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Have you ever wondered who you are when no one's watching, or who you could be if you never doubted yourself for even a second?

In today's episode, I’m shedding light on how to overcome obstacles that might seem too big to handle and how small, daily choices lead us toward a fulfilling life.

I’m diving deep into the topics of personal growth, overcoming self-doubt, and how believing in yourself can truly change everything.

For all my educator friends out there, we're also talking about the importance of self-care and how it isn't just good for you but it sets a powerful example for the next generation. It's about making a change, not just in our classrooms but in our lives, showing our kids how to live fully and face challenges head-on.

Tune in to discover how you can start your journey of self-improvement and become an empowered educator, making a real difference in your life and the lives of those you teach. 

Stay empowered,
Jen

Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room

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As educators, we've all seen the fear in our students when they're afraid to make a mistake, the anxiety that bubbles up at the thought of failing. We can recognize it in ourselves too.

It's a common experience..

So how do we help our students understand that failure isn't just a part of learning, but a crucial step toward growth? 

Join me and my guest, Theresa MacPhail, as we explore the power of embracing failure in education. Theresa, a medical anthropologist and seasoned educator, shares her journey from witnessing the effects of fear of failure on students to creating a class specifically designed to normalize failure and foster resilience.

Tune in and discover actionable advice for educators on how to create a classroom culture where failure is not feared but celebrated as a learning opportunity. 

You’ll walk away with practical classroom management strategies that can help students shift their mindset about failure through journaling exercises, gratitude practices, and encouraging meaningful connections and conversations.

If you've ever struggled with how to encourage your students to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them, this episode is for you. Discover how to empower your students to see failure not as a setback, but as a necessary and valuable part of their educational journey. 

Stay empowered,
Jen

Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room

About Theresa:

I’m a medical anthropologist and writer, usually of nonfiction, mostly about topics in public health and medicine. I’m also an Associate Professor of Science & Technology Studies at Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ. 

My first book for Random House is out now (2023). It’s called Allergic: Our Irritated Bodies In a Changing World and it tells the story of the global rise in allergies over the last 200 years. 

My next book, that I’m currently researching, is on aging. It dives into what happens to our bodies and minds as we age and why acceptance of aging (and our eventual deaths) is the key to “aging well.” Think of it like a “user’s manual” to your aging body (with a lot of troubleshooting sections). But, more importantly, it also traces out the long history of our fascination with aging and how and why aging transformed from a natural, normal, and healthy life experience into a medical problem or disease that needs to be “solved.” And what that approach to aging is doing to us collectively. (Spoiler: it’s not terrific.)

To book me for a speaking engagement, please contact the Random House Speakers Bureau.

Connect with Theresa:

Website: https://theresamacphail.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/drtheresamacphail/

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How can we continue to keep students engaged and motivated? 

If we’re being honest, the traditional education system falls short in meeting everyone's needs. 

In today’s episode, join me and the brilliant Chantel Prat, a professor with a vast background in psychology, neuroscience, and linguistics as we explore why it's crucial for teachers like you to understand the brain's workings to connect better with students and create a classroom that brings out the best in every student. 

Discover how to foster meaningful connections and effective learning environments. Chantel breaks down the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and tailoring educational strategies to suit individual needs.

We'll talk about how stress is a major factor, affecting learning more than you realize, and what you can do about it. Learn why taking care of yourself is key to being a great educator. 

Choice can be a powerful thing in the classroom, and we'll discuss how giving your students more of it can transform their learning experience.

Tune in and join the conversation to make a positive change in our education.

Stay empowered,
Jen

Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room

About Chantel:

Chantel Prat is a Professor at the University of Washington with appointments in the Departments of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Linguistics, and at the Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences, the Center for Neurotechnology, and the Institute for Neuroengineering. A cognitive neuroscientist by training, her interdisciplinary research investigates the biological basis of individual differences in cognition, with an emphasis on understanding the shared neural mechanisms underpinning language and higher-level executive functions. She is a recipient of the Tom Trabasso Young Investigator Award from the Society of Text and Discourse and a Pathway to Independence Award from the National Institute of Health. Her work has been supported by the National Institute of Health, the Office of Naval Research, and the Keck Foundation. Prat speaks internationally at events like The World Science Festival. She is featured in the documentary, I Am Human. Her studies have been profiled in media ranging from Scientific American, Psychology Today, and Science Daily to Rolling Stone, Popular Mechanics, Pacific Standard, Travel + Leisure, and National Public Radio. 

