PODCAST · education
Rebel Educator®
by Tanya Sheckley
In each episode of the Rebel Educator® podcast, I deconstruct world-class educators, students, and thought leaders in education to extract the tactics, tools, and routines that you can use as teachers and parents. Join me as we discuss how to shift the classroom, the learning environment, the mindset, and the pedagogy, to resist tradition, reignite wonder, and re-imagine the future of education.
Episodes
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147: Building Software to Support Alternative Schools with Larissa Green and Joseph Jung
Personalized learning deserves personalized tools. In this week’s episode, we sit down with Larissa Green and Joseph Jung, the duo behind Spark, a flexible EdTech platform built from the ground up for alternative schools. Tune in to hear how Spark is giving microschools and co-ops the software…
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146: AI, Equity, and the Next Generation with Mike Yates and Delali Ekpeh
Can AI be a tool for inclusion—or is it reinforcing the digital divide? Join us as we explore how young people are stepping into the future of tech and what it means to build equitable, human-centered innovation. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Connect with Mike and Delali on...
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145: Outdoor Experiential Learning with Greg Morrissey
From the Adirondacks to Antarctica, our guest, Greg Morrissey, has led students on expeditions that combine outdoor adventure with meaningful academics. Tune in and learn how the Mountain Goat Movement is helping students develop skills and discover their own potential through outdoor challenges....
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144: Anti-Boring Learning with Gretchen Wegner
What if students understood the science behind effective learning strategies? In this episode, Gretchen Wegner shares with us how teaching brain science to students transforms their willingness to try new approaches and take ownership of their education. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS...
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143: Creating Alternative Education Spaces with Jacqui O'Connell
In this episode, we chat with Jacqui O'Connell, founder of Spiritus, an alternative education community born from one mother's need to find better options for her child. Tune in to learn how her approach provides a different path forward for both children and parents. RESOURCES AND LINKS…
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142: Overcoming the Barriers of Opening a Microschool with Jon England
Microschools often face significant regulatory hurdles. Our guest this week, Jon England, chats with us about some of the most common barriers and what we can do to overcome them. Tune in and discover practical strategies for navigating regulatory challenges in opening your microschool! RESOURCES...
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141: Anti-Bias Education with Sahba Rohani
What does it take to implement anti-bias education that goes beyond the surface? Our guest, Sahba Rohani, Executive Director of Roots ConnectED, discusses the"dual process for change”—a combining of personal mindset shifts with collective action in classrooms. Sahba shares with us how her...
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140: The Key to Overcoming Math Anxiety with Aditya Nagrath
Math anxiety starts early, but it doesn’t have to. In this episode Aditya Nagrath, co-founder of Elephant Learning, shares why confidence and belief are critical for math success—and the tools we can use to change a child’s trajectory. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Connect with...
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139: Transforming Education Through Community-Based Design and Centering Young Voices with Jenee Henry
What makes extraordinary schools? In this enlightening conversation, Jenee Henry, Chief Learning Officer at Transcend, explores how community-based design is helping schools evolve beyond industrial-era models to create learning environments where everyone thrives. From competency-based…
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138: Designing Meaningful Project-Based Learning Experiences
Project-based learning isn’t just about doing projects—it’s about designing deep, concept-driven experiences. In this episode, I'm breaking down what makes a project meaningful, highlighting common mistakes to avoid, and sharing real-world examples of successful interdisciplinary project-based...
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137: Tracking Student Progress Effectively and Efficiently with Chris Hull
This week we’re joined by Chris Hull, founder of Otus, an edTech tool designed by educators to simplify the way schools manage data, assessments, and instruction. Join us as we dive deep into an innovative approach that reimagines education as a personalized journey of discovery. Learn how Otus…
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136: Practical Tools to Create Opportunities for Agency and Independence
Kids need the chance to make decisions. But how do we create the right balance between structure and independence? Tune in for strategies that empower kids to take ownership of their choices. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Want to open your dream school with the freedom you…
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135: Student-Led Restorative Practices with AJ Crabill
What happens when we give students the tools to restore relationships rather than simply punishing behavior? In this week's episode, AJ Crabill, Senior Coach at Student Led Restorative Practices, shares with us how community circles build belonging, mediation circles resolve conflicts, and...
