What if understanding how the brain works could completely change the way we teach, lead, and engage students?

In this episode of The Educator Experience, Salli Carter sits down with Dr. Lisa Riegel, educational leader, neuroscientist, consultant, and author of NeuroWell and Aspirations to Operations, to explore how brain science can transform student engagement, motivation, leadership, and classroom culture.

With over 25 years of experience working across K–12 and higher education, Lisa brings powerful insight into how neuroscience, leadership habits, and practical strategies can move schools and organizations from compliance to true commitment. As the creator of the 7C Framework and 8C Commitment Framework, Lisa shares concrete tools educators and leaders can use to foster resilience, emotional regulation, and meaningful learning.

Together, they explore:

- How understanding the brain improves teaching and leadership

- Why student engagement looks different today

- The neuroscience behind motivation, stress, and learning

- Teaching students about their own brains

- Brain-based strategies for educator wellness and resilience

- What skills students need in a post-AI world

This episode is a must-listen for educators, school leaders, instructional designers, faculty developers, and anyone passionate about creating people-centred learning spaces.

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Lisa Riegel: Website: https://lisariegel.comBook: Aspirations to Operations: A Leader’s Guide to Making Transformative Change Stick

Organization: https://jakapa.com

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

02:32 Dr. Lisa Riegel’s Journey in Education and Leadership

06:40 Why Understanding the Brain Improves Engagement and Learning

10:00 Critical Thinking Skills Students Need in Today’s Classrooms

17:30 Educator Wellness, Stress, and Brain-Based Resilience Strategies

22:45 Understanding Your Stress Triggers to Become a Better Teacher

26:30 Teaching Students About Their Brain and Emotional Regulation

32:00 Advice for New Educators: Why Brain Science Matters

#educationpodcast #teacherpodcast #highered #k12education #teachingtips #facultydevelopment #instructionaldesign #educationleadership #teachingstrategies #professionaldevelopment #teachingcommunity #lifelonglearning #neuroscience #brainbasedlearning #studentengagement #learningscience #cognitivescience #motivation #resilience #teacherwellbeing #MentalHealthInEducation #EducatorWellness #neuroeducation #theeducatorexperience #teachingpodcast