PODCAST · kids
Voices for Excellence
by Dr. Michael T Conner
Welcome to Voices for Excellence, hosted by Dr. Michael Conners, where we explore the dynamic world of education, leadership, and innovation. This podcast offers in-depth conversations with thought leaders, educators, and industry experts, providing listeners with actionable insights and strategies to drive excellence in their fields. Season 3 continues our journey with a focus on cutting-edge topics like diversity in education, equality and inclusion, the impact of AI in the classroom, and transformative leadership strategies. Each episode is designed to inspire educators, leaders, and professionals committed to fostering positive change and achieving outstanding results. Across all seasons, Voices for Excellence delves into: Innovative educational practices and strategies Leadership development and personal growth Diversity and inclusion in the educational landscape
Episodes
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Teachers as life coaches in the AC-Stage of education with Dr. Erika Twani
What if students spent less of the school day waiting for directions and more of it learning how to direct themselves? Erika Twani wants educators to ask that question. Her own calculation puts a student’s time in school at 16,800 hours. The more important question, she says, is what students are...
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Three Cs for leadership: credibility, competence, convincing with Dr. L. Oliver Robinson
What does it take to lead with conviction when fear, politics, and constant change are shaping education? In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with veteran superintendent, executive coach, and founder of 2EDUK8, LLC, Dr. L. Oliver Robinson. Drawing on more than…
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Why AI bans fail the students who need access most with Dr Jeanene Stettner-Dutt
What if preparing students for the future means changing not only the tools in the classroom, but the way education thinks about leadership, learning, and change? Dr Jeanene Stettner-Dutt joins Dr Michael Conner for a timely conversation about leading schools through uncertainty without losing...
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Tornado, Pandemic, Boardroom: Crisis Leadership in Education with Dr. Donna Wright
Why do women make up most of the education workforce, yet remain dramatically underrepresented in the superintendent’s chair? In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael T. Conner welcomes Dr. Donna Wright, 2020 Tennessee Superintendent of the Year and Lead Superintendent for the AASA...
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Partner for capacity, not programs: Dr. Melissa Sadorf's four rules for rural districts.
What does it look like when rural education leads, not waits? Dr. Michael Conner welcomes Dr. Melissa Sadorf, executive director of the National Rural Education Association (NREA), the oldest national education organization in the country, founded in 1907. In her first year leading NREA, Dr.…
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Raising Kids Who Guide AI, with Dr. Antoinette Gutierrez
Most leaders are trained in strategy, systems, and skills. Almost none are taught to deal with themselves first. In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner is joined by Dr. Antoinette Gutierrez, educational leader, consultant, author, and founder of the CALSA Coachella Valley...
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Making AI a core language, not an elective with Dr. Rick Fernandez
Every so often, a conversation cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of what education leadership demands right now. This is one of those conversations. In this episode, Dr. Michael T. Conner is joined by Dr. Rick Fernandez, former superintendent, former high school principal, Chief Growth...
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Mastery Over Method: How Richmond County Redesigned Grading for the AI Era
What does it really take to build a school system ready for the future? In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner welcomes Dr. Tommy Welch, Deputy Superintendent of School Improvement and Strategic Initiatives for Richmond County School System, for an energising conversation...
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Interoperability, AI Sobriety, and the Data Warehouse with Daniel Crook
Daniel Crook, founder of School Harbor and co-founder of AEG Systems, joins Dr. Michael Conner for a direct, infrastructure-first conversation about what K–12 districts are getting wrong about AI adoption. Daniel has spent years working inside the systems that districts rely on to manage data…
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Coding Is the New Cursive: Why Every Kid Needs It (And It's Not About Software Engineering) | Stewart Brown
Today's kindergartners will retire in 2082, but are we preparing them for that world or ours? In this episode, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Stewart Brown, Director of Partnerships at Code4Kids, to challenge the "21st century" trap that's already widening the gap for Generation Alpha and…
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Emotional Intelligence Isn't Soft, It's the Durable Skill Driving Academic Success | Dr Donna Housman
Stop managing behavior. Start changing it. Dr. Mike Conner sits down with Dr. Donna Housman, CEO and founder of Housman Learning, to explore the paradigm shift reshaping early childhood education: why emotional intelligence isn't a soft skill, it's the durable, sustainable driver of academic...