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134: How to Tackle the Biggest Challenges in Starting a School
Starting a school isn't easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode, we break down the biggest challenges to opening a school and share strategies to help you overcome them. Whether you’re considering starting a microschool, virtual school, or something entirely new, this episode…
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133: Building Executive Functioning Skills in Any Classroom with Mitch Weathers
The secret to student success might not be what you think. Our guest reveals why executive functioning skills—the ability to organize, manage time, set goals, and complete tasks—form the foundation for all learning yet are rarely taught explicitly in schools. Through his personal story of…
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132: Microschools and the Future of Accountability
In this episode, we dive into the evolving world of microschools and a recent article published by the Center for American Progress, "The Importance of Holding Microschools Accountable". As the founder of a microschool, I understand the need for accountability, but the current system we're being...
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131: Embracing Non-Traditional Education with Jennifer D. Klein
How do you create meaningful change in education without losing your job? My guest this week, Jennifer D. Klein, explores the delicate balance of innovation and resistance through the lens of her experiences in nontraditional education. Jennifer shares with us her incredible insights about…
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130: Creating the Schools We Need with Kapono Ciotti
How do we create schools where students actually want to learn? Meet Kapono Ciotti, an educator working to transform schools from teacher-centered stages to student-led learning environments. Drawing from his experiences in progressive education systems, Ciotti shares practical strategies for...
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129: A Sneak Peek at My Upcoming TED Talk!
I'm so excited to share my recent TED Talk with you all! In this episode, I’ll take you behind the scenes of how this opportunity came to life and share my full talk, where I explore the power of brave questions and how they’ve shaped my journey as an education innovator. Tune in now to listen…
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128: A Stoic Approach to School Leadership with Daniel Bauer and Glenn Robbins
Daniel Bauer and Glenn Robbins chat with us about Stoic principles like wisdom, courage, and temperance and how they can help guide leaders in education to act with integrity, even in challenging times. Learn how to focus on what truly matters, navigate ethical dilemmas with confidence, and…
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127: Teacher Burnout and the Need for Educational Overhaul with Dr. Jessica Werner
Burned out, overwhelmed, and struggling with student behavior—sound familiar? Dr. Jessica Werner, founder of Northshore Learning, joins us to share how her innovative, life-coaching-style approach to professional development is changing the game for teachers. Tune in to discover how she's helping...
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126: Culturally Responsive Teaching with Yvette Cole
In this episode, we sit down with Yvette Cole, a Kindergarten teacher and first-time author, to discuss the inspiration behind her book and how culturally responsive teaching can transform classrooms. Yvette shares her journey in advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion in education, and…
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125: Authentic Marketing Strategies to Find Families and Build Enrollment
Hey Rebel Educators! Let's talk about one of the biggest challenges in our community - finding and connecting with the right families. Whether you're launching a new school, growing your educational program, or developing an edTech solution, this episode breaks down exactly how to align your core...
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124: Starting a School to Change Education, The Story of UP Academy
In this episode of Rebel Educator, I take you behind the scenes of founding Up Academy—an educational journey sparked by my daughter Eliza’s diagnosis of cerebral palsy. Faced with a system that didn’t believe in her potential, I set out to create a school that would not only support her but all...
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123: Rebuilding Education, Increasing Learner Agency, and Solving Real World Problems Using AI with Serj Hunt
What if education could be a launchpad for innovation instead of a standardized assembly line? Join us as Serj Hunt, Founder of City as a School, dismantles traditional learning models and reveals a radical approach to preparing young people for a complex, rapidly changing world. From AI-powered...
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122: Navigating AI's Role in Modern Education with Brett Roer
Step into the exciting world of AI in education with an inspiring conversation that breaks down barriers and reimagines learning for the digital age. Join us as my guest and I, Brett Roer, explore how students and educators are navigating the complex landscape of artificial intelligence, turning...
