In this engaging conversation, Professor Andre Z. Clayborne shares his journey from a rural upbringing in Virginia to becoming an associate professor at George Mason University. He discusses the fascinating field of nanoscience, emphasizing the importance of computational methods in understanding materials at the nanoscale. Professor Clayborne highlights the advantages of using computers in research, the real-world applications of nanoscience, and the significance of mentorship in shaping a scientist's career. He also reflects on his challenges in academia and the fulfilling transition from industry to academia, ultimately inspiring the next generation of scientists. In this conversation, Andre Z. Clayborne shares his journey back to education, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and passion for teaching. He discusses the interplay between chemistry and technology, the significance of human intuition in the age of AI, and the value of research experience in developing critical thinking skills. The conversation also touches on the importance of embracing imperfection in learning, the connection between chemistry and cultural heritage, and the role of nanotechnology in ancient practices. Ultimately, Clayborne encourages listeners to enjoy science and not be afraid to ask questions.

About Dr. Andre Z. Clayborne:

Dr. Andre Z. Clayborne is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry and Interim Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs in the College of Science at George Mason University. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Physics from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2009 and completed postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Jyväskylä (Finland), Argonne National Laboratory, and Kansas State University. Prior to joining George Mason University in 2020, he held faculty positions at the University of Missouri–Kansas City and Howard University. Dr. Clayborne leads a dynamic research program that applies quantum chemistry and theoretical methods to investigate the structural, electronic, and electrochemical properties of molecules and nanoparticles, with the overarching goal of accelerating materials discovery. His work has been supported by national and international funding agencies, including the U.S. National Science Foundation, the Academy of Finland, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China. A strong advocate for science and professional mentorship, Dr. Clayborne has mentored students and professionals across academia, industry, and government worldwide. He is recognized for his collaborative spirit, innovative approach, and passion for advancing education in chemistry and physics through the lens of chemical intuition.

I wanted to share this link to the center I was a part of for fun Nano things to do: https://blog.susnano.wisc.edu/nano-at-home/

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert.I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: ⁠⁠⁠https://drcatherinequinlan.com⁠⁠⁠

Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: ⁠⁠⁠https://visibilityinstem.com/⁠⁠⁠

TEDx Talk: The ClarityWe Need For Belonging: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be⁠⁠⁠

Recent Academic Book: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193⁠⁠⁠

Keystone Passage,Chapter Series Book: ⁠⁠⁠https://keystonepassage.com⁠⁠⁠

Check out the podcast: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠⁠⁠

Apple:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-representation-in-the-curriculum-conversations/id1785560564

Music: ⁠⁠⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love⁠⁠⁠

iHeart Radio: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-black-representation-in-th-248725998/

In this episode of Black Representation in the Curriculum, Catherine Quinlan engages in a deep conversation with Geoffrey Philp about his educational journey, the significance of lived experiences in teaching, and the impact of Marcus Garvey on education. They explore the challenges faced by Black students in the education system and the need for a curriculum that reflects their identities and histories. Philp emphasizes the importance of understanding one's self and the intergenerational struggles that shape the Black experience, advocating for a more inclusive and representative educational framework. In this conversation, Geoffrey Philp shares his extensive experience in education and his dedication to the legacy of Marcus Garvey. He discusses the importance of identity in education, the flaws in the current educational system, and the need for self-reliance and economic empowerment within the Black community. Philp emphasizes the principles of mind, purpose, and perseverance as essential for success, drawing parallels between Garvey's teachings and contemporary challenges, including the impact of AI on the workforce. He also highlights the significance of preparing future generations for these changes and the role of education in affirming identity. In this conversation, Geoffrey Philp and Catherine Quinlan explore the profound influences of Marcus Garvey and Bob Marley on culture and identity, the importance of self-help and mental emancipation, and the complexities surrounding figures like James Baldwin. They discuss the impact of shame on decision-making and the systems of control that often hinder empowerment. The dialogue emphasizes the need for action in discovering one's purpose and the historical context of Rastafari and Garvey's philosophies. In this conversation, Geoffrey Philp and Catherine Quinlan explore themes of empowerment, cultural identity, and the historical context of Rastafari and African unity. They discuss the importance of self-acceptance, the impact of representation on children, and the role of education in fostering inquiry and understanding. The conversation also touches on the idea of mental slavery and the need for a revolution rooted in love and unity, emphasizing the significance of children in liberation movements.

