In this episode of the Counter Narrative Podcast, Charles Williams shares his personal journey of understanding autism through the lens of his grandson, Leo. He emphasizes that autism awareness should extend beyond a single month and highlights the importance of acceptance, support, and celebrating small victories. Charles discusses the significance of viewing behavior as communication and the role of advocacy in creating a more inclusive world for individuals with autism. He encourages listeners to approach autism with curiosity, empathy, and love, advocating for a shift in perspective that celebrates differences rather than tolerating them.

In this episode of the Counter Narrative Podcast, Charles Williams speaks with Lydia McNeely, a lead professional learning specialist for Hatching Results, about her non-traditional journey in education and the vital role of school counselors. They discuss the current challenges facing school counselors, particularly regarding misconceptions about their roles, the importance of family engagement, and the need for community support in education. Lydia shares her experiences and insights on how to effectively support students and families, especially in immigrant communities, and emphasizes the importance of being intentional in outreach and engagement efforts. In this conversation, Lydia McNeiley and Charles Williams discuss the evolving role of school counselors, addressing misconceptions about their work and the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in education. They emphasize the need for counselors to support all students and advocate for their needs, while also providing resources for parents and educators to better understand the counseling profession.

In this episode, Charles Williams reflects on a transformative morning experience where he chose to listen to a baseball game instead of the usual news briefing. This decision led him to realize the importance of finding simple moments of joy and comfort in daily life, emphasizing the need to 'fill your bucket' with small, grounding experiences that can reset one's mood and perspective.

In this episode of the Counter Narrative Podcast, Charles Williams speaks with Dr. Julie Hasson about her journey in education, focusing on the importance of teacher resilience and engagement. They discuss the shift from external factors affecting teacher retention to the internal resources teachers need to thrive. Julie shares practical strategies for building resilience, the significance of self-check-ins, and the need for a culture of honesty in educational settings. The conversation also highlights the upcoming NCMLE conference and the sessions they will be leading.

In this episode, Charles Williams reflects on the current state of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts, particularly in the context of a recent conference he attended. He discusses the noticeable decline in engagement and attendance at DEI-related events, questioning the authenticity of allyship in a changing political climate. Williams emphasizes the importance of standing up for DEI even when it is uncomfortable and the need for genuine commitment to these values beyond performative actions.

In this episode of the Counter Narrative Podcast, host Charles Williams engages with David James, a dedicated seventh-grade social studies teacher and conference director for the North Carolina Association for Middle Level Education (NCMLE). They discuss the journey of educators, the significance of teacher leadership, and the impact of personalized professional development on student achievement. David shares insights from his experience in education, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, networking, and empowering teachers to take initiative in their roles. The conversation also highlights the upcoming NCMLE conference, which promises to be a valuable opportunity for educators to connect and grow.
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In this episode of the Counter Narrative Podcast, host Charles Williams engages with educator Ishmael Jimenez, who shares his journey into education and the importance of understanding historical context in teaching. They discuss the significance of Black history, the role of educators in challenging dominant narratives, and the need for truth in education. Ishmael emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the responsibility of educators to speak truthfully, even in the face of fear and societal pushback. The conversation concludes with recommendations for resources to deepen understanding of these issues and a call to action for listeners to engage with their communities.

In this episode of the Counter Narrative Podcast, host Charles Williams engages in a rich conversation with guests Leonard Webb and Vernon Wright. They explore the significance of Black History Month, the importance of storytelling, and the need to challenge the traditional narratives surrounding Black history. Leonard shares a personal story about his father, highlighting the complexities of race and identity, while Vernon emphasizes the importance of service and understanding one's purpose. Together, they aim to uplift voices and share experiences that resonate with the broader themes of resilience and cultural heritage. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the significance of names, identity, and the importance of preparing for life's challenges. They explore the historical context of Timbuktu, emphasizing the need to recognize and understand our roots. The discussion highlights the importance of empathy through understanding history and the role of narratives in shaping our perspectives. The speakers also stress the importance of passing knowledge and stories to future generations, encouraging a call to serve and uplift others.

In this episode of the Counter Narrative Podcast, Charles Williams emphasizes the critical need to teach authentic history, particularly during Black History Month. He discusses the intersection of policies and problems, particularly in relation to immigration and the historical context of laws like the Fugitive Slave Act. Williams argues that understanding our shared history is essential for recognizing patterns that inform current societal issues. He calls for vigilance in education and community engagement to ensure that the full story is told, advocating for a more inclusive and honest approach to history that empowers future generations.

In this episode of the Counter Narrative Podcast, host Charles Williams engages with educator Maggie Broderick to discuss the importance of belonging in education and the concept of 'oases'—hidden spaces within schools where students can find connection and support. They explore how these oases contribute to social emotional learning and the overall well-being of students, emphasizing the need for educators to be supported in their roles. The conversation highlights the impact of extracurricular activities and the necessity of preserving these vital spaces in the face of budget cuts and educational policies that prioritize standardized testing over holistic education.