Duty Free Lunch

What if joy isn't something you earn after a hard week but the actual point? Madeline Loring, Pennsylvania's 2026 Teacher of the Year, joins the officer team to talk about building a career around authenticity, engaging students with uniquely themed classroom setups, and why she believes every educator is their school's best recruitment tool.  Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected].  Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron continues his special spring farewell series with a double feature starring outgoing board members Rosetta Dufalla and Cheryl Mattern, two leaders whose combined decades of service have made a lasting mark on PSEA and public education in Pennsylvania. Rosetta shares how her background in retail management gave her a unique window into both sides of the labor relationship. Cheryl opens up about how being a school nurse shaped her eye for the members who often get overlooked. Together, they reveal the reality of PSEA board work and share advice for the next generation of PSEA leaders.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected].  Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron sits down one-on-one with Melissa Costantino-Poruben in the first of a special spring series honoring outgoing PSEA Board members. A longtime math teacher and PSEA’s Senior NEA Director, Melissa shares what it’s really like to bridge state and national education advocacy, from chairing the NEA’s Friend of Education Committee to representing Pennsylvania at Education International in Argentina. She opens up about managing board responsibilities alongside family and classroom life, why she’s a passionate advocate for teacher sabbaticals, how the Corbett-era education cuts lit a fire under her to speak out, and why relationships are the real heart of this work. Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected].  Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Jeff sit down with State Sen. Steve Santarsiero and PSEA Legislative Committee Chair Mike Cherinka to dig into Senate Bill 1014, Pennsylvania's proposed bell-to-bell cellphone ban for public schools. They talk about what the bill would actually require, how PSEA's position evolved over 18 months of member-driven discussions, and why a bill that passed the Senate 46-1 might just be the rare thing everyone can agree on.  Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected].  Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Jeff are back with PSEA's Government Relations team to discuss the highs and lows for educators in Gov. Shapiro's 2026-27 Pennsylvania state budget proposal.  Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected].  Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Rachael speak with Spring Grove teacher Jason Baker about his innovative anthropology and archaeology program, where students design civilizations, bury artifacts, and conduct real digs on school grounds. This hands-on elective sparks unforgettable "aha" moments and proves experiential learning still matters.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

NEA President Becky Pringle returns to "Duty Free Lunch" for a powerful and personal conversation about attacks on educators, the future of public education, and Pennsylvania’s outsized role in protecting democracy. From union advocacy and cellphone policy to joy, resilience, and a surprise reunion with a former student, this episode blends heart, humor, and urgency at a pivotal moment for schools and educators nationwide.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Rachael talk with Erick Leiva, a career and technical education instructor and graduate of Lancaster Career & Technology Center  who’s helping students turn hands-on learning into real careers. From building confidence to landing jobs before graduation, Erick shares why CTC programs work, why funding and awareness matter, and why CTE is anything but a backup plan.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael are once again joined by Mary Kusler, Senior Director at NEA’s Center for Advocacy, to break down the 2025 election results and what they mean for educators heading into 2026. The conversation covers major wins for pro–public education candidates, Pennsylvania’s role as a key swing state, growing policy threats like Project 2025, and how sustained educator advocacy translates into real political power.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

As 2025 and a second year of podcasting come to a close, PSEA leaders look back at the year's highlights while gazing into their 2026 crystal ball. This past year tested our strength and showcased our collective power. From an epic state budget battle that ended with huge wins for public education, to record-setting member activism in a pivotal election, there's plenty to celebrate.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Take a breather this holiday season and listen to this "Duty Free Lunch" classic on effective stress management. Aaron and Jeff speak with subject experts Dorothy Morelli and Denine Goolsby about techniques you as an educator can use to keep your cool no matter what's happening around you. Don't miss this treasure trove of practical wisdom you can put to immediate use. Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