About Geoffrey Philp:

Geoffrey Philp is a Jamaican-American author, educator, and Garvey scholar. Founder of The Garvey Classroom LLC and the Mabrak Books imprint, he teaches at the Marcus Garvey Education Academy, founded by Dr. Julius W. Garvey. His courses and resources have earned the endorsement of Dr. Julius W. Garvey and Professor Rupert Lewis of the University of the West Indies, Mona. A recipient of the Silver Musgrave Medal in Literature from the Institute of Jamaica, the Marcus Garvey Excellence Award in Education from the Consulate General of Jamaica in Miami, and the Marcus Garvey Community Service Award from the Rootz Foundation, Philp has spent more than three decades building the books, courses, and educational resources that place Garvey's philosophy in the hands of the next generation.

Here is the link to The Story of Marcus Garvey: The Story of Marcus Garvey - The Garvey Classroom

Books & Media: Books & Media - The Garvey Classroom

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert.I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education inthe School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites andYouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: ⁠⁠⁠https://drcatherinequinlan.com⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠https://visibilityinstem.com/⁠⁠⁠

TEDx Talk: The ClarityWe Need For Belonging

Recent Academic Book: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193⁠⁠⁠

Keystone Passage Chapter Book Series

Check out the podcast:

Spotify

YouTube

Apple

Amazon Music

iHeart Radio

In this conversation, Catherine Quinlan and Keeana Saxon discuss the unique challenges of raising children with a high self-concept in today's media-saturated environment. They explore the importance of co-watching media, addressing sensitive topics, and the impact of literature on children's values. Keeana shares her experiences with her daughter, emphasizing the need for intentional discussions about media content and the complexities of navigating children's exposure to adult themes. The conversation also touches on the aspirations for Black children and the role of quality programming like PBS in shaping positive narratives. In this conversation, Keeana Saxon and Catherine Quinlan discuss the need for a dedicated platform for Black educational content, akin to a Black PBS. They explore the importance of media ownership, the challenges of maintaining authenticity in artistic expression, and the systemic disparities in society. They emphasize the need for solutions that focus on education and representation for children, particularly through initiatives like Kidogo Productions.

About Keeana S. Saxon, Esq. :

Keeana S. Saxon, Esq. was born in Washington D.C., raised in Newton, Massachusetts, and currently resides in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston with her husband and their 10-year-old daughter. She graduated from Spelman College in 1999 (Classical Piano Performance major, French minor). In 2003, she earned her Juris Doctor from Western New England University School of Law.

After a decade of practicing law in both the public and private sectors, she was appointed in 2014 by the Mayor of Boston to be a Commissioner on the Boston Licensing Board where she still serves. Ms. Saxon also teaches classical piano to beginner students.

She is also the Founder and CEO of Kidogo Productions, an award-winning edtainment startup, closing the representation gap through its preschool learning kits for daycares and families. Kidogo Productions can be found on Youtube, IG, LinkedIn, and FaceBook @kidogoproductions.

In May 2023, Ms. Saxon gave a TEDx talk, “A Mother’s Mission Against Anti-Black Bias in Children’s Media.”

