Conscious Pathways: Conversations for Transformative Education
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Conscious Pathways: Conversations for Transformative Education episodes

  • Storytime for Change: The Impact of Banning Books and Nurturing Minds

    In this episode of Conscious Pathways, join host Brittney Carey as we embark on a compelling exploration into the world of literature and its intricate relationship with our society. We delve into the controversial practice of banning books, unraveling its impact on the voices of the most vulnerable and underrepresented.

    Main Points:

    1. Banning Books: Explore the dual nature of banning books – a tool that can either silence crucial voices or scrutinize harmful content with a critical lens.

    2. Books as Gateways: Discover how books serve as gateways to deeper conversations and learn the delicate art of introducing nuanced topics in a classroom community.

    3. Reading to Children: Debunk the myth that reading to children solely leads to early literacy skills. Uncover the myriad benefits, from fostering positive associations with literature to promoting social-emotional learning and cognitive development.

    4. Identifying Diverse Books: Gain insights into identifying diverse and supportive books by understanding your classroom's demographics and ensuring representation for all.

    5. Library Advantage: Learn how to leverage the power of the library in curating a collection that reflects the richness of your community and encourages exploration.

    6. Key Takeaways:

      • Books shape minds and perspectives, making it crucial to choose wisely in the face of the banning debate.
      • Reading to children extends beyond literacy, promoting bonding, creativity, and holistic development.
      • Identify and address representation gaps in your classroom materials to create an inclusive learning environment.
      • Utilize the library as a dynamic resource to curate a diverse and enriching collection.
      • Tune in to Conscious Pathways and join the conversation on the profound impact of books on our consciousness. Let's navigate these pathways together and make informed choices for a more inclusive literary landscape.


        Additional Resources:

        • Support local independent bookstores with Bookshop.org
        • Check out the Diverse Books for All Coalition
        • Connect with us:

          Stay engaged with Conscious Pathways on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠for more insightful conversations about reimagining education. Visit our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Consciouspathways.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for additional resources and to continue the conversation.

          Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that explores the conscious path to shaping young minds and fostering a socially just educational landscape.


          About Conscious Pathways:

          Conscious Pathways is the leading education consulting agency dedicated to supporting educators, parents, and supportive adults with the tools to build a brighter future together starting with early childhood.
          A conscious approach to education views students as active participants in their learning rather than recipients of knowledge. Conscious Pathways is a mindful approach to reimagining education for social equity, justice, and innovation.

          35 min
        • Teaching with Heart: A Journey through Project-Based Learning and Social Justice with Raphael Bonhomme

          In this enlightening episode of Conscious Pathways, join host Brittney in a captivating conversation with Raphael Bonhomme. Raphael shares his inspiring journey into the world of education, drawing on his experiences in both Title 1 and non-Title 1 schools.

          Explore the transformative power of project-based learning as Raphael delves into his holistic approach to teaching third-grade math, science, and social studies. Gain insights into the seamless integration of developmentally appropriate practices, planting seeds of curiosity to empower young minds.

          The discussion takes an insightful turn as Raphael addresses the impact of internet and computer technology on the development of young children. Discover the delicate balance between technological advancements and fostering healthy, well-rounded growth in the classroom.

          At the heart of this episode lies a profound exploration of the intersection between social justice and education. Raphael's commitment to incorporating restorative practices resonates as he shares real-world examples of connecting classroom concepts to broader societal issues.

          Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of socially just education, and be inspired by Raphael's mission to nurture open-minded, empathetic, and globally conscious citizens through conscious teaching practices.


          Connect with Raphael:

          • Teaching for Change
          • LinkedIn
          • Instagram

          Resources:

          • American Federation of Teachers
          • Reggio Emilia Education


          Connect with us: Stay engaged with Conscious Pathways on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠for more insightful conversations about reimagining education. Visit our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠Consciouspathways.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ for additional resources and to continue the conversation.

          Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that explores the conscious path to shaping young minds and fostering a socially just educational landscape.

          1 hr 7 min
        • Pages of Progress: Rethinking Reading in Modern Education

          In this solo episode of Conscious Pathways, I delve into the intricate web of teaching students how to read, drawing from my own childhood memories and the broader landscape of literacy in the United States.

          I reflect on a pivotal moment when I, too, faced the challenge of reading below grade level. My journey took a fortunate turn with a dedicated third-grade teacher, but I can't help but ponder: What about those students who never grasp the essence of reading?

