Active Listener, a Lightspeed Podcast

In this episode of Active Listener, Dominique sits down with Dena McNeal, a middle school assistant principal with over 20 years of experience, to explore how relationships, routines, and consistency shape effective classroom management. Dena shares practical strategies for setting expectations, supporting teachers, and balancing accountability with care while emphasizing that respect is built through connection, not control. At its core, this conversation is a reminder that when students feel seen and supported, classrooms become spaces where both behavior and learning can thrive.

What does listening actually require, and what can music teach us about how the brain learns? In this episode of Active Listener, Dominique sits down with Dr. Jessica Phillips-Silver, a music neuroscientist, speaker, and artistic creator whose work explores how rhythm shapes attention, regulation, and human connection. Together, they unpack Jessica’s ARC framework of listening - attention, regulation, and connection - and explore why sound environment, movement, and music education are essential to learning. Jessica also shares how her Finding Rhythm project brings neuroscience, culture, and music into K–12 classrooms, reframing music as a powerful tool for learning, healing, and community. Resources Learn more about Dr. Jessica Phillips-Silver Learn more about the Finding Rhythm Project Learn more about Lightspeed

In this episode of Active Listener, Dominique sits down with Dr. TJ Vari and Joe Jones, co-founders of TheSchoolHouse302 and experienced education leaders, to discuss how schools can rethink student success through skills, career and technical education (CTE), and real-world learning. Together, they explore why durable skills like communication, critical thinking, and adaptability are essential for preparing students for the future of work.   Resources: TheSchoolHouse302 Maia Learning Books by Dr. Joe Jones & Dr. TJ Vari Lightspeed Classroom Audio

On this episode of Active Listener, Dominique sits down with Brittany Hebert, Director of Pupil Services at Provident Charter School, and Amy Salera, parent of a Provident student and Community Engagement Manager at Apraxia Kids. They explore how Provident supports students with dyslexia through UDL practices, targeted interventions, and strong family collaboration, plus how Lightspeed classroom audio helps reduce auditory barriers and improve access for all learners.   Resources Provident Charter School   Apraxia Kids International Dyslexia Association (IDA)   Orton-Gillingham Academy

What does it take to keep great teachers in the classroom, and what happens when we widen the lens beyond school walls? In this episode of Active Listener, Dominique sits down with Tiffany Jordan, a former recruitment and retention leader and Teach For America alumna whose work spans education, policy, and community empowerment. Tiffany unpacks what’s often misunderstood about the craft of teaching, why teachers leave, and what systems can do right now to improve retention. The conversation also explores how housing instability and students’ lived experiences show up in learning and focus, and how those experiences can sometimes be a point of connection between students, their teachers, and administrators. Resources Teach For America Opportunity Insights ( the organization behind the Chetty Study) Opportunity Atlas Profound Gentlemen

What does student success really look like in today's classrooms? On this episode of Active Listener, Dominique Johnson-Lindsay sits down with Dr. Andrea Trotter, assistant principal at Monticello High School, to explore a new definition of student achievement. Dr. Trotter makes the case for alternative education pathways and student-centered leadership that creates space for learners who don't thrive in traditional systems - and she doesn't shy away from the importance of soft skills and career readiness in getting them there. The conversation digs into post-COVID learning recovery and what it's revealed about the students we've been overlooking. Dr. Trotter also explores how classroom technology and instructional audio can support learning when used with intention—and why educators need to reconsider who we're really designing schools for.