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121: Using the Leader's Algorithm to Transform School Expectations and Outcomes with Pablo Muñoz
When educational leaders challenge the status quo, remarkable things happen. Pablo Muñoz has dedicated his career to proving this truth in some of New Jersey's most underserved school districts. From implementing innovative learning strategies to writing "The Leader's Algorithm," Muñoz…
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120: Project UP! Young Changemakers Share Their Insights on the Importance of Literary Freedom
In this exciting episode, you’ll get an inside look at Up Academy's innovative Project-Based Learning approach through the Rebel Project Literacy Curriculum! You’ll hear: How students from 2nd to 5th grade delved into the complex world of banned and challenged books. Student voices sharing their...
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119: Kids Need Less Help Than We Think
Could doing less for our kids actually help them more? In this episode, you'll learn: What "lighthouse parenting" is and how it differs from helicopter and snowplow parenting. Why letting children struggle, face natural consequences, and solve their own problems is crucial for their development…
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118: Standardized Testing and the Changing Landscape of College Admissions with Shahar Link
What does an SAT score really tell us about intelligence? Tune in for a fascinating discussion about the evolution of standardized testing, its role in modern education, and why MIT recently reversed course on test-optional admissions. Our guest this week, Shahar Link, CEO and founder of…
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117: Breaking Free from the "Sage on the Stage" and Increasing Student Agency
Giving up control in a classroom or at home can feel messy and uncomfortable, but it's essential for children's growth and independence. In this episode, I share how innovative educators and parents are reimagining their approach to teaching and raising confident decision-makers. Through real...
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116: Reimagining the Role of the Teacher and Making Space for Student-Centered Learning with Kyle Wagner
What happens when you walk into a classroom and can't find the teacher? For Kyle Wagner, this moment sparked a fundamental shift in his understanding of what learning could look like. In this episode, Kyle shares powerful examples of schools that have transformed from traditional teaching models…
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115: Small Schools, Big Impact: Why Size Matters in Education
Welcome to another solo episode of Rebel Educator! As I continue to navigate these solo episodes, I’m excited to dive more into the advantages of small schools. At Up Academy, we are intentionally small, and I believe that small schools offer an ideal environment for student development, both...
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114: Expeditionary Learning and the Small School Advantage with Stuart Grauer
Discover the power of small schools with Stuart Grauer, a visionary educator challenging the "bigger is better" mentality in education. Learn how connecting students to their local environment and fostering genuine human connections can revolutionize learning outcomes. From expeditionary…
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113: Stepping Back and Allowing Learners to Experience Productive Struggle
Are you unknowingly holding your learners back from reaching their full potential? In this solo episode, we’re discussing the benefits "productive struggle" and why allowing children to face challenges is crucial for their growth and success. Tune in and discover how embracing difficulty can...
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112: Creating Literacy Programs That Connect Communities with Janet Wile
In this episode, we sit down with Janet Wile, Supervisor of Library Services for Central Unified School District in Fresno, California. Janet’s journey has taken her from history teacher to passionate advocate for school libraries and literacy programs. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: Janet's...
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111: The Science of Reading with Shannon Betts & Mary Saghafi
Ever feel like you're swimming against the tide when it comes to teaching kids to read? You're not alone! In this enlightening episode of the Rebel Educator podcast, we welcome seasoned educators Shannon Betts & Mary Saghafi, hosts of the Reading Teachers Lounge podcast. With over two decades of...
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Welcome to Season 5!
Welcome to Season 5 Rebel Educators! We’ve got a fresh new look, new sound, AND a new release day! Starting next week, catch new Rebel Educator episodes every Monday and start your week with inspiration and innovative ideas for your classrooms. Plus, we’re adding more solo episodes alongside our...
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Data-driven coaching and purposeful walkthroughs with Dr. Mat Barnett
In this episode, we hear from Dr. Mat Barnett, Director of TK-12 Programs for Beaumont Unified School District (CA). Mat began his career as a teacher in Anaheim, CA, and also held roles including junior high principal and director of education services in the Fullerton School District. Mat...
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110: Foresight as a Tool for Building Resilience and Thriving in Disruption with Roger Spitz
In a world filled with unpredictability, how do we equip students with the tools they need to make decisions? Our guest, Roger Spitz, shares his insights on the role of strategic foresight and how embracing complexity and uncertainty can revolutionize education, empowering students and educators…
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109: Whole-Child Health and Nutrition with Jill Castle
Jill Castle is the author of the book, Kids Thrive at Every Size (Workman 2024) and one of the nation’s premier childhood nutrition experts. Known for her ability to blend current research, practical application, and common sense, Jill believes that children can thrive at every size. With her...
