In this episode, Josh welcomes Sarasina Tuchen, a distinguished tech and transportation professional who is now doing great work at the intersection of STEAM education and advanced air mobility. They discuss the importance of using emerging technologies like electric and autonomous aircraft as the entry point to get young people learning and interested in eventual careers in STEAM disciplines. Sarasina shares her insights on engaging K-5 students through Mighty Tails, an innovative program she created to inspire young minds and create pathways into aviation careers. The broader conversation highlights the need for equitable access to education and the potential for advanced air mobility to transform transportation in California and beyond.

In this episode, Josh welcomes Dr. John Pascarella, an expert in teacher education reform, racial equity, and digital media literacy, to discuss the critical role of mentorship in teacher preparation and retention in California. They explore the disconnect between education professionals and the legislative process, the challenges faced by new teachers, and the need for systemic changes in funding and support for mentorship programs. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing mentor teachers as essential educators and advocates for better policies to support them.

In this episode, Josh hosts Dr. Karen Escalante, an expert on teacher education and preparation, for a discussion on the current state of the educator workforce in California, highlighting the alarming trend of teacher attrition and the challenges faced by both new and veteran teachers. The conversation delves into the complexities of teacher preparation programs, the need for diversity in the teaching profession, and the impact of politics on education. Dr. Escalante emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment for teachers and students alike, while also expressing optimism for the future of education through advocacy and policy engagement.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh welcomes Mike McGuffee, CEO of Unite for Literacy, to discuss the critical importance of early childhood literacy, community involvement, and creating the conditions that foster a lifelong love of reading. The conversation explores the impact of books in homes, community-driven initiatives like book gardens, and the influence of digital environments on reading behaviors.

This week on The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh sits down with Tim Daly, a former classroom teacher, founder of EdNavigator, and author of the Substack The Education Daly. Tim’s latest piece, “Bring Back the Try-Hard,” makes a compelling case that effort isn’t a personality trait or a punishment; rather, it’s the real engine of learning. And when adults remove too much friction, kids don’t rise to the occasion; they simply do less. In this conversation, Josh and Tim dig into why student effort has slipped, how schools and families can rebuild it, and what it looks like to strike the right balance between compassion and challenge. It’s a candid look at expectations, culture, and the simple truth that learning still requires work.

In this episode of the Edumyseat podcast, Josh engages with Dr. Kieran O'Mahony and Jessilyn Barnhurst to explore the critical question of whether we are truly preparing students' brains for learning. They discuss the insights from neuroscience regarding the adolescent brain and how these insights inform the ASCEND program, which aims to help students arrive at school regulated and ready to learn. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding individual differences in students' needs and the role of a supportive environment in fostering learning.

Their conversation explores the innovative approaches to education through brain-based learning, emphasizing the importance of creating a co-created environment for students. The discussion highlights the significance of morning routines, understanding sensitivity versus resilience, and the role of the amygdala in emotional regulation. The speakers share insights on engaging students through choice, shifting from extrinsic to intrinsic motivation, and the broader impact on the school environment. They also discuss the integration of teachers into this new educational paradigm and provide resources for further learning.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh welcomes Graham Dugoni, founder of Yondr, a California-based company which could be described as an “anti-tech company,” whose simple mission is to offset the intrusion of personal technology and create vital, distraction-free experiences. Their wide-ranging conversation explores the impact of smartphones on society, education and social development, and the growing consensus on the need for phone-free spaces to restore presence and focus in classrooms.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh welcomes Graham Dugoni, founder of Yondr, a Bay Area company which could probably be described as an “anti-tech company,” whose simple mission is to offset the intrusion of personal technology and create vital, distraction-free experiences. Their wide-ranging conversation explores the impact of smartphones on society, education and social development, and the growing consensus on the need for phone-free spaces to restore presence and focus in classrooms.

In this episode of the Edge of My Seat podcast, Josh welcomes Dr. Timothy Shanahan, a leading literacy scholar, to discuss the current state of literacy in America, the implications of the science of reading, and effective teaching strategies. They discuss the challenges faced by educators and students, the importance of quality instruction, and the need for a rigorous learning environment. Dr. Shanahan emphasizes the value of literacy in society and offers his insights on fostering a love for reading among young learners.

In this episode, Josh welcomes Dr. Janice Myck-Wane for a discussion of the complexities of special education in California, focusing on the challenges faced by teachers, students, and families. They explore the role of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), the impact of chronic underfunding, and the teacher shortages in the field. The conversation also delves into the credentialing process for educators and the potential innovations that could shape the future of special education, including the use of AI.