Be a Better Ally: critical conversations for K12 educators

A podcast for educators reimagining what allyship looks like in classrooms, staff rooms, and communities. Host Tricia Friedman, global educator, coach, and Director at Shifting Schools, guides dynamic conversations at the intersection of education, identity, and digital humanities. Each episode brings together practitioners, authors, and thought leaders exploring how schools can cultivate belonging, through curriculum, culture, and critical reflection. With an eye toward digital culture and justice, this show asks: How might we be better listeners, advocates, and co-creators in an interconnected world?

Get A People’s Climate into first place! 04/14/2026

Sara Amini on Identity, Friendship, and the Power of Graphic Novels 04/09/2026

Meet 'Jack and Me' 04/01/2026

Why “What Do You Want to Be?” May Be the Wrong Question | Peter H. Reynolds 03/25/2026

People, Passion, Professional Development: with Justin Hardman and Carlos Galvez 03/18/2026

People, Passion, Professional Development: with Justin Hardman and Carlos Galvez How can we rethink professional development for teachers so it feels energizing, relevant, and deeply human? In this episode, Tricia Friedman is joined by Justin Hardman and Carlos Galvez for a conversation about educator professional development, community building in education, teacher conferences, and the future of learning. Together, they explore why many educators are no longer looking for one-size-fits-all PD. Instead, they want meaningful professional learning, stronger communities of practice, and experiences that leave them feeling connected rather than depleted. This episode examines what makes a great education conference, how to design teacher professional learning that builds trust and belonging, and why joy, movement, and human connection matter more than ever—especially in a time when AI in education is changing the conversation around teaching and learning. If you care about teacher growth, innovative professional development, education leadership, or building stronger school communities, this conversation is for you. In This Episode, We Discuss Why professional development for educators needs to evolve What teachers want from modern professional learning The importance of community building in schools and education spaces How to create authentic communities of practice for teachers Why the best teacher conferences feel relational, not transactional How organizations can avoid “copy-paste” conference programming The role of trust, belonging, and leadership in adult learning How to identify and elevate new voices in education Why informal learning spaces like PubPD matter for educators How physical education, wellness, and movement shape better conference experiences What AI means for educators, especially in relation to health, wellness, and human connection Why the future of education may depend on protecting what is most human about learning Key Themes Professional Development for Teachers Is Changing Educators have access to more information than ever. What many need now is not more content, but more connection. Justin and Carlos reflect on how teacher professional development can become more collaborative, practical, and community-centered. Community Building in Education This episode digs into what it really takes to build a thriving education community—from intentional design and representation to trust, consistency, and making space for new voices. What Makes a Great Education Conference From presenter support to social events, the conversation highlights the small and large details that help an education conference feel welcoming, joyful, and memorable. PubPD and Informal Professional Learning Carlos shares the story behind PubPD, a social and informal model for educator learning that blends conversation, reflection, and community in more relaxed spaces. AI in Education and the Need for Human-Centered Learning As schools continue exploring artificial intelligence in education, this episode asks an important question: what should stay deeply human in how we teach, lead, and learn? Memorable Quotes “The information is out there… what matters now is community.” “Some of the people doing the best work in schools are not the ones necessarily signing up to present.” “The key to building community is belonging.” “Learning should be joyful.” “We shouldn’t just adapt to AI. We should ask how AI adapts to us.” Why This Episode Matters Whether you are a teacher, school leader, instructional coach, conference organizer, or education consultant, this episode offers insight into how to make professional development for educators more human, more inclusive, and more impactful. It is also a powerful reminder that the most effective learning environments—whether online, in schools, or at conferences—are built on belonging, trust, curiosity, and shared purpose. Connect with Connect with Learn more about /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/40537145

Jasmine Warga on Children's Literature, Emotional Growth, and Unlikely Friendship 03/11/2026