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108: Futures Thinking with Dr. Peter Bishop
Dr. Peter Bishop is the Founder and Executive Director of Teach the Future, an organization whose mission is to encourage and support educators who want to include futures thinking in their classes and schools at all levels around the world. In 2013, Dr. Bishop retired as a Professor Emeritus of...
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107: Money Management for Teachers with Shaun Morgan
Shaun Morgan is a full-time teacher, personal financial coach for teachers, and podcaster at the Teacher Money Show. He has written about personal finance since 2020, and has hosted virtual summits for teachers to get control of their finances. He does this because he has a deep passion for…
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106: Transforming Classrooms with S.E.L, A.I., and Experiential Learning with Dr. Michelle Ament
Dr. Michelle Ament is a dynamic educational leader committed to equipping learners with human-centered skills for career readiness through experiential learning. With 27 years of experience, she transforms K-12 education through cutting-edge learning experiences, fostering academic achievement…
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105: The Socratic Experience with Michael Strong
Michael Strong is the most experienced developer of innovative educational programs in the US and the Founder of The Socratic Experience, an online school based on Socratic dialogue that emphasizes personalized and purpose-driven education for students in grades 3-12. His remarkable career in...
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Replay: Middle School Matters with Andrew Ravin and Denise Daniels
Andrew Ravin is the Founder and Head of School at Workshop Middle School. For nearly 25 years, he’s worked as a social worker, classroom teacher, instructional coach, and school leader. Andrew is an award-winning educator, mentor, and researcher. Most recently, he was named one of the Top 100...
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104: Adventures in Podcasting with Josh Reppun
Former chef, hotel manager and history teacher, Josh Reppun is the founder of Plexus Education, LLC, dba as Most Likely to Succeed in Hawai’i, a “movement” founded by extraordinary people dedicated to developing global public, private and charter school conversations around Ted Dintersmith’s…
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Wayde Sick, North Dakota State CTE Director, On Enhancing Career Exploration with VR/XR Technology (EdTech Startup Showcase)
Today, we’re pleased to share an episode originally recorded for the EdTech Startup Showcase. It’s been my pleasure to host a series of episodes for this show, which spotlights some of the most innovative emerging companies in edtech. In this episode, I’m joined by special guest Wayde Sick, State...
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Aidan Kestigian, Harvard philosophy fellow and ThinkerAnalytix VP, on using AI to improve information literacy and argument formation (EdTech Startup Showcase)
EdTech Startup Showcase: Aidan Kestigian, Harvard philosophy fellow and ThinkerAnalytix VP, on using AI to improve information literacy and argument formation Today, we’re pleased to share an episode originally recorded for the EdTech Startup Showcase. It’s been my pleasure to host a series of...
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Replay: Asset-Based Learning with Devin Vodicka
Devin Vodicka has spent the past 20 years working towards high quality student outcomes. He has earned multiple prestigious awards in the education field, including 2015 California Superintendent of the Year by both ASCA and Pepperdine University. He is also a nine-time White House honoree in...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
In each episode of the Rebel Educator® podcast, I deconstruct world-class educators, students, and thought leaders in education to extract the tactics, tools, and routines that you can use as teachers and parents. Join me as we discuss how to shift the classroom, the learning environment, the mindset, and the pedagogy, to resist tradition, reignite wonder, and re-imagine the future of education.
HOSTED BY
Tanya Sheckley
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Rebel Educator® have?
Rebel Educator® currently has 165 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Rebel Educator® about?
In each episode of the Rebel Educator® podcast, I deconstruct world-class educators, students, and thought leaders in education to extract the tactics, tools, and routines that you can use as teachers and parents. Join me as we discuss how to shift the classroom, the learning environment, the...
How often does Rebel Educator® release new episodes?
Rebel Educator® publishes regularly with 165 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Rebel Educator®?
You can listen to Rebel Educator® on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Rebel Educator®?
Rebel Educator® is created and hosted by Tanya Sheckley.
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