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The Circles of Genius We're Wasting: Why Lived Experience Matters More Than Motivation with Shokry Elady
Organizations love to say they’ve “given people the tools to succeed”, so why do the same individuals and teams keep being labeled as the problem? In this episode, host Dr. Michael Conner talks with Dr. Shokry Eldaly (Teachers College, Columbia University) about what’s really missing: structures...
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Keeping People at the Center of AI Integration with Matthew Berkshire
Schools aren't just content delivery systems, they're the places where belonging happens, and that matters more in the age of AI than it did before. Matthew Berkshire, Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Greenville Central School District in New York, built something unusual: a school...
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When the Superintendent Becomes the Chief Advocate, Everything Shifts
The superintendent isn't a budget manager, they're the chief advocate for all children. Dr. Michael J. Barnes rebuilt Mayfield City Schools around this principle, and the results speak for themselves. The superintendent is the chief advocate for all children in their community. Nobody else can…
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From Creative Minds to Future Ready Centers: Rob Dickson Reimagines K-12
What happens when a public school district builds a micro school inside itself, and doesn't apologize for it? Rob Dickson is the CIO of Wichita Public Schools (USD 259), and he's not waiting for permission to innovate. Creative Minds, a K-6 vertical classroom where kindergartners learn alongside...
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National AI Literacy Day with Erin Mote: Why Doing Something Beats Doing Nothing
What if AI isn't trying to fit into your classroom — but to rebuild it entirely? Erin Mote, CEO and founder of InnovateEDU, explores what it means to navigate an arrival technology, one that doesn't fit into existing systems but fundamentally reorders them. Erin leads national and international...
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Julia Fallon on Infrastructure, Not Programs: Redesigning Around AI
Can Your AI Guidance Actually Guide — Or Does It Just Add Cognitive Load? Thirty-five states have issued AI guidance for schools. But how many of those documents reduce workload instead of compounding it? How many build judgment muscles instead of issuing checkbox mandates? And how many actually...
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People Before Programs: Servant Leadership, Trust, and Ethical AI with Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket
What does leadership look like when education is evolving faster than ever? In this powerful episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner welcomes Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket — President of the Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals, nationally recognised keynote speaker, and...
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Authentic Leadership in Education: Dr. Paul Miller on Transforming Trauma into Triumph
What if unlocking educational excellence meant embracing both our past traumas and the resilience we’ve built through them? In this compelling episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner welcomes Dr. Paul Miller, an influential educator and author, as part of our Black Excellence series...
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AI, Empowerment, and the End of Average: Mike Yates Rewrites the Learning Playbook
How do we build the future of learning with—and not against—the forces of innovation transforming society? In this visionary episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Mike Yates—education disruptor, creative strategist, and a national leader shaping the future of…
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Why Intentions Aren’t Enough: Dr. Tauheedah Baker-Jones on Designing Outcomes That Matter
What does it really take to redesign education systems for a future that demands equity, human-centered innovation, and world-class learning outcomes? In this riveting Black Excellence Series episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with visionary systems leader Dr.…
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From Fragmented Schools to Unified System — Dr. Lloyd Jackson on Transformational Leadership
What does it take to lead with clarity, compassion, and courage through the stormy waters of educational transformation? In this inspiring episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner welcomes Dr. Lloyd Jackson, Superintendent of the Texarkana Arkansas School District and a proud alumnus…
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From Substitute to Superintendent: Dr. Simone Griffin on Leading with Courage and Care
What does it take to lead a district through transformation while honoring the lived realities of students, educators, and community members? In this powerful episode of Voices for Excellence — part of our fourth annual Black Excellence series — Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Dr. Simone…
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Purpose, Profit, and the People—Dr. David Heiber’s Radical Model for Impact-First Ventures
What does it take to build a legacy that lifts others as it rises? In this powerhouse episode of the Black Excellence Series, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Dr. David Heiber—renowned educator, visionary entrepreneur, and founder of Concentric Educational Solutions—for a masterclass in...
