In this episode, we talk to Dr. Marlon Cummings about meeting students’ individual needs by recognizing their cultural spaces. Dr. Cummings discusses ownership of our strengths and recognition of our weaknesses as we develop into culturally-responsive leaders.

Referenced in this podcast are: 

• Focus by Mike Schmoker
• The White Architects of Black Education: Ideology and Power by William Henry Watkins
• The Fall of the Faculty by Benjamin Ginsberg
• Illinois Principals association

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Tim Pedigo about mindfulness practices and their implementation in teacher education. Dr. Pedigo also walks us through a mindfulness exercise and shares tips for adding calm to our days when we do not think we have time.

In this episode, we invited our guest Dr. Debbie James, chair of the Center of Community Media Steering Committee, to interview us. We discuss the pillars of the podcast, our process, and our professional and personal goals for the show. We also share why we feel called to do this work.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Giesela Grumbach about the role of social workers in schools as partners and collaborators in education. Dr. Grumbach also discusses strategies for listening to students with the “third ear” and building relationships.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Crystal Harris about making career changes, staying aligned to one’s values, and being open to opportunities. Dr. Harris discusses the importance of seeking higher degrees and how to do so efficiently and with purpose.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Gaetane Jean-Marie about her work in elevating women’s voices in social justice. Dr. Jean-Marie shares personal experiences modeling how we can prepare our voices while in safe spaces to speak up and speak out when we are in less comfortable situations.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Garrard McClendon about the embeddedness of cultural identity in spoken English. Dr. McClendon shares how powerful language can be in creating first impressions and discusses applications for his book Axe or Ask?

In this episode, we talk to Kiwana Sanders, principal of an alternative school, doctoral student in interdisciplinary leadership, and master teacher. She discusses the role of community in developing cultural competencies to meet the needs of students who need us the most.

In this episode, we talk to Emily Fox, Director, Educator Effectiveness at the Illinois State Board of Education and steering team member of the Diverse and Learner Ready Teachers Standards initiative. She discusses the background of DLRT and key elements for planning successful initiatives.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Shannon Dermer, Dean of the College of Education at Governors State University and counseling specialist in family relationships. She shares her insights on how to mitigate the pandemic’s effects on learners, teachers, and families.