Kidogo Productions: https://www.kidogoproductions.com

TEDx Talk: A Mother’s Mission Against Anti-Blackness in Children’s Media: https://youtu.be/7734jYfdd-U?si=GxTtwlRtvdjZinsd

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: ⁠⁠⁠https://drcatherinequinlan.com⁠⁠⁠

Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: ⁠⁠⁠https://visibilityinstem.com/⁠⁠⁠

TEDx Talk: The ClarityWe Need For Belonging: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be⁠⁠⁠

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193⁠⁠⁠

Keystone Passage,Chapter Series Book: ⁠⁠⁠https://keystonepassage.com⁠⁠⁠

Check out the podcast: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠⁠⁠

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-representation-in-the-curriculum-conversations/id1785560564

Music: ⁠⁠⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love⁠⁠⁠

iHeart Radio: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-black-representation-in-th-248725998/

In this episode of Black Representation in the Curriculum, Dr. Alexis Riley discusses her work centered on the legacy, innovations, and healing of Black women science teachers. She shares her journey as a first-generation college student, the challenges she faced, and the importance of womanist pedagogy in education. The conversation highlights the need for more Black representation in medicine and the critical role of community in supporting Black educators. In this conversation, Alexis Riley shares her educational journey from a magnet school to her experiences in medical internships, ultimately leading to her transformation from a chemistry major to a sociology major. She discusses the importance of Black feminist theory and critical race theory in understanding systemic oppression and the significance of counter narratives in social justice. The dialogue emphasizes the need for diverse perspectives in academia and the power of storytelling in challenging dominant narratives.

About Dr. Alexis D. Riley:

Alexis D. Riley, Ph.D. (she/her) is a teacher-educator, writer, and Stevie Wonder enthusiast. She is a Tenure-Track Assistant Professor at New York University-Steinhardt in the Teaching & Learning Department, in the Science Education Program. Originally from South Central Los Angeles, CA, Alexis earned her Ph.D. in Science Education from Teachers College, Columbia University in the Fall of 2021. She received her MS.Ed at Fordham University in 2013 and her B.A. in Sociology from the University of California - Santa Barbara in 2011. Alexis has been faculty at California State University - Los Angeles, Barnard College, and Relay Graduate School of Education as an Assistant Professor and Adjunct Assistant Professor, respectively. Alexis’ research has prioritized the legacy, innovations, and healing of Black women teachers by placing their instinctual and improvisational teaching skills at the center of science education.

She has major publications in journals such as Review of Educational Research, the Journal of Research in Science Teaching, the Journal of Science Teacher Education, Cultural Studies of Science Education, and Race Ethnicity, and Education. She served on the Board of Directors for the ASTE, Alexis has used her position to push the science education field to meet the unique realities of teachers and students of color. Her research and scholarship are heavily informed by her decades' worth of experience as a secondary Science and History teacher, and curriculum and instruction specialist in public and charter schools in Harlem and Brooklyn.

Link to publications

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

Researcher, professor, curriculum design expert.I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education inthe School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites andYouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://drcatherinequinlan.com⁠⁠⁠

Visibility In STEM: ⁠⁠⁠https://visibilityinstem.com/⁠⁠⁠

TEDx Talk: The ClarityWe Need For Belonging: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be⁠⁠⁠

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the ScienceCurriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and CurriculumDevelopment. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193⁠⁠⁠

Keystone Passage,Chapter Series Book: ⁠⁠⁠https://keystonepassage.com⁠⁠⁠

Check out the podcast: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠⁠⁠

Apple:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-representation-in-the-curriculum-conversations/id1785560564

Music: ⁠⁠⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love⁠⁠⁠

iHeart Radio: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-black-representation-in-th-248725998/

In this episode, Ebony Burnett shares her journey from growing up in poverty to becoming a candidate for the Guilford County Schools Board of Education. With over 24 years of experience in education and community engagement, she emphasizes the importance of addressing basic needs, mental health support, and community involvement in education. Ebony discusses the challenges faced by students in Guilford County, including disparities in academic outcomes and the need for safe adults in schools. She encourages community members to support local schools through volunteering and mentorship. In this conversation, Catherine Quinlan and Ebony Burnett explore the systemic challenges faced by underfunded communities, particularly focusing on the historical impact of redlining and the importance of empowering these communities through education and resources. They discuss the role of after-school programs in providing safe spaces for youth, the need for partnerships with educational institutions, and the significance of civic engagement in amplifying community voices. The dialogue emphasizes the necessity of addressing basic needs to foster meaningful participation in local politics and community development.

