Be a Better Ally: Critical Conversations for K12 Educators

Tricia Friedman explores how AI can be used as a human-centered problem-solving partner rather than an automation shortcut.

Through two deeply grounded real-world examples — one personal, one professional — Tricia demonstrates how AI can:

Help people ask better questions, not just get faster answers

Reduce cognitive load during moments of stress or uncertainty

Support executive functioning, empathy, and ethical decision-making

Act as a bridge between humans, not a replacement for them

You'll hear:

✔ A personal story of using AI to support a family member navigating cancer treatment

✔ How a purpose-built chatbot helped parents strengthen children's executive function skills

✔ Why problem clarification matters more than prompt perfection

✔ What it means to stay human-centered while working with AI

📅 Join Tricia as she kicks off the CEESA five-session series on leadership in the era of AI.

Learn more: https://www.ceesa.org/pd-calendar/#!event/2026/1/14/strategic-problem-solving-with-ai-leadership-tools-for-a-complex-era

This week we give you a conversation from Tricia's other show: Shifting Schools.

In this episode, host Tricia Friedman sits down with Dr. Michael Greger, bestselling author and founder of NutritionFacts.org, to explore why non-commercial, evidence-based health guidance matters more than ever. They discuss lifestyle medicine, plant-based nutrition, scientific integrity, cannabis research, and how small, testable behavior changes can dramatically improve long-term health.

What This Conversation Is Really About

Health advice is everywhere — but trustworthy guidance is not. This conversation slows things down and examines how to make informed choices in a noisy, commercialized health landscape, without absolutism, hype, or fear-based messaging.

Dr. Greger shares:

• Why he donates 100% of book proceeds to charity

• How lifestyle medicine transformed his own family's health

• What the science actually says about cannabis — both risks and benefits

• Why updating guidance as evidence evolves is a strength, not a weakness

• How social support, not willpower, determines whether health changes last

Key Topics Covered

• Why non-commercial health information matters How financial incentives distort nutrition and medical guidance — and how to recognize bias.

• Lifestyle medicine in practice Diet, movement, and daily habits as powerful tools for disease prevention and reversal.

• Plant-based eating (defined clearly) What "plant-based" actually means — and what it doesn't.

• Cannabis: separating evidence from ideology What newer human studies reveal about cancer risk, pain management, and safer use.

• Scientific uncertainty and misinformation How peer-reviewed research works, where it fails, and how to interpret studies responsibly.

• Behavior change that sticks Why short-term "experiments," bodily feedback, and social support outperform rigid rules.

Who This Episode Is For

• Listeners overwhelmed by conflicting health advice

• Educators, parents, and caregivers navigating cannabis conversations

• Anyone curious about plant-based nutrition without extremism

• People interested in evidence-based, non-commercial wellness guidance

• Listeners looking for sustainable, realistic behavior change

About the Guest

Dr. Michael Greger is a physician, internationally recognized speaker, and New York Times bestselling author of How Not to Die. He is the founder of NutritionFacts.org, a nonprofit providing free, evidence-based nutrition research, and a leading voice in lifestyle medicine.

Chapters

1. Introduction and Non-Commercial Guidance - 0:00
2. Dr. Greger's Personal Story and Motivation - 3:15
3. Importance of Repeated Guidance and Lifestyle Changes - 6:30
4. Updated Book Topics: COVID, Cannabis, and Misinformation - 10:45
5. Science Communication and Challenges - 15:00
6. Plant-Based Diet and Personal Health Experiments - 19:15
7. Social Support and Sustainable Lifestyle Changes - 23:30
8. Closing Thoughts and Positive Messages - 27:45

Substance use prevention is often driven by fear-based messaging and one-off assemblies—but research and lived experience suggest these approaches fall short.

In this episode, Tricia Friedman is joined by Katie Greeley, founder of PreventionEd, for a grounded conversation about what effective, student-centered prevention education actually looks like.

Drawing on neuroscience, international school data, and professional experience, listeners can explore how adolescent brain development, adult modeling, media narratives, and school culture shape young people's decisions around substances: particularly alcohol. The discussion emphasizes non-judgmental dialogue, emotional and social intelligence, and the importance of community connection as protective factors.

