Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators

Shifting Schools is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the latest trends, strategies, and tools in K-12 education. Hosted by educators Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman, the podcast provides a platform for teachers, administrators, and education thought leaders to share their experiences and insights on how to improve teaching and learning. From innovative approaches in classroom management to leveraging technology for personalized learning, Shifting Schools tackles the most pressing issues facing K12 educators today. Whether you are a seasoned teacher or a new educator, this podcast will inspire you to think outside the box and shift your educational approach. Tune in to Shifting Schools to gain new perspectives, share ideas, and join a community of passionate educators who are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of their students. Follow us at @shiftingschools on Twitter and @shiftingschoolspod on Instagram and Tiktok

The Questions Students Are Asking About AI: and the Mindsets that help Answer Them 05/04/2026

Great gifts for Teacher Appreciation Week 05/03/2026

What we learn when we listen to students 04/26/2026

The Business of You with Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio 04/20/2026

The Business of You with Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio This week Jeff talks with Nick and Marnie about why we want to help students stop waiting for permission and start building a bridge to a career on your their own terms. In this episode, Jeff Utecht is joined by Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio, authors of The Business of You, a book that reframes career growth, personal branding, and leadership through a simple but demanding idea: you are already running a business, and that business is you. Using the story of Sydney, a young professional trying to stand out in a crowded job market, Marnie and Nick explore what it means to move from passive applicant to active architect of your future. We talk about why so many people do everything “right” and still feel invisible, and what it looks like to become more intentional about the way you tell your story, build relationships, and create opportunities. This conversation will be useful for college students, early-career professionals, career changers, and anyone who has ever felt stuck between doing what’s expected and figuring out how to actually get noticed. In this episode, we discuss: What it means to think like a CEO of your own life and work How to tell your story in a way people remember The difference between networking and building real relationships Why personal branding is really about clarity, not self-promotion How to stay visible, strategic, and ready for what comes next A few questions at the center of this episode: Why do so many capable people struggle to stand out? What makes someone memorable in a crowded field? How can students and professionals build a network that actually matters? What does “personal branding” look like when it’s done with honesty and substance? How do you stop chasing the next role and start attracting the right fit? About the book: The Business of You follows Sydney as she begins to see that career success is not just about credentials or checking the right boxes. It is about ownership. Through her story, Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio offer a practical framework for building a career with more intention, more confidence, and more agency. Why listen: This is a conversation about career strategy, but it is also about identity, voice, and self-direction. If you have ever wondered how to make your experience matter more, how to build a network without feeling transactional, or how to stop blending into the pile, this episode gives you a strong place to start. Find the BAKE eBook: Learn more about our guests: social media: @bluethebusinessofyou Amazon: Linkedin: /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/40933900

Sara Amini: The Stories We Carry and the Friends Who See Them 04/13/2026

Why Friendship Is Serious Business for Kids and Adults 04/06/2026

Why Friendship Is Serious Business for Kids and Adults Alyson Gerber joins Tricia Friedman to talk about The Liar Society, why friendship is serious business, and what mystery stories can teach young readers and adults about belonging, trust, competition, and connection. In this conversation, Alyson shares why friendship sits at the center of her work, how middle grade fiction can help readers think more deeply about loneliness and identity, and why the best friends are the ones who cheer for your growth. They also go behind the scenes of writing a mystery series. Alyson explains how she outlines her novels, why she uses the Save the Cat beat sheet, how she thinks about first scenes, pacing, chapter length, and twists, and what it takes to build a story that keeps readers turning pages. For teachers, librarians, and student writers, this episode also includes a practical prompt for helping young people start thinking like mystery writers. This episode is a strong listen for anyone interested in middle grade books, children’s literature, YA-adjacent reading culture, literacy, creative writing, mystery writing, friendship skills, belonging, and how stories help readers take themselves more seriously. Alyson also reflects on the people who encouraged her early in life, the role creativity can play in self-restoration, and why books can help readers step outside the boxes they have been placed in. In this episode: Alyson Gerber on why friendship is foundational The Liar Society and the appeal of mystery for middle grade readers Belonging, competition, and power dynamics in youth friendships The loneliness epidemic and what fiction can teach us about connection Why adults and kids are co-reading this series How Alyson Gerber plots a mystery novel Save the Cat, outlining, pacing, and suspense A simple exercise for teaching students to think like mystery writers Audiobooks, reading habits, and the creative life of a working author Who this episode is for: Teachers, literacy leaders, school librarians, middle grade readers, parents, writers, and anyone thinking about friendship, belonging, and the kinds of stories that help young people feel seen. /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/40739545

