EDU Café

Episode 2 of Future Plans’ Designing Opportunity mini-series is live, and it might challenge how you think about workforce development.We often hear about the “talent gap.” But what if the real issue isn’t people…?In this episode, Future Plans Christa Krohn facilitates a discussion with Betsy Franjola of Hocking Hills Garment Center, Josiah Hannah of Coalfield Development, and Stefano Alva of Vitruvian Building who explored a hidden bottleneck:👉 Ready people + real opportunities still stall when communities lack the infrastructure to support them.They talk about:• Why workforce readiness is a systems design challenge• The “invisible” barriers, including housing, transportation, childcare, utilities, permitting• The real timeline (and cost) of building skills that didn’t previously exist in a region• How policy and funding gaps can unintentionally discourage work• Why “make-it-possible dollars” are essential to move from pilot to scale🎧 Ready People, Unready Places: The Bottleneck Nobody Sees#WorkforceDevelopment #CTE #EconomicDevelopment #FutureOfWork #EducationInnovation #CommunityDevelopment

I had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Michelle Riconscente, PhD, CEO & co-founder of Valutare.AI and author of The AI Amplification Effect. We explored a powerful idea: AI doesn’t just change how we work; it amplifies who we already are.We dug into the four work styles framework (analytical, driver, expressive, amiable) and what it means for how we lead, collaborate, and make decisions, especially in moments of stress.A few takeaways:💡 There is no “best” style; rather, success comes from flexibility.💡 AI removes some of the natural guardrails we get from working with others, which can push our strengths into overdrive.💡 What looks like resistance in teams may actually be someone leaning into their strength under stress.💡 Staying human-centered in AI adoption isn’t optional; it’s essential.As someone who spends a lot of time thinking about technology adoption in education, this conversation reinforced something important: implementation isn’t just technical → it’s deeply human.

We often talk about the “talent gap.”But what if the problem isn’t talent?What if it’s design?In the first episode of our Designing Opportunity: From Job Readiness to Future Resilience series, we explored a fundamental question with Letha Pugh, an entrepreneur and workforce development leader, Dan Leffingwell, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at Future Plans, and Nick Moore, Acting Assistant Secretary, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education:Is workforce readiness really a talent problem or a systems problem?The conversation brought together perspectives from policy, education, and community leadership, and a few powerful themes emerged.🔹 We are talent rich but exposure poor.Research shows many students possess the strengths for high-demand careers but simply aren’t exposed to them.🔹 Systems often work against mobility.Fragmented programs, benefit cliffs, and siloed policies can trap people in cycles of poverty even when they’re trying to advance.🔹 Workforce development must address the whole person.Childcare, transportation, housing stability, and mental health support often determine whether someone can actually stay in a job.🔹 Opportunity doesn’t happen by accident.It must be intentionally designed through coordination between education, employers, policy leaders, and communities.As one panelist put it:“The talent isn’t missing. Alignment is.”If we want future resilience, for rural and urban communities alike, we need systems that connect talent, opportunity, and support.This is just the start of the conversation.Episode 2 will explore another challenge: “Ready People and Unready Places: The Bottleneck Nobody Sees.”

🎙️ New Podcast Episode: The Network of Networks: Innovation to Support All LearnersWhat does it take to create systemic change for students with disabilities and learning differences?In the latest episode of EDU Café Podcast, I had the opportunity to host Aurora Dreger of InnovateEDU to discuss the work underway through the Educating All Learners Alliance (EALA) and how cross-organizational collaboration can help drive meaningful change.We talked about:🔹 Why education needs a “network of networks” approach🔹 How EALA connects over 170 organizations to share insights, resources, and solutions🔹 The Community of Action model, a 36-hour accelerator that turns ideas into funded initiatives🔹 What school leaders should prioritize when developing AI policies that protect student safety and privacyIf you're a school leader, educator, policymaker, or edtech leader thinking about inclusion, innovation, and responsible AI in education, I hope you'll take a listen.

