Part two of our conversation with Forrest Bennett is here. We dig deeper into his time at the Capitol, what he learned as a legislator, and why he believes organized labor is critical to Oklahoma’s future. A thoughtful, honest discussion about education, work, and where we go next.

We’re back from the holiday break with part one of our interview with Forrest Bennett, the new president of the Oklahoma AFL-CIO. Forrest brings humor, heart, and honesty as he reflects on growing up in Oklahoma, his nine years in the Legislature, and why standing up for working people is the work he believes in most.

We’re closing out the year with a look ahead. On the final Fried Okra episode of 2025, former Shawnee teacher Seth Brown joins us to talk about his journey into education advocacy and what’s coming in the next legislative session for Oklahoma educators. #oklaed

A new episode of Fried Okra features Stephen Evans of the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum. We explore the Road to Remembrance program with Greenwood Rising, where OKCPS and TPS students learn hard histories of hate and the powerful truth that we do not have to live that way. Stephen explains how these lessons reshape generations and strengthen our communities. #oklaed

A new episode of Fried Okra is out now! We sit down with Rep. Michelle McCane, a 14-year Tulsa Public Schools educator and former OEA member, to talk about lived experience, holding elected leaders accountable, sharing your story, and supporting the support staff who keep our schools running. #oklaed

A new episode of Fried Okra breaks down the interim studies at the Capitol on literacy, merit pay, childhood hunger, concurrent enrollment, and student violence. Learn what lawmakers are considering and how these discussions could shape the future of Oklahoma schools. #oklaed

We are thrilled to welcome back former Fried Okra host Rep. Ellen Pogemiller! She shares how her journey from PTA parent to OEA staff member to state representative shaped her work and what she has learned that can help all of us face new opportunities and challenges. #oklaed

A new episode of Fried Okra features Oklahoma Policy Institute Executive Director Shiloh Kantz breaking down how the federal government shutdown could affect Oklahoma’s public school communities.

We talk about what a shutdown really means for schools, families, and educators, and what Oklahomans should be watching in the weeks ahead. #oklaed

A new episode of Fried Okra features OREA President Paula Squires and OEA Education Support Professional of the Year Kathy Hale. Paula shares how retired educators continue to protect the future for those still in the classroom, while Kathy discusses her role in Putnam City and the fight for fair pay and respect through the ESP Bill of Rights. #oklaed

In this episode of Fried Okra, we talk with Mid-Del teacher, City Councilor, and OEA member Kim Blodgett about why educators should get involved in their communities and how chaos and uncertainty often hit our most vulnerable students hardest. #oklaed