Education Influencers

Today Dr. Carla Sparks interviews Dr. Bianka Newkirk , an educational leader and senior administrator in talent acquisition and HR programs for Orange County Public Schools, one of the nation’s largest districts. Dr. Newkirk explains how earning her doctorate at National Louis University and her dissertation on induction for second-career educators led her into instructional recruiting, educator development, and retention work, noting that over 50% of new hires are second-career teachers. She discusses why Florida’s certification changes and job security attract career changers, and highlights state-level contributions with the Florida Department of Education, including revising civics curriculum and updating Florida Educational Leadership Standards (FELS) with professional learning. Dr. Newkirk details a districtwide mentoring program redesign focused on structured mentor-mentee agreements, administrator alignment, and reducing early-career teacher turnover.Episode Highlights:00:00 Welcome to the Podcast00:36 Meet Dr Bianka Newkirk 02:19 Doctorate to Career Shift04:01 Second Career Educators Explained05:24 State Level Influence07:24 FELS Standards Impact09:02 Revamping Teacher Mentoring13:57 Talent Acquisition Pathways17:11 Curriculum Writing at Scale19:33 Advice for Change Makers21:20 First Day Teaching Reflections23:50 Closing Thanks and Wrap Up

Today Dr. Carla Sparks interviews Dr. Aleli Vazquez, an educational leader and National Louis University alumni Hall of Fame inductee, about leading with purpose through school culture, instruction, and advocacy. Dr. Vazquez shares how earning her doctorate in 2020 supported her leadership during COVID, her work as a founding principal in Florida, and her current role as Dean of Faculty at the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta. She explains RCA’s high-energy, high-expectation model for grades 4–8 and its conferences that allow educators to observe live classrooms, learn RCA strategies, and implement systems like the house system. Dr. Vazquez details coaching and feedback practices centered on reflection, excellence, and support, and emphasizes sustainability through shared vision, transparency, staff ownership, and developing leaders. She gives her advice on educator leadership without titles, investing in people, protecting culture, and leading with heart, empathy, and excellence.Episode Highlights:00:00 Podcast Welcome00:39 Meet Dr Aleli Vazquez03:12 Post Doctorate Journey05:17 What Is Ron Clark Academy07:15 Coaching Teachers at RCA10:31 Visiting RCA Conferences13:04 Influencing Through Adults16:06 Culture Meets Instruction20:42 Building Sustainable Legacy24:19 From Principal to RCA30:12 Advice for Change Makers34:01 Closing Thanks 

Today on Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks interviews Dr. Rachel Chappell, a 27-year educator and Director of Elementary Curriculum and Instruction for Sarasota County Schools, about leading district-wide curriculum, instruction, and student outcomes. Dr. Chappell discusses how earning her EdD at National Louis University opened opportunities to share research on oral language and early literacy intervention, support dissertation writers, and step into her current leadership role. She highlights Sarasota’s Literacy for All initiative, the district’s transition to science of reading-aligned instruction, strengthening Tier 1 teaching and targeted supports, and building educator capacity through job-embedded professional learning. She also describes designing a K–12 Multi-Tiered System of Supports framework, cross-department collaboration, grant-funded professional learning in literacy and math, and leadership practices centered on relationships, trust, clarity, feedback, data, and continuous improvement.Episode Highlights:00:00 Podcast Welcome00:30 Meet Dr Rachel Chappell02:06 Doctorate Opens Doors04:16 Influencing Reading Success06:58 Impact Beyond School08:44 Building K12 MTSS10:35 Director Role Realities15:15 Trailblazing Sarasota18:12 Grants And Innovation21:20 Tips For Change Makers25:41 Relationships At The Core26:52 Closing Thanks 

In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks sits down with educator, author, and Milken Educator Award recipient Patty McGee to explore how grammar instruction can be transformed from tedious drills into meaningful, engaging learning experiences. Drawing on over three decades in education, Patty shares her journey as a “traveling teacher” working alongside schools nationwide to simplify literacy practices and improve student outcomes.The conversation centers on moving beyond traditional grammar worksheets toward a more dynamic, student-centered approach that emphasizes curiosity, experimentation, and real-world application. Patty explains how simplifying instruction—focusing on strengths, offering targeted feedback, and reducing unnecessary complexity—can lead to deeper learning and greater student engagement.She also introduces the concept of grammar as a tool for communication and meaning-making, encouraging educators to think beyond rigid rules and consider audience, purpose, and context. Through practical strategies and classroom examples, Patty highlights how this approach supports both teachers and students while making grammar more accessible at all grade levels.Key Topics Covered:Transforming grammar instruction in K–12 educationMoving beyond worksheets and drillsSimplifying teaching practices for greater impactEffective feedback strategies in writingGrammar as a tool for communication and meaning-makingSupporting teacher growth through professional learningEncouraging curiosity and student engagement in literacy

