Episode 45: Amplifying Student Voice in Schools (Live at NASP 2026)

Send us Fan MailThis special episode was recorded live at the National Association of School Psychologists 2026 Annual Convention in Chicago.What happens when student voice is not extracted but trusted?What shifts when adults move from manager to learner?Based on my paper, Amplifying Child Voice Through Intergenerational Storytelling and Reflection, this live conversation blends research, storytelling, audience engagement, and Emma’s now-famous “Chicken Nugget Wisdom” to demonstrate a model of healing-centered, culturally responsive SEL practice.This is not a performative conversation about student voice.It is a lived demonstration of it.Chapters04:20 — Rapid Fire EmotionsSchool psychologists name the emotions they hide at work.08:20 — Adults as RobotsWhat is lost when professionals suppress emotion?What is the cost to creativity, belonging, and humanity?10:50 — Protecting Black Girl JoyA conversation about adultification, safety, and cultural armoring.13:09 — Student Voice vs Performative ListeningWhen is voice real and when is it tokenized?14:23 — The 3D Power FrameworkDiscovery. Discernment. Devotion.A scaffold for shifting adult stance and centering youth wisdom.28:23 — Black Barbie & The Solar SystemEmma’s metaphor:Who is positioned as the sun?Who is required to orbit?32:04 — Redesigning the SystemWhat would it take to build schools where more students are centered?40:19 — Beyond Compliance to ChangeMoving from mandatory voice to meaningful systems transformation. Emma closes with this: “Listen to kids more. They have a lot of wisdom.”Connect with Me:Instagram: @natural_inclinationYoutube: @naturalinclinationTikTok: Amber SessomsLinkedIn: Dr. Amber M. Sessoms, NCSPBluesky: @ambersessoms.bsky.socialFacebook: Natural InclinationWebsite: www.aninclination.comLike, Comment, Share, EngageIf this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who would love these conversations. Engage with the Curiosity Cards and ask the youth in your life about their experiences because you might be surprised by what you learn. Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments or on social media using #LivingIn3DPower. And, don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for next week’s conversation!