After months of delays and major strain on schools, the state finally has a budget. Aaron and Rachael bring in Government Relations experts Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to explain what it all means for PSEA members and their students.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Jeff sit down with Lisa Lehman and Jenn Mattucci from the Moon Area School District to talk about Club Hope, a student-led grief support group that’s helping kids heal after losing a loved one. What started with six students has grown into a thriving community built on compassion, connection, and the belief that no one should face grief alone. Lisa and Jenn share how their own experiences inspired the club, how students have embraced it, and how educators across Pennsylvania can bring this kind of support to their own schools.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Rachael welcome their first lawmaker to the podcast, State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, one of Pennsylvania’s most dynamic voices for working families. Listen as they dig into the ongoing state budget battle, the future of public education funding, and what keeps Rep. Kenyatta hopeful in today’s highly charged political climate.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Jeff and Rachael explore how PSEA uses surveys and research to stay connected to its 177,000 members. Guests Dr. David Wazeter and Dr. Katherine Hamilton from PSEA's Research division share what the data reveals about educator stress, job satisfaction, and public perception, and how those insights shape our work as an organization.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Lenny Robinson has spent 23 years as a custodian in the Wissahickon School District. But to his students and community, he’s so much more. In this episode of Duty Free Lunch, we celebrate the 2025 Civil Rights Educational Leader Award winner and hear from the colleagues who helped shine a light on his extraordinary impact.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Canon-McMillan teacher Chelsea Geist turned her high school classroom into a zoo - literally. Aaron and Jeff talk to her about how it started, the impact on students, and what it takes to run a living zoo at school.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Welcome to Season 3 of "Duty Free Lunch"! We're kicking it off with a look at the state of the union as PSEA Executive Director Jim Vaughan joins Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael to discuss PSEA happenings, the current state of our politics, and what's in store for PSEA members in the new year. Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

PSEA PACE Chairperson Theresa Prato and Central York teacher Gina Grolemund join Aaron and Rachael to talk about political organizing, winning school board seats, and how PACE makes a real difference for public education.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Ann Monaghan, PSEA’s Dolores McCracken ESP Member of the Year for 2025-26, joins Duty Free Lunch to discuss the challenges, rewards, and joys of being a support professional in Pennsylvania’s public schools.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

National Teacher of the Year Ashlie Crosson returns to Duty Free Lunch with sharp insights, honest reflections, and urgent ideas. From rural education to teacher burnout to student empowerment, Ashlie's national exposure has given her new insights into the state of teaching today. Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Pennsbury elementary school teacher Jenn Fumanti sits down with Aaron and Jeff to share the remarkable story of her family's five-generation commitment to teaching in Pennsylvania. From coal stoves to Chromebooks, hear how public education shaped her legacy, and why she's proud to carry the torch today. 

Aaron and Jeff are joined by Allen Lombardozzi and Elaine LaFuria, two STEM teachers from the Harbor Creek School District. They share the story behind Advanced Technologies Group, a student program powered by HAM radio, science, and sheer curiosity. From building antennas to speaking directly with astronauts aboard the International Space Station, their students are putting STEM to good use.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Join us for another dispatch from the legislative trenches as Aaron and Jeff sit down with PSEA-Retired leaders Todd Miller and Russ Stevenson during PSEA’s ACE Lobby Days in Harrisburg. They cover why retired educators remain on the front lines, the fight to protect pensions, and the push for a cost-of-living adjustment for pre-Act 9 retirees. Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

This episode was recorded during PSEA’s ACE Lobby Days, where educators from across Pennsylvania come together to meet with lawmakers and make their voices heard. Joining us are two advocates, teachers, and local presidents Amanda Simcoe and Mike Soskil. They join Aaron and Rachael to talk about what it means to lead not just in their schools, but in their communities and at the Capitol, on issues like school funding, educator shortages, student teacher stipends, and the critical need to support every school staff member.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

What happens when a father and daughter go from paraprofessionals to certified teachers together? The officer team sits down with Jermaine and ShaWanna Bailey, a dynamic duo from the York City School District who did exactly that. They share their powerful story of career transformation through the “Grow Your Own” program, the challenges they overcame, and why representation in the classroom matters.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

…doesn’t always stay at the House of Delegates. In fact, this is the episode where all is revealed – the ins and outs and goings on at the twice-yearly gathering of our union brothers and sisters. The officer team welcomes back Executive Director Jim Vaughan to break down everything that goes into this important event – from delegate elections and new business items to behind-the-scenes prep and personal reflections. Whether you’re a first-timer, a veteran, or just House-curious, this episode gives you an inside look at how your union gets things done.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

The PSEA officer team speaks with two frontline IU educators – Kathy Dunkle from IU #24 and Tina Giazzoni-Fialko from IU #22 – to unpack the real story behind Pennsylvania’s Intermediate Units. What exactly are IUs? Why do they matter? And how do they quietly power some of the most essential educational services across the state? Whether you’re an educator, school leader, or just IU-curious, this episode is for you.