Living at the edge of emerging technology 03/30/2026

Living at the edge of emerging technology What happens when we stop asking AI to do everything faster and start asking how it might help us understand people better? In this episode, Jeff sits down with Andy Sitison, CTO of , for a conversation about empathetic AI, story collection, and why trust may be the real differentiator in the next phase of technology. Andy shares how his work uses AI not just as a productivity tool, but as a way to surface patterns in human experience by gathering and analyzing stories from real people. Together, they explore what gets lost when efficiency becomes the main goal, why intent matters so much in AI use, and what educators can learn from the way thoughtful organizations listen to communities. Andy explains how story-based analysis can reveal not only answers, but better questions, helping leaders move beyond surveys and toward a deeper understanding of what people are actually feeling and needing. The conversation also turns to schools. Jeff and Andy discuss why educators are often well positioned to use AI well, especially when the goal is support rather than replacement. From drafting difficult parent emails to making sense of complex data sets, Andy argues that AI works best when it helps humans communicate more clearly, think more creatively, and act with more care. There is also a clear caution running through the episode: not every use of AI is a good one. Jeff and Andy push on the difference between meaningful application and empty automation, questioning whether some so-called AI advances are really just profit-driven systems wrapped in new language. It is a useful discussion for school leaders trying to separate signal from noise. This episode is a thoughtful listen for anyone trying to hold onto human connection while navigating rapid technological change. In this episode, we discuss: What Andy means by “empathetic AI” How Share More Stories collects and analyzes human stories at scale Why stories can reveal questions leaders did not know to ask What gets lost when efficiency matters more than empathy Why trust and intent matter in AI adoption Skills educators may need to help students live well with emerging technology Practical, human-centered uses of AI in schools Why better questions may matter more than faster answers The difference between useful AI and AI added for its own sake Memorable ideas from the episode: “Trust is the next big X factor.” AI can help humans connect better when it is applied with care. Story collection can be therapeutic for the storyteller and revealing for the organization. The real power of AI may be in helping us handle complexity, then validate what matters most. Schools need more than tools. They need thoughtfulness, context, and purpose. /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/40653590

Human Still Required: out now! 03/26/2026

Billy Ray on Writing Hope in Dark Times, and Building Future Worlds 03/22/2026

Billy Ray on Writing Hope in Dark Times, and Building Future Worlds What does it take to write a story that faces darkness without surrendering to it? In this episode, Tricia speaks with acclaimed screenwriter Billy Ray about his move into YA fiction with Burn the Water, a future-set story shaped by Shakespeare, political urgency, and a deep belief in young people’s capacity to lead us forward. Their conversation explores community, imagination, hope, and the discipline of creating when the world feels bleak. Billy also offers a sharp look at his writing process, including what changed when he moved from screenwriting to novel writing, and why he sees writing less as inspiration and more as problem-solving. In this conversation, you’ll hear: Why Billy Ray believes community is at the core of everything he writes How Romeo and Juliet and The Hunger Games helped shape Burn the Water Why setting a story 400 years in the future opened up new creative possibilities What it means to write for teens living through uncertainty and disenfranchisement Why hope is not passive, but something we practice How writing can help us process emotion, perspective, and possibility What surprised Billy most about shifting from screenwriting to novel writing Why he approaches writing like a mechanic, not a mystic How structure, routine, and problem-solving power his creative process Memorable ideas from the episode: Billy Ray reflects on the role of story in helping us imagine better futures, even when the present feels unstable. He talks about art as a way to tell the truth through invention, and about the importance of refusing hopelessness. He also shares a compelling view of young people, not as passive inheritors of crisis, but as the very people who may lead us through it. Episode takeaway This is a conversation about craft, courage, and the necessity of hope. For writers, readers, and anyone thinking seriously about the futures we are building, this episode offers both creative insight and moral clarity. Join Tricia for a free Futures Literacy session: /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/40580455

Why Kids Need Stories About Belonging and Friendship Right Now | Jasmine Warga 03/16/2026