What This Episode Explores

• Why fear-based prevention strategies are limited in effectiveness

• How adolescent brain development changes how risk is perceived

• The influence of adult behavior and media narratives on youth norms

• What research shows about permissive parent attitudes toward alcohol

• How schools can support healthy decision-making without moralizing

Learn about our guest:

https://www.preventioned.org/katie-greeley

Connect with research mentioned:

https://www.preventioned.org/isreport

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31750959/

Key Takeaways

• Adolescents process risk differently than adults, limiting the impact of scare tactics.

• Most young people are already making healthy choices around substances.

• Adult modeling plays a significant role in shaping norms and expectations.

• Permissive environments around alcohol are associated with increased risk.

• Emotional and social intelligence are critical components of prevention.

• Prevention education is most effective when it is science-based and student-centered.

• Community connection and meaningful engagement reduce reliance on substances.

• Healthy risk-taking is an important part of adolescent development.

Chapters

00:00 – The limits of traditional prevention education 04:39 – Adolescent development and risk perception 08:50 – Media narratives and alcohol normalization 13:10 – Adult modeling and school culture 17:49 – Parent attitudes and research findings 26:00 – Global perspectives on alcohol use 30:28 – Connection, community, and 'natural highs' 34:59 – Risk-taking and healthy development 41:48 – Emotional intelligence as prevention 46:33 – What makes PreventionEd's approach distinct 52:25 – Supporting young people with accurate information

What role can scientists play when politics reaches a standstill?

In this episode, Tricia Friedman speaks with Nobel Prize–winning scientist Peter Agre about his extraordinary second career in science diplomacy—a path that took him from the laboratory into conversations with presidents, prime ministers, health ministers, and scientists in countries often at odds with the United States.

Agre, a physician, molecular biologist, and former president of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), shares how scientific collaboration can reduce tensions, build trust, and inform global policy on issues ranging from public health and malaria to climate change, sustainability, and food security.

Rather than portraying scientists as lone geniuses, Agre emphasizes humility, collaboration, and serendipity—arguing that scientific progress and diplomacy alike depend on relationships, listening, and shared human goals.

About the Guest

Peter Agre, MD, is an American physician, molecular biologist, and Nobel Laureate. He is a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, director of the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, and former president of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

His book, Can Scientists Succeed Where Politicians Fail?, examines the history, challenges, and promise of science diplomacy in addressing global threats.

Why This Episode Matters

At a moment when global challenges demand cooperation—but trust in science is under strain—this conversation offers a powerful reminder: science is not just about discovery, but about connection.

Join Tricia on January 13th:

https://www.instituteforsel.net/sel-resources/teach-meets

Chapters

00:00The Journey to Nobel Prize and Beyond 02:47Science Diplomacy: Bridging Nations through Collaboration 05:38The Role of Science in Global Challenges 08:04Engaging the Public: The Importance of Science Communication 10:46Collaboration in Science: Lessons for Young Scientists 13:54Serendipity and Humility in Scientific Discovery

In this conversation, Sandra Magsamen discusses the importance of interactive storytelling in children's books, emphasizing how they foster emotional connections and self-esteem in young readers. She shares insights into her creative process, the significance of collaboration with publishers, and offers tips for enhancing storytime experiences. Magsamen highlights the role of humor and agency in children's literature, advocating for a more engaging and communal reading experience. takeaways

• Books are not just entertainment; they foster connections.
• Interactive components in books enhance the reading experience.
• Humor in books gives children agency and confidence.
• Storytelling helps children develop social skills.
• Collaboration with publishers is key to creating impactful books.
• Trust and understanding are essential in creative partnerships.
• Authenticity in storytelling enriches the experience.
• Reading together creates emotional bonds between adults and children.
• Children can express creativity by creating their own stories.
• Engaging with children during storytime is crucial for their development.