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Leading the LeaderShift: Brian Roberson on Reimagining Education from the Inside Out
What does it take to lead through the shift when everything in education is evolving at once, and the pressure to deliver excellence for all students only intensifies? In this powerful instalment of the Black Excellence Series on Voices for Excellence, host Dr. Michael Conner is joined by...
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Breaking the Score Barrier — Dr. Mark King and Melinda Cook on Redefining Student Success
How do we move beyond the limits of a single test score to truly see the brilliance and potential of every child? In this riveting episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner is joined by two extraordinary education leaders who bring over six decades of combined insight to answer that…
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Systems with Soul: Roxanna Villaseñor on Leading with Resilience, Innovation and Hope
What if we looked at failure not as a flaw—but as fuel for innovation? In this inspiring episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Roxanna Villaseñor, former superintendent and CEO of Universal Leadership and Associates, to explore what it truly means to lead with...
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Breaking the Silos, Centering the Student — Dr. Jody Bloyer on Systemic Innovation
What happens when a school district refuses to operate in silos—and instead imagines an ecosystem that truly wraps around every learner, every family, and every community member? In this inspiring episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with visionary educator and community...
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Leading from Love and Data: Dr. Brenda Garcia Castro on Transforming School Culture
What happens when educational leadership is grounded in the wisdom of community, driven by emotion as much as intellect, and unflinchingly committed to equity? This week on Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Dr. Brenda Garcia Castro—assistant principal at Century Community...
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Beyond the Algorithm - Kunal Dalal on Raising Creative, Connected Learners in an AI World
What does it mean to be a parent in the age of AI? On this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner is joined by Kunal Dalal, a visionary educator, founder of AI Parentology, and one of today’s most important thinkers shaping the intersection of artificial intelligence and learning....
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Designing Schools That Listen: Dr. Tonia Causey-Bush on Portraits, Purpose, and People
What if the true measure of school success isn't just test scores—but the full humanity and future readiness of every learner? On this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Dr. Tonia Causey-Bush, a transformational instructional leader and Assistant Superintendent of...
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The Seatbelt of Strategy: How AI Ethics Keeps Innovation Human
In this thought-provoking episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Rebecca Bultsma — international AI ethics researcher, Chief Innovation Officer, and co-host of AmpED to 11 — to explore what it really means to lead in the age of artificial intelligence. From Kendrick...
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Leading Beyond the Textbook: Building Schools That Feel Alive
In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with one of education’s most innovative and heartfelt leaders, Superintendent Glenn Robbins. Together, they explore what it means to lead with authenticity, courage, and compassion in the ever-evolving landscape of education....
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Shaping the Future of Access and Opportunity with Riverside Insights
Austin ISD is rewriting the playbook on equity in advanced academics. In this Back to School edition of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner is joined by Cody Pruitt, Blake Haygood, and Tony Castilleja of Riverside Insights to explore how the district is leveraging the CogAT to expand...
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Transforming Strategic Plans Into Classroom Realities for Every Learner
In this Back-to-School edition of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Dr. Bill Bradford, Assistant Superintendent of Academics and School Leadership for Fayette County Public Schools (KY). Together they unpack how Fayette County is transforming education through its Portrait…
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Inclusion, Integrity, Excellence: Leading Every Student to Success
In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with John Pandolfo, Superintendent of Telluride School District and former Vermont Superintendent of the Year, to unpack his leadership journey and vision. From re-framing the district mission around “each and every student”…
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Leading AI Transformation from the Classroom to the Capitol
In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Candice Sears, Director of Instructional Services at the Montgomery County ESC and a leading voice in AI and educational innovation. From remote learning and alternative education programs to statewide AI policy and...
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Reimagining Education for a Generation That’s Already Ahead
In this thought-provoking episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Steven Iglesias—Chief Innovation Officer at Doral Academy and one of Florida’s most forward-thinking voices in educational AI. Together, they explore the urgent need to reimagine the education system for...
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Leading AI Transformation from the Classroom to the Capitol
In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Candice Sears, Director of Instructional Services at the Montgomery County ESC and a leading voice in AI and educational innovation. From remote learning and alternative education programs to statewide AI policy and...
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Leading AI Transformation from the Classroom to the Capitol
In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Candice Sears, Director of Instructional Services at the Montgomery County ESC and a leading voice in AI and educational innovation. From remote learning and alternative education programs to statewide AI policy and...
