The Equity Hour

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In this episode of The Equity Hour, Dr. Tami speaks with Leroy Smith, an educational leader and advocate, about the power of culturally affirming education, trauma-informed practices, and what it means to center justice in daily school life. Through personal stories and professional insights, this conversation highlights how resistance shows up in the everyday work of educators who believe in equity for all students—especially Black boys and neurodivergent learners.

Topics Covered:

• Culturally responsive curriculum & pedagogy
• Supporting students with IEPs and learning differences
• Affirmation and visibility for marginalized youth
• Healing-centered leadership
• Community-rooted educational change

Resources Mentioned:

• Wake by Dr. Rebecca Hall
• Healing-centered work by Dr. Shawn Ginwright

Connect with Leroy: https://realizedsolutionsllc.com/

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How can we bridge the digital divide, improve equity in education, and make edtech work for all students? In this episode, Dr. Tami  sits down with Dewayne J. McClary, an education leader with deep expertise in K-12 schools, digital equity, and education leadership. They uncover the biggest challenges—and solutions—facing today’s schools.

Key Topics: 

✔️ Equity is a Journey, Not a Destination – Why social justice and educational equity require long-term commitment.
✔️ Bridging the Digital Divide – What’s the difference between just “having internet” and true broadband access for students?
✔️ Rethinking EdTech Use in Schools – "Just because you put a worksheet on a device doesn’t mean you’re using technology effectively."
✔️ The Expanding Role of Schools – Are we asking too much of educators beyond teaching?
✔️ Strategic Change for Education Leaders – How districts can cut through the noise and focus on what truly impacts student success.

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In this powerful episode of The Equity Hour, host Dr. Tami Dean sits down with Megan Fuciarelli, the Chief Empowerment Officer of US² Consulting, for a deeply insightful conversation on equity, identity, and social justice in education.

Megan shares her personal journey from a homogenous upbringing to becoming a national leader in DEI work, highlighting the critical need for educators to reflect on their biases and reframe curriculum to be inclusive. They also tackle urgent topics like recent policy changes impacting DEI, the role of language in equity work, and how educators can take action despite growing challenges.

🔥 Key Topics Covered:
✔️ Unlearning & Relearning
✔️ Bias & Identity in Education
✔️ Meeting People Where They Are
✔️ The Current Climate & Urgency for Action:

📚 Plus, Megan introduces her upcoming book Look Into My I: Intersectionality of Identity, offering educators a practical guide to self-reflection and growth.

👂 Tune in now and discover how to navigate this critical moment in education!

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This week on The Equity Hour, Dr. Tami Dean sits down with Dr. Jerri Johnson, an educator and leader with a wealth of experience in equity and social justice work. Together, they discuss the challenges and triumphs of navigating systemic inequities in education and beyond.

Key topics include:

• The Journey Toward Equity: Dr. Johnson reflects on her transformation from a young teacher unaware of systemic inequities to a vocal advocate for change. 
• The Power of Voice: Discussing the courage it takes to speak truth to power. 
• Building Sustainable Systems: Insights on creating processes that last and ensure equity for all stakeholders. 
• Co-Parenting Insights: A glimpse into Dr. Johnson’s new Common Sense Co-Parenting podcast and the critical lessons learned in balancing the needs of children, parents, and educators.

Tune in to hear practical advice, inspiring stories, and a call to action for educators and leaders committed to systemic equity and social justice.

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In this thought-provoking episode, Katherine McCord, founder of Titan Management, joins Dr. Tami to explore the power of embracing neurodiversity and fostering inclusion in education, business, and beyond. Drawing from her personal experiences with OCD, misophonia, and bipolar disorder, Katherine shares actionable strategies for educators and corporate leaders alike to create spaces where all individuals can thrive.

Listeners will gain insights on:

• The Business Case for Inclusion: “Innovation flourishes when everyone’s unique strengths are recognized and valued.” — Katherine McCord
• Practical Strategies for Inclusive Classrooms and Workplaces: “Equity isn't just a box to check. It’s the foundation for a better culture.” — Dr. Tami
• The Role of Leadership in Driving Equity: “Leadership is about listening deeply and building systems of belonging.” — Katherine McCord

Whether you're an educator or business leader, this conversation will leave you inspired to lead with inclusion and harness the transformative power of diverse perspectives.

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In this episode of The Equity Hour, Dr. Tami Dean sits down with Kass Minor, inclusive educator, author of "Teaching Fiercely: Spreading Joy and Justice in Our Schools," and co-founder of The Minor Collective. Dive into a passionate discussion on fostering equity, joy, and justice in classrooms and school communities. Kass shares insights from her book and her personal experiences as a classroom teacher, mother, and equity advocate. Together, they explore strategies to make schools more inclusive spaces where every adult teaches, and every student learns.