The officer team dives into the powerful conversations that came out of PSEA's recent special education roundtables. More than 100 educators sat down with lawmakers to talk about challenges and brainstorm solutions. Two of those roundtable participants - special ed. teacher Cassie McCabe and speech therapist Christina Rojas - join us to share their experiences.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Jeff chat with Tiffany Zook, a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher at Penn Manor High School, who shares how she turned military-style MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) into a hands-on cooking competition for her students. With help from a Marine Corps staff sergeant, the project gave students a taste of field rations and a big serving of creativity, collaboration, and practical skills.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Public schools are under attack, and educators need to fight back. Aaron and Jeff are joined by expert guests to dig into the latest threats to public education, like devastating federal budget cuts, and what we can do about them. NEA’s Mary Kusler and PSEA’s Jen Statler discuss the Trump administration’s drastic cuts to the U.S. Department of Education, the impact on Pennsylvania schools, and how educators can take action.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

We take you straight from the steps of the state Capitol to the podcast studio, where we break down the first ESP Lobby Day and the fight for a living wage. Our support professionals keep our schools running, yet nearly half of them make less than $20 per hour. The officer team interviews ESP President Rudy Burruss and Vice President Marc Howshall on a promising new House bill, the impact of raising ESP wages to at least $20 an hour, and what comes next in the fight for fair pay.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with 2025 PA Teacher of the Year Leon Smith to discuss the challenges facing education today. From the shrinking teacher pipeline to the urgent need for more diverse educators, Leon shares his insights on why representation matters, how to rebuild the profession, and what gives him hope for the future.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Join us as we explore an extraordinary high school program that’s preparing students for careers in aviation. Aaron and Rachael sit down with Eric Greenberger, the creator and lead instructor of the Wallenpaupack Aeronautical Science & Aviation program, as well as senior Josh Griffiths, a student pilot in the program. Learn how this one-of-a-kind program is giving students hands-on experience in professional piloting, air traffic control, and aircraft maintenance while helping them earn certifications and launch their careers before they even graduate.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Rachael sit down with educator, instructional coach, author, and podcaster Suzanne Dailey, along with PSEA Mideastern Region President Bill Senavaitis, to explore practical strategies for staying positive in education. Suzanne shares insights from her Teach Happier podcast and book, offering science-backed techniques to help educators feel more grounded and fulfilled.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

We're back with another late-breaking budget breakdown! The officer team sits down with PSEA Government Relations gurus Dan Wiedemer and Kelli Thompson to comb over the details in Gov. Shapiro's Feb. 4 Budget Proposal. They explore key funding increases, the impact on school districts, and the fight for more support for student teachers. Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

When Brittney Ehrenzeller started a small club at Phoenixville Area High School to inspire and mentor students interested in an education career, she had no idea it would balloon into the thriving, in-demand program it is today. Aaron and Jeff sit down with Brittney to hear how she did it, and hopefully inspire more future teacher leaders to start an Educators Rising chapter in their schools.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Jeff sit down with Kaylin Shewmake, a Penn State University student and Student PSEA Central Region president. Kaylin was one of the fortunate recipients of the student teacher stipend that was awarded this past year. She talks about her experience applying for and receiving the stipend, the improvements she hopes to see in the future, and how fully funding this stipend is key to attracting more future educators in Pennsylvania. Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

In a special episode, Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael celebrate the podcast’s one-year pod-aversary. They discuss key PSEA highlights from 2024, including success with a student teacher stipend, ongoing efforts to secure a pre-Act 9 retiree COLA, and plans to address ESP shortages with a dedicated Lobby Day in 2025. The team also shares their favorite memories from the year and looks ahead to new goals and more tapping into the collaborative spirit that drives PSEA’s mission forward.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