About Ebony Burnett:

Ebony Burnett is a passionate community leader, educator, and advocate dedicated to improving outcomes for children and families. With more than 20 years of experience in education, youth development, and community engagement, she currently serves as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at a local education-focused non-profit in Guilford County. Ebony leads collaborative efforts that connect schools, businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders around student success and economic mobility.

A former teacher and longtime YMCA leader, Ebony is known for bringing people together to turn big ideas into meaningful action. Her work has focused on expanding access to high-quality out-of-school time programs, strengthening family and community partnerships, and helping create systems that better support young people from cradle to career.

Ebony has received numerous honors for her leadership and impact, including the Community Empowerment Leader Award from the Lieutenant Governor, the Excellence in Leadership Award from the YMCA, and recognition as one of the Triad’s 40 Under 40 Most Influential African Americans.

At the heart of her work is a simple belief: every child deserves a champion. When she’s not building partnerships or advocating for students, Ebony enjoys leadership conversations, community events, affordable family adventures, and finding ways to make serious work feel a little more human.

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert.I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites andYouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://drcatherinequinlan.com⁠⁠⁠

Visibility In STEM: ⁠⁠⁠https://visibilityinstem.com/⁠⁠⁠

TEDx Talk: The ClarityWe Need For Belonging: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be⁠⁠⁠

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the ScienceCurriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and CurriculumDevelopment. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193⁠⁠⁠

Keystone Passage,Chapter Series Book: ⁠⁠⁠https://keystonepassage.com⁠⁠⁠

Check out the podcast: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠⁠⁠

Apple:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-representation-in-the-curriculum-conversations/id1785560564

Music: ⁠⁠⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love⁠⁠⁠

iHeart Radio: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-black-representation-in-th-248725998/

In this episode of Black Representation in the Curriculum, host Catherine Quinlan engages with filmmaker Will Adams, discussing his journey as an independent filmmaker, the creative challenges he faces, and the inspiration behind his latest project, 'Tube-e Movie'. The conversation delves into the unique aspects of independent filmmaking, the importance of satire, and the influences that shaped his work. Will shares insights into the collaborative process of filmmaking, the significance of representation, and his future projects, emphasizing the need for creativity and authenticity in storytelling. In this conversation, independent filmmaker Will Adams shares his journey in the film industry, emphasizing the importance of being multifaceted as a creator. He discusses the freedom of independent filmmaking, the significance of storytelling, and the empowerment of female characters in his works. Adams reflects on his writing journey, the challenges he faced, and the lessons learned along the way, ultimately highlighting the universal appeal of comedy and the importance of strong narratives. In this conversation, Will Adams shares his unique creative process in filmmaking, discussing how he transitions from TV to film, the influence of his Chicago roots on storytelling, and the challenges faced in the industry. He emphasizes the importance of character development, persistence, and the evolving role of AI in storytelling. The discussion concludes with insights on the future of filmmaking and the significance of being prepared and efficient on set.

About Will Adams:

Will Adams is an award-winning Chicago filmmaker, director, and producer and the founder of Lokekey Productions, a fiercely independent production company dedicated to bold urban storytelling and amplifying new voices in film.

Known for turning limitations into launchpads, Adams has built a reputation for creating high-quality, thought-provoking films regardless of budget or circumstance. His early feature films, Sex Ain’t Love and Step Off the Block, established him as a fearless voice in relationship dramas and urban coming-of-age stories. During the COVID-19 shutdown, he pivoted quickly, launching the viral digital series Plight of the Independent Filmmaker, proving that creative resilience can outpace industry disruption.

