Make It Mindful: Insights for Global Learning (Seth Fleischauer)

In this episode of Make It Mindful, host Seth Fleischauer delves into the intersection of education and technology with guest Rushton Hurley, an education futurist and founder of NextVista.org. Rushton shares his insights on the evolving role of technology in education, particularly focusing on the potential of AI and its impact on teaching and learning.

Key topics discussed include:

• The concept of being an education futurist and the importance of anticipating future trends in education.
• The potential of AI in education, including both the exciting opportunities it presents and the challenges it poses.
• Innovative teaching approaches, such as student-created video projects and service-based learning, that leverage technology to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
• The importance of mindful adoption of technology, ensuring that it addresses genuine educational needs and enhances the learning experience.
• Practical advice for teachers on incorporating innovative practices in resource-limited environments, emphasizing the value of creativity and problem-solving.

Rushton also shares inspiring stories from his work, such as a project where a student used VR to give elderly individuals new experiences, demonstrating the profound impact of innovative educational approaches. He stresses the importance of exposing students to real-world challenges and solutions to cultivate a mindset of possibility and leadership.

For more insights and to explore Rushton's work, visit NextVista.org and follow his weekly inspiring video series. This episode encourages educators to embrace the potential of technology mindfully and creatively, ultimately aiming to transform the educational landscape.

Subscribe to Make It Mindful for more thought-provoking conversations on keeping education relevant and impactful. Visit makeitmindful.com to learn more about the podcast and upcoming episodes.

About today’s guest: 
Rushton Hurley is an education futurist, founder of NextVista.org, and a director of innovation at Hunipero Serra School. With a background in teaching and a passion for leveraging technology to enhance education, Rushton is dedicated to inspiring educators and students alike.

About the host: 
Seth Fleischauer is an influential educational leader and founder of Banyan Global Learning. Based in the United States, his company offers a range of services, including AI consultation for education, distance learning in character education and English language development, teacher recruitment and training, and curriculum development. With a team of experienced educators, Seth's blends technology, pedagogy, and mindfulness to create impactful learning experiences.

Support the Podcast:
Follow, rate, and review Make It Mindful on your favorite podcast platform. Share the podcast with friends and colleagues to help spread the word. Thank you to our editor, Lucas Salazar, and advisor, Deirdre Marlowe, for their contributions to the show.

In this episode of Make It Mindful, Seth Fleischauer welcomes Nancy Weinstein, founder of MindPrint Learning, to explore how cognitive science can transform education. They discuss how MindPrint’s unique cognitive assessments help schools understand students' learning profiles and adapt instruction to fit each student's strengths and weaknesses. Nancy shares insights into the impact of the pandemic on students’ memory skills and practical strategies for teachers to address these challenges. The episode highlights how using data-driven approaches can lead to greater student success.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Nancy Weinstein's journey from bioengineering to founding MindPrint Learning.
• How cognitive assessments create personalized learning strategies.
• The role of memory in post-pandemic learning challenges.
• Practical tips for integrating MindPrint data into busy classrooms.
• How cognitive tools can increase student retention and engagement.

Guest Bio:
Nancy Weinstein is the founder and CEO of MindPrint Learning. With a background in bioengineering, she’s dedicated to helping educators better understand how their students learn using cognitive assessments.

Host Bio:
Seth Fleischauer is the founder of Banyan Global Learning and a passionate advocate for teaching digital and cultural competencies through a global lens to create meaningful educational change.

Episode Links:

• MindPrint Learning: www.mindprintlearning.com

In this episode of Make It Mindful, Seth Fleischauer welcomes James Anderson, author of Learnership, to explore how educators can cultivate a mindset of continuous growth in students. Anderson introduces the concept of learnership, a framework that emphasizes teaching students how to learn, not just what to learn. The episode unpacks strategies to empower students to take charge of their learning, embrace struggle, and thrive in an ever-changing world.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The Learnership Framework: A step-by-step guide to developing students' learning skills, from non-learners to agile learners.
• The Role of the Teacher: How educators can adapt their style—ranging from benevolent dictator to mentor—to meet students where they are and guide them to higher levels of learning.
• The Nuance of Mistakes: Differentiating between helpful and unhelpful mistakes to reframe the learning process.
• Building a Culture of Learning: Shifting from a performance-driven model to one centered on growth and skillful learning.

Guest Bio: James Anderson is an educator, consultant, and author specializing in cultivating growth mindsets and learning strategies in schools. His work integrates research from Carol Dweck, Anders Ericsson, and other thought leaders to create actionable frameworks for improving student outcomes.

Host Bio: Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.

Episode Links:

• Learn more about James Anderson’s work and resources: jamesanderson.com.au
• Purchase Learnership and access the diagnostic tool to assess learning behaviors in your school.
• Follow up on related frameworks by Carol Dweck (Mindset), Art Costa and Bena Kalik (Habits of Mind) Anders Ericsson (the "10,000 hour rule"), Nassim Nicholas Taleb (Antifragile), John Hattie (Visible Learning), Jay McTighe and Grant Wiggins (Understanding by Design), and Adam Grant (Hidden Potential).