Why Kids Need Stories About Belonging and Friendship Right Now | Jasmine Warga What can a cheetah and a rescue dog teach us about trust, friendship, and belonging? In this episode, Tricia Friedman sits down with bestselling author Jasmine Warga to talk about her newest book and the powerful themes at its heart: vulnerability, unlikely friendships, and the courage it takes to let someone truly see you. Inspired by a real program in zoos where rescue dogs are paired with anxious cheetahs, Warga’s story explores how connection can help both animals—and humans—feel less alone. Through the voices of a cheetah and a dog, the book opens up conversations about anxiety, trust, identity, and the universal desire to belong. Together, Tricia and Jasmine explore how storytelling helps young readers navigate big emotions, why animals can sometimes say things humans cannot, and how asking questions—rather than providing answers—is often the most powerful way to write for young people. They also go behind the scenes of Warga’s writing process, from messy notebooks and long walks to the surprising freedom of writing a “zero draft.” This conversation is a powerful reminder that the stories we share with young readers can help build empathy, connection, and community. 🎧 Podcast Chapters 00:00 — Welcome + Why This Story Matters Right Now Tricia introduces Jasmine Warga and shares why the new book immediately resonated with her. 01:20 — Why Trust and Vulnerability Sit at the Heart of the Story Jasmine explains how the book explores the courage it takes to let someone see your “soft parts.” 02:00 — Why the Story Is Told Through a Cheetah and a Dog How animal characters help young readers open their hearts to difficult conversations. 03:30 — The Real Zoo Program Behind the Book The fascinating practice of pairing rescue dogs with anxious cheetahs. 05:00 — How Jasmine Built the Two Main Characters Finding the emotional core of Chase the cheetah and Finnegan the dog. 07:10 — Why Everyone Needs to Hear “You’re Good” A powerful moment about reassurance, belonging, and emotional validation. 07:45 — Jasmine Warga’s Writing Process Walking, daydreaming, music, and asking questions instead of chasing answers. 09:15 — The Music That Soundtracked the Book Why The National and “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” became part of the creative process. 10:00 — Why Unlikely Friendships Matter for Kids How stories can help young readers connect with people who seem different from them. 12:10 — Experimenting as a Writer From A Rover’s Story to a cheetah and a dog—why Jasmine loves exploring new storytelling lenses. 14:00 — Why Jasmine Starts Every Book with Questions How curiosity drives the themes of belonging and identity. 15:30 — The Power of the “Zero Draft” A strategy for overcoming perfectionism and writer’s block. 17:10 — Which Character Is Jasmine Most Like? A fun reflection on perfectionism, identity, and the author’s personal connection to the story. About Jasmine Warga Jasmine Warga is a bestselling and award-winning author of books for young readers. Her stories explore themes of belonging, identity, friendship, and emotional courage, helping young people ask big questions about the world and their place in it. /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/40490415

Tui T. Sutherland on Creativity, World-Building, Empathy, and Writing for Young Readers 03/09/2026

Dream Big, Start Small: A Conversation with Peter H. Reynolds 03/03/2026

Character First Writing: Practical Mini Lessons from Deborah Goodrich Royce 03/02/2026

How to Turn Real History into Fiction: Lessons from Steve Berry 02/23/2026

How to Turn Real History into Fiction: Lessons from Steve Berry In this conversation, author Steve Berry discusses his deep-rooted love for history, the intricate process of crafting thrillers that intertwine historical facts with modern narratives, and the importance of research in his writing. He also shares insights into his philanthropic efforts through the History Matters initiative, which focuses on preserving local history, and hints at future adventures for his protagonist, Cotton Malone, in unexplored regions of the world. Takeaways Steve Berry's love for history began in childhood. His writing combines action, history, and conspiracies. The formula for his books is 'the same but different.' Research is crucial for creating engaging narratives. The 'ooh factor' is essential in selecting historical elements. History Matters has raised nearly $3 million for preservation. Berry's research trips are meticulously planned. He seeks unique insights during his travels. Cotton Malone will explore new regions in future novels. Berry aims to continue writing for many more years. Steve Berry is the New York Times and #1 internationally bestselling author of twenty Cotton Malone novels, six stand-alone thrillers, two Luke Daniels adventures, and several works of short fiction. He has over twenty-six million books in print, translated into forty-one languages. With his wife, Elizabeth, he is the founder of History Matters, an organization dedicated to historical preservation. He serves as an emeritus member of the Smithsonian Libraries Advisory Board and was a founding member of International Thriller Writers, formerly serving as co-president. Check Steve out on or Chapters 00:00 The Roots of a Historian 02:58 Crafting Thrillers with Historical Depth 05:49 Researching History for Modern Thrillers 08:45 Giving Back: The History Matters Initiative 11:41 Future Adventures in Historical Fiction Learn more about the brand new book from Jeff Utecht /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/40194340