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Two Brains Are Better Than One: Reinventing Learning with AI
In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Wes Kriesel, Administrator of Innovation and AI at the Orange County Department of Education, to unpack what real innovation in education looks like. Together, they explore the difference between flashy tech and…
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What Happens When You Lead with Justice—Even If It Costs You?
What does it really take to lead with courage, clarity, and conviction—especially when the political winds are shifting? In this powerful episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with the unstoppable LK Monroe—former Alameda County Superintendent of Schools and founder of...
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Disrupt. Rethink. Redesign: The Platform Powering the Next Era of Education
In this special episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner takes the guest seat as Executive Producer Serena Reynolds steps in as host. Together, they unpack the vision, research, and real-world impact behind the Agile Diagnostic and AI Platform—a groundbreaking system transforming how...
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How Do You Lead Tech Innovation Without Losing the Human Touch?
In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Jennifer Womble—Chair of the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC) and District Administration—to explore how AI, innovation, and authentic leadership are reshaping the education landscape. They discuss what it...
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Bold Blueprints and Collective Genius: Leading in the A/C Era
In this powerful episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Christine Fowler-Mack—former Superintendent of Akron Public Schools and current CEO of Reimagine Solutions—to unpack what it truly takes to lead large, complex school systems in the A/C (After COVID) stage of...
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Building a Better Pipeline: Teachers, Tech, and Transformation
Dr. James Lane is the chief executive officer of PDK International and Educators Rising. He most recently served as Acting Assistant Secretary and the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education at the U.S. Department of Education after serving as…
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Embracing and Understanding Technology/AI in the AC-Stage of Education
Susan M. Bearden, CETL is a strategic, growth-oriented education technology leader who approaches IT from an educator mindset. A former teacher and K12 IT leader, she is currently the CEO of Bearden Education Technology Consulting and is passionate about facilitating best practices in education...
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The Future of Education in an Emergent Educational Environment
Dr. Barber is currently the Deputy Superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools. Barber has more than 20 years of experience as an educator, having previously served as superintendent of Frankfort Independent Schools and more. In that position, Dr. Barber established highly qualified,...
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Defining Innovative and Transformative Leadership for Generation Alpha and Generation Beta
Dr. Pedro Roman joined the Hyde Park Central School District as the Superintendent of Schools in July 2023. In his role as Superintendent, Dr. Roman is responsible for working with the Hyde Park Board of Trustees and school community to promote the district’s vision and mission, manage finances,...
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Creating Rigorous Learning Environments in the AC-Stage of Education
Dr. Lisa Schleer brings over three decades of PK-12 administrative and special education expertise to her role as founder and CEO of LMS Educational Consulting. Her approach integrates data-driven decision-making with deep expertise in educational equity, as evidenced by her doctoral research on...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to Voices for Excellence, hosted by Dr. Michael Conners, where we explore the dynamic world of education, leadership, and innovation. This podcast offers in-depth conversations with thought leaders, educators, and industry experts, providing listeners with actionable insights and strategies to drive excellence in their fields.
Season 3 continues our journey with a focus on cutting-edge topics like diversity in education, equality and inclusion, the impact of AI in the classroom, and transformative leadership strategies. Each episode is designed to inspire educators, leaders, and professionals committed to fostering positive change and achieving outstanding results.
Across all seasons, Voices for Excellence delves into:
Innovative educational practices and strategies
Leadership development and personal growth
Diversity and inclusion in the educational landscape
HOSTED BY
Dr. Michael T Conner
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Voices for Excellence have?
Voices for Excellence currently has 135 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Voices for Excellence about?
Welcome to Voices for Excellence, hosted by Dr. Michael Conners, where we explore the dynamic world of education, leadership, and innovation. This podcast offers in-depth conversations with thought leaders, educators, and industry experts, providing listeners with actionable insights and strategies...
How often does Voices for Excellence release new episodes?
Voices for Excellence publishes regularly with 135 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Voices for Excellence?
You can listen to Voices for Excellence 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 Voices for Excellence?
Voices for Excellence is created and hosted by Dr. Michael T Conner.
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