Today Dr. Carla Sparks welcomes Dr. Trudy Hill Jones, a school counselor with 25 years in urban education, featured in Forbes Women, honored by a City of Memphis resolution, named 2025 Tennessee School Counselor of the Year, and soon to be inducted into National Louis University’s Alumni Hall of Fame. Dr. Hill Jones explains how earning her doctorate amplified her mission and expanded her influence through mentoring, training, and advocacy for equitable opportunities and student mental health. She describes a systems approach grounded in student-centered data and MTSS, emphasizing Tier 1 social-emotional learning for students, staff, and families, plus accountability for interventions. Drawing on her own high school experience, she highlights listening to students, creating wellness spaces, and “dealing hope” as a resilience strategy. She encourages educators to stay connected to your why, reflect, build relationships, collaborate, and show up to educate, advocate, empower, and inspire.Episode Highlights:00:00 Welcome to the Podcast00:40 Meet Dr Trudy Hill Jones02:34 Doctorate Doors Opened04:17 Influencing Students Educators Systems06:29 Systems Thinking and MTSS07:36 Tier One SEL in Action11:54 Biggest Impact and Mantra14:24 Counseling Philosophy and Story17:18 Creating Safe Support Spaces19:44 Becoming the Hope Dealer23:23 Leadership and Purpose25:52 Hall of Fame Journey31:33 Tennessee Counselor of the Year35:33 Advice for Change Makers38:09 Final Thanks and Closing

Today, Dr. Carla Sparks interviews Dr. Danita Smith, a 2023 National Louis University educational leadership doctorate graduate and superintendent of schools at MYcroSchool, Incorporated in Florida. Dr. Smith describes how earning advanced degrees led to roles from chief of schools to superintendent and strengthened her ability to apply research in practice. She explains her influence through supporting charter school principals, developing policy, analyzing achievement trends, and creating innovative, authentic learning for students who struggled in traditional high schools. She highlights the importance of relationships, culture, small-school “sweet spots,” wraparound services, community partnerships, and consistent systems. As superintendent, she manages compliance, budgets, HR, transparency, and advocacy to dispel misconceptions about charters as competition. She also serves as an adjunct professor at National Louis University and mentors aspiring leaders, emphasizing purpose, continuous learning, trust, integrity, and treating people right.Episode Highlights:00:00 Welcome to the Podcast00:37 Meet Dr. Danita Smith02:20 Doctorate Opens Doors05:14 How She Influences Schools09:50 Authentic Innovative Why17:31 Small Schools Big Impact20:21 Structures Culture Results25:58 Life as Superintendent32:44 Adjunct Mentoring Leaders37:38 Advice for Changemakers42:07 Closing Thanks