In this episode of Make It Mindful, Seth Fleischauer welcomes Miles Madison, an expert in literacy, SEL, and character education, to tackle a universal teacher struggle: the feeling of never having enough time.

Pain Point:

Teachers everywhere say, “There’s just not enough time.” But what if the issue isn’t time itself, but how it’s structured, prioritized, and used? Too many educators are caught in cycles of inefficiency—over-planning, managing classroom disruptions, or doing tasks for students that could be built into routines. Without strong organizational systems, clear routines, and structured collaboration, learning time gets lost.

Solution:

Miles introduces a three-pillar framework that reclaims time without sacrificing engagement:

1. Organizational Management – Optimize classroom space and daily schedules for smoother transitions and fewer distractions.

2. Routines & Rituals – Automate repetitive tasks so students can self-manage, freeing teachers to focus on deeper instruction.

3. Collaborative Learning – Teach explicit teamwork skills to reduce student dependence on teacher intervention.

Actionable Takeaways:

• Instead of saying “I don’t have time,” ask: “What am I prioritizing?”

• Invest time upfront in systems and routines that save time later.

• Recognize that SEL, literacy, and global learning aren’t “extras”—they integrate naturally when systems are in place.

Episode Links:

• EffectiveClassrooms.org

• Erin Kent Consulting: https://erinkentconsulting.com/

Host Links:

• Follow Make It Mindful for more episodes.

• Learn more about global learning with Banyan Global Learning.

If you’re ready to take back control of your teaching time, this episode is packed with practical, real-world strategies you can apply today!

🎙 SPECIAL EPISODE!

This week, we’re crossposting a must-hear episode from Why Distance Learning?, featuring a conversation with Dr. Jennifer Williams, a global leader in educational technology, climate action, and social impact. Virtual learning has the power to connect classrooms across continents—but how do we ensure these connections lead to meaningful, real-world change?

👉 Today’s Big Question: Can EdTech Drive Global Action, Not Just Global Connection?

🎧 Global educators face these key challenges:

• “How do I move beyond ‘awareness’ and turn global learning into real action?”

• “What tools and frameworks actually work for integrating climate education into my curriculum?”

• “How do I foster authentic collaboration across cultures, rather than just surface-level exchanges?”

🔥 Our guest:

🔹 Dr. Jennifer Williams (Founder, Teach SDGs & Co-Founder, Take Action Global), an EdTech thought leader who helps educators harness technology to drive social impact, equity, and climate action.

🔹 Seth Fleischauer, Allyson Mitchell, and Tami Moehring discuss how virtual learning can go beyond content delivery to inspire students to become active global citizens.

Key Takeaways:

✅ How Take Action Global (TAG) connects teachers and students in over 160 countries to tackle climate challenges together

✅ Why educational technology is a catalyst for real-world impact—not just an engagement tool

✅ The power of community-driven initiatives like Climate Action Day in fostering global citizenship

✅ How to design cross-cultural virtual learning experiences that build identity, empathy, and agency

✅ Practical resources and programs that help educators integrate climate education into any subject area

Learn More:

🔗 Visit Take Action Global to explore the organization’s programs: takeactionglobal.org

🌎 Explore the Climate Action Project: takeactionglobal.org/climate-action-project

📲 Check out The Earth Project App (Available on App Store & Google Play)

📚 Read Teach Boldly: Using EdTech for Social Good by Dr. Jennifer Williams (Available on Amazon)

🎉 Build the Change (Lego Group Partnership): lego.com/en-us/sustainability/build-the-change

Host links:
1. Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.

2. Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.

🎙 SPECIAL EPISODE!

This week, we’re crossposting a must-hear episode from Why Distance Learning? where we explore how immersive global connections can transform education. Virtual learning can open the world to students—but how do we ensure these experiences feel real, engaging, and deeply impactful?

👉 Today’s Big Question: Can Virtual Learning Build Real-World Global Competencies?

🎧 Global educators face these key challenges:

• “How do I create genuine, meaningful student connections across cultures?”

• “Can technology foster empathy and understanding, not just content delivery?”

• “What if cross-cultural conversations go wrong?”

🔥 Our guests:

• Dr. Brandon Ferderer (Head of Programming, Shared Studios) reveals how immersive portals create face-to-face, full-body interactions that foster authentic global dialogues.

• Ross Phillips (Social Studies Teacher, Winnacunnet High School) shares how he uses this technology to prepare students for global conversations that deepen their understanding of history, culture, and world issues.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Why screen-based interactions often fall short in creating true connection—and how immersive experiences change the game

✅ How to prepare students for respectful, deep cross-cultural discussions

✅ The role of facilitators in guiding meaningful, bias-free global conversations

✅ Real-life student success stories from transformative global learning moments

Guest Links:
Shared Studios: https://www.sharedstudios.com/

Host links:
1. Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.

2. Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.

In this episode of Make It Mindful, host Seth Fleischauer welcomes Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan, a speech pathologist and educational consultant, to delve into supporting executive functioning in students who require Tier 2 and 3 interventions. Building on the previous conversation with Mitch Weathers in episode #49, this episode explores how executive functioning challenges impact social, academic, and functional life skills and discusses practical strategies for supporting students beyond the classroom.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Understanding executive functioning as a set of cognitive processes like time perception, self-talk, and future pacing.
• How Tier 1 interventions can support students across all tiers by creating a collaborative, scaffolded environment.
• The importance of visual supports, episodic memory, and modeling self-talk for building executive functioning skills.
• Balancing standardized assessments with dynamic, portfolio-based approaches to better diagnose and support students.
• Strategies for addressing common challenges, like resistance to new tasks, and teaching students to develop self-motivation and planning skills.

Guest Bio:
Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan is a speech pathologist with over 14 years of experience in schools. She specializes in supporting related service providers, special education teams, and educators in fostering executive functioning, language, and literacy skills. She is the host of the De Facto Leaders podcast and the creator of resources at Dr. Karen Speech and Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan.

Episode Links:

• Explore resources on executive functioning at Dr. Karen Speech.
• Listen to Dr. Karen’s podcast, De Facto Leaders, at drkarendudekbrannan.com/de-facto-leaders-podcast/
• Sign up for the Executive Functioning training at drkarendudekbrannan.com/efleadership
• Download Dr. Karen's Executive Functioning Implementation Guide for School Teams at drkarendudekbrannan.com/efguide

Host Bio:
Seth Fleischauer is a former classroom teacher and founder of Banyan Global Learning, specializing in teaching digital, linguistic, and cultural competencies through live, interactive learning experiences. See banyangloballearning.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and share it with a friend. As always, thank you to our editor, Lucas Salazar.

Bridging AI & Education: Insights from a Live Panel Discussion

This week on Make It Mindful, we’re bringing you a special crossover episode with AI Portland, diving into one of the most pressing conversations in education today: How should AI be integrated into teaching and learning?

At a packed AI Portland event, host Seth Fleischauer moderated a panel featuring four educators with diverse perspectives on AI, from deep skepticism to full adoption. This episode captures the key insights, tensions, and takeaways from that conversation—plus reflections on what made this event such a must-attend moment for the education and AI communities.

👉 The Big Debate: Is AI a threat to foundational learning, or a tool for building student agency?

🎧 Inside this special episode:

✅ Why educators are grappling with AI’s role in critical thinking, ethics, and skill-building

✅ How different schools are approaching AI policy—from cautious restriction to full integration

✅ The tension between AI’s potential for equity vs. its environmental and ethical concerns

✅ What last night’s event revealed about the urgency and passion behind this conversation

Sharing the conversation with Seth are the founders of AI Portland, Nicole Mors and Megan Notarte.

🔥 Panelists discussed in this episode:

• Dr. Isabelle Boleyn (Associate Professor) – Highlights the risks of AI, from bias to environmental impact

• John Down (University of Portland Professor) – Predicts AI will radically transform education in the next five years

• Chris Brita (Portland Public Schools CTE, AP & IB Leader) – Advocates for AI as a tool for equity and access

• Marty Sampson (High School English Teacher) – Shares a pragmatic approach to AI policies in the classroom

Why this episode matters:

“You don’t have to love AI. But you do need to engage with it—because your students already are.” – Eric Hudson

This conversation makes one thing clear: The future of education is not about banning or blindly adopting AI—it’s about building ‘wide walls, not narrow hallways’ for students to explore their learning with agency and ethical awareness.

Visit https://www.aipdx.info/ for more information about Megan and Nicole's project, AI Portland.

AI is reshaping education—but how do we ensure it enhances learning without eroding foundational skills, student agency, or global competence?

Pain Points:

• “How do we balance AI-assisted learning with essential human skills?”

• “What’s the role of teachers in an AI-driven future?”

• “How do we ensure AI is a tool for agency, not a crutch?”

🔥 Our guest, Eric Hudson, is an expert in learner-centered education, AI literacy, and global learning. As a former Director at Global Online Academy, he’s seen firsthand how digital tools can empower students—when used with intention.

🎤 Key Topics Discussed:

• The balance between foundational skills and AI-powered learning

• Why decision-making & agency are the most important AI-era skills

• The vulnerability spectrum: Knowing when AI should—or shouldn’t—step in

• AI’s impact on global learning and cross-cultural education

• Lessons from Global Online Academy: How passion-based, tech-enabled learning works

Guest Links:

📍 Eric Hudson’s Substack: Learning on Purpose

References & External Mentions:

• Global Online Academy (GOA) – globalonlineacademy.org

• Scratch (MIT Media Lab’s Lifelong Kindergarten Group) – scratch.mit.edu

• UNESCO AI & Education Guidelines – UNESCO

• International Baccalaureate (IB) AI Guidance – ibo.org

Host Links:

 Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.