In 2024, Adams expanded into sharp satire with Tube‑E Movie, a comedy that skewers streaming culture and the “so-bad-it’s-good” movie trend. The film earned festival buzz at the Urban Film Festival and Chicago IndieCon, further solidifying his reputation for culturally relevant storytelling with a comedic edge.

Across short films, features, and digital series, Adams blends hard-hitting drama with razor-sharp comedy, consistently platforming underrepresented talent and stories. With multiple projects in development for 2025, he continues pushing the boundaries of independent cinema — proving that visionary storytelling is fueled by perseverance, not permission.

https://lokekey.com

View 2024 Tube‑E Movie for free on Plex

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: ⁠⁠⁠https://drcatherinequinlan.com⁠⁠⁠

Visibility In STEM: ⁠⁠⁠https://visibilityinstem.com/⁠⁠⁠

TEDx Talk: The ClarityWe Need For Belonging:

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book

Check out the podcast:

Spotify

YouTube ⁠⁠⁠

Apple Podcast

Amazon Music

iHeart Radio

In this insightful interview, Dr. Whitley Grant-Goodman discusses the mental health challenges faced by Black women, including racial trauma, burnout, and identity issues. She shares practical strategies for organizations and individuals to foster psychological safety, set boundaries, and challenge harmful stereotypes, emphasizing the importance of unlearning societal narratives and promoting self-care.

About Dr. Whitley Grant-Goodman:

Dr. Whitley Grant-Goodman is a therapist, speaker, and organizational wellness advocate dedicated to helping high-achieving Black women navigate burnout, boundaries, relationships, and the pressures of constantly being “the strong one.” With over a decade of experience in mental health and higher education, she specializes in creating conversations around racial trauma, emotional wellness, psychological safety, and sustainable success for Black women in both personal and professional spaces.

Through her work as a clinician and speaker, Dr. Grant-Goodman helps individuals and organizations move beyond survival mode and build environments that support healing, authenticity, and well-being. She is passionate about helping Black women redefine success in ways that prioritize rest, community, and mental health without sacrificing ambition.

Dr. Grant-Goodman is available for speaking engagements, workshops, panels, and organizational trainings focused on mental wellness, burnout prevention, psychological safety, and the experiences of high-achieving Black women.

Whitley Grant-Goodman, PhD | LinkedIn

Calendar Link: Consult Call

Website: www.whitleygrantgoodman.com

Healing While Black Journal: Healing While Black: A Self-Guided Journal for Navigating Racial Trauma | Whitley Grant Goodman

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert.I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education inthe School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites andYouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: ⁠⁠⁠https://drcatherinequinlan.com⁠⁠⁠

Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: ⁠⁠⁠https://visibilityinstem.com/⁠⁠⁠

TEDx Talk: The ClarityWe Need For Belonging: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be⁠⁠⁠

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the ScienceCurriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and CurriculumDevelopment. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193⁠⁠⁠

Keystone Passage,Chapter Series Book: ⁠⁠⁠https://keystonepassage.com⁠⁠⁠

Check out the podcast: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠⁠⁠

Apple:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-representation-in-the-curriculum-conversations/id1785560564

Music: ⁠⁠⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love⁠⁠⁠

iHeart Radio: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-black-representation-in-th-248725998/

In this episode of Black Representation in the Curriculum, Dr. Lisa Riegel discusses her journey from teaching to leadership in education, emphasizing the importance of neuroscience in understanding student engagement and behavior. She highlights the need for collective identity and belonging in schools, particularly for Black students, and how cultural values impact educational practices. Dr. Riegel advocates for creating safe and supportive learning environments that foster motivation and engagement, while also addressing the challenges teachers face in implementing these changes. In this conversation, Lisa A Riegel and Catherine Quinlan explore the critical themes of self-awareness, teacher effectiveness, parent engagement, cultural sensitivity, and the impact of societal assumptions on education. They discuss the importance of understanding the underlying fears that drive teacher behavior, the need for genuine partnerships between parents and schools, and the significance of adapting educational practices to align with diverse cultural values. The conversation emphasizes the role of brain science in fostering emotional safety and transformative change in educational leadership.