Season 3 kicks off with host Dominique Johnson-Lindsay reflecting on why The Active Listener exists, what Season 2 taught us, and why communication and connection sit at the heart of education. From students feeling heard to leaders leading with compassion and understanding, the themes were clear across every conversation. This season is all about turning those insights into action and continuing Lightspeed’s mission of helping every student hear every word.   Find Dominique on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/djohnsonlindsay  See all the podcast episodes: https://active-listener.lightspeed-tek.com/  Visit Lightspeed at www.lightspeed-tek.com  

In this episode of Active Listener, host Dominique Johnson-Lindsay sits down with Sharyn D'Eon, principal of Chesterfield Elementary School in rural New Hampshire. Sharyn shares how her community-driven K–8 school uses shared leadership, outdoor learning, and Lightspeed classroom audio to reduce vocal strain, minimize distractions, and create clearer, more equitable listening environments for every learner. She also discusses the evolving role of technology, why flexible learning pathways matter, and how schools can start building strong culture with the resources they already have. This conversation offers practical, real-world insights for any educator looking to elevate engagement and ensure every student hears every word.

 In this episode of The Active Listener by Lightspeed, Dominique speaks with Dr. Matthew Woods - deputy superintendent, lifelong educator, and podcaster- about the powerful relationship between strong instructional strategy and the technology that supports it. Dr. Woods shares how his early experiences shaped his path into education, what he learned transitioning from teacher to administrator, and why the most effective instructional practices remain grounded in timeless fundamentals even as classrooms evolve. Together, they discuss how leaders can scale high-quality instruction, build genuine teacher buy-in, and use tools like instructional audio to amplify the strategies educators already rely on. Dr. Woods also reflects on the growth of his education podcast and the importance of preparing students to think critically in an increasingly tech-driven world. This episode is essential for educators and leaders who want to integrate technology thoughtfully to elevate teaching, learning, and student access.

Host Dominique Johnson-Lindsay sits down with Dr. Lisa Dailey, an Oregon middle school principal with 17 years in education, to explore what it really takes to support students during the most overlooked years in K–12. Dr. Dailey shares her path from math teacher to school leader, her doctoral research centering at-risk middle school youth, and why universal screeners, student voice, and family input must shape campus priorities. They dig into embedding SEL beyond a 20-minute lesson, building true belonging, and preparing brains to learn — especially when trauma walks in the door. Dr. Dailey also breaks down how she protects staff from initiative overload by anchoring every decision to a simple vision: keep students engaged and academically challenged. Finally, she looks ahead to a future where mental health is de-stigmatized, resources are equitable, and every student has doors open after graduation. Perfect for principals, teachers, and anyone passionate about student well-being and instructional excellence.

In this episode of the Active Listener Podcast, host Dominique Johnson-Lindsay speaks with Craig Straw, Director of Safety and Emergency Management at Houston ISD, the eighth-largest school district in the nation. With over 30 years of military and emergency management experience, Craig shares how a “people-first” mindset, mental health awareness, and early intervention form the foundation of effective school safety. Listen in as Craig discusses why readiness is a daily practice, the importance of building trusted relationships, and how technology can serve as a force multiplier when integrated with strong communication systems. From drills that build muscle memory to balancing safety at large-scale events like Friday night football games, Craig offers a holistic view of what it means to keep campuses safe, secure, and nurturing. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or community leader, this conversation underscores that true school safety isn’t about fear - it’s about connection, preparation, and ensuring every student can thrive.

Join host Dominique Johnson-Lindsay as she sits down with school safety expert John McDonald, COO of the Council for School Safety Leadership, to explore how schools can create safer environments through trusted relationships, proactive culture, and effective technology. From his “Stop the Prop” initiative to preparing for emerging AI-driven threats, John offers real-world strategies that help educators, leaders, and communities ensure every student feels secure and ready to learn. Drawing on decades of experience, including responding to seven school shootings, John shares lessons on engaging students in meaningful drills, strengthening communication during crises, and making smart, ROI-focused decisions on safety tools. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone committed to protecting students while fostering a welcoming, connected learning environment.