In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks interviews Dr. Margarete Talbert-Irving, a distinguished graduate of the doctoral program in educational leadership at National Louis University. Dr. Talbert-Irving shares her impressive career trajectory across various leadership roles in Florida public school districts, including principal, executive area director, Chief Academic Officer, and Deputy Superintendent. She discusses the importance of thought leadership, the impact of mentoring and coaching, and the significance of sustaining educational change. She also highlights her continued passion for teaching and her commitment to helping future educators succeed. The discussion delves into strategies for influencing teacher effectiveness, retaining talent, and fostering student achievement.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Education Influencers00:37 Meet Dr. Margarete Talbert-Irving01:37 Impact of Earning a Doctorate03:26 Influencing Education Daily05:29 Personal Impact and Servant Leadership06:00 Supporting New Teachers and Alternative Certification11:36 Mentoring and Executive Coaching14:36 District Leadership Experiences19:09 The Joy of Teaching and Adjunct Professorship25:55 Advice for Aspiring Education Leaders31:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks welcomes Dr. Carla Foord, an assistant professor at National Lewis University. Dr. Foord shares her extensive experiences and diverse roles in education, including as a high school administrator, Director of Education for a nonprofit, and founder of a private childcare business. They discuss the transformative impact of earning a doctorate, the significance of mentorship, and how educators can influence policy. Dr. Foord also highlights the Master's of Arts and Teaching program, which supports new teachers in obtaining certifications and developing essential skills. She emphasizes the importance of building relationships, staying organized, and viewing every educator as a leader.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Guest Background02:26 Opening Doors with a Doctorate04:17 Influencing Education through MAT Program05:58 Supporting New Teachers10:42 Impactful Changes in Education12:46 Transition to Assistant Professor19:48 Influencing Education Policy24:53 Advice for Aspiring Change Makers27:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks welcomes Dr. Lorilynn Bowie. Dr. Bowie discusses her multifaceted roles at National Louis University and beyond. As an outreach and enrollment specialist, adjunct professor, educational consultant, and advocate, she shares her post-doctorate experiences influencing the educational landscape since 2020. She sheds light on her work with children with special academic needs, her recognition as an American Heart Hero, and her efforts to build effective relationships between families and schools. Dr. Bowie emphasizes the importance of trust, listening, and validation in her advocacy work and mentoring, and highlights the impactful power of educators believing in their expertise.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Education Influencers00:26 Meet Dr. Lorilynn Bowie02:18 Dr. Bowie's Journey Post-Doctorate04:52 American Heart Hero and Advocacy06:44 Influencing Education in Alachua County08:52 Impactful Changes in Education11:24 Encore Career at National Louis University15:22 Educational Advocacy and Mentoring28:48 Building Trust and Relationships34:52 Final Thoughts and Advice for Educators

In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks interviews Dr. Audra Lewis-Hoesch, an educator, entrepreneur, and founder of Period Zero Workforce Pathways. Dr. Lewis-Hoesch shares how her doctoral degree from National Louis University opened doors for her to influence systematic change in workforce preparation and educational innovation. She discusses her nonprofit, Period Zero, which aims to close opportunity gaps for youth by embedding leadership development, financial literacy, and career readiness into micro-credential pathways recognized globally. Additionally, Dr. Lewis-Hoesch talks about her role as a grants development specialist at the Community College of Allegheny County, where she is developing new healthcare pathways. She provides practical advice for educators, emphasizing the importance of taking initiative and staying curious. You will be inspired by Dr. Lewis-Hoesch's commitment to creating opportunities and making a lasting impact in education.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Education Influencers00:28 Meet Dr. Audra Lewis-Hoesch02:22 Impact of a Doctorate in Educational Leadership03:52 From Classroom Teacher to Educational Innovator05:17 Transforming Education with Period Zero07:44 The Skills Framework and Global Competitiveness08:49 How Period Zero Bridges Education and Employment17:55 Building a Global Nonprofit19:41 Teen Networking Nights and Real-World Skills22:25 The Role of AI in Education23:15 Embracing AI as an Ally24:37 Preparing Students for the Future Workforce28:47 Innovative Grant Writing29:54 Healthcare Pathways and Apprenticeships38:12 Advice for Educators and Change Makers