Chapters 00:00The Power of Interactive Storytelling 02:43Building Connections Through Humor 05:40The Creative Process Behind Children's Books 08:38Radical Collaboration in Publishing 12:19Enhancing Storytime Experiences SANDRA MAGSAMEN is the author and illustrator of many books for young children, including the picture book When I Grow Up I Want to Be Me, as well as a number of bestselling novelty titles, including Everybody Goes Nighty-Night, named a Best Board Book of 2018 by The Children's Book Review; Baby Love; I Love You, Little Pumpkin; and Peek-a-Boo, I Love You. As an artist, an art therapist, and a mom, she uses her creativity to remind people to express themselves and connect with others. Her lifestyle brands, products, and books are sold worldwide. Visit her at sandramagsamen.com. Join Tricia and The Guardian Project on Dec 12 https://guardianproject.fillout.com/t/taHBbURnELus

In this warm and curiosity-packed conversation, Tricia Friedman sits down with Brian "Uncle John" Boone, longtime contributor to the iconic Uncle John's Know It All Bathroom Reader series—now celebrating its 38th edition. Brian shares why trivia continues to captivate millions, how collaborative writing fuels the series' longevity, and why tiny bits of knowledge can strengthen community, curiosity, and even kindness.

Together, Tricia and Brian explore:

• Why trivia matters in a world overloaded with information

• How curiosity helps us build human connection

• The behind-the-scenes pitching and research process at the Bathroom Readers' Institute

• The multigenerational fandom behind the beloved series

• How educators, parents, and young writers can use trivia to inspire creativity and local storytelling

• Practical tips for idea-keeping, pitching, and overcoming rejection as a writer

This episode is perfect for educators, writers, trivia lovers, librarians, caretakers, and anyone needing a little delight at this busy time of year.

Brian Boone has spent more than two decades helping shape one of the world's most beloved trivia traditions: Uncle John's Bathroom Reader. With millions of copies sold and a fiercely loyal, multigenerational fandom, the "Know It All" series continues to turn everyday moments into delightful discoveries.

In this episode, Brian shares what keeps the series thriving after 38 editions:

• Humans are wired for curiosity. Trivia satisfies our desire to understand the world in quick, accessible ways.

• Trivia builds connection. Readers often share facts with friends, family, and even strangers—strengthening social bonds.

• Collaboration fuels creativity. The series is built by writers of different ages and backgrounds, each bringing unique lenses to history, science, pop culture, and everyday oddities.

• Research is an adventure. From public libraries to vintage magazines to listener letters, the team follows surprising threads that lead to new stories.

• Writing thrives on feedback. Brian offers honest, encouraging insight into pitching, rejection, and finding the right home for your ideas.

Tricia and Brian also discuss how educators can adapt this model for micro-projects in classrooms: school-based trivia books, local history prompts, research sprints, and collaborative student authorship.

If you're looking for a light, meaningful episode at the end of a hectic year, this conversation is a reminder that joyful learning still matters.

Join Tricia for a Futures Literacy conversation on December 12th through The Guardian Project:

m/t/taHBbURnELus?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email

Tricia Friedman sits down with Scott and Mark Hoying to explore what it means to build a family rooted in love, creativity, and community. Together they talk about their new children's book, why representation in early storytelling matters, and how reimagining family through inclusive narratives can nurture belonging.

They also share how their creative partnership strengthens their relationship, what they're learning as they prepare for parenthood, and why embracing multi-hyphenate creativity can open unexpected pathways in art, life, and love. This warm holiday-season conversation blends heart, humor, and practical wisdom for anyone curious about how family and creativity evolve together.

Get your copy of their brand new book:

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250853349/falalafamily/

Key Takeaways

• Family is shaped by love, care, and chosen community—not limited by traditional definitions.

• Inclusive children's books expand how young readers understand belonging and representation.

• Creative collaboration can deepen trust, communication, and emotional connection.

• Multi-hyphenate creativity empowers people to work across genres and mediums.

• Preparing for parenthood often mirrors the creative process: patience, curiosity, and resilience.

• Innovation emerges when couples challenge routines and try new approaches together.

• A shared creative life can strengthen partnership and build strong foundations for future family life.