Connect with Chantel:

Website: https://www.chantelprat.com/

IG: @chantelpratphd

X: @ChantelPratPhD

LinkedIn: Chantel Prat

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Are you eager to be a leader who truly connects with your team but not sure how to get there?

Many leaders find themselves overwhelmed by the demands of their positions, struggling to connect with their teams and make a positive impact. It's easy to fall into the trap of leading with authority and ego, but this approach often leads to dissatisfaction and disconnection from those we aim to inspire.

In this enlightening episode, we dive into the heart of what truly makes a great leader. Joined by Dr. Walter Polka and Dr. John McKenna seasoned leadership experts from Niagara University, we explore the transformative power of leading with empathy, kindness, and genuine care for others. 

Discover why effective leadership is all about building strong relationships, understanding the needs of your team, and being open to feedback. You’ll learn actionable strategies to become more self-aware and reflective, enabling you to embrace vulnerability and foster a culture of teamwork and mutual respect. 

If you're ready to transform your leadership style and create a more connected, effective team, tune in to this episode. Let's get started!

Stay empowered,
Jen

Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room


About Dr. Walter Polka:

Dr. Walter Polka has held numerous professional positions throughout his 45 years as an educator. His positions include: high school social studies teacher and advisor for various clubs and organizations as well as an interscholastic coach at Lewiston-Porter High School; Williamsville Central School District social studies/science curriculum coordinator K-12; assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction and superintendent of schools of the Lewiston-Porter School District.

Since 1970, Dr. Polka has also served as an adjunct professor at various institutions of higher education including Brockport State College, Buffalo State College, Medaille College, Niagara County Community College, Niagara University, SUNY Buffalo and Loyola University in Maryland. Dr. Polka’s full-time university professional responsibilities also included associate professor of educational leadership; doctoral dissertation chair; and doctoral program coordinator in educational leadership at Georgia Southern University. He is currently the leadership and policy doctoral program coordinator and full tenured professor in the professional programs department at Niagara University.

[email protected]

About Dr. John McKenna:

Dr. John McKenna joined Niagara University in 2023 as an Assistant Professor in the Leadership Studies Department after a long and distinguished career in public administration. Before coming to Niagara University, Dr. McKenna served as a public school administrator and educator for over 35 years.

Dr. McKenna has been recognized for his achievements and contributions to the profession with the SAANYS New York State Outstanding Educator of the Year Award, the NYSPTA Advocate in Action Award, a New York State Senate Proclamation for Outstanding Leadership, and a New York State Senate Resolution for Dedication and Service. Additionally, he was recognized with the SUNY at Buffalo Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award as well as UB’s Graduate School of Education Distinguished Alumni Award

mckennaleadership.c

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Have you ever been frustrated by the feeling you're not being heard? 

It's a common feeling, especially in schools and at work, and even more so when power plays a role in the relationship dynamic. 

But don't worry, we've got a solution for you!

In this episode, I am joined by the incredible Dr. Teresa Peterson from Sarah Noll Wilson Inc. With her deep roots in education, conflict resolution, and leadership coaching, she sheds light on the invisible forces that keep us from using our voices and offers actionable advice for effective communication.

We delve into the importance of building safe spaces and fostering inclusivity, where every individual feels valued and empowered to speak up. 

She also discusses the relationship between leadership roles and organizational culture, highlighting how leaders can break communication barriers to cultivate an environment that encourages open dialogue and respects diverse perspectives.

Tune in to this fantastic conversation and discover how we can all start listening better and speaking out with confidence! 

Stay empowered,
Jen

Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room

About Dr. Teresa:

Dr. Teresa  Peterson is the Director of Learning and Development for Sarah Noll Wilson, Inc. Teresa is passionate about applying best practices for learning to make development experiences meaningful, engaging, and accessible for all types of learners. In her role, Teresa co-creates powerful learning content and guides deep research. Teresa holds a Doctorate in Education from the University of Northern Iowa and brings over twenty years of experience teaching, facilitating, and leading. She holds a Conflict Resolution Certificate from Cornell University; she also is trained in Immunity to Change Coaching and Certified in Appreciative Inquiry.  Clients love Teresa’s grounded energy, depth of thought, and ability to listen deeply.

Connect with Dr. Teresa:

Website: https://www.sarahnollwilson.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresa-peterson-edd

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Ever wondered how much impact your words have on those listening?

It can be easy to forget the big role that language plays in education. Language affects the students’ behavior, self-confidence, and overall engagement.

