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

JOMO: Joy of Missing Out

Connect with us:

Center for School Leadership at Baylor University

LinkedIn

Baylor MA in School Leadership

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

Edified Strategies

AI Daily Brief

Connect with us:

Center for School Leadership at Baylor University

LinkedIn

Baylor MA in School Leadership

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:

Connect with us:

Center for School Leadership at Baylor University

LinkedIn

Baylor MA in School Leadership

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.

Connect with us:

Center for School Leadership at Baylor University

LinkedIn

Baylor MA in School Leadership

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

Connect with us:

Center for School Leadership at Baylor University

LinkedIn

Baylor MA in School Leadership

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:

Connect with us:

Center for School Leadership at Baylor University

LinkedIn

Baylor MA in School Leadership

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

Connect with us:

Center for School Leadership at Baylor University

LinkedIn

Baylor MA in School Leadership

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.

Connect with us:

Center for School Leadership at Baylor University

LinkedIn

Baylor MA in School Leadership