Is your grading pen doing more harm than good?

In this episode of Hall Pass to Nowhere, we sit down with renowned literacy expert and author Patty McGee to perform some much-needed "Red Ink Rehab." For decades, the hallmark of writing instruction has been the crimson-stained rough draft—a sea of corrections that often leaves students feeling defeated rather than inspired.

Patty challenges us to trade the red pen for a more restorative approach. We dive deep into non-traditional writing instruction techniques that prioritize the writer over the writing. Whether you’re a K-12 educator, a homeschool parent, or a writing coach, this conversation will shift your perspective on how to provide feedback that actually sticks.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Psychology of Feedback: Why traditional "correction" often shuts down student creativity.
• The "Coach" vs. "Judge" Mentality: How to shift your role in the writing workshop.
• Actionable Alternatives: Strategies for verbal conferencing and "glow and grow" feedback.
• Building Confidence: Patty shares her secrets for helping reluctant writers find their authentic voice.
• Practical Pedagogy: How to meet curriculum standards without sacrificing the joy of storytelling.

It’s time to move beyond the margins and start a new chapter in how we teach composition. Tune in to learn how to turn your classroom into a space where every student feels like a writer.

About Patty McGee

Patty McGee is a sought-after literacy consultant and the author of several books, including Feedback that Moves Writers. Her mission is to create learning environments where both teachers and students find joy and success in the writing process.

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Summary

In this conversation, Benita C. Gordon, an entrepreneur and turnaround specialist, discusses her innovative approach to education as an education concierge. She emphasizes the importance of high-touch services in navigating the education system, addressing the disconnect between parents, teachers, and administrators, and the need for productive disruption in education. The discussion also covers the challenges of burnout among educators, the rise of micro-schooling and homeschooling, and the significance of building relationships with students to foster a positive learning environment.

Takeaways

Benita C. Gordon is redefining education as a high-touch concierge service.
The education concierge helps families navigate the education system.
There is a significant disconnect between parents, teachers, and administrators.
Burnout is a real issue affecting educators and administrators alike.
Innovative education models like micro-schooling are gaining traction.
Building relationships with students is crucial for effective teaching.
Minimum Monday is a strategy to reset students' emotional states at the start of the week.

Educators need to adapt to the changing landscape of education. The heart for education is essential for effective teaching. Education should focus on the individual needs of each student.

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Summary

In this conversation, Timothy White engages with Karim Ali and Sadiq Ali, the directors of the documentary 'They Said, NDR: The Untold Power of the Black Bookstore.' They discuss the provocative title, the legacy and resilience of Black bookstores, and their impact on literacy and community engagement. The conversation emphasizes the importance of confronting stereotypes, inspiring a love for reading, and the role of bookstores as spaces for radical thought and education. The brothers share their personal motivations and call for community support to bring their project to fruition.

Takeaways

• The title of the documentary is meant to provoke thought and discussion.
• Black bookstores have historically served as centers of knowledge and community.
• The documentary aims to inspire a renewed interest in reading within the Black community.
• There is a need to confront and dismantle stereotypes about Black literacy.
• The legacy of Black bookstores is one of resilience and empowerment.
• Community support is crucial for the survival of Black bookstores.
• The documentary seeks to highlight the untold stories of Black bookstores.
• Literacy rates among Black Americans have been declining, necessitating action.
• The creators emphasize the importance of making reading 'cool' again for younger generations.
• The project aims to educate and engage the community in meaningful conversations about history and identity.

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Discover the powerful insights of veteran educator Anne Richter, acclaimed author of In Our Classroom, in this inspiring episode of Hall Pass to Nowhere. With more than 30 years of teaching experience, Anne shares hard-earned wisdom on creating inclusive learning environments, supporting diverse student needs, and building strong teacher–student relationships.

In this episode, Anne dives into the real stories behind In Our Classroom, revealing what today’s teachers truly face—and how they can thrive. We explore practical classroom management strategies, the emotional realities of teaching, and the importance of community, empathy, and resilience in education.

Whether you're a new teacher, a seasoned educator, a school leader, or simply passionate about the future of learning, this conversation will leave you feeling understood, encouraged, and equipped with actionable tools for your own classroom.