          We embark on a historical journey, exploring the evolution of reading instruction in the U.S. From the explicit focus on phonics in the 1800-1900s to the resurgence in the 1960s and the current debate on structured literacy, we unravel the threads that have woven the tapestry of reading education.

          Diving into the neuroscience of reading, we navigate through data on declining reading scores, understanding the critical link between early reading proficiency and future academic success. How has the approach to teaching reading shifted over the years, and what impact does it have on students?

          We explore various methodologies, from the pillars of structured literacy instruction to the controversial Three Cueing system, questioning the developmental appropriateness of teaching reading in kindergarten. The Common Core State Standards come under scrutiny, highlighting the gap between policy and developmental realities.

          Throughout the episode, I share valuable resources, including The Purple Challenge, a movement challenging conventional reading instruction, and insightful reports shedding light on the intersection of reading skills, poverty, and high school graduation rates.

          Join me on this deep dive into the heart of literacy education, where we unravel the complexities and strive for a conscious pathway to reading success.

          🔗 Resources Mentioned:

          • The Purple Challenge
          • How a flawed idea is teaching millions of kids to be poor readers
          • Nations Report Card
          • Double Jeopardy
          • Legislation: SB 488 - Reading Proficiency
          • Literacy Trust Research on Mental Wellbeing, Reading, and Writing
          • Reading Instruction in Kindergarten: Little to Gain and Much to Lose
          • Full and Complete Reading is a Universal Mandat FULCRUM

          • Connect with us:

            Stay engaged with Conscious Pathways on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠for more insightful conversations about reimagining education. Visit our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Consciouspathways.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for additional resources and to continue the conversation.

            Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that explores the conscious path to shaping young minds and fostering a socially just educational landscape.

            28 min
          • More Than Words: Oliver James on Mental Health, Literacy, and Parenthood

            In this inspiring episode of Conscious Pathways, we are joined by the incredible Oliver James, a TikTok sensation and motivational speaker. Despite his success, Oliver opens up about a struggle that has shaped his journey—he's a 35-year-old man who has faced challenges with reading.

            Oliver shares his powerful story, from the days of saying "I can't read" to proudly declaring "I'm a 35-year-old man who struggles with reading." He delves into the deep struggles he has overcome on his path to literacy and the impact it has had on his mental health.

            His story resonates so strongly that Oliver has been featured on major platforms, including ABC's Good Morning America, the Rachael Ray Show, NPR, and People magazine. His advocacy for literacy recently earned him the prestigious 2023 National Literacy Honors Award from the Barbara Bush Foundation.

            But Oliver's journey doesn't stop at overcoming literacy challenges. He's now navigating a new frontier—parenthood. Tune in to hear how Oliver balances his passion for reading and speaking with the joys and challenges of parenting his son, born just last January.

            Join us for a conversation that sheds light on the importance of literacy, resilience, and the impact one person can have on breaking the stigma of being functionally illiterate.

            Connect with Oliver:

            Tiktok: Oliverspeaks1

            Youtube: Oliverspeaks1

            Connect with us:

            Stay engaged with Conscious Pathways on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠for more insightful conversations about reimagining education. Visit our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Consciouspathways.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for additional resources and to continue the conversation.

            Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that explores the conscious path to shaping young minds and fostering a socially just educational landscape.

            58 min
          • Advocating for Educational Equity with Dr. Denisha Jones

            In this empowering episode of Conscious Pathways, Brittney Carey engages in a thought-provoking conversation with the incredible Dr. Denisha Jones. Together, they delve into the pages of the impactful book "Black Lives Matter at School," which Dr. Jones co-edited.

            Dr. Denisha Jones, Executive Director of Defending the Early Years and a passionate education justice advocate, draws from her extensive experience as a former kindergarten teacher and preschool director. With over 20 years in teacher education, she sheds light on the crucial role of early educators in the ongoing battle for educational equity.

            Tune in as they discuss the imperative for teacher preparation programs to equip educators with the necessary tools to support diverse classrooms effectively. Dr. Jones, also a part-time faculty member at Sarah Lawrence College and Howard University, brings a wealth of insights into dismantling the neoliberal assault on public education.

            Don't miss this enlightening episode as Brittney and Dr. Denisha Jones champion the cause for a more inclusive and just education system. Join the conversation on Conscious Pathways - where advocacy meets inspiration!