Building connection one board book at a time 02/15/2026

Empowering the Next Generation Through Storytelling with Gloria Steinem and Leymah Gbowee 02/09/2026

Empowering the Next Generation Through Storytelling with Gloria Steinem and Leymah Gbowee In this conversation, we explore the new collaborative picture book 'Rise Girl Rise', which explores themes of empowerment, friendship, and the importance of storytelling across cultures. They emphasize the book's role in inspiring the next generation and fostering a sense of shared humanity. 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 gloriasteinem.com. 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 The Shifting Schools podcast is produced and edited by /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/40038605

Will AI change the future of the Super Bowl? 02/02/2026

Will AI change the future of the Super Bowl? How is artificial intelligence being used in the NFL today? In this solo episode of Shifting Schools, Tricia Friedman explores how AI is already shaping professional football, with a special focus on Super Bowl Sunday. Rather than speculation, this episode looks at concrete, current examples of how AI is influencing advertising, predictions, player safety, and fan experience. Get the free conversation guide to share with friends and family: This episode is designed as a conversation resource for educators, families, and anyone gathering around the Super Bowl, offering five clear lenses for discussing AI’s role in sports and society. What role does AI play in Super Bowl commercials? Major brands, including OpenAI, are now using the Super Bowl to tell stories about AI itself, while many non-AI companies are using generative tools to shape persuasive advertising. Tricia invites listeners to compare past and present Super Bowl ads and consider how the rise of AI-driven storytelling may change the creative skills schools should prioritize. What is the AI Influence Index and why does it matter? For the first time, startup Emberos is tracking which Super Bowl ads are most visible inside large language models during the game. Instead of asking people at the watercooler which ads were memorable, this index asks which brands “win” inside AI systems like ChatGPT. Can AI really predict Super Bowl winners? Recent reporting from USA Today and CNET shows how generative AI models are being used to forecast playoff outcomes, Super Bowl scores, and even halftime show cameos. As these models improve, Tricia raises questions about how fans may rethink expertise, intuition, and luck in sports forecasting, and whether some fans will resist consulting AI altogether. Why this episode matters for educators and families This conversation goes beyond football. It models how adults can talk with one another about AI’s influence in everyday life, notice differing attitudes toward technology, and ask longer-term questions about which changes are likely to last over the next decade. Key discussion questions listeners can use on Super Bowl Sunday – Does AI enhance or diminish creativity in advertising? – Should brands optimize for human memory or AI visibility? – If AI predictions outperform humans, how does that change our view of expertise? – Where should decision-making authority sit when AI informs player safety? – Does AI-driven commentary deepen or reduce the joy of debate in sports? Subscribe to our free AI Forward newsletter to get the free conversation guide: Email thoughts or additional angles to Tricia at . /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/39947275