What Rowing Teaches Leaders: with Dana Specker Watts, Ph.D. 03/05/2026

What Rowing Teaches Leaders: with Dana Specker Watts, Ph.D. Dana Specker Watts began rowing and found an unexpected leadership lab: a sport where trust is built through timing, teamwork, and attention to small signals. In this educational interview, Dana shares how early mornings on the water became a practice for focus and calm, and how rowing reshaped the way she navigates conflict, setbacks, and collaboration. We talk about masters rowing as an adult beginner experience, the value of quiet reflection, and what it means to stay in sync with others without constant talk. You will also hear how technology shows up in rowing, and why “messiness” and repair can strengthen teams. Key topics Leadership lessons from rowing at 50 Teamwork, timing, and nonverbal synchronization Early morning routines, mental clarity, and emotional resilience Technology in rowing and what data can and cannot tell you Failure, adversity, and building trust through repair Takeaways Rowing trains nonverbal teamwork: alignment, timing, and shared attention. Early morning time on the water can boost focus and mental clarity. Setbacks can strengthen teams when you practice repair, not blame. Learning a new skill later in life is a powerful cognitive and identity reset. Memorable lines “Messiness and conflict are essential for growth.” “Quiet time on the water keeps me grounded.” “It’s never too late to start something new.” Chapters 00:00 Rowing at 50 and why adults start 05:42 The meditative side of rowing and quiet reflection 11:26 Technology in rowing: data, gear, and feedback 17:09 Team synchronization, conflict, and resilient leadership Resources The Boys in the Boat, Daniel James Brown Dana Specker Watts on LinkedIn: Dana Specker Watts, Ph.D. Dana has a broad school background in curriculum, technology, innovation, and educational leadership. She joined ISS from Hong Kong International School, where she was the Schoolwide Curriculum Leader. In addition to working in Hong Kong, India and Thailand, she has also served as Executive Director of WLead, and as the Director of Innovation at 21st Century Learning International. Dana is also an Apple Distinguished Educator, a Google Certified Teacher, and ISTE Certified Trainer. She earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Sciences from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies from State University of New York College at Buffalo, and a Master of Science in Secondary Education from Canisius College in New York. /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/40326380

Family of Spies and the Work of Confronting the Truth 02/26/2026

Table for One? The Ethics of AI Companionship 02/19/2026

Love is a Verb with Sandra Magsamen 02/14/2026

Rethinking Love, Leadership, and Loneliness with Julie Menanno 02/12/2026

Rethinking Love, Leadership, and Loneliness with Julie Menanno This week, Tricia speaks with Julie Menanno about her new book, Secure Love, and what it actually takes to build emotionally safe, lasting relationships in a hyperconnected world. The conversation begins with an unexpected cultural lens: Jim and Pam from The Office. What makes their dynamic feel healthy? Friendship first. Slower pacing. Emotional safety before performance. From there, the episode moves into deeper territory. Julie challenges the fast, simplified narratives about relationships that dominate social media. Instead of labeling partners as villains or diagnosing from afar, she argues for a more nuanced frame. Most relational breakdowns are rooted in blocked needs. Fear. Shame. Unresolved grief. When emotional safety collapses, behavior follows. Julie Menanno is a trailblazing therapist, author, educator, a masterful interpreter of Attachment Theory, and an Architect of Emotional Connection who is continually working to bridge the gap between complex psychological concepts and everyday struggles. As a revolutionary force in the world of relationships, Julie’s work has transformed the way we understand emotional intimacy and human connection. Julie is the creator of The Secure Relationship. This platform has reached millions worldwide, with a mission to dismantle the barriers that keep people from experiencing the joy of deeply connected, secure relationships. In a world increasingly disconnected by technology and societal pressures, Julie stands as a guiding light, reminding us that love and connection are not just desires but essential human needs and with every conversation, every session, and every word, Julie transforms lives, one secure relationship at a time. Follow Julie on IG or her Key themes explored: • Why “friendship first” can reduce pressure in dating • How social media rewards oversimplified explanations of relational pain • The appeal of labeling versus the work of nuance • Naming fear before walking into a room • Why conflict is not a failure but a developmental process • How repeated safe conversations reshape nervous systems • Emotional literacy as leadership • Self-connection as the prerequisite for connection with others Learn with Tricia and the TRC this Sunday: /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/40087590

