LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education

Finding your voice is hard, especially in middle school. This week, Jerri and Jamie sit down with three exceptional middle school students on an empowering podcasting journey dedicated to celebrating women.

Listen in as these podcasters on the rise share their story, including how they got their start and how their passion for amplifying female voices inspired them to overcome challenges and make their podcast a reality. You won't want to miss the impactful perspectives of these middle-school podcasters and their insights and advice for students just like them (and their teachers, too).

---

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Overcast | RadioPublic

FOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.

Author and Educator Yaritza Villalba joins the podcast this week to take listeners on an exciting journey with her heroine, McKenzie! Yaritza's latest book, “McKenzie and the Secret Library of Banned Books,” explores themes such as identity, culture, diversity, censorship, and empowerment.

Join Yaritza as she leads listeners on a journey of African heroes and their courageous stance against injustice. Plus, discover how Yaritza is also spearheading global collaborative education initiatives, bridging the gap between 800 classes spanning 60 countries. Tune in for a dose of inspiration!

---

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Yaritza Villalba is an Education Consultant currently leading professional learning opportunities centered on culturally responsive sustaining education (CRSE) and project-based learning to an international network of educators. With thirteen years of experience in urban education, Yaritza supplies many effective strategies and resources for educating and supporting BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) students and families.

Over her career, Yaritza became an Assistant Principal of an Expeditionary Learning School, CEO and Founder of McKenzie's Adventures LLC, and an Author of culturally relevant children's books.

Follow Yaritza on LinkedIn and Twitter and get her book on Amazon.

---

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Overcast | RadioPublic

FOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.

What drives your growth? This week, Jerri and Jamie welcome former MMA fighter turned motivational speaker, author, and podcast host Charlie "The Spaniard" Brenneman to the show to discuss his personal development journey!

Transitioning from the world of MMA to motivation and development, Charlie shares how he navigated crucial points in his career to achieve success. Tune in to hear Charlie's story and gain insight into his resilience mindset and approach to pursuing passion with a purpose. Whether you're a fan of MMA or seeking inspiration, this episode is a knockout!

---

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Charlie "The Spaniard" Brenneman is a former mixed martial artist and Spanish teacher turned author, motivational speaker, and podcast host.

---

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Overcast | RadioPublic

FOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.

How can you be a better ally for the LGBTQIA+ community? Activist Jack Jordan joins your two favorite hosts to share a roadmap for educators seeking ways to support LGBTQ students.

Tune in for a powerful conversation on the importance of allyship, and how you can foster understanding, empathy, and advocacy within educational settings. Whether you’re well-versed in LGBTQIA topics or new to the conversation, you’ll learn practical strategies and perspectives educators can use to create inclusive environments and feel empowered to champion inclusivity at their schools!

---

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Jack Jordan (they/them) serves as Youth Engagement Organizer for Georgia Equality, an organization dedicated to advancing fairness, safety and opportunity for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities throughout the state of Georgia.

Jack has been involved in activism since their early teens, with a focus on queer/ trans liberation, healthy relationships, inclusive and accessible spaces, risk-aware safer sex, and youth empowerment. Jack has become well known for their visibility, nuance, and bold outspokenness around injustice.

---

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Overcast | RadioPublic

FOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.

Explore the evolving world of edtech with Kat Crawford in our latest episode of LinkedUp! This week, Jerri and Jamie follow Kat on her journey from using Google tools to becoming a Google Champion and Innovator.

Tune in and discover the transformative power of connection in education and dive into collaborative programs like Google Champions. Get ready for insightful experiences, practical advice, and Kat's charisma!

---

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Kat Crawford is the executive director of digital innovation for the Schlechty Center. She supports the design of technology innovation and the transformation of school systems and facilitates professional learning for teachers who strive to cultivate engaging work.

---

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Overcast | RadioPublic

FOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.

This week, Jerri and Jamie sit down with another dynamic podcast duo: Chris Ippolito and Larry Bentley—creators of the “Up Against Reality Podcast.” Together, they take listeners on a journey into the world of AI tools, including their special guest, RAINA, an AI bot that adds an extra layer of intelligence to their discussions.

We'll dive deep into the future of education and discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping the learning landscape. From discussing AI's influence on educational methodologies to exploring its integration in shaping our perception of reality, this conversation is a captivating exploration of the intersection between AI and education.

---

ABOUT OUR GUESTS

UP AGAINST REALITY is a meta-podcast that explores the intersection of humanity and artificial intelligence. Hosted by RAINA and her human co-hosts, Larry Bentley and Chris Ippolito. Featuring riveting conversation, interviews, news and some wild experimentation.

Follow UP AGAINST REALITY on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/up-against-reality/

---

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Overcast | RadioPublic

FOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.

Join Jerri and Jamie in an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Kuni Beasley, the visionary behind Beasley College Prep. Discover how Dr. Beasley and his team have transformed education by securing over $300 million in scholarships and grants, giving students a global edge in higher education.

Explore Dr. Beasley's unique international perspective and learn how it shapes a winning approach to college preparation. This episode isn't just about numbers; it's about changing lives and empowering students worldwide. Whether you're aiming for college or guiding someone through the admissions maze, this episode with Dr. Beasley is your ticket to success in today's competitive academic world.

---

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Kuni Beasley has been a College Professor for 16 years, Prep Academy Dean since 1996, and College Consultant/Advisor for over 30 years. He has been a pioneer in online and computer-based education since 1999 and founded the National Homeschool Academy Online in 2009.

---

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Overcast | RadioPublic

FOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.

This week, Jamie and Jerri sit down with the incredible Rose Chu, founder of ElevateTeaching.us. Rose is revolutionizing the teaching profession by injecting positivity, transparency, and diversity into education.

Tune in as Rose shares her insights on diversifying the teaching force and advocating for inclusivity and representation in schools. Her work at ElevateTeaching.us aims to make the journey to becoming an educator more accessible while emphasizing the profound impact of a diverse teaching community on students and communities. Discover how she's reshaping the narrative around teaching—offering practical strategies and support for educators to thrive.

---

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Rose W. Chu has dedicated her professional life to the tireless pursuit of education equity and excellence for children and youth. She is a proud educator with a passion for elevating, demystifying, and strengthening the teaching profession. She is an experienced consultant with a diverse professional portfolio, often sought after for her thought partnership and commitment to equity and systems change.

---

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Overcast | RadioPublic

FOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.

This week, Sheryl Cababa, Vice President of Strategy at Substantial, drops by the podcast to dive into what reinventing learning and collaboration looks like through the lens of equity-centered research.

Tune in as we explore the eight principles of equity-centered research with Sheryl and learn their significance in affirming and advancing relationships in the educational sphere. Don’t miss Sheryl’s invaluable insights on how these principles can pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable learning experience for all.

---

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Sheryl Cababa is the author of “Closing the Loop: Systems Thinking for Designers,” and works as Vice President of Strategy at Substantial, a design and technology consultancy in Seattle. With a background in design research and strategy, she drives a human-centered design practice that is focused on systems thinking and evidence-based design, working on everything from robotic surgery design solutions to tackling youth homelessness through service design.

---

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Overcast | RadioPublic

FOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.

In this episode of LinkedUp, Jerri and Jamie dive into how AI is reshaping the education landscape with guest Aman Sahota, the mind behind Ei Amplified. Together, they discuss how Ei Amplified is pioneering the merger of empathy and AI through qualitative methods.

Aman shares Ei Amplified’s approach to blending empathy with artificial intelligence to help educators provide targeted, effective support and foster an environment where students can thrive emotionally and academically. Tune in to learn how Aman is challenging the conventional perception of AI, applying it to more than just creative applications to address diverse student needs.

---

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Aman Sahota is the co-founder of Ei Amplified. Ei Amplified was named the 2021 Canadian EdTech Startup of the Year. Their startup is an AI platform that provides advanced large-scale qualitative analysis. Their AI is a natural language processing solution that breaks down text to understand the needs of all stakeholders while incorporating a lens of EDI by looking at demographic data. Aman sits on the steering committee of Erin Mills Connects and is a member of the Anti-black Racism and Systemic Discrimination collective. He also sits on the Peel District School Board community roundtable to advocate for the community and is a Board of Director at the Citizens for the Advancement of Community Development.

---

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Overcast | RadioPublic

FOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.