How Puzzles Build Confidence, Community, and Curiosity 01/27/2026

What to Do When Teachers Are at Very Different Places With AI 01/25/2026

What to Do When Teachers Are at Very Different Places With AI How do you move forward with AI in schools when staff confidence is all over the place? Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman address one of the most persistent leadership challenges in AI literacy implementation. Within the same faculty, some educators are experimenting confidently with tools and workflows while others feel intimidated, skeptical, or frustrated by rapid change. Jeff and Tricia frame the issue through a mindset-first lens and introduce practical leadership moves grounded in BAKE: balance, adaptability, knowledge sharing, and empathy. The conversation begins with a simple leadership truth: confidence grows through a beginner’s stance, repetition, and low-stakes practice, not perfection on day one. Tricia shares a “pumpkin patch” analogy for learning something new and models how leaders can normalize experimentation and productive struggle for staff. From there, the episode explores how leaders can reduce anxiety and build confidence by “level setting” foundational understanding of how AI works. When teachers grasp what is happening under the hood, they are more willing to engage, ask better questions, and try new workflows. A central theme is personalization. Confidence increases when educators connect AI learning to what they already love about teaching, then use AI to enhance that strength rather than asking teachers to adopt tools for their own sake. The hosts also highlight the importance of playful, low-stakes experimentation outside of school contexts, from recipe support to pop-culture research challenges, as a way to learn tool boundaries without the pressure of classroom performance. The episode closes with a clear leadership stance: sustained learning matters. AI capabilities are changing quickly, so professional learning cannot be treated as a one-time training. Adaptability requires ongoing documentation of experiments, time-stamped learning, and renewed emphasis on media literacy as AI becomes more persuasive and more embedded in everyday life. If you are leading AI literacy in a school or district and trying to support both early adopters and hesitant educators, this episode offers a grounded approach to building momentum without fracturing culture. In this episode, you will hear about leading AI literacy when teacher confidence varies widely, progress over perfection and the beginner’s stance, differentiated professional learning for AI, foundational understanding of how AI works, low-stakes experimentation that increases staff buy-in, balancing voices of early adopters and skeptics, adaptability as AI tools evolve, and mindset-first change management through the BAKE Framework. Explore the BAKE resources and multiple ways to engage, including a four-week email series, PLC slide decks, a live cohort, and school-wide implementation: Our show is edited and produced by Sagheer M. Learn more about his work: Are you signed up for Crayola Creativity Week? Reach out to learn with us: info@shiftingschools.com 00:00 Welcome and Series Context Jeff frames the third and final BAKE episode and names the core leadership question about uneven staff confidence. 01:30 Why Confidence Gaps Are Normal When Learning Something New Using the beginner’s stance and the pumpkin patch example to normalize discomfort and learning curves. 03:30 Progress Over Perfection in Teaching and Leadership Why educators often expect mastery too quickly and how modeling learning matters. 05:30 The Leadership Challenge of Mixed AI Confidence High flyers, hesitant staff, and the tension leaders feel managing both groups. 08:00 Level Setting: How Understanding AI Builds Confidence Why explaining how AI works reduces fear and increases willingness to engage. 10:30 Passion-Based Entry Points for AI Learning Connecting AI use to what educators already love doing in their work. 13:00 Playful, Low-Stakes AI Experiments Using non-school examples to explore AI without pressure or risk. 15:30 Pop Culture as a Confidence Builder The Taylor Swift research experiment and why interest drives learning. 18:00 Abundance of Information and Better Questions Why confidence grows when educators move from answers to inquiry. 20:00 Empathy First: Leading With BAKE Starting with empathy before tools, expertise, or expectations. 21:45 Knowledge Sharing Inside and Outside the Classroom Why sharing personal AI use builds collective confidence. 23:15 Adaptability in a Fast-Changing AI Landscape Why AI learning must be ongoing, time-stamped, and revisited. 25:15 Balance: Creating Space for All Voices Supporting both skeptics and early adopters through reciprocal dialogue. 27:15 Key Takeaways and Next Steps Mindset-first leadership, community, and how schools can engage further with BAKE. /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/39872070

What Skills Matter Most for AI Literacy? 01/18/2026

What Skills Matter Most for AI Literacy? AI literacy in the classroom looks like students practicing judgment, sense-making, and self-awareness while working alongside AI, not replacing thinking with tools. It emphasizes mindset before mechanics. In this episode of Shifting Schools, Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman frame AI literacy through the BAKE Mindset: Balance – Knowing when AI helps and when it doesn’t Adaptability – Updating learning practices as tools change Knowledge Sharing – Making thinking visible and collective Empathy – Designing learning with student experience in mind How Does AI Change Research in Schools? AI changes how research starts and what counts as learning. Instead of: Finding information Rewriting sources Formatting citations Students now practice: Comparing perspectives Identifying bias and heuristics Deciding what matters and why Research becomes an exercise in judgment, not retrieval. The episode traces this shift historically—from card catalogs to microfiche to Google—and positions AI tools as the next evolution rather than a rupture. The conversation highlights several skills that remain human-led: Judgment – Evaluating ideas, not accepting outputs Question Formation – Using AI to clarify what to ask next Bias Awareness – Recognizing anchoring and confirmation effects Metacognition – Noticing learning gaps and strengths AI supports these skills but does not perform them on a learner’s behalf. What Does “AI as a Co-Learner” Mean? AI as a co-learner means: Students remain responsible for decisions AI offers scaffolding, variation, or clarification Learning paths stay human-directed This mirrors patterns already familiar in education, including IEPs, 504 plans, and differentiated instruction. How Does AI Literacy Connect to SEL? AI literacy intersects with social-emotional learning by strengthening: Self-awareness of strengths and gaps Confidence in asking questions Comfort with uncertainty and revision As students work with AI, they gain clearer insight into how they learn—not just what they produce. Who Is This Episode For? Classroom teachers rethinking research and assessment School leaders shaping AI literacy strategy Instructional coaches and curriculum designers Educators focused on mindset, SEL, and learning design Series Context This episode is part of the BAKE Mindset series from Shifting Schools. Ready to learn more: Do you love the way this show is edited and produced? If you are looking for an amazing producer, learn more about connecting with our very own, Sagheer M. /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/39775730