Key Topics Covered:

• Anne Richter’s journey as an educator and the inspiration behind In Our Classroom
• How to navigate classroom challenges with confidence and compassion
• Strategies for fostering student engagement and creating a positive classroom culture
• The evolving landscape of education and what teachers need most today
• Advice for avoiding burnout and sustaining joy in teaching.

Tune in for an honest, heart-centered conversation that honors the work of teachers everywhere—and offers practical guidance you can use tomorrow.

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In this episode of Hall Pass to Nowhere, we speak with Dr. Emily B. Levy, founder and director of EBL Coaching, to explore how parents and educators can unlock every student’s learning potential. Dr. Levy, an expert in executive function, study skills, and individualized tutoring, shares actionable strategies for helping students overcome academic challenges—from dyslexia and ADHD to poor organization and time management.

We dive deep into the science of executive functioning, discuss how multisensory learning and structured literacy approaches can transform education, and reveal how personalized instruction builds confidence and independence in learners of all ages.

Whether you’re a parent seeking support, an educator looking for new strategies, or a student trying to boost academic performance, this episode offers real-world insights from one of the nation’s top learning specialists.

🔑 Topics Covered:

• How executive function skills impact academic success
• Practical study strategies that actually work
• Early signs a student may need extra learning support
• The role of customized tutoring and multisensory instruction
• How to help kids with ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning differences thrive

💡 About Dr. Emily B. Levy:
Dr. Levy is the founder of EBL Coaching, a leading tutoring and educational consulting service specializing in one-on-one executive function coaching, tutoring for learning differences, and academic enrichment. Her research-based, individualized approach has helped thousands of students develop stronger skills and greater confidence.

📚 Learn more about EBL Coaching: https://www.eblcoaching.com

🎧 Listen now to discover how to build the tools for lifelong learning success!

Keywords for SEO:
executive function, study skills, tutoring, EBL Coaching, Dr. Emily Levy, learning differences, dyslexia, ADHD, executive function coaching, education podcast, parenting and learning, academic success, personalized learning

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In this essential episode, we sit down with expert Phyllis Leavitt to explore the profound connection between childhood trauma and the education system. Trauma is often an invisible barrier to learning, impacting everything from a student's behavior and focus to their academic success.

What You'll Learn:

• What a trauma-informed school environment truly looks like.
• Practical strategies for teachers and administrators to support students with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).
• Moving past traditional discipline to create a culture of healing and resilience in the classroom.
• How school policies can be adapted to better address student mental health.

If you are an educator, parent, counselor, or administrator looking to build a more supportive and effective learning environment, this conversation with Phyllis Leavitt offers critical insight and actionable advice on creating safe schools and fostering student well-being.

Keywords: trauma-informed care, education, schools, mental health, Phyllis Leavitt, teachers, students, ACEs, childhood trauma, safe schools, school counseling.

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Unlock the powerful connection between dyslexia and writing mastery in this episode of our podcast: “Dyslexia, Writing Breakthroughs & Strengths.” Join us as we speak with Russell Van Brocklen, a veteran educator, dyslexia specialist, and founder of Dyslexia Classes, to explore how students with dyslexia can transform challenges into writing strengths.

🎙 Episode Highlights:

• Russell shares his personal journey with dyslexia and how it shaped his mission to redefine what writing success looks like for dyslexic learners.
• Discover the science-backed strategies Russell developed—drawing on brain research and structured literacy methods—to elevate reading and writing skills for high-potential dyslexic students. 
• We dive into the concept of “writing breakthroughs” — how motivated students with dyslexia can leap several grade-levels in writing proficiency within a single year. 
• Learn how to recognize and nurture the unique strengths dyslexic individuals often possess: big-picture thinking, creativity, problem solving, oral articulation — and how these strengths can fuel written expression.
• Practical tips for educators, parents and writers: how to adapt instruction, harness technology (including AI), create supportive environments, and help dyslexic learners not just catch up—but excel. 
• Russell discusses the shift from “overcoming dyslexia” to “owning your dyslexia strengths” and flips the narrative from deficit to growth.

