The Texas Association for the Gifted and Talented (TAGT) Podcast

What if student behavior is communication and educators have more influence than we think?

In this season finale of the TAGT Podcast, recorded live at giftED25, Aric Bostick shares how understanding attachment can change the way we respond to students and support long-term growth. From hallway interactions to classroom culture, this conversation focuses on practical ways to build trust, create consistency, and strengthen relationships that support learning.

Special guest interviewer Andi McNair brings a unique lens to the conversation, connecting big ideas to real practice.

You’ll walk away with clear reminders about why connection matters, how small actions shape student experiences, and how educators can play a role in changing a student’s trajectory.

Suggested Resources:

www.aricbostickleadership.com

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In this episode, we’re joined by Marli Williams, leadership trainer and speaker, for a conversation on what it means to lead with intention in today’s educational landscape.

Together, we explore how energy, purpose, and reflection shape effective leadership, especially in gifted education roles that often feel complex and isolating. Marli shares practical ways to build confidence, stay grounded in your impact, and reconnect with why your work matters.

Whether you’re leading a program, a classroom, or a team, this conversation offers space to reflect and a few ideas you can put into practice right away.

Suggested Resources:

www.marliwilliams.com

[email protected]

www.podcast.marliwilliams.com

www.instagram.com/marliwilliams

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What happens when giftedness and disability coexist?

Dr. Susan Baum joins the TAGT Podcast to discuss the needs of twice-exceptional learners and why strength-based environments are essential. Drawing from decades of research and practice, she shares how talent development opportunities, creative entry points, and supportive classroom environments can transform outcomes for 2e students.

An encouraging and practical conversation for educators who want to better serve complex learners.

Suggested Resources

• Bridges Graduate School
• Bridges Academy
• To Be Gifted and Learning Disabled
• Enrichment Triad Model
• Multiple Intelligences: The Theory in Practice

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What happens when a teacher “accidentally” walks into a gifted conference—and finds a professional home?

Recorded live at giftED25, Luke Hurst, Ph.D., President of TAGT and Executive Director of Advanced Learning Services in Richardson ISD, shares his journey from classroom teacher to district leader. He reflects on mentorship, talent development, CCMR, advising gifted learners, and why schools must trust students to wrestle with meaningful problems.

From rapid acceleration models to talent pathways, this episode explores what it means to design systems that truly prepare gifted learners for life beyond high school.

A thoughtful conversation about leadership, opportunity, and developing potential with intention.

Suggested Resources

• Luke's Email
• AVID
• Texas Education Agency
• Enrichment Model & Talent Development

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Gifted services look different in every district, but are they delivering the outcomes students need?

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Todd Kettler to talk about “high dose” gifted education and why increasing both time and intensity can change student outcomes. From acceleration to grouping to enrichment, we break down what works, and what often gets in the way.

You’ll also hear a candid conversation about advocacy, program design, and how gifted education can better align with the goals districts already care about.

Suggested Resources:

Baylor University Staff Page

Todd Kettler's Email

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What happens when intellectual curiosity turns into a lifelong mission?

David Madden, co-founder of International Academic Competitions and 19-time Jeopardy champion, joins the TAGT Podcast to share how academic quiz competitions build confidence, community, and deep knowledge. From his own journey in quiz bowl to launching international competitions serving tens of thousands of students, David reflects on the power of challenge, belonging, and passion-driven learning.

A compelling conversation about gifted learners, academic identity, and why finding “your people” matters.

Suggested Resources

• International Academic Competitions (IAC)
• David's Email

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How do we serve students who are years beyond grade level—and experiencing the world differently because of it?

In this episode, Blake Haygood shares his journey from math teacher to advanced academics leader, along with personal insights as the parent of a profoundly gifted child. The conversation covers acceleration, cluster grouping, SEL for gifted learners, and the importance of strong professional networks.

An honest and practical look at what it takes to support profoundly gifted students well.

Suggested Resources

• PG Retreat
• Austin ISD – Advanced Academics
• New Braunfels ISD
• Education Service Center Region 13
• Education Service Center Region 20
• Blake's Email

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From a kindergarten question to a statewide law...

In this episode, Charlotte, a senior in Rockwall ISD’s SAGE program, shares how her Type III project honoring crossing guards grew into legislation establishing Crossing Guard Appreciation Day in Texas. Joined by her educators, Jennifer Leal and Rebecca Allen, this conversation highlights the power of meaningful professional learning, student voice, and long-term advocacy.

Discover what’s possible when gifted education professionals create space for authentic, real-world impact.

Suggested Resources

• Charlotte's Testimony in the Senate
• Confratute
• Texas Education Agency
• Rockwall ISD – Gifted & Talented (SAGE Program)
• Jennifer Leal's Email

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Join host Michael Flusche as he chats with Ilana Walder and Alex Lochoff, from National Math Stars, a groundbreaking program that identifies mathematically extraordinary students as young as second grade and provides them with ten years of personalized support, mentorship, and access to advanced STEM opportunities—all at no cost to families or schools. Ilana and Alex share their personal journeys and the program’s mission to bring equity to gifted education, bridging gaps for underrepresented communities and fostering a culture where math is celebrated. Packed with inspiring success stories and actionable insights, this episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and advocates looking to unlock the brilliance of young learners.

Suggested Resources:

www.nationalmathstars.org

[email protected]

[email protected]

www.linkedin.com/company/national-math-stars

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In this episode, host Michael Flusche sits down with e.E. Charlton-Trujillo, an award-winning author, filmmaker, and youth literacy activist. From growing up in rural Texas to earning national acclaim, e.E. shares their inspiring journey and passion for amplifying student voices. With powerful stories and actionable insights, this conversation highlights the importance of recognizing and nurturing the potential in every student. Tune in to this special episode featuring one of the MasterMind speakers from giftED24! 

Suggested Resources:

www.eecharlton-trujillo.com

www.instagram.com/pinatadirector

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