About Dr. Lisa Riegel:

Lisa Riegel started her career in education, driven by one goal: to help people reach their potential. Over time, she realized that fulfillment—whether in a classroom, company, or community—comes from understanding how the brain drives behavior and how systems shape success.

That discovery became the foundation for her life’s work. As an educator, researcher, and author, she has spent two decades helping schools, leaders, parents, and organizations align brain science with human systems—creating cultures where people feel connected, capable, and in control of their growth.

Dr. Riegel earned dual bachelor's degrees in English and Secondary Education from Kent State University. She holds a master's degree in curriculum and instruction from Otterbein University and a Ph.D. in Education Policy and Leadership from The Ohio State University. Her work has appeared in peer-reviewed journals and she has authored five books, including her two latest books, NeuroWell, and Aspirations to Operations, focused on brain science and how we can leverage it to help people become happier, healthier, and more successful.

Book links

NeuroWell

Aspirations to Operations

Stop Doing What Doesn't WorkAuthor page: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=lisa+riegel&crid=30TTDXLJRNQMO&sprefix=lisa+riegel%2Caps%2C158&ref=nb_sb_noss_2

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert.I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education inthe School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites andYouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: ⁠⁠⁠https://drcatherinequinlan.com⁠⁠⁠

Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: ⁠⁠⁠https://visibilityinstem.com/⁠⁠⁠

TEDx Talk: The ClarityWe Need For Belonging: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be⁠⁠⁠

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the ScienceCurriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and CurriculumDevelopment. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193⁠⁠⁠

Keystone Passage,Chapter Series Book: ⁠⁠⁠https://keystonepassage.com⁠⁠⁠

Check out the podcast: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠⁠⁠

Apple:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-representation-in-the-curriculum-conversations/id1785560564

Music: ⁠⁠⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love⁠⁠⁠

iHeart Radio: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-black-representation-in-th-248725998/

In this episode, Dr. Stanton Belford shares his unique journey from growing up on a Caribbean island to becoming a marine biologist in the United States. He discusses the importance of experiential learning, mentorship, and the role of confidence in engaging with marine environments. Dr. Belford emphasizes the significance of representation in marine science and the need for effective science communication to inspire future generations. His research focuses on coral reefs and the diverse marine life they support, highlighting the interconnectedness of education, research, and community engagement. In this conversation, Stanton Belford shares his journey in marine biology, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, mentorship, and hands-on experiences in fostering a love for the ocean. He discusses the diverse paths that lead individuals to marine biology, the role of parents in shaping interests, and the significance of coral reefs and sea urchins in marine ecosystems. The conversation highlights the need for experiential learning and the impact of research on understanding and preserving marine life. In this conversation, Stanton Belford discusses the culinary delights of the ocean, the economic impact of marine tourism, and the ecological importance of sea urchins and oysters. He emphasizes the role of environmental DNA in marine research and the significance of sustainable practices in preserving marine ecosystems. The dialogue also touches on the connection between past and present in marine science, highlighting the importance of hands-on experiences and sharing knowledge across cultures.

About Dr. Stanton G. Belford, PhD:

Dr. Stanton G. Belford is an Associate Professor of Biology and Department Head of the School of Mathematics and Sciences at the University of Tennessee Southern. He is in his 13th year at UT Southern, where he teaches lower and upper-level biology courses, such as Ecology, Invertebrate Zoology, Vertebrate Zoology, and General Ichthyology. His research uses DNA barcoding techniques to assist with species identification on coral reefs located in the Caribbean. He also conducts similar research on crayfish species located in Tennessee. He graduated from Auburn University with a PhD. in Secondary Science Education and holds a Master’s degree in Biology from Middle Tennessee State University.