Nikole Sheaffer is an artist, mom, writer, educator, and facilitator. She is a key figure at the Environmental Charter School (ECS) in Pittsburgh and the founder of The Thinking Lab.

In this episode, Nikole and Seth talk about:

• Transitioning from corporate sustainability to education
• The concept of teachers as facilitators rather than traditional educators
• Importance of fostering intellectual discomfort and curiosity in students
• Integrating environmental education, systems thinking, and empathy into the curriculum
• Challenges and rewards of innovative educational practices
• Encouraging outdoor learning and community connections
• The future of the teaching profession and the impact of the next generation of educators

Learn more about The Thinking Lab at thethinkinglab.com.

Subscribe to Make It Mindful for more deep-dive interviews with education change-makers. It’s available wherever you get your podcasts.

About today’s guest
Nikole Sheaffer is an innovative educator and facilitator at the Environmental Charter School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With a background in environmental studies and corporate sustainability, Nikole brings a unique perspective to education. She has played a pivotal role in developing ECS's curriculum, focusing on outdoor learning, systems thinking, and empathy. Nikole is passionate about reimagining the teaching profession and creating more sustainable and meaningful learning experiences for students.

About your host
Seth Fleischauer is an educator, entrepreneur, and advocate for mindful education. As the co-founder and CEO of Banyan Global Learning, Seth brings over two decades of experience in teaching and educational leadership to the podcast. His mission is to explore innovative solutions for keeping schools relevant and impactful. Seth's unique approach combines mindfulness with practical strategies, aiming to foster meaningful change in the educational landscape. Through Make It Mindful, Seth engages with thought leaders and change-makers to uncover transformative practices that can shape the future of education.

In this episode of Make It Mindful, Seth Fleischauer chats with Sophie Smith, a recent college graduate who turned a viral TikTok into a thriving ed-tech startup. Sophie shares her journey from scrambling to fill her summer with internships during the pandemic to accidentally attracting hundreds of high schoolers to a leadership program overnight. This surprising turn of events led her to recognize the desperate need for accessible college admissions guidance. Sophie's enterprise now bridges the gap between students and university admissions by linking them with near-peer mentors who are current undergraduates. They discuss the evolving role of AI in education and how her platform maintains a crucial human element in the college preparation process. Sophie emphasizes the importance of starting the college admissions process early and encourages a mindful approach to understanding and navigating the landscape of higher education.

Guest Links:
1. College Contact: https://www.yourcollegecontact.com/
2. Sophie Smith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-smith273/

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

In this episode of "Make It Mindful," Seth Fleischauer converses with Aaron Baughman, Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Services at Northville Public Schools in Michigan. Aaron delves into his district's progressive integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in educational settings, overcoming significant logistical and political challenges to harness AI's potential for personalized and differentiated instruction.

Aaron shares his journey from the initial AI training for educators to implementing student-facing tools like Magic Student and School AI, and details his strategies for fostering broad-based acceptance of AI among educators and parents. He emphasizes the importance of proactive communication and education to combat the skepticism and fear surrounding AI, while showcasing the transformative impacts of AI on teaching methodologies and student engagement.

The discussion also covers the critical role of digital citizenship in the age of AI, ensuring students understand the biases and ethical considerations associated with AI technologies. Aaron’s approach to policy development is cautious yet innovative, aiming to keep pace with the rapid advancements in AI while ensuring student safety and privacy.

This episode provides a deep dive into the practical implications of AI in education, offering valuable insights for educators looking to navigate this new frontier. Aaron's experiences illustrate the potential of AI to not only enhance educational outcomes but also to revolutionize instructional practices by equipping teachers with powerful tools to meet diverse learner needs effectively.

Products Mentioned:

1. Brisk - A tool used for monitoring students' writing processes.
2. Magic Student and School AI - AI tools mentioned as being used for student interactions and lesson management.
3. CuriPod - Another student-facing tool mentioned alongside Magic Student and School AI.
4. Copilot and Gemini - Described as large language models that were accessed in a more private way by the district as enterprise clients.
5. Suno - Used for creating songs, which was mentioned in a specific example of welcoming a new student.
6. Canva Magic Studio - Mentioned in the context of changing how marketing is taught.
7. Co-Pilot - Included in a discussion about using various AI platforms for educational purposes.

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

In this thought-provoking episode of "Make It Mindful," Seth Fleischauer converses with Chris Giles, an instructional technology coach with a rich background in educational technology. Moving through various roles from a district Canvas administrator to his current position, Chris's journey reflects a deep commitment to enhancing educational experiences through technology. This episode dives into the nuanced application of technology in classrooms, particularly focusing on the mindful integration of digital tools to support and not overshadow traditional teaching methods.