To state it directly: words can make or break a student.

In today's episode, I am joined by Shauna King to tackle this very issue. Shauna, once known as the "yelling teacher," has transformed her approach and now uses the power of words to uplift and motivate her students. 

Together, we'll dive into the importance of intentional communication, revealing how the right words can set the tone for a hopeful and fair classroom. We'll share classroom management techniques and how educators can lead by example, promoting positive behavior that resonates with them to improve student engagement.

You’ll learn practical strategies to improve teacher-parent communication and create a better support system for the students.

Tune in to learn how to transform your teaching through positive language and join us in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future in education.

Stay empowered,
Jen

Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room

About Shauna:

Shauna F. King has a talent and passion for connecting with adults who have chosen to serve children. Her energy and experience have led to opportunities to present to national and international audiences. As an education specialist, she has facilitated hundreds of presentations and workshops for schools, churches, and conferences. A self-proclaimed "Yelling Teacher In Recovery," Shauna shares practical and research-based strategies to improve teacher, parent, and student engagement. Her professional experience includes roles as a school climate coach for the University of Maryland Positive Schools Center, school principal, student services specialist, and classroom teacher. Her areas of expertise and passion are fostering student engagement, creating equitable learning environments, and promoting positive student behavior. She has partnered with over 150 schools to improve school climate, student behavior, and student engagement. Through high-impact training and coaching, Shauna assists schools in creating "Classrooms of HOPE," where students are given the will, skill and opportunity to make a difference in the world. 

Shauna F. King is the author of Children are Listening: What We Say Matters which offers practical strategies and advice for educators and parents. Her articles, What We Say Matters: The Power of Positive Talk and Transitions with the Brain in Mind, are featured in the Association for Middle-Level Education magazine.

Connect with Shauna:
Website: https://shaunafking.com/
IG: @shaunafking

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Feeling stuck in a job where you can't be yourself? Tired of shallow work interactions

Many of us spend our days in environments where we have to wear masks, playing roles that don't fit us. But what if there was a way to break free from this cycle, to bring your true self to your job, and form genuine relationships?

In this episode, I'm joined by the amazing Sarah Noll Wilson, an expert in emotional intelligence and leadership development, to discuss breaking free from the impersonal corporate culture to embrace authentic leadership and meaningful connections.

Discover how her background in performance arts became her superpower in transforming workplace relationships and leadership styles. 

Together, we explore strategies to navigate the often transactional nature of corporate environments, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections and authenticity.

Sarah offers practical advice on how to prepare for and engage in emotionally charged conversations, creating safe spaces for genuine interaction, and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and understood. 

By the end of our conversation, you'll be equipped with the tools to start leading with your authentic voice, building deeper connections, and empowering yourself and others to thrive in any setting. 

Tune in now and start your journey towards authentic leadership and fulfilled professional life.

Stay empowered,
Jen

Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room

About Sarah:
Sarah Noll Wilson, Inc. is who you call when you’re ready to do the hard work of leading yourself and leading others.

Sarah Noll Wilson, Inc. is on a mission to help leaders build and rebuild teams. Our goal is to empower leaders to understand and honor the beautiful complexity of the humans they serve. We create a safe, honest environment, preparing people to deal with real-world conflict, have more meaningful conversations, and create purposeful relationships. Working with organizations that care deeply about their teams and understand the connection between staff development and organizational success, Sarah Noll Wilson, Inc. specializes in transforming relationships from good to great.

With 15+ years in leadership development, Sarah Noll Wilson earned a Master's Degree from Drake University in Leadership Development and a BA from the University of Northern Iowa in Theatre Performance and Theatre Education. Through her work as an Executive Coach, an in-demand Keynote Speaker, Researcher, Contributor to Harvard Business Review, and Bestselling Author of “Don’t Feed the Elephants”, Sarah helps leaders close the gap between what they intend to do and the actual impact they make. She hosts the podcast “Conversations on Conversations”, is certified in Co-Active Coaching, Conversational Intelligence, and is a frequent guest lecturer at universities. In addition to her work with organizations, Sarah is a passionate advocate for mental health.   

Connect with Sarah:
Website: sarahnollwilson.com
X (formerly Twitter): @sarahnollwilson
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sarahnollwilson
YouTube: @SarahNollWilson
Facebook: SarahNollW

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Feeling stuck in the endless cycle of work, family responsibilities, and personal growth?