Listeners will gain actionable ideas on building joyful, justice-centered classrooms, and redefining the role of "knowers" in education. Perfect for educators and school leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of social justice practices in education.

Listeners will leave inspired to rethink their classrooms as places of empowerment, joy, and justice, ready to implement strategies that foster equity and inclusion.

Head over to Instagram @dragonflyrisingllc for a chance to win a copy of Kass' book! 

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In this episode, Dr. Tami Dean is joined by Julye Williams, founder of Project 2043 Institute, a visionary organization preparing communities for a multiracial and inclusive future. Together, they explore the shifting demographics of America and the intentional actions needed to create equity in schools, workplaces, and communities. Julye shares her journey from corporate America to founding a school and leading a movement toward inclusive practices, all framed by her powerful motto: "Don’t be afraid to go out on a limb—that’s where the fruit is."

They also discuss the importance of understanding generational diversity in the workforce, actionable steps for inclusivity, and the critical role of awareness in social justice. Tune in to learn how to start with learning, embrace growth, and act for meaningful change.

• Follow @Dragonflyrisingllc on Instagram for updates and episode highlights.
• Subscribe to Julye Williams' newsletter at Project2043.com for tools and resources on building inclusive communities.
• Download Dr. Tami Dean’s free awareness resource to kickstart your equity journey.

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In this heartfelt episode of The Equity Hour, host Dr. Tami Dean returns to share an honest reflection on balancing personal wellness with the work of equity and social justice. Reflecting on the challenges and expectations often placed on women, especially those from marginalized communities, Dr. Dean opens up about her own journey to prioritize rest, set boundaries, and give herself the same grace she readily offers to others.

Dr. Dean discusses powerful themes from previous guests, including Katie O'Malley's (S2:E3) candid conversation on mental health and Katie Piotrowski's insights on burnout (S1:E22) . Through these reflections, Dr. Dean calls for a greater awareness of mental health and self-care in high-stakes environments. She emphasizes the need to “check on your strong friends” and reminds us that showing up authentically includes taking time for self-care.

Join Dr. Dean as she recommits to releasing two episodes per month, bringing fresh interviews with inspiring educators, leaders, and change-makers dedicated to creating equitable spaces. This episode is an invitation to embrace imperfection, recognize the power of rest, and lean into community support. Listen, reflect, and discover how to take your own next step in the journey of equity and self-advocacy.

Key Takeaways:

• Embracing rest and resilience as part of the equity journey
• Honoring personal boundaries and redefining productivity
• Insights from previous guests on mental health, burnout, and workplace well-being
• The power of storytelling and using one’s voice to foster community and connection

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If this episode resonates with you, please subscribe, rate, and share The Equity Hour with others who are passionate about equity and social justice. Together, let's continue the work of building more inclusive and supportive environments.

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In this compelling episode of "The Equity Hour," Dr. Tami talks with Katie O'Malley, a seasoned career coach and workplace strategist, to explore the transformative power of leadership rooted in equity and social justice. Drawing from her extensive experience across the nonprofit, corporate, and education sectors, Katie shares her personal journey from the south side of Chicago to the forefront of social impact coaching. Together, they discuss the systemic challenges within workplaces, the significance of cultural humility, and the importance of aligning one's career with core values.

This conversation delves into critical issues such as the pervasive impact of white privilege, the silent burden of white guilt, and the ongoing struggle for equity within marginalized communities. Katie's candid reflections on her work with organizations like the Innocence Project and the AIDS Foundation of Chicago provide listeners with a deep understanding of how systemic inequities manifest and how they can be challenged.

Whether you're an educator, leader, or advocate, this episode will inspire you to embrace a leadership style that not only uplifts those around you but also fosters a culture of inclusion and respect.

To connect with Katie:
(en)Courage Coaching
[email protected]
encouragecoaching.org
IG: encouragecoachchicago

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In this episode of The Equity Hour, Dr. Tami Dean the critical conversation about the difference between performative and practical equity in leadership. Are you truly ready to lead equity work in your organization, or are you merely ticking boxes? Dr. Dean explores essential considerations, from understanding the "why" behind your equity initiatives to aligning policies, structures, and financial resources for genuine impact. Whether you're a leader or a team member, this episode will guide you in assessing readiness, planning strategically, and fostering a culture that supports meaningful equity work. Tune in for actionable insights on creating an equitable and inclusive environment that goes beyond surface-level commitments.

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