Chris provides an insightful look into his approach of not pushing technology for its own sake but aligning it with the teachers' goals to enrich learning experiences. He emphasizes the importance of understanding what teachers aim to accomplish in their classrooms and how technology can facilitate these goals without becoming a crutch. The discussion explores various technological tools that have proven effective in enhancing educational practices without diluting the essence of personal teaching.

A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to exploring the potential and challenges of integrating AI in educational settings. Chris shares practical examples of how AI can serve as an aid to not only streamline administrative tasks like creating rubrics and lesson planning but also in fostering a deeper engagement in learning among students. The dialogue critically examines the reluctance and the slow adoption rate of AI technologies among educators, attributing it to a blend of unfamiliarity with the technology and inherent fears associated with its misuse.

Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the delicate balance required to integrate technology into education effectively. Chris's experiences and insights offer valuable lessons on leveraging technological tools to enhance but not replace the human elements that form the core of educational experiences. This episode is a must-listen for educators, technology enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the intersection of education and technology.

Guest Links:
Chris Giles Twitter: @ohcanadatweet

Tools Mentioned in the Episode:

1. Canvas - The Learning Management System (LMS) used by the district.
2. Canva - A design tool that includes AI features.
3. Adobe Express - A tool for creating visual content.
4. Adobe Firefly - An AI tool by Adobe.
5. WeVideo - A video creation tool.
6. Book Creator - A tool for creating digital books.
7. ChatGPT - An AI tool by OpenAI.
8. Magic School - An AI tool for creating educational content.
9. Google Gemini - A tool for generating questions from YouTube videos.
10. Turnitin - A tool for checking plagiarism and improving student writing.

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Summary:

In this episode of Make It Mindful, host Seth Fleischauer welcomes Lindy Hockenberry, a seasoned educator and technology integration specialist, to discuss the mindful adoption of technology in education. Lindy shares her journey from teaching in a rural Montana school to becoming a technology consultant, helping schools and educators effectively integrate technology into the classroom.

Key topics discussed include:

• Mindful Technology Integration: Lindy emphasizes the importance of using technology as a tool, not just for the sake of it, but to enhance learning outcomes. She compares technology to a "teacher toolbox," where each tool should be selected based on the specific learning objective and the needs of the students.
• Balancing Art and Science in Teaching: Lindy discusses how teaching is both an art and a science, requiring educators to make real-time decisions based on student needs and the evolving nature of technology.
• AI Literacy in Education: With AI becoming increasingly prevalent, Lindy stresses the importance of AI literacy as an extension of digital citizenship. She discusses the need for students to understand, use, and evaluate AI responsibly, starting from a young age.
• Process Over Product: Lindy argues that focusing on the process of learning, particularly in writing, is essential in an era where AI can easily produce text. She advocates for teaching students how to collaborate with AI effectively, rather than battling against it.

This episode provides valuable insights for educators on how to thoughtfully integrate technology into their teaching practices, ensuring it serves to enhance, not hinder, student learning.

For more insights and practical advice, tune into this episode and explore Lindy Hockenberry's work. You can find her on social media and through the links in the show notes.

About today’s guest:
Lindy Hockenberry is a lifelong educator and technology consultant who helps schools and teachers navigate the complexities of educational technology. She has extensive experience in curriculum development, professional development, and the integration of AI in education. Find her work at https://www.intechgratedpd.org/meetlindy.

About the host:
Seth Fleischauer is the host of Make It Mindful, a podcast that explores mindfulness in education. Connect with Seth on LinkedIn and follow the podcast for the latest episodes and updates. Find his work at banyangloballearning.com.

Support the Podcast:
Follow, rate, and review Make It Mindful on your favorite podcast platform. Share the podcast with friends and colleagues to help spread the word. Thank you to our editor, Lucas Salazar, and advisor, Deirdre Marlowe, for their contributions to the show.

In this episode of Make It Mindful, Seth Fleischauer welcomes two experts in metacognition: Kayla Morehead, a researcher at Denver Public Schools, and Emily Murphy, the Senior Professional Development Lead at Nord Anglia Education. Together, they discuss the role of metacognition in education and how it can empower both students and educators to take control of their learning process.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Understanding Metacognition: Kayla explains metacognition as thinking about one’s thinking, reflecting on cognitive processes, and taking actionable steps based on that reflection. She emphasizes how this skill allows students to evaluate their learning accurately and adjust their strategies.
• Cultural Perspectives on Metacognition: Emily shares insights from her work with international schools, noting that students in different cultures, such as in the East versus the West, often exhibit varied levels of confidence in their learning abilities. She highlights how these cultural differences impact their use of metacognitive skills.
• Metacognition and Lifelong Learning: Both guests explore how metacognition supports students in becoming lifelong learners by fostering curiosity, creativity, and self-awareness. Emily explains Nord Anglia’s learner portfolio tool, which encourages students to document their reflective thinking and growth over time.