Dr. Belford continues to lead undergraduate research by taking students to conduct benthic surveys and molecular analyses that provide valuable knowledge of species biodiversity in the southern Caribbean region. Dr. Belford serves on the board of director for BIMS and is the chair of CADASE.

Website: stantonbelford.com

Instagram: stan_b_phd

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-stanton-g-belford-98083044

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

⁠⁠⁠https://drcatherinequinlan.com⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠https://keystonepassage.com⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠https://visibilityinstem.com/⁠⁠⁠

TEDx Talk: The ClarityWe Need For Belonging: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be⁠⁠⁠

Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193⁠⁠⁠

Check out the podcast: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠⁠⁠

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-representation-in-the-curriculum-conversations/id1785560564

Music: ⁠⁠⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love⁠⁠⁠

iHeart Radio: ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-black-representation-in-th-248725998/

In this episode of Black Representation in the Curriculum, Dr. Lenora Crabtree shares her journey as a teacher educator and her insights on the importance of understanding diverse narratives in education. In this conversation, Catherine Quinlan and Lenora Crabtree explore the intersections of race, culture, and identity, discussing the impact of historical narratives on contemporary society. They delve into the power dynamics of nutrition, the construction of race, and the cultural losses experienced by various ethnic groups. The discussion also touches on the epigenetic effects of harm, the influence of patriarchy on self-perception, and the challenges of raising conscious children in a racially charged environment. They discuss the importance of embracing multiculturalism, the historical context of the Pellagra epidemic, and the socio-political dynamics of the 1920s. The dialogue emphasizes the need for personal responsibility and the liberation that comes from understanding and valuing diverse perspectives. The dialogue emphasizes the challenges of confronting painful truths, the need for change, and the power of learning from one another.

About Dr. Lenora M. Crabtree

Dr. Lenora Crabtree began her journey as an educator learning alongside high school science students in Gaston County, North Carolina over 25 years ago. In her current position as an Instructor in the Cato College of Education at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, she encourages teachers and teacher candidates to become co-learners with their students. Alongside her work in teacher education, Dr. Crabtree is a science education researcher and curriculum designer whose scholarship explores the potential for justice-oriented science teaching and learning to support the development of critical consciousness and discipline-specific critical science consciousness. Her publications also include a study of the “Gifted Gap” in one school district and its impact on access to STEM education and, ultimately, economic mobility. Beyond her professional work, Dr. Crabtree is a mother, grandmother, and godmother. She and her husband live just outside of Durham, North Carolina with a growing menagerie of chickens, dogs, rabbits, pigeons, and honey-producing bees.

GOOGLE DRIVE RESOURCES:

Birth of a Movement Case Study: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1vOU08VSqhGS4bY3K1Cg9h0uVFSxwCiKt

 The Epidemic That Didn't Have to Happen:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1HX3OKTOFsi-gjE8TbgM2zNvDn1FOTBWy

About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

For more information visit my websites:

Personal Website of Dr.Catherine L. Quinlan: ⁠⁠⁠https://drcatherinequinlan.com⁠⁠⁠

Visibility In STEMEducation Consultant/Services: ⁠⁠⁠https://visibilityinstem.com/⁠⁠⁠

TEDx Talk: The ClarityWe Need For Belonging: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be⁠⁠⁠

Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193⁠⁠⁠

Keystone Passage,Chapter Series Book: ⁠⁠⁠https://keystonepassage.com⁠⁠⁠

Check out the podcast:Learning, for Truth and Love: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠⁠⁠

Podcasts ⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learning-for-truth-and-love/id1785560564⁠⁠⁠

Music: ⁠⁠⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love⁠⁠⁠

iHeart Radio: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-learning-for-truth-and-lov-248725998/⁠⁠⁠