Dr. Hruska, who serves as a Senior English Instructor at Stanford Online High School (SOHS), guest hosted with four SOHS students, including Hannah Poplack, Sadie Giessner, Maxwell Palance, and Wanzie Li,  to talk about how real inclusion happens and why student leadership is essential.They discussed:💡 Creating advocacy groups like the Neurodivergent Student Alliance and Disability Culture Club💡 Why accessibility needs to be designed intentionally, not added as an afterthought💡 The power of sharing lived experiences💡 How online environments can support neurodivergent students in unexpected ways💡 What schools can learn by listening to students firstOne of the most powerful takeaways:Accessibility is not a niche issue. It benefits entire communities.The students also share stories about building community, from advocacy petitions to Minecraft servers to flashlight walks at school events.Their message is clear: meaningful inclusion requires thought, intentionality, effort, and collaboration.And when students are part of the process, real change can happen.

In our latest episode of EDU Café, Kathryn sits down with Justin Bruno, Director of AI Strategy & Innovation at Oakland Schools, to explore what it really looks like to lead AI strategy across 28 school districts without pretending to have all the answers.Justin shares insights from his journey, starting with his work at Michigan Virtual to stepping into a brand-new leadership role focused on helping schools thoughtfully navigate AI’s rapid evolution.💡 In this episode, we discuss:What it means to build a regional AI strategy while honoring local contextWhy the best AI implementation starts with people, not toolsThe importance of metacognition when using AI in classrooms and leadershipBalancing innovation with equity, ethics, and human-centered valuesWhy curiosity, not fear, should guide experimentationJustin offers a refreshing and grounded perspective: AI should augment, not replace human expertise and relationships. Schools aren’t tech companies; they’re communities built to serve people. The question isn’t how fast we can move, but how thoughtfully we can integrate tools in ways that preserve trust, voice, and purpose.If you’re an educator, district leader, or education innovator trying to balance urgency with responsibility in the AI conversation, this episode is for you.🎧 Tune in to hear how one regional leader is building community, modeling curiosity, and helping 250,000+ learners and educators navigate what’s next.

Our latest EDU Café conversation featuring Dr. Denise Reading, founder and CEO of Future Plans, a nonprofit dedicated to ending poverty one person at a time by helping individuals discover their greatness and connect to meaningful career pathways.In this powerful episode, we explore how grassroots collaboration, personalized career discovery, and community-driven solutions are transforming lives across rural communities and creating real, sustainable opportunity.☕ In this episode, you’ll hear about:How career exposure and coaching can unlock hope and purposeThe GRIT (Growing Rural Independence Together) Project and its impactWhy listening to communities leads to better workforce and education solutionsMulti-generational transformation through local partnershipsThe role of technology + human connection in scaling opportunityWhat it truly means to move from managing poverty to eradicating itThis is an inspiring, practical conversation for educators, workforce leaders, community partners, and anyone passionate about access, equity, and human potential.

In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Naphtali Hoff to explore why delegation is one of the most misunderstood, and most essential, skills for school principals. Drawing from his new book, he shares how leaders can move beyond doing it all themselves to building strong leadership teams that create sustainable, high-functioning schools.

Teacher Leadership as Influence, Not TitleWhat does it really mean to be a teacher leader?In our latest episode, Dr. Bryan Zugelder and Justine Juart Lunsford explore teacher leadership not as a role defined by hierarchy or titles, but as influence, partnership, and action.Together, we reflect on: ✨ How teacher leadership strengthens the educator continuum ✨ The difference and connection between teacher leadership and administration ✨ Why instructional coaching embodies leadership without evaluation ✨ How teacher leadership supports both student success and educator retentionWhether leadership shows up in your classroom, through collaboration with colleagues, or in building networks beyond your school, this conversation reminds us that you don’t need a title to make an impact.🎧 Tune in to hear how teacher leadership fuels growth, passion, and sustainability in education.#TeacherLeadership #EducatorContinuum #InstructionalCoaching #TeacherRetention #LeadershipWithoutATitle #EducatorVoice