Rise, Girl, Rise, with Gloria Steinem and Leymah Gbowee 02/05/2026

Rise, Girl, Rise, with Gloria Steinem and Leymah Gbowee In a bold anthem, Rise, Girl, Rise, feminist organizer Gloria Steinem and Nobel Peace Prize winner Leymah Gbowee share their parallel journeys as activists. This picture book for children is told through alternating points of view and culminating in a powerful collective “we,” celebrating resilience and empowerment to inspire readers everywhere to raise their voices, stand together, and rise up for themselves and others. Gloria Steinem is a political activist, feminist organizer, and the author of many acclaimed books, including the national bestseller Revolution from Within: A Book of Self-Esteem. She is a contributor to the classic children’s book Free to Be You and Me, which became a children's entertainment project, conceived, created, and executive-produced by actress and author Marlo Thomas, produced in collaboration with the Ms. Foundation for Women, and the Free to Be Foundation, both cofounded by Ms. Steinem, and most recently illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds. Ms. Steinem is also the co-founder of the National Women’s Political Caucus and the Women’s Media Center. In keeping with her deep commitment to establishing equality throughout the world, Ms. Steinem helped found Equality Now, Donor Direct Action, and Direct Impact Africa. To learn more, visit . Leymah Gbowee is a Liberian peace activist, social worker, and women’s rights advocate. She is Founder and President of the Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa, based in Monrovia. As a writer, Ms. Gbowee is the author of the inspirational memoir Mighty Be Our Powers: How Sisterhood, Prayer, and Sex Changed a Nation at War, and author of the children’s book A Community of Sisters, illustrated by Coleen Baik. Ms. Gbowee is perhaps best known for leading a nonviolent movement that brought together Christian and Muslim women to play a pivotal role in ending Liberia’s devastating, 14-year civil war in 2003. Chapters 00:00 The Power of Picture Books 02:43 Friendship Across Cultures 05:15 Legacy and Call to Action Takeaways The book aims to change expectations for children and adults alike. Friendship across cultures is possible and essential. The book serves as a legacy and call to action for young girls. Storytelling connects us and highlights our shared humanity. Collaboration enriches the creative process and strengthens friendships. The authors intentionally targeted the next generation with their message. Books can be powerful tools for empowerment and understanding. Cultural exchange enhances our perspectives and experiences. The book is not just for children but for all ages. The authors believe in the importance of accessible messages of hope. /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/40010970

Can we encourage a puzzler's mindset? 01/28/2026

Carrying a Timeless Story Forward: Charlotte Jones Voiklis on Legacy and Adaptation 01/22/2026

Carrying a Timeless Story Forward: Charlotte Jones Voiklis on Legacy and Adaptation In this conversation, Tricia and Charlotte Jones Voiklis explore the enduring impact of 'A Wrinkle in Time,' discussing its timeless themes, the significance of adaptations, and the cultural context surrounding the book. They delve into the personal connections to literature, the challenges of immersive storytelling in the digital age, and the implications of AI in the literary world. Charlotte reflects on her family's legacy and the responsibility of carrying forward her grandmother's work while navigating the evolving landscape of storytelling. Takeaways Stories are timeless and resonate across generations. Adaptations can breathe new life into classic texts. The essence of a story remains intact despite adaptations. Cultural context enriches the understanding of literature. Personal connections to stories shape our experiences. Immersive storytelling presents both opportunities and challenges. Legacy plays a crucial role in literature and storytelling. AI's role in literature raises important ethical questions. The richness of a story invites diverse interpretations. Engaging with literature fosters imagination and curiosity. Chapters 00:00 The Timelessness of A Wrinkle in Time 02:41 Adaptations and Their Impact 05:19 Cultural Resonance and Legacy 07:50 The Role of Technology in Storytelling 10:42 Personal Connections to the Story 13:08 Future of A Wrinkle in Time 15:34 AI and the Future of Literature Charlotte Jones Voiklis manages her late grandmother Madeleine L'Engle's literary business. She lived with her grandmother during college and graduate school, co-hosting dinner parties, helping answer readers' letters, and earning a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature. Charlotte has worked in academia, nonprofit communications and fundraising, and philanthropy. She lives in New York City with her husband and two children. /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/39828875