            Recommended Reading:

            • Black Lives Matter at School: An Uprising for Educational Justice
            • Connect with Dr. Jones:

              • ⁠Defending the Early Years
              • Connect with us:

                Stay engaged with Conscious Pathways on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠for more insightful conversations about reimagining education. Visit our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Consciouspathways.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for additional resources and to continue the conversation.

                Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that explores the conscious path to shaping young minds and fostering a socially just educational landscape.

                1 hr 10 min
              • From School Desks to Courtrooms: Unraveling the School-to-Prison Pipeline

                In this episode of Conscious Pathways, host Brittney Carey delves deep into the alarming reality of the school-to-prison pipeline, unraveling the complex web of systems and practices that push vulnerable students towards the juvenile and criminal justice systems.

                Brittney begins by reinforcing the importance of continuous learning in the realm of social justice and advocacy. She sheds light on the pervasive systems of oppression ingrained in American culture, setting the stage for a profound exploration of the school-to-prison pipeline.

                Join us as we dissect the various components of this pipeline, from exclusionary discipline practices to the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. Through a meticulous examination of data and real-life stories, Brittney exposes the harsh realities faced by students, particularly those of color, within our education and justice systems.

                The episode doesn't stop at unveiling the problems; it propels forward into a discussion of positive interventions and community-driven solutions. Discover how restorative justice programs, mentorship initiatives, and alternative discipline models are making a tangible difference. Brittney showcases communities and individuals actively working to disrupt the pipeline, emphasizing the power of collective action.

                Through enlightening conversations and a focus on intersectionality, this episode aims not only to inform but to inspire change. Learn about the pivotal role of community engagement, educational equity initiatives, and the voices advocating for policy reform.

                Join Brittney Carey on Conscious Pathways as she navigates through the intricacies of the school-to-prison pipeline, offering insight, hope, and a call to action for a more just and equitable future.


                Resources:

                • Developmental neurobiology of cognitive control and motivational systems
                • Recidivism Is a Core Criminal Justice Concern - National Institute of Justice
                • Children in Adult Prison - Equal Justice Initiative
                • Sentencing Transferred Juveniles in the Adult Criminal Court: The Direct and Interactive Effects of Race and Ethnicity
                • Exclusionary Discipline Data - US Department of Education Civil Rights Office

                • Connect with Us:

                  Stay engaged with Conscious Pathways on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠for more insightful conversations about reimagining education. Visit our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Consciouspathways.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for additional resources and to continue the conversation.

                  54 min
                • What is Social Justice?

                  Welcome back to Conscious Pathways! In this solo episode, I take you on a journey into the heart of social justice and education. We unravel the layers of social justice, deconstructing it into a theory that acts as our compass and advocacy that shapes our actions. Imagine it as the blueprint for creating a world where every voice matters.

                  I delve into the dynamic duo of project-based learning and the problem-posing model, inspired by the revolutionary educator Paolo Freire. It's not just about teaching; it's about empowering minds to question, create, and challenge the status quo.

                  But let's not stop there. We explore the heavyweight trio of power, privilege, and oppression and how these dance within the realms of education and social justice. It's a candid conversation that peels back the layers, inviting you to see education not just as a system but as a transformative force.

                  Join me in this exploration of ideas, as we pave Conscious Pathways towards a future where education isn't just about knowledge but about building a world that thrives on equality and understanding.

                  Connect with Us:

                  Stay engaged with Conscious Pathways on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠for more insightful conversations about reimagining education. Visit our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠Consciouspathways.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ for additional resources and to continue the conversation.

                  31 min
                • The Power of Authentic Family Engagement with Likaa Mohamad

                  In this insightful episode of Conscious Pathways, join host Brittney Carey in a meaningful conversation with Likaa Mohamad, a dedicated early childhood educator and advocate. Join us as we delve into the world of advocacy in early childhood education and explore the profound impact of building strong relationships with parents.

                  Likaa shares her passion for serving vulnerable populations in the San Diego Area through her work at a non-profit organization. Inspired by the Head Start organization's learning objectives, she empowers children and their families to embrace their uniqueness, strengths, and differences.

                  Discover the keys to fostering a robust classroom community and extending learning beyond school walls into the home environment. Likaa sheds light on the importance of authentic family engagement and partnership, providing valuable insights for both educators and parents.

