Transitions are part of life. We reflect on changes happening in their own lives and share five practical ways to pass the baton well. This conversation is full of reflection, encouragement and actionable ideas for anyone navigating a new beginning.

We are not good at everything. We’re owning our weaknesses, laughing at our preferences, and embracing the things we’d rather not do (or simply can’t). Because here’s the truth - we need each other. When you know your strengths and surround yourself with people who fill in the gaps, life just works better.

A mystery Amazon delivery, a first job story, and a nationwide educator network—this episode has it all with Dr. Matthew X. Joseph.

We explore the power of collaboration through real stories, honest moments, and a few laughs along the way.

The XFactor EDU network is inspiring community of educators committed to supporting one another and making a lasting difference. https://xfactoredu.org/

Heather Britton of the DuPage ROE joins us to break down the McKinney-Vento Act and what it requires of school districts.

This conversation offers clear, practical steps to ensure compliance with federal and state law — while keeping students and families at the center of the work.

The ultimate crossover event of the season!✨Unsupervised Leadership meets Messy Business in a fun and fabulous episode you didn’t know you needed. Dr. Courtney Orzel and Dr. Kate Koch bring the real talk, big laughs, and the kind of leadership lessons that only come from beautifully messy moments. You won’t want to miss this one!

Nicole Jorwic, an attorney and national policy expert advocates at the national level for people with disabilities and caregivers. Nicole breaks down key Medicaid issues, highlights bipartisan efforts creating real progress, and shares her unique experience working in Hollywood, including collaborating with writers from This Is Us to ensure authentic disability and caregiving representation. This episode offers hopeful insight into how policy and advocacy can drive meaningful change.

Multilingual education expert Carly Spina to explores her powerful new book, Igniting Real Change for Multilingual Learners: Equity and Advocacy in Action (2025). Carly brings experience as an EL teacher, bilingual classroom educator, and district-wide instructional coach to a conversation about equity, advocacy, and actionable strategies that go beyond theory to transform classrooms and systems.

We talk with Julie Yurko, President & CEO of the Northern Illinois Food Bank. Learn about this incredible organization, the power of innovation and their partnerships with Walmart, DoorDash & Chick-fil-A. "Neighbors helping neighbors” with dignity & love truly embodies their approach. Access food, volunteer or donate today at https://solvehungertoday.org/how-to-help/volunteer/

In this episode, we relive the unforgettable day an unexpected visitor wandered into a classroom. Hear about the quick-thinking teachers who helped save the day — and a few other chaotic and memorable stories of animal encounters in schools.

Because sometimes the wildest lessons don’t come from the lesson plan — they just come right in.

We’re bringing back one of your favorite episodes—and this time, we're the ones in the hot seat. 🔥

In this special round of I Plead the 5th, we turn the questions on each other to see just how alike (or totally opposite) we really are. It's all fair game... unless we decide to plead the 5th.