Will we focus on the most human of our problems? 01/13/2026

What Evidence-Based Health Actually Means with Dr. Michael Greger 01/07/2026

What Evidence-Based Health Actually Means with Dr. Michael Greger This week we give you a conversation from Tricia's other show: Shifting Schools. In this episode, host Tricia Friedman sits down with Dr. Michael Greger, bestselling author and founder of NutritionFacts.org, to explore why non-commercial, evidence-based health guidance matters more than ever. They discuss lifestyle medicine, plant-based nutrition, scientific integrity, cannabis research, and how small, testable behavior changes can dramatically improve long-term health. What This Conversation Is Really About Health advice is everywhere — but trustworthy guidance is not. This conversation slows things down and examines how to make informed choices in a noisy, commercialized health landscape, without absolutism, hype, or fear-based messaging. Dr. Greger shares: Why he donates 100% of book proceeds to charity How lifestyle medicine transformed his own family's health What the science actually says about cannabis — both risks and benefits Why updating guidance as evidence evolves is a strength, not a weakness How social support, not willpower, determines whether health changes last Key Topics Covered Why non-commercial health information matters How financial incentives distort nutrition and medical guidance — and how to recognize bias. Lifestyle medicine in practice Diet, movement, and daily habits as powerful tools for disease prevention and reversal. Plant-based eating (defined clearly) What "plant-based" actually means — and what it doesn't. Cannabis: separating evidence from ideology What newer human studies reveal about cancer risk, pain management, and safer use. Scientific uncertainty and misinformation How peer-reviewed research works, where it fails, and how to interpret studies responsibly. Behavior change that sticks Why short-term "experiments," bodily feedback, and social support outperform rigid rules. Who This Episode Is For Listeners overwhelmed by conflicting health advice Educators, parents, and caregivers navigating cannabis conversations Anyone curious about plant-based nutrition without extremism People interested in evidence-based, non-commercial wellness guidance Listeners looking for sustainable, realistic behavior change About the Guest Dr. Michael Greger is a physician, internationally recognized speaker, and New York Times bestselling author of How Not to Die. He is the founder of NutritionFacts.org, a nonprofit providing free, evidence-based nutrition research, and a leading voice in lifestyle medicine. Chapters Introduction and Non-Commercial Guidance - 0:00 Dr. Greger's Personal Story and Motivation - 3:15 Importance of Repeated Guidance and Lifestyle Changes - 6:30 Updated Book Topics: COVID, Cannabis, and Misinformation - 10:45 Science Communication and Challenges - 15:00 Plant-Based Diet and Personal Health Experiments - 19:15 Social Support and Sustainable Lifestyle Changes - 23:30 Closing Thoughts and Positive Messages - 27:45 /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/39653365

How to Talk to Young People About Substance Use (What Actually Helps) 12/30/2025

How to Talk to Young People About Substance Use (What Actually Helps) Substance use prevention is often driven by fear-based messaging and one-off assemblies—but research and lived experience suggest these approaches fall short. In this episode, is joined by , founder of PreventionEd, for a grounded conversation about what effective, student-centered prevention education actually looks like. Drawing on neuroscience, international school data, and professional experience, listeners can explore how adolescent brain development, adult modeling, media narratives, and school culture shape young people’s decisions around substances: particularly alcohol. The discussion emphasizes non-judgmental dialogue, emotional and social intelligence, and the importance of community connection as protective factors. What This Episode Explores Why fear-based prevention strategies are limited in effectiveness How adolescent brain development changes how risk is perceived The influence of adult behavior and media narratives on youth norms What research shows about permissive parent attitudes toward alcohol How schools can support healthy decision-making without moralizing Learn about our guest: Connect with research mentioned: Key Takeaways Adolescents process risk differently than adults, limiting the impact of scare tactics. Most young people are already making healthy choices around substances. Adult modeling plays a significant role in shaping norms and expectations. Permissive environments around alcohol are associated with increased risk. Emotional and social intelligence are critical components of prevention. Prevention education is most effective when it is science-based and student-centered. Community connection and meaningful engagement reduce reliance on substances. Healthy risk-taking is an important part of adolescent development. Chapters 00:00 – The limits of traditional prevention education 04:39 – Adolescent development and risk perception 08:50 – Media narratives and alcohol normalization 13:10 – Adult modeling and school culture 17:49 – Parent attitudes and research findings 26:00 – Global perspectives on alcohol use 30:28 – Connection, community, and ‘natural highs’ 34:59 – Risk-taking and healthy development 41:48 – Emotional intelligence as prevention 46:33 – What makes PreventionEd’s approach distinct 52:25 – Supporting young people with accurate information /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/39569110

Can Scientists Succeed Where Politicians Fail? A Conversation with Nobel Laureate Peter Agre 12/18/2025

