In this episode, we talk to Dr. Debbie Joffe Ellis about her work with Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy.  Dr. Ellis discusses how to identify healthy and unhealthy positive and negative emotions with tips for taking control of our emotions.  We also discuss specific applications to education and teacher burnout.

In this episode, we talk to Ms. Gynger Garcia, the education liaison for Breakthrough in Chicago. She shares the number of Breakthrough’s programs and services developed, particularly the partnership with higher education for teacher preparation. Garcia also discusses the value of asset-based cultural awareness to prepare educators for the classroom.

In this episode, we talk to Ms. Marshaunda Dixon about her decision to leave the classroom to pursue different teaching pathways. She shares her education journey as a calling and how to keep passionate educators in the classroom. We also discuss the importance of experiential learning and seeing oneself in the curriculum.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Rena Whitten about her district’s approach to the nationwide teacher shortage. She shares her perspectives on cultural competence and cultural responsiveness and the importance of a holistic approach to teacher development. We also discuss the importance of university-district-community partnerships and strong mentorships.

In this episode, we talk to Mr. Aaron West about his experiences as a college student. Mr. West shares his jagged pathway from high school to community college to a four-year university. We also discuss ways in which students can prepare for success in college by being involved in campus activities, developing relationships with peers and mentors, and seeking help from professors - starting with office hours.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Matthew Cooney about his research on administration in higher education. Dr. Cooney discusses the pathway to university leadership and the unique position of Governors State University’s first African American female president. We also discuss the potential impact of national leadership on higher education, the importance of student voices, and the value of working together towards a common goal.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Tom Phillion about his work in reimagining teacher preparation through university-district partnerships. Dr. Phillion discusses the development of programs to address the teacher shortage, particularly the shortage in teacher diversity.  We also ask for practical, tangible strategies for starting partnership conversations. 

In this episode, we talk to Mr. Nicholas Neal about bridging the gaps for young adults leaving the foster care system and becoming independent. Mr. Neal discusses the services his organization provides and the needs for mentoring older youth. He also shares ways the community can support these efforts.

In this episode, we talk to Mrs. Jordan Romanowski about her career as a school psychologist.  Mrs. Romanowski discusses the roles of school support personnel and the services schools are providing to overcome challenges in remote teaching and learning. We also ask what educators should consider when students re-engage in face-to-face classroom instruction.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Sandy Womack about his experiences with turning around schools to improve student achievement.  Dr. Womack discusses specific strategies for new principals walking into their building for the first time or charged with turning around schools.