Call to Action:

Metacognition is a powerful, high-impact approach that equips students with the tools to assess their own learning and become independent, motivated learners. Explore how you can integrate metacognitive practices into your teaching, and visit the Nord Anglia and Learning Design Principles resources to dive deeper into the science behind learning.

Guest Bios:

• Kayla Morehead: A researcher specializing in metacognition and self-regulated learning, Kayla works for Denver Public Schools and contributes to learning science through publications and collaborations.
• Emily Murphy: As the Senior Professional Development Lead at Nord Anglia Education, Emily focuses on metacognitive projects to enhance 21st-century skills and learner autonomy across international schools.

Episode Links:

1. Nord Anglia Education: For more information about the work Emily Murphy and Nord Anglia are doing with metacognition and the learner portfolio tool.
   • https://www.nordangliaeducation.com
2. Learning Explorations Podcast: Emily Murphy's podcast discussing innovations in education and metacognition.
   • Available on major podcast platforms.
3. The Learning Design Principles: A free resource that includes chapters on metacognition and self-regulated learning, co-authored by Kayla Morehead.
   • https://www.pearson.com/content/dam/global-store/global/resources/efficacy/evidence-about-learning/Pearson-Learning-Design-Principles-Authentic-Learning-summary.pdf 
4. Harvard Project Zero's Thinking Routines Toolbox: https://pz.harvard.edu/thinking-routines

Host Bio:

Seth Fleischauer, founder of Banyan Global Learning, brings decades of experience in educational innovation to the Make It Mindful podcast. His work focuses on providing educational solutions for digital and cultural competencies through a global lens.

In this episode of Make It Mindful, Seth Fleischauer kicks off the first in a two-part series on executive functioning by welcoming Mitch Weathers, founder of Organized Binder and author of Executive Functions for Every Classroom. They explore how routines, modeling, and accountability can help students develop critical executive functioning skills in a way that integrates seamlessly into daily classroom life. Mitch also shares practical strategies and insights that teachers can implement immediately, alongside a deeper dive into his program, Organized Binder.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The six key executive functioning skills that empower students: goal setting, work flexing, planning, organizational skills, self-regulation, and accountability.
• How Organized Binder provides a structured routine to model and practice executive functioning daily.
• The role of predictability and repetition in fostering motivation and reducing cognitive load.
• Strategies for integrating time management and goal setting into classroom practices.
• Insights into student accountability and its dual role in teacher-student relationships.
• How routines and clarity can transform classroom culture, supporting all students in developing "student-ness."

Guest Bio: Mitch Weathers is a former high school science teacher and founder of Organized Binder, a program designed to help students develop executive functioning skills through structured classroom routines. He is the author of Executive Functions for Every Classroom and a sought-after trainer and speaker, working with K-12 schools and colleges globally to enhance teaching and learning.

Host Bio: Seth Fleischauer is the founder of Banyan Global Learning, with live virtual programs that teach digital and cultural competencies. Through Make It Mindful, Seth explores transformative solutions that align teaching with the challenges of the modern world.

Episode Links:

• Learn more about Organized Binder: OrganizedBinder.com
• Mitch’s book: Executive Functions for Every Classroom

Stay tuned for Part Two of this executive functioning series, featuring Karen Dudek-Brannan, who delves into Tier 2 interventions and individualized strategies for student support.

Make it Mindful is an education podcast about how the relentless pursuit of noticing and being present leads to improvements for schools, teachers, and students. Your hosts, Seth Fleischauer, Lauren Pinto, and Komal Shah discuss in this short, introductory episode the purpose of this podcast, who it's for, what brought them together, and their own personal consciousness journeys. 

Check out this short episode to see if you catch the vibe, and then check back soon for more!

This episode title was generated by ChatGPT :-) 

How can AI be consciously integrated into education?

In this episode, hosts Seth Fleiscauer, Lauren Pinto, and Komal Shah discuss one of the hottest topics that are affecting schools today - Artificial Intelligence (AI). With ChatGPT being the newest AI tool, the education industry has churned out article after article on whether students should be utilizing it in the classroom for their learning. We jump into the conversation with our personal takes on ChatGPT based on our past teaching experience, whether AI should be banned, and if AI is just an evolved version of the internet. We ask ourselves the key question - should schools be incorporating AI consciously for students, and if so, how can this be done effectively? Join us for a fun and technological conversation that gets existential at times. Let's Make It Mindful. 

In this episode, we will cover:

• AI being banned in school districts
• AI being utilized by teachers to create lesson plans
• AI being used as a tool for digital literacy for students
• AI as a tool that can be used for future generations

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/  

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/ 

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/ 

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur 

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com 

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= 

Enjoying the show? Leave us a rating and review and help more people find us!

Is the purpose of education career readiness? 