Who Should Listen:

• Parents and guardians of children with dyslexia who want actionable ideas to support writing and academic confidence.
• Educators, tutors and school-support professionals looking for effective methods to teach writing to dyslexic students.
• Teen and adult writers with dyslexia who are ready to reimagine their writing process and tap into their strengths.
• Anyone curious about how structured literacy, brain science and differentiated instruction can drive writing breakthroughs.

Why This Episode Matters:

Dyslexia affects how the brain processes written and spoken language, yet too often the discussion stays on “fixing the problem.” In this episode, Russell reframes dyslexia as a gateway to unique capability — especially when matched with the right writing method, mindset and support. His work proves that dyslexic learners don’t just catch up — they can thrive in writing, learning and life.

Tune in for this empowering conversation with Russell Van Brocklen and discover how to turn dyslexia into a driving force for writing success. 🎧

Keywords: dyslexia writing breakthroughs, dyslexia strengths, writing instruction for dyslexic learners, Russell Van Brocklen, dyslexia educational strategies, structured literacy, dyslexic student writing skills.

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In this episode of Hall Pass to Nowhere, host Timothy White speaks with Michelle Choairy, a dedicated special needs parent and Non-Attorney Special Education Advocate who’s making a difference for families navigating the complex world of special education.

Michelle shares her personal journey as a parent of a child with special needs — the challenges, the victories, and the turning points that led her to become a passionate advocate for other families. With empathy and expertise, she breaks down how parents can understand their child’s educational rights, collaborate effectively with schools, and ensure every student receives the support and services they deserve.

This conversation is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone committed to inclusion and equity in education. Michelle’s story is both inspiring and practical, offering hope and actionable advice for families everywhere.

Key Topics:

• Michelle Choairy’s journey as a special needs parent and advocate
• Understanding IEPs, 504 plans, and students’ rights in special education
• How parents can advocate for their children effectively
• Building strong partnerships with schools and teachers
• The emotional side of special needs parenting

Stay connected with Hall Pass to Nowhere for more stories that inspire learning and growth. ✨ Follow us on social, subscribe, rate, and share the podcast to keep the conversation going! https://linktr.ee/hallpasstonowhere

In this episode of Hall Pass to Nowhere, we speak with Sam Mitchell, the incredible creator and host of Autism Rocks and Rolls, to talk about empowerment, self-advocacy, and redefining what it means to live on the autism spectrum.

Sam opens up about his journey as a young adult with autism, how he turned his challenges into strengths, and why he’s on a mission to prove that autism does not define you — it empowers you. From launching a successful podcast to inspiring thousands around the world, Sam’s story is a powerful reminder that inclusion, understanding, and resilience truly rock and roll.

Join us for a raw, real, and uplifting conversation about breaking stereotypes, building confidence, and finding your voice. Whether you’re an educator, parent, neurodivergent individual, or ally, this episode will leave you motivated to see the world — and yourself — differently.

Key Topics:

• Sam’s journey from diagnosis to podcast success
• The mission behind Autism Rocks and Rolls
• Overcoming stigma and embracing neurodiversity
• The power of storytelling and advocacy
• How educators and families can better support autistic individuals

Stay connected with Hall Pass to Nowhere for more stories that inspire learning and growth. ✨ Follow us on social, subscribe, rate, and share the podcast to keep the conversation going! https://linktr.ee/hallpasstonowhere

Welcome to Hall Pass to Nowhere, the go-to education podcast hosted by Timothy White.  We are blessed to speak with Bailey Payne, MS, BCBA, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and passionate educator dedicated to transforming the way we understand learning and behavior.

Bailey shares her expert insights on addressing behavior, classroom management, and evidence-based teaching strategies that empower teachers, parents, and professionals to better support all learners.

Through engaging stories and practical examples, Bailey explains how behavior science can be used to create positive classroom environments, improve communication skills, and promote meaningful, lasting change in education.

Bailey’s compassionate approach and deep expertise make this episode a must-listen for educators, special education professionals, and parents seeking to make a difference through the science of behavior.

Stay connected with Hall Pass to Nowhere for more stories that inspire learning and growth. ✨ Follow us on social, subscribe, rate, and share the podcast to keep the conversation going! https://linktr.ee/hallpasstonowhere