In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks sits down with Alfredo Matthew III, an innovator dedicated to building an inclusive and regenerative economy. With over 25 years intersecting education, workforce development, and entrepreneurship, Alfredo has transitioned from being a public school teacher to leading significant initiatives such as co-founding ESO Ventures and establishing SPCC One. He advocates for project-based learning as a vital educational approach and addresses the pressing need for educators and institutions to adopt entrepreneurial mindsets. Alfredo offers his insights on the importance of collaboration, the evolution of the school choice movement, and the impactful role of interconnected learning in current and future educational landscapes.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Education Influencers00:32 Meet Alfredo Matthew III02:47 Alfredo's Professional Journey04:45 The Importance of Project-Based Learning08:58 Views on the School Choice Movement14:52 Market-Based Approaches to Education20:31 Current Projects and Future Vision30:56 Recommendations for Educators and Leaders38:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks speaks with Dr. Libby Simpson, the education director at a major national organization and a prominent figure in STEM education. Dr. Simpson discusses the impact of her doctoral degree on her career, her approach to promoting equity in STEM, and her work at Siemens Digital Industries. She elaborates on her contributions to educational leadership at National Louis University and her advocacy for ethical AI use in education. Dr. Simpson shares valuable advice for future change makers, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning, collaboration, and staying true to one’s purpose.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:43 Dr. Libby Simpson's Journey in Education03:35 Understanding STEM and Its Importance06:02 Dr. Simpson's Current Role and Impact07:57 Innovations in STEM Education19:05 Teaching and Mentoring Future Educators23:07 Ethics and AI in Education28:51 Advice for Aspiring Change Makers32:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome back to the podcast! Today Dr. Carla sits down with Dr. Danielle Brewer, the superintendent of a large school district, to discuss her rapid rise in the education sector since earning her doctorate in 2022. Dr. Brewer shares her inspiring story from starting as a high school principal to becoming an interim superintendent, emphasizing the importance of community involvement, the influence of her early life experiences, and her ongoing efforts to improve academic outcomes and support new teachers. Their conversation illustrates how commitment and passion can lead to impactful leadership in education.Connect with Dr. BrewerEpisode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:15 Dr. Brewer's Career Journey05:10 Personal Background and Early Life09:06 Impact on Education and Community14:24 Challenges and Achievements as Superintendent21:59 Advice for Aspiring Change Makers25:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'Education Influencers' with Dr. Carla Sparks, Dr. Lakeisha Cook shares her experiences as an education leader who has worked in various roles from teacher to regional vice president at Idea Public Schools. Dr. Cook discusses her doctoral achievements, transformational leadership, and commitment to equity and sustainable growth. She emphasizes the importance of living in the communities she serves, navigating change with resilience, and celebrating small wins. Dr. Cook also provides valuable advice for educators on how to be influential changemakers.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:16 Dr. Cook's Educational Journey03:35 Impact and Influence in Education06:01 Living in the Communities Served10:22 Navigating Change and Leadership23:42 Celebrating Achievements and Recognition30:51 Advice for Aspiring Change Makers32:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome back to Education Influencers. Today Dr. Carla Sparks interviews Dr. Sarah Lukas, Dean of Florida Programs at National Louis University. Dr. Lukas shares her diverse experiences in education, from starting as a middle school civics teacher to becoming an assistant principal, district administrator, and now a dean in higher education. She and Dr. Sparks delve into her career and her extensive work in improving reading instruction. Dr. Lukas also discusses the development of reading endorsement programs, her passion for supporting future school counselors, and her role in guiding educational change. Check out Dr. Lukas’s co-authored book 'Be the Manatee', offering unique insights into managing leadership challenges and change.Find more about Dr. LukasEpisode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:54 Dr. Sarah Lucas' Educational Journey01:20 Impact of Doctorate on Career04:10 Transition to Higher Education06:21 Reading Endorsement and Curriculum Development14:55 Role as Dean and Program Development17:51 Leading Change in Education24:03 Bestselling Book and Metaphors in Leadership28:46 Final Thoughts and Advice for Educators

Welcome! Thank you for joining us on the very first episode of Education Influencers. Today Dr. Carla Sparks interviews Dr. Lisa Hassler, who earned her doctorate in 2021 from National Louis University. Dr. Hassler shares her remarkable achievements, including becoming a national conference advisor, a peer reviewer for academic journals, and collaborating with renowned theorist Dr. Michael G. Moore. She discusses her influential podcast 'The Brighter Side of Education,' now CPD accredited, offering professional development credits to educators. Additionally, she and Dr. Sparks talk about her bestselling book, 'America’s Embarrassing Reading Crisis,' and its impact on education policies and practices. Dr. Hassler also highlights her role as a school board member, environmental educator, and the significance of service in influencing change and making a difference in educational communities.⁠Find more about Dr. Lisa Hassler⁠⁠Connect with Dr. Sparks!⁠Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Education Influencers00:18 Meet Dr. Lisa Hassler01:46 Dr. Hassler's Post-Doctoral Journey02:27 Impactful Roles and Achievements12:08 Transforming a Podcast into Professional Learning16:37 America's Embarrassing Reading Crisis29:22 Environmental Advocacy and Community Engagement34:28 Advice for Aspiring Change Makers35:41 Conclusion and Gratitude

 Welcome to Education Influencers, the podcast spotlighting change makers shaping the future of learning. I am your host, Dr. Carla Sparks. Each episode, we sit down with trailblazing graduates from the doctoral program in educational leadership at National Louis University, visionaries turning research into results from transforming school systems to championing equity and innovation.These leaders aren't just making waves, they're building better communities through education. Tune in, get inspired, and discover how leadership lives beyond the classroom. From innovative programs to transformative leadership, we are telling the stories that matter. This is education influencers where leadership meets legacy.