The latest episode of the podcast just dropped with Jon Fila and Jason Neiffer digging into one of the biggest questions in education right now: What happens after the AI hype settles?In this conversation, they explore: ✨ What they’ve learned from the rapid rise of generative AI ✨ How educators and system leaders are navigating real implementation (beyond buzzwords) ✨ Where AI is already making a meaningful difference ✨ What challenges and opportunities lie ahead as the field matures ✨ What a more grounded, responsible, and equity-centered future with AI could look likeThis episode is for anyone working to make sense of the shifting landscape, including educators, researchers, edtech partners, and leaders who are thinking strategically about the years ahead.If you’re ready to move past trends and talk honestly about impact, practice, and possibility, this conversation is a must-listen.

Curious about the future of the schools, especially micro schools and other innovative models?.In this episode, Thomas Arnett and Meris Stansbury of the Clayton Christensen Institute dive into what really drives families to seek out new learning environments, drawing from the “Jobs to Be Done” research and real stories from parents navigating school decisions. They explore why understanding these motivations matters so deeply, not just for designing a program but for ensuring it truly meets the needs of the families it serves.They also talk about: ✨ How micro schools can clarify the specific “job” they’re best equipped to fulfill ✨ Why trying to serve everyone can dilute impact ✨ What makes alternative models appealing, and what still holds families back ✨ The innovations that could make micro-schooling more accessible and sustainable in the long runIf you care about family experience, educational design, or the rapidly evolving landscape of learner-centered models, this conversation is worth tuning into.

🎙️ New Episode Alert!In the latest episode of EDU Café Podcast, Guest host Ji-Soo Song of SETDA sat down with Michael Ham of Full Scale and Elizabeth Foster of Learning Forward to unpack new national research and four major findings that shape how educators experience professional learning in EdTech and AI. They dive into the digital design divide highlighted in the 2024 National EdTech Plan and what states and districts can do to close it.You’ll hear: ✔ Why Title IIA remains a critical funding stream ✔ Why tool training still dominates professional learning ✔ Where current professional learning systems fall short ✔ What leaders should prioritize heading into 2026Read the guide → https://www.setda.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Improving-Professional-Learning-Systems-to-Better-Support-Todays-Educators-2.pdf

🍎 What happens when AI enters the classroom for teachers?In this EDU Café episode, the last of three in his series on AI’s impact, Ryan Gravette of Idaho Digital Learning explores how educators are adopting AI at different levels:Informing – drafting emails, translating parent communications.Augmenting – co-creating rubrics, quizzes, and lesson content.Replacing – grading assignments with AI tools.But Ryan offers a caution: replacing too much risks losing the heart of teaching; the relationship between teacher and student. 💡 He emphasizes that feedback, care, and connection are irreplaceable.So the challenge becomes: 👉 How do we empower teachers to use AI for efficiency while protecting the human connections that drive motivation and learning?This conversation is a timely reminder: AI can support, but it should never replace, the power of a caring educator.

📚 Today’s kindergartners will never know a world without AI.In our EDU Café conversation, the second of three in his series on AI’s impact, Ryan Gravette of Idaho Digital Learning Alliance shares how students are becoming “AI natives” and what that means for learning. He notes that students often skip straight to replacement (using AI to do the work for them) rather than using it to inform or augment their learning.This poses a critical challenge for educators:How do we design assignments that prevent replacement and instead encourage deeper learning?Can AI become a tutor that asks questions, offers hints, and supports students as they learn rather than just giving them the answer?What opportunities exist for AI to open doors to experiences (like interviewing professionals) that students might not otherwise have access to?Ryan challenges us to rethink assessments and instruction so AI strengthens rather than shortcutting student learning.

🚀 The workforce is changing—fast.In this EDU Café episode, the first of three in his series on AI’s impact, Ryan Gravette of Idaho Digital Learning Alliance breaks down how AI is transforming jobs across industries. He describes three stages we’re seeing:1️⃣ Informing – AI helps us make decisions and work faster. 2️⃣ Augmenting – AI co-creates with us, boosting efficiency and reshaping job roles. 3️⃣ Replacing – Some tasks (and even entire roles) are being fully automated.These shifts raise big questions for leaders and organizations:How do we leverage AI to enhance productivity without eroding jobs?What new skills, such as collaboration and managerial expertise, will become most valuable in this new environment?How do we prepare today’s students for a future where AI is their teammate, not just a tool?🎧 Listen in to hear Ryan’s insights on navigating these shifts

What happens when a district creates a clear, human-centered framework to guide teaching and learning?In this conversation, Dr. Brian Troop, Superintendent of Ephrata Area School District (PA), and Dan Mahlandt dive into the district’s Tools, Targets, and Techniques instructional model, and how it’s helping educators prepare students not just for graduation, but for life.💡 They explore:How Ephrata’s Life Ready Graduate framework reframes success around essential skills and dispositionsThe balance between technology and human connection in modern classroomsLessons for leaders who want to spark meaningful, sustainable change in their districts#EDUCafé #FutureReady #EducationInnovation #LifeReadyGraduate #InstructionalDesign #EdLeadership #Learning2025 #DigitalPromise #CTE #K12Education

In this conversation, we explore the powerful intersection of AI, equity, and the instructional core with Dr. Ed Dieterle, Founder of Education Research Partners.Ed breaks down the five interconnected divides that shape how AI impacts education - from algorithms and data to agency and interpretation. More importantly, he challenges us to ask:👉 Are we just using AI to do things better (automation, efficiency)? 👉 Or are we leveraging it to do better things, such as strengthening relationships between students, teachers, and curriculum?This episode is a call to educators, leaders, and innovators to center human agency in the algorithmic age.

How are states navigating the evolving digital learning landscape in 2025, and what does it mean for school and district leaders on the ground?In this conversation, Julia Fallon, Executive Director of SETDA, and Dorann Avey, Digital Learning Director at the Nebraska Department of Education, join us to explore insights from SETDA’s newly released 2025 State EdTech Trends Report.🎙️ They dive into: ✨ The biggest challenges and opportunities in advancing digital access ✨ Emerging technologies, especially AI, and their impact on teaching and learning ✨ The shifting policy and funding landscape for edtech ✨ Building educator capacity and professional development ✨ Addressing cybersecurity and data privacy concerns ✨ Opportunities for collaboration across national, state, and local levelsFor the first time, AI has risen to the top as a state edtech priority. But what does “taking action on AI” actually look like in education? Julia and Dorann share what’s happening in states like Nebraska and what’s next for education leaders preparing for the future.

🌍♻️ New EDU Café Episode 🎙️What if every technology purchase your district made could tell a story about sustainability, stewardship, and smarter investments for students?In this episode of EDU Café, we sit down with Louis McDonald, Project Manager for CoSN and retired CTO from Fauquier County Public Schools in Virginia, to discuss the recently released Sustainable Procurement Guidelines, developed by CoSN in partnership with SETDA and UDT.Louis shares why sustainability isn’t just about being “green”; it’s about being smart with resources, extending device lifespans, reducing e-waste, and saving districts millions of dollars. He talks about practical strategies, vendor partnerships, and how district leaders can take small, meaningful steps toward big impact.💡 Key topics:Balancing financial, device, and environmental sustainabilitySix focus areas for measurable changeHow procurement language shapes vendor accountabilityBuilding collaboration across IT, finance, procurement, and facilitiesEvery purchase tells a story. What story is your district writing?#Sustainability #EdTech #Procurement #K12 #EDUCafé #CoSN #SETDA #UDT #CTO 

We’re diving into “The Future Is Female: How Women Are Shaping Unconventional Education - and Why” with three powerful voices in education innovation: ✨ Mickey Revenaugh – Co-founder of Connections Academy, author of School’s Out ✨ Manisha Snoyer – CEO and Co-Founder of Modulo ✨ Shiren Rattigan – Founder of Colossal Academy & Colossal Academy OnlineTogether, they share how women are reimagining learning through micro-schools, homeschooling platforms, and new models that prioritize connection, relevance, and purpose. 🌱This episode is a celebration of women leading the charge in education as well as an invitation to rethink what’s possible for learners everywhere.

🌿 Wrapping up a powerful series on the EDU Café Podcast 🌿We’ve reached the final episode of our Promising Practices for Teachers three-part series with Kelly Murphy, exploring the transformative impact of art therapy and active meditation in classrooms.In this episode, Kelly shares examples, impact, resources, and challenges that come with integrating these practices into real learning environments. It’s an honest and inspiring look at how creativity and mindfulness can support both students and teachers.If you’ve been following along, this conversation ties it all together. And if you’re just joining, now’s the perfect time to catch the full series.#EDUCafé #PromisingPractices #TeacherSupport #ArtTherapy #ActiveMeditation #EducationInnovation #TeacherWellbeing

🎙️ New EDU Café Episode Alert!This week, we’re joined by Dr. Mary Rice and Joaquín Argüello De Jesús, who bring their unique journeys as educator and social worker into a powerful conversation about what sustains teachers and students.They share stories of growing up and working in schools that often overlooked well-being—and how those experiences now shape the way they prepare future teachers. From honoring Indigenous and local literacies in New Mexico to practicing possiblementando (turning possibilities into action), Mary and Joaquín remind us that education at its best is rooted in relationships, care, and community.💡 If you care about teacher well-being, relational classrooms, and reimagining what literacy means, you’ll want to tune in.

✨ Episode 2 in our Promising Practices for Teachers series is here! ✨We continue the three-part conversation with Kelly Murphy on bringing art therapy and active meditation into classrooms.This episode "Art Therapy and Active Meditation in Action" dives deeper into how these practices look when they come alive with students and teachers. From creative expression to mindful movement, Kelly shares real-world ways educators can foster calm, focus, and resilience in their learning spaces.Stay with us for the final episode in this inspiring series!#EDUCafé #PromisingPractices #TeacherSupport #ArtTherapy #ActiveMeditation #EducationInnovation

Leadership in education can be deeply rewarding, but also isolating, exhausting, and overwhelming. In this new episode of the EDU Café Podcast, we sit down with Jeff Simmons, Superintendent of IDLA, and Mike Caldwell, Founder of LinkedLeaders, to explore a challenge that too often goes unspoken: leadership wellness.Jeff and Mike talk about why wellness is not a “nice-to-have” for school leaders, but a critical part of sustaining strong, thriving schools. From building personal routines to fostering cultures of wellness in our organizations, this conversation is about leading with clarity, balance, and connection.If you’re a principal, superintendent, or anyone supporting leaders in education, this episode is for you.

🌟 New on the EDU Café Podcast! 🌟We’re kicking off our Promising Practices for Teachers series with the first of three conversations featuring Kelly Murphy.Across these conversations, Kelly shares how art therapy and active meditation can be powerful tools for both students and teachers to support wellbeing, foster creativity, and create space for resilience in the classroom.This first episode dives into defining art therapy and active meditation.Stay tuned for the next two episodes in this three-part journey with Kelly!#EDUCafé #PromisingPractices #TeacherSupport #ArtTherapy #ActiveMeditation #EducationInnovation

🎧 New Hot Off the Blog episode 🎶This episode of EDU Café features Dr. Rebecca Itow's blog post called “Keep a Swing in Your Step and a Song in Your Heart: Music as Self-Care for Educators” which was originally posted on our partner NGLC's blog. Rebecca dives into how music can support educator wellness in practical, joyful ways:Using music to transition between classes, tasks, or roles as a reset buttonSimple, doable ways to weave music into busy routinesThe community-building magic of shared playlists in schoolsWhy it matters 🧵:Educators give so much of themselves. Music can be more than background noise; it can be a tool for grounding, joy, and connection.👉 Tune in and let Dr. Itow guide you through practices that may inspire your own soundtrack for teaching and leading.📖  Read the full post: https://www.nextgenlearning.org/articles/music-as-self-care-for-educators

☕️ New EDU Café episode is live!🎙️ Women in LeadHERship: The Bold Moves We MakeIn this conversation, Jodie Buenning of Buenning Strategies talks with Amy Dujon of Community EDU about what it really means for women to lead boldly, and the risks, the resilience, and the relationships that carry us forward.Grab your favorite cup of coffee or tea and tune in!#EDUCafé #Podcast #WomenInLeadership #LeadHERship #Education

Grab your earbuds — the next episode in our HOT OFF THE BLOG series is ready to listen to on the EDU Café Podcast!This episode features a post published on our partner -- Next Generation Learning Challenges -- blog by Dr. Carey Borkoski, Dr. Brianne Roos, Dr. Kenita Williams, MPP, EdD, and Taylor Ann Gonzalez, M.Ed, TI-RYT, CTIWL called "Learning from Discomfort in Education: Balancing Safety and Growth." For the blog post version, visit https://www.nextgenlearning.org/articles/intersection-of-discomfort-safety-peace

 Via our HOT OFF THE BLOG series, we’re bringing our blog posts to your favorite podcast app. 🎧“Are You an Educator on Fire? AI Can Help You Chill Out” by Vickie Echols, originally published with NGLC at https://www.nextgenlearning.org/articles/are-you-an-educator-on-fire-ai-can-help-you-chill-out

Today, we’re diving into Policy & Pedagogy: The Educator’s Dilemma, exploring the tension between rules on paper and the real lives of students and educators.In our latest episode, Dr. Katie Colina, Dr. Dominique Smith, and Sarika Simpson discuss how policy often lags behind what students actually need — and what it takes for educators and leaders to bridge that gap with compassion, creativity, and courage.From wraparound supports that don’t end at graduation to pathways beyond college, this conversation asks:➡️ How do we ensure policy truly serves students, not the other way around?👉 Tune in here:  #EDUCafé #PolicyAndPedagogy #StudentWellbeing #EducationPolicy #Podcast

In this EDU Café episode, Digital Promise's Dr. Quinn Burke, Dr. Sharin Jacob, and Keun-woo Lee discuss the integration of computational thinking and literacy in education, particularly for young learners. They explore the importance of these skills in today's technology-driven society, the role of educators in curriculum design, and the development of resources to support teachers. The conversation also touches on current initiatives in New York City schools, the Pathways program for K-12 education, and the future of AI in education, emphasizing the need for students to understand and create technology rather than just consume it.

In this EDU Café podcast episode, hosts Yaritza Villalba and Victor Hicks explore the transformative power of project-based learning (PBL) in STEM education. They discuss how PBL empowers students to become problem solvers and engage deeply with content, particularly in culturally responsive ways. The conversation highlights innovative project examples, the importance of building relationships with students, and practical tips for implementing PBL in the classroom. The hosts emphasize the need for transparency in teaching and the value of letting go of control to foster a collaborative learning environment. Ultimately, they advocate for a teaching approach that prioritizes skill acquisition and student engagement, preparing learners for real-world challenges.

In this episode of EDU Café, the speakers delve into the multifaceted nature of discomfort, exploring its definitions, implications, and the relationship between discomfort and safety. They discuss how discomfort can lead to personal growth and the importance of framing it as a necessary part of the learning process. The conversation also highlights the collective responsibility in creating safe spaces for discomfort to be navigated effectively, emphasizing the need for self-awareness, boundaries, and the pursuit of peace over mere comfort.

This EDU Café podcast episode focuses on the importance of wellness for educators, emphasizing a framework that supports individual, collective, and systemic wellness in educational settings. The speakers discuss the significance of mindfulness, community building, and trauma-informed practices, highlighting the need for safety and healing as priorities in schools. They also explore strategies for managing trauma exposure and fostering a culture of curiosity and connection among educators.

This EDU Café podcast episode features Peter Boyle from Center for the Future of Arizona and two students exploring personalized learning, highlighting their favorite classes, the impact of personalized learning on their education, and the importance of collaboration and goal-setting. The students discuss the challenges of traditional grading systems and offer insights on how schools can better support student learning and engagement. They emphasize the need for flexibility in learning methods and the importance of student voice in educational reform.

In this episode of EDU Café, Dr. Kathryn Kennedy interviews Vicki Echols about the intersection of AI and education, focusing on wellness for educators. Vicki shares her journey as a school transformation coach and discusses the challenges and opportunities in promoting mental health in educational settings. The conversation explores the potential of AI to enhance productivity, support educator well-being, and foster a positive school culture. Vicki also highlights practical strategies for school leaders to implement AI effectively while addressing ethical considerations and the importance of building trust within educational communities.

In this episode of EDU Café, Dr. Kathryn Kennedy interviews Claire Romzek, the Magnet Coordinator at Lead STEM Academy, discussing the transformative role of project-based learning in STEM education. Claire emphasizes the shift from traditional teaching methods to a facilitator role, where teachers guide students through authentic learning experiences. The conversation explores assessment strategies, the importance of community involvement, and the skills students develop through project-based learning. Claire shares insights on evaluating success and offers practical tips for educators looking to implement project-based learning in their classrooms.

In this episode of EDU Café, Deion Jordan and Nikki Wallace discuss the transformative power of personalized competency-based learning (PCBL) and project-based learning (PBL) in education. They explore the integration of biomimicry and synthetic biology into STEM curricula, emphasizing the importance of real-world problem-solving and community engagement. Nikki shares her experiences with students designing innovative solutions to local environmental issues and the role of AI in enhancing project design. The conversation highlights the essential skills students develop through these approaches, preparing them for future challenges and fostering a culture of resilience and collaboration in learning environments.

This EDU Café conversation explores the growing recognition of wellness in education, particularly the role of directors of wellness in schools. The panel discusses the definition of wellness, the importance of a holistic approach, and the challenges of implementing such roles effectively. They emphasize the need for a focus on both students and educators, advocating for a comprehensive strategy to address mental health and well-being in educational settings.

In this episode of the EDU Café podcast, Dr. Kathryn Kennedy speaks with Alejandra Ramos Gómez about her new book of poems Imperfecta and the importance of mental health, storytelling, and self-care in the educational community. They discuss the challenges of navigating trauma, the role of art in healing, and the significance of setting boundaries to prioritize personal well-being. The conversation emphasizes the need for vulnerability, trust, and active wellness practices in education, while also exploring the body-mind connection and the impact of societal expectations on mental health.

In this episode of the EDU Café podcast, host Dr. Kathryn Kennedy speaks with Alejandra Ramos Gómez about her experiences as an immigrant and how these experiences shape her poetry and work as an educator. They discuss the complexities of immigration, the importance of representation in literature, and the search for identity and dreams as an immigrant. Alejandra shares her mission to create authentic spaces for connection and contribution, emphasizing the need for courage in navigating cultural spaces and the power of poetry to resonate with diverse audiences.