In this episode, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Lauren Pinto, and Komal Shah discuss whether our schooling system is doing a good job of preparing our students for their future careers. With the career landscape changing continuously, and simultaneously with the rapid pace of technological advances, the question has become, how can we prepare students for jobs that don't currently exist? We jump into the conversation about our personal experiences with K-12 and our careers, the difference between character building and career readiness, and alternative paths of learning. We ask ourselves the key question - is the purpose of education actually career readiness or is it something more? Join us for a conversation that focuses on all things jobs, capitalism, and the future of careers. Let's Make It Mindful.

In this episode, we will cover:

- The link between career readiness and K-12 schooling

- The rapid pace of technology and its effects on the career landscape

- "Influencing" and how that influences young people to find a different way 

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Enjoying the show? Leave us a rating and review and help more people find us!

Is teacher burnout preventable or inevitable? 

In this episode, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Lauren Pinto, and Komal Shah dive into the hot topic of teacher burnout, something that has increased in the nation (especially post-pandemic) and has been one of the leading factors of "The Great Teacher Resignation." We take a closer look at our own experiences in the classroom, and how we led ourselves to burnout through the "unsaid" expectations and pressures we put on the job and our students. Throughout the conversation, we ask ourselves the key question - is teaching just an innately altruistic career or can we become more mindful to make it sustainable year over year? 

In this episode, we will cover:

- The link between martyrdom and teaching 

- The unsaid pressures of our kids' futures 

- Preventative measures for teacher burnout 

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Enjoying the show? Leave us a rating and review and help more people find us!

Is the role of the educator to impart knowledge or something more? 

In this episode, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Lauren Pinto, and Komal Shah deconstruct the role of the educator, and how to define it for the future within our school system. We take a closer look at the Encyclopedia definition of an educator, and how this outdated definition is still evident in K-12 schools. In our conversation, we find ourselves debating what is "truly" the role of the educator, whether as a guide, a facilitator, a knowledge expert, or something more. The key questions we raise include: Is the role of the educator to teach, or to dismantle the power dynamic between students and teacher? We are so excited about this one! 

In this episode, we will cover:

- The "official" definition of the role of the educator 

- How school context defines the role of the educator 

- The future of the role of the educator 

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Enjoying the show? Leave us a rating and review and help more people find us!

How do you build a powerful community in education? 

In this episode, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Lauren Pinto, and Komal Shah dive into what makes for strong classroom and school communities. We speak to multiple articles that share how tone of voice, authoritarian mindsets, and fear can destroy a community of trust for students. We jump into the conversation about our personal experiences building community in K-12 classrooms, and how to leverage strong SEL tactics to make learning safe and exciting. We ask ourselves the key question - how do you assess community in a school, and how do you know when it's not walking the talk? Join us for a conversation that focuses on all things community. It's a good one. Let's Make It Mindful.

In this episode, we will cover:

- Some ways in which to build trust for a strong classroom community 

- How a community can be destroyed with a fear mindset

- What parents and educators can do to assess a community at their schools

Resources discussed:
- Tone of voice can shape classroom culture
- Higher ed should be more like kindergarten - the value of show and tell in HS classrooms
- SEL toolkit for the whole school day
- Principal Marcy Leonard - building community is like branding 

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Why is PD for educators often irrelevant and, many times, frustrating? 

In this episode, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Lauren Pinto, and Komal Shah dive into professional development in schools and how to make it more conscious for teachers. We speak to how effective professional development can actually support teacher retention and how good PD is like good teaching. We jump into a conversation about our personal experiences in K-12 with PD. We ponder if it is possible to create PD that has built-in teacher autonomy paired with online modalities. We ask ourselves the key question - how do you plan a PD that is relevant for teachers and includes them in the process? This episode is a good one - get ready. 

In this episode, we will cover:

- The main points that make PD  as effective as good teaching 

- The role of PD in teacher retention 

- Different forms of PD that schools might utilize moving forward


Resources mentioned:
1. Teacher Survey: Professional Development Key to Well-Being and Retention Among Early Childhood Educators by Nicol Russell, Ed.D. (teachingstrategies.com)
2. Breaking the Mold: How a global pandemic unlocks innovation in K-12 instruction by Thomas Arnett (christenseninstitute.org)
3. Flexible Professional Development by Marcia DeSalvo (edutopia.org)
4. Computer Users in Education (CUE)

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

How do you make summer vacation mindful for both the student and the teacher? 

In this episode, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Lauren Pinto, and Komal Shah dive into the pending summer vacation, and all the learning concerns and opportunities that come with it. We speak to our own journeys with summer vacation as educators, and how to create intentional time for both rest and rejuvenation. We also ask ourselves a key question: would year-round school be a better alternative to two months off? If not, we discuss how summer play can play into education in a positive way. The key question is this - how do you make summer "vacation" mindful? Get ready for vacation. 