Many dads find themselves caught in struggling to balance their professional ambitions with the demands of fatherhood. It's a juggle that often leaves little room for self-care, leading to stress and burnout. 

But what if there was a way to break free from this pattern, to find fulfillment in both your career and family life?

In today’s episode, we dive deep into the lives of dads who are also leaders in their fields. Guests, Jeff Evener and Larry Dake, co-authors of "Dads, Leaders, and Father Figures," share their personal journeys of redefining success and finding balance. 

From the birth of a child during the writing of their book to a life-altering health scare, their stories shed light on the pressures men face and the transformative power of vulnerability in leadership.

You’ll learn practical tips for self-care and setting healthy boundaries, strategies for managing the pressures of fatherhood and professional leadership. How to redefine success in alignment with personal values and well-being.

Discover the secrets to being a great dad and a great leader, without sacrificing one for the other.

Stay empowered,
Jen

Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room

About Jeff:

Jeff Evener is a husband, father of 3, former Mayor, and current Assistant Superintendent at Homer Central School District. He is the co-author of Dads, Leaders, & Father Figures: Creating Influence & Legacy for a Lifetime

About Dr. Larry:
Dr. Larry Dake is the Superintendent of Schools in the Chenango Valley Central School District in upstate NY and has served as a teacher, coach, curriculum coordinator, principal, and Assistant Superintendent previously. He and his wife, Kelly, an elementary reading teacher, have three children and live in Endwell, NY, in the Binghamton area, about an hour south of Syracuse.

Learn more about their book “Dads, Leaders, and Father Figures”: dadsleadersandfatherfigures.com

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Do you ever feel like life's challenges are too much to handle? 

Whether it's the stress of daily responsibilities or something as life-altering as health crises, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves.

In today’s episode, I sit down with the inspiring Crissy Florio, a yogi and breast cancer thriver. We delve into her story, showcasing her emotional resilience in overcoming cancer and the power of holistic healing.

Discover why it’s important to listen to your body and intuition during health challenges, Crissy's effective self-care strategies such as journaling, meditation, and nature walks, and how yoga can support the lymphatic system and overall health. 

We also delve into ways to connect deeply with yourself and the importance of prioritizing well-being, not just for personal health but also for the ability to support and inspire others. 

Join us and find out how to harness the strength you never knew you had and how you can bring more balance into your life.

Stay empowered,
Jen

Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room

About Crissy:

Crissy is a lover of all things Mind, Body, and Soul. She is a Wife, Mom, Sister, Yogi, and a 3 year Breast Cancer Thriver. For over a decade, she has been teaching Vinyasa and Therapeutic Yoga- but recently has extended her knowledge to include Yoga for Cancer recovery, Yoga for the Lymphatic System and Yoga and TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). She is an advocate for helping her students step into their power and connect to their bodies on a deeper level. Her classes are a well-balanced practice experience, full of healing the body physically, energetically, emotionally, and spiritually. Crissy has always believed in a healthy lifestyle and throughout the years has helped more and more beautiful humans live a more mindful, harmonious, connected life.

Connect with Crissy:

Website: healinginharmony.net

IG: @flo_withcrissyflorio

FB: FLO with Crissy Florio

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Are you struggling with teacher burnout and longing to rediscover the joy and purpose in your teaching career?

You're not alone, and there's a path forward to help you find that fulfillment again.

Join us in today’s episode where I am joined by Lily Jones, the founder of Educator Forever. 

Lily shares her journey and experiences, guiding us through the importance of reconnecting with our 'why' – the core reason that drew us to teaching and how this can transform stress into a source of strength and joy. 

We explore essential strategies for teacher well-being, emphasizing the importance of self-care and professional development in creating a more sustainable and fulfilling teaching experience.

We also tackle the myth that hard work and joy can't coexist in the teaching profession and the needed change in the education system.

Tune in to learn simple ways to bring back your love for teaching and see your work in a happier, new way.

Stay empowered,
Jen

Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room

About Lily:

Lily Jones is the founder of Educator Forever, where she empowers teachers to expand their impact beyond the classroom, and Educator Forever Agency, where she works with a team of educators to create inspiring curricula.  Holding an MA in Education from UC Berkeley, Lily spent seven inspiring and exhausting years as a kindergarten and first-grade teacher, then left the classroom to work as a curriculum designer, instructional coach, and education consultant. In everything she does, Lily hopes to support kids to love learning and teachers to love teaching. 

Connect with Lily:

Website: educatorforever.com

IG: @educatorforever

FB: Educator Forever