Can Scientists Succeed Where Politicians Fail? A Conversation with Nobel Laureate Peter Agre What role can scientists play when politics reaches a standstill? In this episode, Tricia Friedman speaks with Nobel Prize–winning scientist Peter Agre about his extraordinary second career in science diplomacy—a path that took him from the laboratory into conversations with presidents, prime ministers, health ministers, and scientists in countries often at odds with the United States. Agre, a physician, molecular biologist, and former president of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), shares how scientific collaboration can reduce tensions, build trust, and inform global policy on issues ranging from public health and malaria to climate change, sustainability, and food security. Rather than portraying scientists as lone geniuses, Agre emphasizes humility, collaboration, and serendipity—arguing that scientific progress and diplomacy alike depend on relationships, listening, and shared human goals. About the Guest Peter Agre, MD, is an American physician, molecular biologist, and Nobel Laureate. He is a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, director of the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, and former president of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). His book, Can Scientists Succeed Where Politicians Fail?, examines the history, challenges, and promise of science diplomacy in addressing global threats. Why This Episode Matters At a moment when global challenges demand cooperation—but trust in science is under strain—this conversation offers a powerful reminder: science is not just about discovery, but about connection. Join Tricia on January 13th: Chapters 00:00The Journey to Nobel Prize and Beyond 02:47Science Diplomacy: Bridging Nations through Collaboration 05:38The Role of Science in Global Challenges 08:04Engaging the Public: The Importance of Science Communication 10:46Collaboration in Science: Lessons for Young Scientists 13:54Serendipity and Humility in Scientific Discovery /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/39448320

Co-Creating Wonder: The Making of Interactive Stories with Sandra Magsamen 12/11/2025

Co-Creating Wonder: The Making of Interactive Stories with Sandra Magsamen In this conversation, Sandra Magsamen discusses the importance of interactive storytelling in children's books, emphasizing how they foster emotional connections and self-esteem in young readers. She shares insights into her creative process, the significance of collaboration with publishers, and offers tips for enhancing storytime experiences. Magsamen highlights the role of humor and agency in children's literature, advocating for a more engaging and communal reading experience. takeaways Books are not just entertainment; they foster connections. Interactive components in books enhance the reading experience. Humor in books gives children agency and confidence. Storytelling helps children develop social skills. Collaboration with publishers is key to creating impactful books. Trust and understanding are essential in creative partnerships. Authenticity in storytelling enriches the experience. Reading together creates emotional bonds between adults and children. Children can express creativity by creating their own stories. Engaging with children during storytime is crucial for their development. Chapters 00:00The Power of Interactive Storytelling 02:43Building Connections Through Humor 05:40The Creative Process Behind Children's Books 08:38Radical Collaboration in Publishing 12:19Enhancing Storytime Experiences SANDRA MAGSAMEN is the author and illustrator of many books for young children, including the picture book When I Grow Up I Want to Be Me, as well as a number of bestselling novelty titles, including Everybody Goes Nighty-Night, named a Best Board Book of 2018 by The Children's Book Review; Baby Love; I Love You, Little Pumpkin; and Peek-a-Boo, I Love You. As an artist, an art therapist, and a mom, she uses her creativity to remind people to express themselves and connect with others. Her lifestyle brands, products, and books are sold worldwide. Visit her at . Join Tricia and The Guardian Project on Dec 12 /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/39369990

Using Trivia to Inspire Writers: Lessons from Brian “Uncle John” Boone 12/05/2025