                  Moreover, we explore various avenues for advocating for early education, drawing from Likaa's experiences as a member of the San Diego County Office of Education’s Child Care and Development Planning Council. Learn how her mission aligns with strengthening child care and development services in the community.

                  Join us on this journey of understanding and advocacy, as we uncover the transformative power of early childhood education in creating a positive impact on children, families, and communities.


                  Connect with Likaa:

                  • Women of Distinction Nominee
                  • Teacher Spotlight
                  • Instagram
                  • Connect with Us:

                    Stay engaged with Conscious Pathways on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠for more insightful conversations about reimagining education. Visit our website ⁠⁠⁠Consciouspathways.org⁠⁠⁠ for additional resources and to continue the conversation.





                    48 min
                  • Navigating the Path to Educational Equity with Yasha Chapman

                    Join host Brittney Carey in a thought-provoking conversation with Yasha Chapman, Founder, CEO, and Principal Consultant of Elementary Education Evolved, LLC. Yasha brings over a decade of experience in transforming education and is on a mission to bridge the academic gap for minority students in grades K-5.

                    In this episode, Yasha shares insights from her journey—serving as a Certified Classroom Teacher, Instructional Coach, Curriculum Coordinator, and more. From her roots in Savannah, Georgia, to her current home in southern California, Yasha's passion for fostering both academic and social success for children is truly inspiring.

                    We delve into the challenges faced by new teachers in the field and explore the unique obstacles black and brown students encounter on their educational journey. Yasha sheds light on the importance of effective instructional coaching and training, offering tangible solutions for supporting novice teachers and retaining seasoned educators.

                    Discover the power of equity in education, effective school leadership, and how administrators can create an environment where teachers thrive. Yasha Chapman's commitment to advancing and developing educators shines through in every word.

                    Tune in to gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of elementary education and the impactful strategies that can shape the future for our youngest learners.

                    🔗 Connect with Yasha Chapman:

                    • Elementary Education Evolved, LLC
                    • LinkedIn: Yasha Chapman
                      • Instagram

                      • Connect with Us:

                        Stay engaged with Conscious Pathways on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠for more insightful conversations about reimagining education. Visit our website ⁠⁠⁠Consciouspathways.org⁠⁠⁠ for additional resources and to continue the conversation.

                        46 min
                      • Nurturing Emotional Intelligence with Alyssa Blask Campbell

                        Join us in this enlightening episode as we dive into the world of emotional development with Alyssa Blask Campbell, CEO of Seed & Sew and a renowned expert in early childhood education. Alyssa, with a master's degree in the field, takes us on a journey through the heart of emotional intelligence, sharing insights that resonate across the globe.

                        In this conversation, we explore the transformative power of Alyssa's collaborative approach to emotion processing, as detailed in her groundbreaking book, "Tiny Humans, Big Emotions," co-authored with Lauren Stauble, M.S. Discover the secrets behind fostering emotional intelligence in children, and how it sets the stage for a lifetime of resilience and well-being.

                        Alyssa's wealth of knowledge extends beyond the pages of her book. We unravel the research behind the Collaborative Emotion Processing method, a game-changer for parents and educators alike. Alyssa, the host of the podcast "Voices of Your Village," brings her show-up-as-you-are approach to our discussion, creating a modern parenting village that spans across 100 countries.

                        Learn how Alyssa's work at Seed & Sew, through speaking engagements, consulting, and online courses, serves as a beacon for building emotional intelligence in individuals of all ages. We delve into the humanization of emotions in both adults and children, breaking down barriers and fostering a shame-free environment for growth.

                        Join us for a conversation that goes beyond parenting, reaching into the heart of what it means to be human.

                        Tune in for an episode that promises to inspire and empower, as we explore the profound impact of nurturing emotional intelligence in ourselves and the tiny humans we guide through life.


                        Resources:

                        • Follow Seed & Sew on instagram
                        • Check out the Tiny Humans, Big Emotions book
                        • Seed & Sew Website
                        • Connect with Us:

                          Stay engaged with Conscious Pathways on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠for more insightful conversations about reimagining education. Visit our website ⁠⁠Consciouspathways.org⁠⁠ for additional resources and to continue the conversation.

                          55 min

                        About Conscious Pathways: Conversations for Transformative Education

                        From the publisher's feed

                        Welcome to Conscious Pathways: Conversations for Transformative Education, the podcast that uplifts teachers, empowers students, and supports parents in re-imagining the way we learn.…