in School Leadership
33m - Apr 7, 2026 - A College Student's Take on AI, Cheating, and the Future: Nathan Bachman
In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Nathan Bachman, a junior at Baylor, about what it’s actually like to be a student in the age of AI, where shortcuts are easy and the pressure to use them is real.
Nathan talks through the tension students feel between doing the work and taking the shortcut, and the reality that there are two paths with AI. You can automate your life or use it to augment it. From questions about the value of a college degree to choosing integrity when no one is watching, this conversation is an honest look at how students are navigating learning, effort, and what actually matters.
Mentioned:
The Happiness Crisis: How Adversity Can Build a Resilient and Joyful Next Generation by Jon Eckert
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29m - Mar 24, 2026 - Conversations with AI Leaders: Ron Ivey
Ron Ivey studies one of the quiet drivers behind many of today’s challenges for young people: loneliness. In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with the Harvard Human Flourishing Program research fellow and founder of Noēsis Collaborative, an initiative launched in 2025 to build an ecosystem of leaders researching and shaping technologies that advance human flourishing, about why belonging and meaningful relationships are essential to a joyful life.
Drawing on research about technology, culture, and connection, Ron explains how rising isolation is reshaping how young people seek belonging. This conversation reminds us that joy is not found in comfort or convenience. It grows through real relationships, shared struggle, and the deep connections that help us become who we are created to be.
JOY over Happiness is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership.
Lean into the struggle. Live with joy.
Mentioned:
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33m - Mar 10, 2026 - Joy Through Supporting Meaningful Work: Chris Everett
Chris Everett believes school improvement begins with people, not programs. In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with the former coach, principal, and current Chief Strategy Officer at engage2learn about why lasting change starts with teacher-student relationships, adult mindsets, and the courage to address adaptive challenges instead of chasing quick technical fixes.
From reminding leaders that curriculum alone will not raise outcomes to highlighting the power of belief and consistent pedagogy, Chris points back to the human work at the center of education. This conversation is a reminder that joy is not circumstantial success or rising scores. It is found in meaningful relationships, shared struggle, and the daily work of helping students flourish together.
JOY over Happiness is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership.
Lean into the struggle. Live with joy.
Mentioned:
Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
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Center for School Leadership at Baylor University
Baylor MA in School Leadership
28m - Feb 24, 2026 - Get the Story: Tige Watson
Tige Watson has spent years leading students by starting with their story. In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with the former deputy fire chief turned school leader about why understanding what’s beneath student behavior is often the most effective way to support growth, belonging, and joy.
Tige shares how shifting from punishment to listening reshaped discipline, mentorship, and student life at Valor Christian High School. From getting the full story before making decisions to creating phone-free spaces that restore connection, this conversation reminds us that joy isn’t circumstantial happiness. It’s formed slowly, relationally, and intentionally.
JOY over Happiness is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership.
Lean into the struggle. Live with joy.
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32m - Feb 10, 2026 - Joy Through Phone Freedom: Alison Smith
Alison Smith has spent a decade leading Midway High School, and this year brought one of the biggest shifts yet: going phone-free. In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Jon Eckert talks with the veteran principal about what happens when schools remove phones and restore attention, connection, and calm.
Alison shares how phone-free days have reshaped hallways, classrooms, and student well-being, lowering anxiety, reducing conflict, and strengthening relationships.
JOY over Happiness is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership.
Lean into the struggle. Live with joy.
Mentioned:
The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon
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35m - Jan 27, 2026 - Gen Z Says Thank You: Brad Livingstone
Brad Livingstone has spent 35 years teaching history, but what he’s really been teaching is how joy is formed. In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Jon Eckert talks with the legendary educator and Baylor University’s First Gent about gratitude, presence, and honoring others!
From inviting veterans into his classroom to walking campus with his dog BU, Brad shows how joy grows when we choose to see people and honor their stories.
JOY over Happiness is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership.
Lean into the struggle. Live with joy.
Mentioned:
The Book of Philippians (Bible)
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
Devil at My Heels by Louis Zamperini
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S1E1 - 44m - Jan 13, 2026 - 2025 in Review: BCSL Team
In this episode of Just Schools, Jon Eckert is joined by Sahira Kodra, Krystle Moos, and Erik Ellefsen for a year in review conversation reflecting on the Just Schools podcast in 2025. Together, they look back on favorite episodes, memorable guests, and the relationships that have shaped the work over the past year.
They also share personal moments where struggle led to joy, discuss what gives them hope for the year ahead, and introduce the podcast’s shift toward a renewed focus on joy over happiness.
The Just Schools Podcast is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership.
Be encouraged.
Mentioned:
The Teacher of Nomad Land: A World War II by Daniel Nayeri
Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
10 to 25 by David Yeager
Primal Intelligence by Angus Fletcher
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Center for School Leadership at Baylor University
Jon Eckert LinkedIn
41m - Dec 16, 2025