Using Trivia to Inspire Writers: Lessons from Brian “Uncle John” Boone In this warm and curiosity-packed conversation, Tricia Friedman sits down with Brian “Uncle John” Boone, longtime contributor to the iconic Uncle John’s Know It All Bathroom Reader series—now celebrating its 38th edition. Brian shares why trivia continues to captivate millions, how collaborative writing fuels the series’ longevity, and why tiny bits of knowledge can strengthen community, curiosity, and even kindness. Together, Tricia and Brian explore: Why trivia matters in a world overloaded with information How curiosity helps us build human connection The behind-the-scenes pitching and research process at the Bathroom Readers’ Institute The multigenerational fandom behind the beloved series How educators, parents, and young writers can use trivia to inspire creativity and local storytelling Practical tips for idea-keeping, pitching, and overcoming rejection as a writer This episode is perfect for educators, writers, trivia lovers, librarians, caretakers, and anyone needing a little delight at this busy time of year. Brian Boone has spent more than two decades helping shape one of the world’s most beloved trivia traditions: With millions of copies sold and a fiercely loyal, multigenerational fandom, the “Know It All” series continues to turn everyday moments into delightful discoveries. In this episode, Brian shares what keeps the series thriving after 38 editions: Humans are wired for curiosity. Trivia satisfies our desire to understand the world in quick, accessible ways. Trivia builds connection. Readers often share facts with friends, family, and even strangers—strengthening social bonds. Collaboration fuels creativity. The series is built by writers of different ages and backgrounds, each bringing unique lenses to history, science, pop culture, and everyday oddities. Research is an adventure. From public libraries to vintage magazines to listener letters, the team follows surprising threads that lead to new stories. Writing thrives on feedback. Brian offers honest, encouraging insight into pitching, rejection, and finding the right home for your ideas. Tricia and Brian also discuss how educators can adapt this model for micro-projects in classrooms: school-based trivia books, local history prompts, research sprints, and collaborative student authorship. If you're looking for a light, meaningful episode at the end of a hectic year, this conversation is a reminder that joyful learning still matters. Join Tricia for a Futures Literacy conversation on December 12th through The Guardian Project: m/t/taHBbURnELus?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/39294140

Redefining Family with Scott & Mark Hoying: Creativity, Parenthood, and Representation 11/26/2025

Tami Charles on Picture Books, Fear in Creativity, and Teaching Unity Through Stories 11/20/2025

Tami Charles on Picture Books, Fear in Creativity, and Teaching Unity Through Stories What happens when a children’s book becomes a tool for unity, empathy, and allyship? In this conversation, Tami Charles—author, former teacher, and champion of diverse stories—opens up about the creative process behind her latest picture book, Together United. She shares how her writing is shaped not only by ideas, but by her collaboration with illustrators, the ever-present feeling of fear, and her commitment to creating stories that help children see themselves and each other. We talk about: How collaboration between author and illustrator can lead to unexpected, beautiful outcomes that neither could have created alone. Why fear is a constant companion in the creative process, and how Tami chooses to write anyway. What it means to center unity, understanding, and connection in children’s literature at a time when division is loud and constant. How rich, poetic language in picture books can still be accessible—and deeply engaging—for young readers. The importance of reading aloud as a ritual that nurtures a love of language, builds empathy, and creates shared moments between children and caring adults. Throughout the episode, Tami reflects on how every child has the potential to inspire others, and how stories can open doors to conversations about identity, justice, kindness, and community. We explore the idea that books can act as bridges, connecting diverse experiences and helping children see that they belong to something bigger than themselves. If you’re an educator, caregiver, librarian, school leader, or children’s literature lover, this episode offers practical and heart-centered insight into: Choosing and using picture books that promote inclusion, empathy, and allyship. Talking with young readers about unity, difference, and shared humanity in age-appropriate ways. Encouraging children to see themselves as storytellers and changemakers, not just passive readers. At its heart, this episode is a celebration of the way art and words together can create a kind of magic—the magic that happens when children feel seen, heard, and invited into stories that ask them to imagine a more united world. /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/39112315

Teaching Creativity: Alan Gratz on Storytelling, Curiosity, and Collaboration 11/13/2025

Narrative Justice: The Future of Climate Justice with Shilpi Chhotray 11/06/2025

Can we befriend the dark? 10/29/2025

The Creative Process of Ryan La Sala: Writing Fear, Joy, and Queer Resilience 10/23/2025

Claribel A. Ortega on Why Monsters Matter: Writing Hope and Friendship in Dark Times 10/16/2025

