Learning That Sticks: Attention, Memory, and AI
Cool Cat Teacher Talk
This episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk focuses on a challenge many teachers face right now: keeping student attention strong while navigating the rise of artificial intelligence in classrooms. We explore how learning science, memory strategies, and thoughtful AI use can help students focus, remember more, and think more deeply. With insights from Blake Harvard and Mary Ehrenworth, this conversation connects research-backed teaching practices with real classroom needs. If you want practical ways to strengthen learning without losing the human heart of teaching, this episode is for you. What...
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How Faith Changes the Way You Teach
Cool Cat Teacher Talk
Loneliness. Hopelessness. A search for purpose. These are some of the deepest struggles we face today. But what if the answer isn't found in accomplishments, possessions, or fleeting distractions? What if the answer is found in a relationship with the One who knows you, loves you, and created you with a purpose? This Christmas, I'm stepping aside from our regul ar episodes to share something deeply personal: how I talk about Jesus in my classroom. As a Christian educator, I believe every child is a masterpiece, and I strive to teach in a way that reflects the love and truth of Christ. In...
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The Science of Attention: How One Teacher Changed Everything
Cool Cat Teacher Talk
The science of attention explains why learning cannot happen without focus—and why one teacher can make all the difference. In this episode, host Vicki Davis sits down with Myriam Da Silva, AI ethicist, neuroeducation leader, and CEO of , to explore how attention actually works in the brain and what that means for today’s classrooms. Rather than telling students to “just pay attention,” this conversation breaks down the different states of attention, why sustained focus is biologically limited, and how teachers can design lessons that align with how the brain learns best. You’ll hear...
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Smart AI Use for Schools: Trust, Teaching, and Thinking Skills
Cool Cat Teacher Talk
Artificial intelligence is accelerating faster than most schools can respond—and the greatest risk isn’t the technology itself, but how unprepared we are to lead, teach, and think in this new era. In this powerful episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, Dr. Nancy Frey and Vickie Echols offer a practical, grounded roadmap for navigating AI with clarity and confidence. Dr. Nancy Frey, Professor of Educational Leadership at San Diego State University, breaks down how AI is reshaping classrooms, assessments, and the ways students process information. She explains the essential “Levels of AI...
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The Real Deal: Real AI, Real Learning and Real Homework Hacks
Cool Cat Teacher Talk
In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, host Vicki Davis explores the “real deal” of AI, education, and student learning. First, AI expert Robert “the AI Guy” Benjamin demystifies leading models like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini—and explains why critical thinking matters more than ever. Then, Zach Kinsler from Boodle Box shares insights on working in the AI industry and how young people can use AI responsibly. Next, Courtney Walker, NASSP’s 2024 National Assistant Principal of the Year, reveals how personalized learning pathways are transforming teacher development, while Misa...
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Igniting Math Education with Project, Play and Passion
Cool Cat Teacher Talk
In this final episode of our three-part math series, we explore how to transform math classrooms into engaging, curiosity-driven environments. Instead of rote memorization, top educators share play-based strategies, project-based learning ideas, and mastery-based instruction to help students develop a deep understanding of mathematics. Whether you're a math teacher, school leader, or parent, this episode provides practical techniques and real-world applications to make math fun, meaningful, and relevant for students. Show notes: 📌 In This Episode: ✔️ How play-based learning...
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Improving Math Classrooms with PROVEN Methods and Strategies
Cool Cat Teacher Talk
How can we make math classrooms more engaging and effective? In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, I explore brain-based learning, real-world math engagement, differentiation, and mastery-based learning with top experts. Learn how to reduce math anxiety, foster curiosity, and create meaningful learning experiences that help every student succeed. Featuring insights from Liesl McConchie, Dan Meyer, Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson, and Joe Manfre, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to transform your math classroom! Show notes and bios:
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Making Math ENGAGING: Busting Myths and Boosting Learning
Cool Cat Teacher Talk
This is part of a 3 part series on math education. We start with Dr. Erin Krupa who shares the research about what works in math and is turning math into SharkTank-style adventures. Dr. Lidia Gonzalez, author of Bad at Math, is dismantling the harmful beliefs that hold our students back. Show notes:
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Math Fact Tips and AI Safety News Everyone Needs to Know
Cool Cat Teacher Talk
This episode of my weekly radio/TV show Cool Cat Teacher Talk spotlights two important topics. First, I Have eight news stories that you'll want to hear about AI. Then, I have interviews with math educators Dr. Jennifer Bay-Williams and Dr. Gina Kling, co-authors of Math Fact Fluency: 60+ Games and Assessment Tools to Support Learning and Retention. We'll dive into how to help children learn math in a low-stress way and they'll give us their favorite math games. Then, at the end of the show, I'll unpack the parent lawsuit against ChatGPT and share the lessons we can learn (and how I'm talking...
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Rigorous Lesson Planning, Teacher Productivity, and Stressing Less - Tips from Experts
Cool Cat Teacher Talk
When I sat down to record this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, I knew I wanted it to be practical, encouraging, and full of wisdom from some of the best people I know. We start with Dr. Barbara Blackburn, one of my favorite experts on rigor. She reminds us that rigor isn’t about piling on work — it’s about raising expectations and giving students the support they need to succeed. Then we’ll hear from my friend Dr. Desiree Alexander, who always has such clear, actionable advice. She shares simple time-saving tips that really help teachers create a sustainable pace. She also gives...
info_outlineDiscover the secrets to raising thriving readers who are not only proficient in literacy skills but also genuinely engaged in the reading process. Every parent and educator wants their kids to experience reading success, and it all starts with unlocking the literacy secrets that inspire a love for reading. By implementing these strategies, you can help your child become an engaged reader, eager to explore new worlds and ideas through the pages of a book. The key to achieving this lies in understanding what makes kids thrive in reading, and with the right approach, you can set your child on the path to becoming a confident and enthusiastic reader. Learn how to nurture a lifelong love of reading in your kids and watch them flourish into thriving readers with a strong foundation in literacy skills.
Guests: Jennifer Serravallo, Ezera Washington, Nathaniel Hansford
Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkreading