Advertise on podcast: Be a Better Ally: critical conversations for K12 educators

In this episode, Tricia speaks with Dr. Kimberly Becker, an applied linguist and social scientist, about what shifts when AI enters the world of writing, research, and communication. Their conversation moves past the usual panic about cheating and detection and instead asks a deeper question: what happens when language is no longer written first and foremost for other humans? Dr. Becker explains the difference between theoretical and applied linguistics, shares how her research examines real-world writing, and discusses a current study comparing human-written research abstracts with AI-generated ones. One of the major concerns she raises is not simply whether AI can produce fluent text, but how it may strip away context, stance, and nuance in ways that matter, especially in fields like healthcare research. The episode also explores what AI may reveal about the way many of us were already writing before tools like ChatGPT arrived. Tricia and Dr. Becker talk about language written for algorithms, the emptiness of content made just to circulate, and why polish is not the same as thought. They also get into what this means for schools, writing instruction, and whether this moment could push educators toward valuing complexity over compliance. Learn more about this week's guest: https://www.womentalkinboutai.com/

Introducing Start with Yourself: A New Vision for Work & Life with Emma Grede and Oprah from The Oprah Podcast. Follow the show: The Oprah Podcast Emma Grede has become one of the most influential voices in modern business. She is best known as a founding partner of SKIMS, co-founder and CEO of the clothing brand Good American, her podcast Aspire with Emma Grede and as the first Black female investor on ABC’s hit show Shark Tank. She is helping redefine what success looks like for a new generation of women. In this conversation with Oprah, Emma dives into her first book Start With Yourself: A New Vision for Work and Life sharing the mindset behind her rise from a young girl in East London to a global business leader. Drawing on the lessons in her book, Emma opens up about radical self-accountability, the power of discipline and why success starts from within. She also shares her bold perspectives on work-life balance, motherhood without guilt and why women must get comfortable putting money and ambition at the forefront. Plus, we hear from twin sisters who turned a simple idea into a hundred-million-dollar business after making a deal with Emma on Shark Tank. BUY THE BOOK! Emma Grede "Start with Yourself" https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Start-With-Yourself/Emma-Grede/9781668085486 00:00:00 - Welcome Emma Grede author of “Start with Yourself” 00:04:18 - Emma knew she needed to change 00:06:10 - Realizing what you don’t want 00:08:35 - How Emma changed her life 00:13:45 - Radical ownership and real barriers 00:15:10 - We need more women in power 00:19:00 - Career and motherhood 00:20:20 - We put too much pressure on moms 00:22:50 - Truth vs. emotions in business 00:24:22 - Mistakes Emma made 00:27:00 - Emma and Skims 00:27:50 - Building from purpose vs. ego 00:31:00 - Emma funded this on Shark Tank 00:36:00 - Importance of mentorship 00:38:20 - When to scale a small business 00:39:30 - The most important question 00:42:20 - What does self-care look like? 00:43:30 - Meditation practice 00:46:00 - Emma on life being magic 00:49:30 - Overcoming comparison 00:51:00 - Why she wrote the book 00:52:40 - Dyslexia is a superpower 00:54:30 - Is every woman meant for business? 00:56:30 - A well-lived life Cakes Body https://cakesbody.com/ Follow Oprah Winfrey on Social: https://www.instagram.com/oprahpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/oprahwinfrey/ Listen to the full podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0tEVrfNp92a7lbjDe6GMLI https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-oprah-podcast/id1782960381 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

Special call out, months back we were thrilled to host Shilpi Chhotray, of A People's Climate on the pod, and Shilpi's show is SO close to winning a WEBBY. This is a big big deal, so we need you to show your support. A People's Climate is a top 5 Webby nominee (out of 13,000+ entries) and currently in a tight race for the People's Voice Award.   This is one of those rare moments where an independent project is up against corporate-backed platforms—and can actually win.   🗳️ If you have a minute, please vote + share: https://wbby.co/57463N ⚠️ Don't forget to confirm via email. Share this to get the episode out.

What can a graphic novel teach educators about belonging, friendship, and the inner lives of young people? In this episode, Tricia speaks with actor and author Sara Amini about Mixed Feelings, her semi-autobiographical middle grade graphic novel. Together they explore how stories can help adults better understand what students may be carrying: questions of identity, the pain of shifting friendships, the awkwardness of growing up, and the search for community. Sara shares how the book began as a collection of essays before becoming a graphic novel, and why that form gave her a sharper way to tell a story about not fully fitting into any one category. The conversation also looks at humor as a way into hard topics, including racism, xenophobia, puberty, and loneliness. Along the way, Sara reflects on writing visually, thinking like a director, and why graphic novels offer such rich opportunities for readers and classrooms alike. If you would like to enter to win a free copy, email tricia(at) shiftingschools (dot com) a screen shot of you rating the podcast by April 15th, and you will be automatically entered.

This week I am sharing my podcast feed with Matthew Savage's show Jack and Me. If you have not yet tuned in, I hope this introduction turns you into a fan. Learn more: https://jackandme.podbean.com/  

What if "What do you want to be when you grow up?" is not the best question to ask young people? In this episode, Tricia speaks with beloved author and illustrator Peter H. Reynolds about creativity, identity, student voice, and his latest book, When You Dream Big. Together, they explore why educators matter so deeply in helping children make meaning from books, not just read them. Peter shares why teachers and librarians have always been central to his work, how curiosity can help us better understand young people, and why quieter students may need different kinds of invitations into learning. The conversation also looks at the pressure children can feel when asked to define their future too early. Peter offers a more humane and useful frame: not only what do you want to do, but what kind of person do you want to be while you figure life out? This is a thoughtful episode for educators, school leaders, parents, librarians, and anyone interested in creativity, belonging, and helping students imagine futures that feel open rather than fixed. Peter H. Reynolds is the author and illustrator behind beloved books including The Dot and The North Star. In this conversation, he discusses his new book When You Dream Big and reflects on the questions that help young people better understand themselves. Learn more about the EKG: https://ekgcollective.com/toolkit    

How can we rethink professional development for teachers so it feels energizing, relevant, and deeply human? In this episode, Tricia Friedman is joined by Justin Hardman and Carlos Galvez for a conversation about educator professional development, community building in education, teacher conferences, and the future of learning. Together, they explore why many educators are no longer looking for one-size-fits-all PD. Instead, they want meaningful professional learning, stronger communities of practice, and experiences that leave them feeling connected rather than depleted. This episode examines what makes a great education conference, how to design teacher professional learning that builds trust and belonging, and why joy, movement, and human connection matter more than ever—especially in a time when AI in education is changing the conversation around teaching and learning. If you care about teacher growth, innovative professional development, education leadership, or building stronger school communities, this conversation is for you. In This Episode, We Discuss Why professional development for educators needs to evolve What teachers want from modern professional learning The importance of community building in schools and education spaces How to create authentic communities of practice for teachers Why the best teacher conferences feel relational, not transactional How organizations can avoid "copy-paste" conference programming The role of trust, belonging, and leadership in adult learning How to identify and elevate new voices in education Why informal learning spaces like PubPD matter for educators How physical education, wellness, and movement shape better conference experiences What AI means for educators, especially in relation to health, wellness, and human connection Why the future of education may depend on protecting what is most human about learning Key Themes Professional Development for Teachers Is Changing Educators have access to more information than ever. What many need now is not more content, but more connection. Justin and Carlos reflect on how teacher professional development can become more collaborative, practical, and community-centered. Community Building in Education This episode digs into what it really takes to build a thriving education community—from intentional design and representation to trust, consistency, and making space for new voices. What Makes a Great Education Conference From presenter support to social events, the conversation highlights the small and large details that help an education conference feel welcoming, joyful, and memorable. PubPD and Informal Professional Learning Carlos shares the story behind PubPD, a social and informal model for educator learning that blends conversation, reflection, and community in more relaxed spaces. AI in Education and the Need for Human-Centered Learning As schools continue exploring artificial intelligence in education, this episode asks an important question: what should stay deeply human in how we teach, lead, and learn? Memorable Quotes "The information is out there… what matters now is community." "Some of the people doing the best work in schools are not the ones necessarily signing up to present." "The key to building community is belonging." "Learning should be joyful." "We shouldn't just adapt to AI. We should ask how AI adapts to us." Why This Episode Matters Whether you are a teacher, school leader, instructional coach, conference organizer, or education consultant, this episode offers insight into how to make professional development for educators more human, more inclusive, and more impactful. It is also a powerful reminder that the most effective learning environments—whether online, in schools, or at conferences—are built on belonging, trust, curiosity, and shared purpose. Connect with Justin Connect with Carlos Learn more about PHASE

Jasmine Warga joins us to talk about trust, vulnerability, friendship, and the creative process behind writing children's books that resonate deeply with young readers. We explore how animal characters can help kids navigate big emotions, why experimentation matters in storytelling, and what great children's literature can teach about acceptance, emotional growth, and connection. In this episode, we discuss: Trust and vulnerability in children's literature Why animal characters can help young readers process emotions Jasmine Warga's research and writing process How stories model friendship, support, and acceptance Why creative risk-taking matters in the writing life The emotional lessons children can take from fiction Memorable moments "Animals can be avatars for our young readers" "Love isn't conditional, even in messy moments" "Experimentation pushes artistic growth" Chapters 00:00 Exploring Trust and Vulnerability 02:47 The Power of Animal Characters 05:39 Character Development and Emotional Depth 08:24 The Writing Process and Creative Freedom 11:35 Unlikely Friendships and Community Building 14:17 Pushing Creative Boundaries About Jasmine Warga Jasmine Warga is an author known for her moving and insightful work in children's literature. In this conversation, she reflects on the emotional core of storytelling, how personal experience shapes her writing, and what young readers can gain from stories centered on vulnerability, connection, and compassion. Resources and links Jasmine Warga official website: https://www.jasminewarga.com

Dana Specker Watts began rowing and found an unexpected leadership lab: a sport where trust is built through timing, teamwork, and attention to small signals. In this educational interview, Dana shares how early mornings on the water became a practice for focus and calm, and how rowing reshaped the way she navigates conflict, setbacks, and collaboration. We talk about masters rowing as an adult beginner experience, the value of quiet reflection, and what it means to stay in sync with others without constant talk. You will also hear how technology shows up in rowing, and why "messiness" and repair can strengthen teams. Key topics Leadership lessons from rowing at 50 Teamwork, timing, and nonverbal synchronization Early morning routines, mental clarity, and emotional resilience Technology in rowing and what data can and cannot tell you Failure, adversity, and building trust through repair Takeaways Rowing trains nonverbal teamwork: alignment, timing, and shared attention. Early morning time on the water can boost focus and mental clarity. Setbacks can strengthen teams when you practice repair, not blame. Learning a new skill later in life is a powerful cognitive and identity reset. Memorable lines "Messiness and conflict are essential for growth." "Quiet time on the water keeps me grounded." "It's never too late to start something new." Chapters 00:00 Rowing at 50 and why adults start 05:42 The meditative side of rowing and quiet reflection 11:26 Technology in rowing: data, gear, and feedback 17:09 Team synchronization, conflict, and resilient leadership Resources The Boys in the Boat, Daniel James Brown Dana Specker Watts on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaspeckerwatts/   Dana Specker Watts, Ph.D.   Dana has a broad school background in curriculum, technology, innovation, and educational leadership. She joined ISS from Hong Kong International School, where she was the Schoolwide Curriculum Leader. In addition to working in Hong Kong, India and Thailand, she has also served as Executive Director of WLead, and as the Director of Innovation at 21st Century Learning International. Dana is also an Apple Distinguished Educator, a Google Certified Teacher, and ISTE Certified Trainer. She earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Sciences from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies from State University of New York College at Buffalo, and a Master of Science in Secondary Education from Canisius College in New York. 

In this episode, Tricia sits down with Christine Kuehn and Mark Schiponi to discuss Family of Spies, a World War II story of Nazi espionage, betrayal, and family secrecy. Christine and Mark share what it was like to research and write a book that reads like a thriller but is rooted in their real family history, including the emotional toll of confronting Nazi involvement, the practical challenge of organizing years of research into a coherent narrative, and the complicated experience of bringing a private family story into public view. We talk about how Family of Spies blends personal discovery with historical investigation, what surprised them most once they examined their family dynamics through the lens of writing, and why telling the story was not just about the past, but about legacy, accountability, and what happens when "the truth always comes out." Content note: This conversation includes discussion of Nazism, antisemitism, and World War II. In this episode • Family history and family secrets: what changes when evidence replaces rumor • The writing process: turning decades of research into a narrative readers can follow • Public reception: why private reactions can differ sharply from public response • Storytelling and legacy: what it means to carry history forward honestly Timestamps 00:00 The emotional journey of researching family history 03:35 Organizing the story: from research to writing 06:51 Confronting family secrets and their impact 10:53 Navigating public reception and personal relationships 14:18 Future aspirations: continuing the legacy of storytelling 18:05 Crafting the narrative: blending personal and historical perspectives

What do we owe each other in an age of artificial intimacy? This episode dives into Tricia Friedman's interactive ethics exercise, Table for One?, which uses the metaphor of an AI companion restaurant — a venue where diners are paired with a conversational AI — to surface hard questions about safety, manipulation, dependency, privacy, and shifting social norms. What the Resource Is: An interactive tool that walks participants through 5 ethical dilemmas. For each, you choose one of four stances (allow with disclosures, pilot with evaluation, allow with safeguards, or do not allow), rate your confidence, and reflect using the D.I.N.E. framework: D – Direct impact: who is affected now? I – Indirect effects and unintended consequences N – Next-generation norms and long-run drift E – Evidence gaps and what data is missing Why It Matters: AI companions are already here. This exercise moves the conversation beyond "is this cool or creepy?" into structured ethical reasoning — ideal for educators, leaders, and families trying to navigate companion AI thoughtfully. Check out the resource: https://triciafriedman.com/table-for-one-ethics-of-ai-companionship/ Join Tricia this March with AAIE: https://www.aaie.org/leadership-learning/future-foresight-community  

In this conversation, Sandra Magsamen discusses her approach to creating children's literature that emphasizes connection, love, and emotional intelligence. She shares insights into her creative process, the importance of feedback from readers, and how her work aims to foster self-love and connection between caregivers and children. Magsamen also reflects on her artistic journey, the role of perseverance, and the significance of storytelling in shaping lives.   SANDRA MAGSAMEN is the author and illustrator of many books for young children, including the picture book When I Grow Up I Want to Be Me, as well as a number of bestselling novelty titles, including Everybody Goes Nighty-Night, named a Best Board Book of 2018 by The Children's Book Review; Baby Love; I Love You, Little Pumpkin; and Peek-a-Boo, I Love You. As an artist, an art therapist, and a mom, she uses her creativity to remind people to express themselves and connect with others. Her lifestyle brands, products, and books are sold worldwide. Visit her at sandramagsamen.com Chapters 00:00 The Heart of Connection in Children's Literature 02:48 Love as an Action: The Role of Caregivers 05:34 Impactful Feedback: Stories from Readers 08:31 The Power of Objects and Books in Shaping Lives 11:06 Curiosity and Creativity: Fueling the Artistic Journey   Join Tricia Friedman to learn more about Companion AI this Sunday with TRC: https://technologyreadiness.org/workshops/ Use special promo code 'ShiftingSchool' to get 20% off registration

This week, Tricia speaks with Julie Menanno about her new book, Secure Love, and what it actually takes to build emotionally safe, lasting relationships in a hyperconnected world. The conversation begins with an unexpected cultural lens: Jim and Pam from The Office. What makes their dynamic feel healthy? Friendship first. Slower pacing. Emotional safety before performance. From there, the episode moves into deeper territory. Julie challenges the fast, simplified narratives about relationships that dominate social media. Instead of labeling partners as villains or diagnosing from afar, she argues for a more nuanced frame. Most relational breakdowns are rooted in blocked needs. Fear. Shame. Unresolved grief. When emotional safety collapses, behavior follows.   Julie Menanno is a trailblazing therapist, author, educator, a masterful interpreter of Attachment Theory, and an Architect of Emotional Connection who is continually working to bridge the gap between complex psychological concepts and everyday struggles. As a revolutionary force in the world of relationships, Julie's work has transformed the way we understand emotional intimacy and human connection. Julie is the creator of The Secure Relationship. This platform has reached millions worldwide, with a mission to dismantle the barriers that keep people from experiencing the joy of deeply connected, secure relationships.  In a world increasingly disconnected by technology and societal pressures, Julie stands as a guiding light, reminding us that love and connection are not just desires but essential human needs and with every conversation, every session, and every word, Julie transforms lives, one secure relationship at a time. Follow Julie on IG @thesecurerelationship or her website   Key themes explored: • Why "friendship first" can reduce pressure in dating • How social media rewards oversimplified explanations of relational pain • The appeal of labeling versus the work of nuance • Naming fear before walking into a room • Why conflict is not a failure but a developmental process • How repeated safe conversations reshape nervous systems • Emotional literacy as leadership • Self-connection as the prerequisite for connection with others   Learn with Tricia and the TRC this Sunday: https://technologyreadiness.org/workshops/  

In a bold anthem, Rise, Girl, Rise, feminist organizer Gloria Steinem and Nobel Peace Prize winner Leymah Gbowee share their parallel journeys as activists. This picture book for children is told through alternating points of view and culminating in a powerful collective "we," celebrating resilience and empowerment to inspire readers everywhere to raise their voices, stand together, and rise up for themselves and others. Gloria Steinem is a political activist, feminist organizer, and the author of many acclaimed books, including the national bestseller Revolution from Within: A Book of Self-Esteem. She is a contributor to the classic children's book Free to Be You and Me, which became a children's entertainment project, conceived, created, and executive-produced by actress and author Marlo Thomas, produced in collaboration with the Ms. Foundation for Women, and the Free to Be Foundation, both cofounded by Ms. Steinem, and most recently illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds. Ms. Steinem is also the co-founder of the National Women's Political Caucus and the Women's Media Center. In keeping with her deep commitment to establishing equality throughout the world, Ms. Steinem helped found Equality Now, Donor Direct Action, and Direct Impact Africa. To learn more, visit gloriasteinem.com. Leymah Gbowee is a Liberian peace activist, social worker, and women's rights advocate. She is Founder and President of the Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa, based in Monrovia. As a writer, Ms. Gbowee is the author of the inspirational memoir Mighty Be Our Powers: How Sisterhood, Prayer, and Sex Changed a Nation at War, and author of the children's book A Community of Sisters, illustrated by Coleen Baik. Ms. Gbowee is perhaps best known for leading a nonviolent movement that brought together Christian and Muslim women to play a pivotal role in ending Liberia's devastating, 14-year civil war in 2003.   Chapters 00:00 The Power of Picture Books 02:43 Friendship Across Cultures 05:15 Legacy and Call to Action   Takeaways The book aims to change expectations for children and adults alike. Friendship across cultures is possible and essential. The book serves as a legacy and call to action for young girls. Storytelling connects us and highlights our shared humanity. Collaboration enriches the creative process and strengthens friendships. The authors intentionally targeted the next generation with their message. Books can be powerful tools for empowerment and understanding. Cultural exchange enhances our perspectives and experiences. The book is not just for children but for all ages. The authors believe in the importance of accessible messages of hope.  

What do puzzles teach us about being human? In this episode, Tricia talks with Allison Kane, Head of Puzzle Innovation at Highlights, about why puzzling matters far beyond entertainment. From Hidden Pictures and Wordle to classroom design and family learning, this conversation explores how puzzles build confidence, perseverance, and joyful learning across ages. Learn more: https://parents.highlights.com/printable-puzzles-and-mazes-puzzle-day-challenge   Allison shares her origin story as a lifelong puzzler, explains the idea of the satisfaction of the solve, and offers practical advice for educators and families who want to integrate puzzles into learning spaces. The conversation also looks at puzzle design, community building, and what adults model for young people when they choose curiosity over avoidance. Topics covered Allison Kane's path from Highlights intern to Head of Puzzle Innovation Why puzzles support perseverance, confidence, and joyful learning The satisfaction of the solve and why payoff matters Puzzles as community builders in classrooms and families Designing puzzles that challenge without frustrating How educators can bring puzzles into classrooms easily What adults model for kids through playful intellectual challenge National Puzzle Day and the rise of puzzle communities Puzzles are not just activities. They are invitations to practice thinking, persistence, and joy. When adults model engagement with challenge, they show young people that learning can feel good.