• The holiday season offers opportunities to celebrate joy, generosity, and chosen family.

What happens when a children's book becomes a tool for unity, empathy, and allyship?

In this conversation, Tami Charles—author, former teacher, and champion of diverse stories—opens up about the creative process behind her latest picture book, Together United. She shares how her writing is shaped not only by ideas, but by her collaboration with illustrators, the ever-present feeling of fear, and her commitment to creating stories that help children see themselves and each other.

We talk about:

• How collaboration between author and illustrator can lead to unexpected, beautiful outcomes that neither could have created alone.

• Why fear is a constant companion in the creative process, and how Tami chooses to write anyway.

• What it means to center unity, understanding, and connection in children's literature at a time when division is loud and constant.

• How rich, poetic language in picture books can still be accessible—and deeply engaging—for young readers.

• The importance of reading aloud as a ritual that nurtures a love of language, builds empathy, and creates shared moments between children and caring adults.

Throughout the episode, Tami reflects on how every child has the potential to inspire others, and how stories can open doors to conversations about identity, justice, kindness, and community. We explore the idea that books can act as bridges, connecting diverse experiences and helping children see that they belong to something bigger than themselves.

If you're an educator, caregiver, librarian, school leader, or children's literature lover, this episode offers practical and heart-centered insight into:

• Choosing and using picture books that promote inclusion, empathy, and allyship.

• Talking with young readers about unity, difference, and shared humanity in age-appropriate ways.

• Encouraging children to see themselves as storytellers and changemakers, not just passive readers.

At its heart, this episode is a celebration of the way art and words together can create a kind of magic—the magic that happens when children feel seen, heard, and invited into stories that ask them to imagine a more united world.

Join host Tricia Friedman in conversation with Alan Gratz, the New York Times–bestselling author whose novels have captivated readers for over five years. Gratz shares how baseball shaped his storytelling, why creativity and curiosity belong at the heart of every classroom, and how interdisciplinary learning strengthens student engagement.

This episode explores the connections between empathy, character development, and allyship—inviting educators to think differently about how stories shape our understanding of one another. Discover how reading diverse perspectives, teaching creativity, and building collaboration among teachers can transform the learning experience.

Perfect for educators, writers, and anyone passionate about inclusive education, creative teaching, and storytelling as a tool for allyship.

ALAN GRATZ is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of several highly acclaimed books for young readers, including Heroes: A Novel of Pearl Harbor, Two Degrees, Ground Zero, Allies, Grenade, Refugee, Projekt 1065, Prisoner B-3087, Code of Honor, and Captain America: The Ghost Army, an original graphic novel. Alan lives with his family in the Pacific Northwest. Look for him online at alangratz.com.

What if the fight for climate justice began with the stories we tell? In this reflective episode, Tricia Friedman sits down with Shilpi Chhotray, host of A People's Climate, to unpack the concept of narrative justice — the belief that climate storytelling must center the communities most impacted by environmental change.

Together, they explore how Indigenous knowledge, fiction, education, and intersectional media can reshape public understanding of the climate crisis. Shilpi shares her journey amplifying global majority voices — Indigenous, Black, and Brown storytellers — who are redefining what environmental leadership looks like.

Listeners will learn:

• Why narrative justice is foundational to climate and environmental justice

• How media storytelling can empower marginalized communities

• The role of fiction and art in reframing climate narratives

• How partnerships and community engagement create real environmental impact

• Ways to rethink consumer culture and center humanity in advocacy

Shilpi Chhotray previously hosted People Over Plastic. The podcast explored the global effort to fight plastic pollution, how waste moves through the world, and how industrial polluters are turning towns across the US into sacrifice zones, including the US Gulf South. Last year, the fifth season, achieved new heights in listener engagement and explored environmental justice through the lens of democracy right before the U.S. election. It was ranked in Spotify's Top 10 Podcasts for Society and Culture and listened to in 58 countries and was recently shortlisted for the International Women's Podcast Awards and named one of the 100 Best New Orleans Podcasts by Feedspot.

Learn more:

https://www.counterstream.org/apc-podcast