The Mindset Shift You Need for AI Literacy in 2026 01/11/2026

How do we help students be more critical of health advice? 01/05/2026

How do we help students be more critical of health advice? 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/shiftingourschools/id/39607570

Why Millions of Students Are Creating Together: Inside Crayola Creativity Week 12/29/2025

Holiday Gifting for Teachers: Tools for Wellness, Creativity, and Reflection 12/22/2025

Holiday Gifting for Teachers: Tools for Wellness, Creativity, and Reflection This special Shifting Schools holiday episode isn’t about trendy gadgets or generic gift lists. Instead, Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman share seven thoughtfully chosen gifts for educators—each matched to a specific kind of person and a specific kind of need. Some gifts are playful. Some are reflective. Some are deeply practical. All of them offer a meaningful boost during a season when educators are often running on empty. This episode asks a practical question: “What might actually support someone through their days?” Whether you’re shopping for a colleague, a school leader, a family member, or yourself, this episode helps you gift with attention, care, and intention. 🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode 1️⃣ TekXYZ Reflex Ball A surprisingly powerful wellness tool for educators stuck in back-to-back meetings. Jeff and Tricia explore why quick movement resets attention, boosts mood, and even brings a little playfulness into staff spaces. Perfect for: colleagues, teens, or any educator who needs a fast energy reset. 2️⃣ Letters by Lantern Light A slow-burn, story-driven mystery told through monthly letters. This gift invites patience, curiosity, and narrative thinking—qualities educators value deeply but rarely get to savor themselves. Perfect for: grandparents, ELA teachers, reflective readers, or monthly gatherings with friends. 3️⃣ Rocketbook Smart Notebook A bridge between handwriting and digital organization. Tricia and Jeff unpack why this tool works so well for teachers, leaders, students, and creatives who think best with pen and paper. Perfect for: note-lovers, journalers, sketchers, and idea-catchers. 4️⃣ Tune Up Fitness Alpha Ball & Yoga Tune Up Therapy Balls The gift for people who say they “don’t have time for self-care.” These small tools fit under desks and into real workdays—encouraging somatic awareness and tension release in minutes. Perfect for: administrators, teachers, staff lounges, and anyone carrying stress in their body. 5️⃣ Makedo Cardboard Construction Tools A maker favorite that proves creativity doesn’t require expensive materials. Jeff and Tricia highlight how this kit supports problem-solving, collaboration, and playful design—for kids and adults alike. Perfect for: families, makerspaces, staff retreats, and rainy-day creativity. 6️⃣ INQ Smart Pen For analogue thinkers who want digital power. This pen syncs handwritten notes in real time, making it ideal for deep learning, graduate work, and idea remixing. Perfect for: master’s students, researchers, and lifelong learners. 7️⃣ TheraBox Monthly Subscription A recurring reminder that someone is seen and appreciated. Tricia calls this her most universal gift—one that says “thank you” again and again. Perfect for: anyone who gives a lot to others. 💡 Why This Episode Matters This conversation goes beyond shopping lists. It models intentional gifting—a practice that mirrors great teaching itself: noticing, listening, and responding to real needs. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by last-minute holiday decisions, this episode offers clarity, warmth, and ideas that actually fit educators’ lives. 🛒 Official Gift Links TekXYZ Reflex Ball → Letters by Lantern Light → Rocketbook Smart Notebook → Alpha Ball & Yoga Tune Up Therapy Balls → Makedo Cardboard Tools → INQ Smart Pen → TheraBox Subscription → We’d love to know—which gift would you give, and to whom? Join the conversation by sharing this episode or tagging @ShiftingSchools. Subscribe to the podcast for more thoughtful conversations about learning, leadership, and the future of education. /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/39489755

What Makes a Family? Scott & Mark Hoying on Representation, Creativity, and Love 12/15/2025