In this episode of the EDU Café podcast, Dr. Kathryn Kennedy speaks with Alejandra Ramos-Gomez about the complexities of women's identity, the impact of gender violence, and the importance of reclaiming one's cultural roots. Alejandra shares her personal experiences with femicide, the resources available for advocacy, and the generational shifts in feminist perspectives. The conversation also delves into the healing power of writing and art, the struggle of cultural appropriation, and the significance of dance as a form of self-expression and healing.

In this episode of the EDU Café podcast, host Dr. Kathryn Kennedy sits down with Alejandra Ramos Gomez, a poet, writer, and education consultant, to delve into the theme of identity as explored in her debut bilingual poetry book Imperfecta. Alejandra shares her personal journey of growing up on the border, the challenges of colorism, and the power of poetry as a tool for healing and self-expression. Join us as we explore how identity shapes our experiences and the importance of embracing change and self-compassion. Discover how Alejandra's work invites us to reflect on our own stories and the beauty of being perfectly imperfect. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that bridges cultures and generations.

In this episode of the EDU Café podcast, we delve into the critical topic of self-care and burnout prevention for nonprofit staff, particularly those serving youth and caregivers in underserved and underrepresented communities. Join host Kathryn Kennedy as she engages with Francisco "Tito" Santos Silva, Jonathan Santos Silva, and Shomari Jones, who share their insights and experiences in fostering a culture of wellness within their organizations. Discover practical strategies for maintaining mental health, the importance of cultural competence, and how to create supportive environments that empower staff to thrive. Tune in to learn how these leaders are making a difference in the lives of those they serve and themselves.

This EDU Café episode is focused on empowerment through healing and understanding and responding to race-based trauma with guests Dr. Tia Madkins, Dr. Nicole Howard, and Shomari Jones. They explore how race-based trauma impacts educators and students, and discover strategies to foster resilience and equity in learning environments. Through personal stories and expert insights, this discussion highlights the importance of creating inclusive spaces and the role of somatic practices in addressing trauma. Tune in to learn how communities and schools can support healing and empowerment for all.

In this episode of the EDU Café podcast, we explore the vital role of wellness in online school environments. Join us as we delve into strategies for promoting social and emotional learning, featuring expert insights from the counseling team at Stanford Online High School. Discover how educators worldwide are supporting student well-being through innovative practices, and learn practical tips to enhance wellness in your own educational setting. Tune in to uncover the transformative power of mindfulness, executive functioning skills, and community building in fostering a supportive online learning experience.

In this episode of the EDU Café podcast, host Dr. Kathryn Kennedy facilitates a conversation with Michelle Kinder, Rex Miller, and Alejandra Ramos Gómez about well-being in education and sharing strategies and tools from our wonderful panelists. 

In one of their premiere podcast episodes for their podcast "Coffee with a little bit of cream," Shomari Jones and Dr. Paul Sutton talk to Dr. Ashok Shimoji-Krishnan, a child and adolescent psychologist at Kaiser Permanente, about the concept of racial stamina and what it has to do with personal wellness and well-being. EDU Café is honored to be able to share this episode with you for our podcast swap!

In this episode of the EDU Café podcast, host Kathryn Kennedy welcomes Hans Appel, an educator, speaker, and author of "Award-Winning Culture." Hans shares his journey of transforming a toxic school environment into a thriving community focused on character, excellence, and community. Discover the keys to successful social-emotional learning (SEL) implementation and how experiential learning can elevate school culture. Tune in to learn how intentionality and action can inspire the whole child and create a positive impact on students, educators, and the community.

In this episode of the EDU Café podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of Jonathan Santos Silva, founder of the Liber Institute. Discover how Jonathan's experiences on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation shaped his mission to embolden Indigenous educators and communities. Learn about the innovative approaches being used to transform schools and support mental health, and explore the powerful concept of sacred affinity spaces. Join us as we explore the importance of cultural identity, community collaboration, and the role of coaching in fostering self-efficacy and resilience. Tune in to be inspired by stories of empowerment and transformation.