Claribel A. Ortega on Why Monsters Matter: Writing Hope and Friendship in Dark Times What can monsters, middle-grade fantasy, and community-centered storytelling teach us about the world we live in today? In this episode, Tricia Friedman sits down with New York Times bestselling author Claribel A. Ortega (Witchlings) to explore how fantasy fiction helps young readers navigate identity, belonging, and hope in turbulent times. Ortega shares her creative process—from plotting complex magical worlds to writing on planes during book tours—and reflects on the power of friendship, grief, and imagination as tools for resilience. This episode is perfect for educators, librarians, creative writers, and fans of middle-grade fiction who want to learn how storytelling can mirror society and spark empathy. ⏰ Timestamped Highlights 00:02 – Monster Studies & Modern Mythmaking Tricia introduces the idea of “monster studies” and how the creatures we imagine reflect the cultures that create them. 00:51 – Writing Through Chaos Claribel discusses how writing became her way to channel frustration, community care, and activism during turbulent times. 03:27 – From Pantser to Plotter How a tight outline and collaborative editing process transformed her creative flow — and how she wrote Witchlings: Scepter of Memories in just 38 days. 07:19 – Creativity in Airports and Coffee Shops Claribel explains how she trained herself to write anywhere (even mid-flight) and why she resists being “precious” about her creative rituals. 10:03 – Fandom, Feedback, and Fanfiction Balancing reader expectations while staying true to her creative North Star — and why fanfiction is a beautiful sign of connection. 13:43 – Imagination as a Muscle Advice for aspiring writers: read current books, consume youth culture, live fully, and reconnect with your playful, curious side. 17:23 – Upcoming Projects Claribel reveals her next graphic novel 30 Ways to Kill Your Avatar — an exploration of grief, gaming, and resilience. Claribel A. Ortega, New York Times bestselling author of Ghost Squad and the Witchlings series, and Pura Belpre and Eisner Award-winning author of the graphic novel Frizzy, is a former reporter who writes middle grade and young adult fantasy inspired by her Dominican heritage. When she's not busy turning her obsession with pop culture, magic, and video games into books, she's co-hosting her podcast Bad Author Book Club and coaching authors on how to navigate publishing. Claribel has been featured on BuzzFeed, NPR, Good Morning America, and Deadline. You can find her on social media at @Claribel_Ortega and on her website at . About the Host Tricia Friedman is an educator, podcaster, and digital humanities advocate exploring how creativity, community, and technology intersect. Her shows help educators and leaders reimagine how storytelling, AI literacy, and futures thinking shape learning today. /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/38609665

On the future of Higher Education 10/09/2025

On the future of Higher Education Today, a college diploma is no guarantee that graduates have the competencies that businesses need, including using emerging technologies, communicating, working in teams, and other necessary skills. So, it’s fair to ask, “Do students really need a college degree”? Brandeis University President, and nationally respected higher education leader and researcher, Arthur Levine has been at the forefront of the changing role of higher education. Co-author of THE GREAT UPHEAVAL, HIGHER EDUCATIONS PAST PRESENT AND UNCERTAIN FUTURE, Levine argues that in the next 20 years, consumers of higher education will determine what higher education will be, and that every institution will have to change. Today, the United States is undergoing change of even greater magnitude and speed than it did during the Industrial Revolution as it shifts from a national, analog, industrial economy to a global, digital, knowledge economy. At the same time, public confidence in higher education has declined. Threatened by a demographic cliff in most states where fewer students will be graduating from high school over the next 20 years, the increased competition for students means that a larger number of higher education institutions will be closing or merging with other institutions. It is expected that as many as 20 to 25 percent of colleges, particularly liberal arts colleges and comprehensive regional colleges, will close in the coming years. Learn more about The Great Upheaval: New content producers and distributors will enter the higher education marketplace, driving up institutional competition and consumer choice and driving down prices. We are already seeing a proliferation of new postsecondary institutions, organizations and programs that have abandoned key elements of mainstream higher education. These emphasize digital technologies, reject time and place-based education, create low-cost degrees, adopt competency or outcome-based education, and award nontraditional credentials. Increasingly, libraries, museums, media companies and software makers have entered the marketplace, offering content, instruction and certification. Google offers 80 certificate programs and Microsoft has 77. The American Museum of Natural History has its own graduate school, which offers a Ph.D. in comparative biology, a Master of Arts degree in teaching, and short-term online courses that teachers can use for graduate study or professional development credit. The new providers are not only more accessible and convenient, offering a combination of competency- and course-based programs, they are also cheaper and more agile than traditional colleges and universities which will lead to more contraction and closings? This episode is made possible by our partner Poll Everywhere Poll Everywhere’s new version makes student engagement faster, simpler, and smarter. With AI-powered poll creation and seamless LMS integration, it’s built to transform lectures into truly interactive learning experiences. Try it out today with special promo code '25OFF' /episode/index/show/48394796-255a-4dc4-85d6-9e36d7d73c3e/id/38530440

Raghad's Second Chance Story 10/02/2025

Karam's Second Chance Story 09/24/2025

Be a Better Ally: critical conversations for K12 educators

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