What Makes a Family? Scott & Mark Hoying on Representation, Creativity, and Love You know Pentatonix – the multi-platinum selling acapella group is the number one most listened to musical acct of the holiday season. Co-founder and Grammy winner Scott Hoying is currently starring in Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars. Scott Hoying and his husband Mark are now also authors of an innovative picture book which features text that doubles as lyrics to . FA LA LA FAMILY celebrates the spirit of Christmas with a look at nontraditional families. The reviews are loving their new book: "A fun and festive dive into Christmas celebrations with diverse families."―School Library Journal "Cozy and filled with love." ―Kirkus In this episode of Shifting Schools, Tricia Friedman sits down with Scott and Mark Hoying, creators and authors of a new children’s book that challenges traditional definitions of family and centers love, creativity, and chosen community. Together, they explore why representation in children’s literature matters, how creative collaboration shapes healthy partnerships, and what their journey toward modern, inclusive parenthood has taught them about patience, communication, and imagination. This conversation is especially relevant for educators, parents, and caregivers seeking stories that reflect diverse families—and for anyone curious about how creativity prepares us for life’s biggest transitions. Chapters 00:00 What Defines Family Today? 02:51 Creativity, Collaboration, and Partnership 05:46 Communication in Creative Relationships 08:51 Preparing for Parenthood Through Art 11:42 Why Representation in Children’s Books Matters 14:27 Stories, Holidays, and Belonging ABOUT: Scott Hoying is a GRAMMY award winning and Emmy-nominated singer, songwriter, and arranger from the multi-platinum selling acapella group, Pentatonix. He co-founded the group in 2010 and has headlined hundreds of shows all around the world. He is currently starring in Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars. He is very active in the LGBTQ+ community and works closely with The Trevor Project. How Lucky Am I? is his first picture book. Mark Hoying is a writer and marketing professional from Seattle, Washington. After graduating from the University of Washington, he met and began developing projects with his husband, Scott Hoying. He co-wrote the original Christmas single “Thank You” on Pentatonix’s holiday album and currently manages the girl group Citizen Queen. Fa La La Family is published by Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/39400865

Why Interdisciplinary Learning Fuels Creativity: A Conversation with Alan Gratz 12/08/2025

Why Interdisciplinary Learning Fuels Creativity: A Conversation with Alan Gratz In this episode of Shifting Schools, bestselling author Alan Gratz joins Tricia Friedman to explore the craft of storytelling, the role of creativity in education, and why curiosity is the engine behind both great writing and great learning. Gratz shares how baseball has quietly shaped the structure of many of his novels, how he approaches character development with authenticity, and why understanding a character’s background is essential for emotional truth. The conversation also digs into the need for interdisciplinary learning in today’s classrooms and the value of teacher collaboration. Gratz argues that creativity isn’t a mysterious talent—it's a skill that can be nurtured, practiced, and strengthened when schools design learning experiences that cross traditional subject boundaries. Whether you’re an educator, writer, or lifelong learner, this episode offers fresh insights into how storytelling helps us understand the human experience and how curiosity fuels both art and education. 🔑 Key Takeaways Alan Gratz’s novel has stayed on the bestseller list for five years, a longevity he describes as “never taken for granted.” He uses baseball as a metaphorical framework when structuring narratives. Creativity is a teachable practice—not an innate gift. Interdisciplinary learning increases student engagement and deepens understanding. Strong character development depends on knowing a character’s background, motivations, and contradictions. Reading diverse perspectives cultivates empathy, curiosity, and creative thinking. Gratz encourages exploring multiple creative pathways in writing and education. Schools benefit when teachers collaborate across disciplines to build rich learning experiences. 🕒 Chapters 00:00 – The Legacy of a Best-Selling Author 02:57 – Baseball as a Creative Influence 05:43 – The Teachability of Creativity 08:46 – Interdisciplinary Learning in Education 11:37 – Character Development and Authenticity 14:20 – Curiosity and the Human Condition ALAN GRATZ is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of several highly acclaimed books for young readers, including Heroes: A Novel of Pearl Harbor, Two Degrees, Ground Zero, Allies, Grenade, Refugee, Projekt 1065, Prisoner B-3087, Code of Honor, and Captain America: The Ghost Army, an original graphic novel. Alan lives with his family in the Pacific Northwest. Look for him online at . Huge thanks to our show sponsor Poll Everywhere! /episode/index/show/shiftingourschools/id/39315895

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