In this inspiring episode of The Active Listener Podcast, host Dominique Johnson-Lindsay sits down with Katy Kollasch, Chief Entrepreneur and Change Agent at the Venture Academy of Leadership and Entrepreneurship (VALE) in Parker, Colorado. With over two decades in education and an international teaching background, Katy shares her remarkable journey from the UK to founding a groundbreaking high school model in the U.S. Katy unpacks the vision behind VALE and its mission to cultivate students with entrepreneurial mindsets, preparing them for both the world that exists today and the one we can’t yet predict. She dives into how the school fosters a culture rooted in curiosity, design thinking, and intentionality - leveraging community partnerships, design sprints, and real-world internships every Friday. Discover how VALE integrates technology, including Lightspeed classroom audio, to create inclusive, accessible, and engaging learning environments. Learn how they intentionally build soft skills like empathy and communication alongside academic excellence, and hear Katy’s candid reflections on parenting, leadership, and what it takes to disrupt the traditional education model. Perfect for educators, school leaders, parents, and anyone passionate about the future of K–12 education, this episode offers a visionary look at what’s possible when we rethink how students learn and thrive.

In this episode of the Active Listener Podcast, host Dominique Johnson-Lindsey welcomes a special guest—her mother, Regina Johnson, a first-grade teacher and Navy veteran. Regina shares her journey from military service to teaching and how she balances discipline and fun in her classroom. Drawing connections between parenting and teaching, Regina emphasizes small group learning, active listening, and the significance of technology, including her experience with the Lightspeed Redcat system. This conversation sheds light on the challenges teachers face and the misconceptions about their roles. Tune in for dialogue on education, change, and the importance of supporting both students and teachers alike.

Welcome to another episode of the Active Listener Podcast, where today we dive into a conversation with Amber Reynolds, a dedicated physical education teacher from Summit View Elementary. Learn about her transition from classroom teaching to her passion for PE, and how she nurtures an inclusive environment for all students, especially those with special needs. Amber shares her philosophy on promoting positive sportsmanship and social-emotional learning, and discusses the significance of building strong relationships to enhance classroom management. In this episode, we also explore Amber's work outside the gym, co-founding "Colorado Mama Tribe," a nonprofit supporting mothers with children with special needs. Her heartfelt dedication to creating community and advocacy is evident as she helps parents navigate challenges in the school system. Join us for this discussion about fostering an adaptive and supportive learning environment for every student.  

Welcome back to Season Two of the Active Listener Podcast! Host Dominique Johnson-Lindsay, welcomes Leo Brehm, an experienced leader from the Massachusetts educational landscape. With over two decades in technology, Leo shares insights into his role as a district business administrator and his journey in balancing IT innovation with savvy investments. Tune in to explore the role of technology in creating interactive learning environments and how educators can leverage these advancements to benefit students and teachers alike. This episode also navigates the importance of listening to community feedback in education policy-making and managing the complexities of school governance on the local level. An enriching listen for educators, administrators, and anyone invested in the future of K-12 education.

Welcome to Season 2 of the Active Listener Podcast, hosted by Dominique Johnson-Lindsay. In this enlightening session, Dominique welcomes Lisa DeLapo, the Information and Instructional Technology Director at Union School District, San Jose, California. Join us as Lisa shares her journey from the medical field to education, detailing her path to becoming a tech director.   Listen in as Lisa discusses her experiences during the pandemic, how technology reshaped educational practices, and which tools are here to stay. Discover the unique makerspaces at Union School District, designed to inspire creativity and critical thinking in students through hands-on learning. See how the district fosters an environment of innovation through the integration of STEAM projects and interactive spaces. Gain insights into the challenges of adopting new technologies in schools, and learn about strategies to engage educators and students alike. From the benefits of instructional audio technology to new safety integrations, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the intersection of technology and education. Perfect for educators, administrators, and anyone passionate about the future of learning! 

Episode 3: Supporting Students and Teachers With Audiology

Bob Fishtrom shares his 29-year journey from classroom teacher to technology director in Silicon Valley. He discusses post-COVID challenges, technology's role in education, and the game-changing impact of instructional audio systems for both teachers and students.