In this episode of Duty Free Lunch, we’re looking ahead to America’s 250th birthday in 2026 and Pennsylvania’s key role in the celebrations. Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA, joins Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael to share how the commission is connecting history with education and highlighting Pennsylvania’s contributions. They discuss programs for students, partnerships with schools and museums, and ways educators can get involved to bring history to life in the classroom. Plus, Cassandra shares her favorite piece of Pennsylvania trivia - don't miss it!Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Jeff delve into student health and wellness with PSEA leaders Michelle Sholder and Adam Oldham. Michelle, president of PSEA’s Department of Pupil Services (DPS), and Adam, a school counselor, share their expertise on addressing issues like trauma, anxiety, and the impact of social media on students. They share practical strategies and emphasize the need for more certified student service professionals. They also explore PSEA's professional development opportunities and advocate for more empathetic, systemic solutions to help students thrive.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Jeff sit down with with PSEA’s 2024 Dolores McCracken Education Support Professional of the Year, Becky Marszalek, a paraprofessional at Avonworth Elementary School and president of Avonworth ESP with 18 years of education experience. Becky shares some of the challenges and joys of her journey from nannying to working in education, emphasizing the importance of trust, consistency, and the evolving support for paraprofessionals within the education community. Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

In this special post-election wrap-up of Duty Free Lunch, we break down the latest election results and their impact on Pennsylvania's public education landscape. Aaron welcomes Dan Wiedemer and Sari Stevens from PSEA's Government Relations unit to discuss key issues from the Nov. 5 election, from voter turnout and demographic trends to the policy priorities that could shape our schools’ future. Tune in as we explore the path forward for educators and PSEA’s ongoing commitment to putting students and public schools first.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Jeff tackle a topic that hits close to home for educators: stress and how to effectively manage it. They are joined by Dorothy Morelli, a career educator with over 30 years of experience and co-founder of the non-profits CREATE and Bounceback, and Denine Goolsby, an SEL expert with 46 years as an educator, principal, and executive in social-emotional learning. Also joining in is Sandy Williams, PSEA’s wellness facilitator, who highlights wellness resources for members, offering quick techniques to find calm and joy in stressful moments.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

PSEA’s Innovative Teaching Grants program is designed to support educators in creating groundbreaking classroom projects. Jeff and Rachael chat with Amy Lightner, Chair of the program, and Anthony DeRosa, a grant recipient from the Lawrence County Career & Technical Center. Tune in to hear how DeRosa’s “Art Mart” is equipping economically disadvantaged students with entrepreneurial skills through a unique STEAM-based curriculum and learn about the opportunities and tips for applying to this prestigious grant to your own program.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Rachael sit down with PSEA Assistant Directors of Education Services Gina Gullo and Michael Bogdan to explore the professional learning opportunities available to PSEA members. Learn about PSEA’s Center for Professional Learning and the PEARL platform, which offer flexible, free Act 48 and Chapter 14 credits through webinars, book studies, and NEA micro-credentials. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, PSEA's pro-learning opportunities have you covered.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron and Rachael explore the world of Career and Technical Education (CTE) with special guests from York County School of Technology. Teacher Development Instructor Dr. Melissa-Ann Pero discusses her innovative teacher development program, which borrows from the Educators Rising curriculum, and its role in preparing the next generation of educators. Senior student Grace Rinehart shares what inspires and motivates her on her journey to become a teacher.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

The PSEA officer team dives into the 2024 election and its potential impact on public education with Mary Kusler, NEA's Senior Director for the Center for Advocacy and Political Action. Mary shares insights on the political landscape, the importance of educators' involvement, and key issues like student loan debt, union rights, and federal funding for schools. Tune in as we discuss why this election could be the most consequential of our lifetimes and how educators can make their voices heard.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

Aaron, Jeff, and Rachael sit down with PSEA Executive Director Jim Vaughan to illuminate the inner workings of the Association. Jim shares his day-to-day responsibilities, discusses how members' voices shape PSEA’s decisions, and highlights recent successes in organizing and bargaining. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the people and projects that keep PSEA running smoothly, along with Jim's vision for the future of the organization.Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.

The officer team sits down with PSEA Government Relations gurus Dan Wiedemer and Erika Brunelle to discuss the hits and misses for educators in the 2024-25 Pennsylvania state budget. Do you have some feedback for us? Send an email to [email protected]. Learn more and watch for upcoming episodes at psea.org/podcast.