In this episode, we will cover:

- Year-round school vs. the extended summer vacation 

- How educators can intentionally enjoy summer 

- Alternatives for summer that may be more mindful


Articles mentioned:
1. Pros and Cons of Year Round School by Amanda Morin from VeryWellFamily.com.
2. The Pros and Cons of Year-Round School Calendars by Andrew Warner from US News and World Report.

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Looking for a teaching job? How do you make the job search mindful? 

In this episode, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Lauren Pinto, and Komal Shah dive into teacher hiring practices, and how to find a school that aligns with your own values. We speak to our own journeys as educators searching for teaching jobs, and what our non-negotiables would be in the current climate. We talk about looking for the right environment, and a space that is mutually beneficial for teacher and student. We also ask ourselves a key question: how do schools look for the right teachers for their community? This episode is all about YOU, and putting educators first in the hiring process. 

In this episode, we will cover:

- Non-negotiables in the teacher hiring process 

- Whether demo lessons should be part of interviews

- How schools should take on the teacher hiring process 

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

How do you empower your child and ignite their passions?

In this episode, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Lauren Pinto, and guest Matt Barnes dive into all things parenting. We speak to our own journeys as educators and parents and how to transition from a "tiger mom" to a present parent. We talk about the journey of guiding our own children towards having autonomy in their learning, and being empowered to lead their own lives beyond the schoolhouse. We also ask ourselves a key question: what could kids achieve if they thought they could not fail? This episode is all about parents and those who want to break out of the traditional educational mold. If you've heard Matt before, this is a good one! 

In this episode, we will cover:

- Mindful parenting and what is a "parent coach"

- Ways to empower a child's learning this summer 

- How parents can lead their child towards their dreams

Guest Links:
Matt Barnes
Parent Coach and Co-Founder of the Parent Game
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewcbarnes/
Website: https://www.mattcbarnes.com/

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

The dreaded question - Why do we need to learn this? 

In this episode, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Lauren Pinto, and Komal Shah dive into the ever-growing relevance gap in schools, and how to navigate curriculum that is seems woefully irrelevant for this day and age. We speak to the rapidly changing world, and how we have become more disconnected from basic skills such as paying our taxes, fixing a car, and even cooking a meal. If we were to change what is taught in school, what are the topics we would include? Financial literacy? Architecture? Mental Health? We ask ourselves a key question: how do we make what is taught in schools not only relevant, but needed for our kids' futures? This episode is for every teacher who doesn't want to answer: "Because I said so." 

In this episode, we will cover:

- How to combat irrelevant curriculum 

- Topic areas that should be included in schools 

- Next steps to give teachers more agency for relevancy

Articles mentioned:
1. What's Worth Learning in School? by Lori Hough at Harvard Ed. Magazine
2. 7 subjects that should be taught in U.S. schools by Kevin Dickinson at Big Think
3. 51 things they should teach in school, but don’t by Paul Brian at Hack Spirit

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

In their relentless pursuit of noticing, what are the things that school leaders need to notice?

In this episode, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Lauren Pinto, and Komal Shah explore what it means to be a mindful school leader. As in all human systems, a leader needs first to understand the "why" of the organization and how they as individuals and other members of the community connect to that why. Without that, authenticity is impossible. 

We explore the following ideas for mindful school leadership: 

1. Communicate the why, and center it on student learning
2. Have a clear vision
3. Be a supportive communicator
4. Lead by modeling continuous improvement
5. Remove obstacles
6. Treat teachers like school leaders because they are.

Articles mentioned and researched:
1. 7 Tips for Effective School Leadership by Laura Lee wth Edutopia.
2. 10 Research-Based Keys to Effective School Leadership by TeachThought Staff for TeachThought.
3. School leadership best practices that make a difference from ClassCover.com 

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

It's BACK TO SCHOOL - how do we make it mindful? 

In this episode, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Lauren Pinto, and Komal Shah dive into all things back to school, and how to make the first few days back in the classroom mindful. We speak to our own first days of school as educators, and how to move away from the old school fear-based model of learning. We talk about creating classroom community agreements, optimizing seating charts, and reflecting on the past school year. This episode has new school supplies written all over it, and will help EVERY educator have a more mindful approach with back to school. 

In this episode, we will cover:

- Mindless ways to start the first day of school 

- Creating community agreements with your class 

- Practical ways to ensure mindful back to school days 

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

How do we make education sustainable for everyone involved?

In this episode, host Seth Fleischauer shares a mic with Dr. Trevor Soponis as they explore the world of student-centered education. They delve into the mindful vs. mindless approaches in this educational philosophy. The discussion navigates the implications of putting students at the center of learning and the potential limitations. Success metrics are pondered, and the role of elders in education, particularly through the lens of storytelling, is examined. Lastly, the episode unravels how professional development supports sustainable teaching practices, bridging the gap between tradition and forward-thinking education, specifically within the context of an international education project that Dr. Soponis and Mr. Fleischauer were in the midst of delivering while recording the episode.

In this episode, we will cover:

- How to not throw the baby out with the bathwater in education (or whether there is a baby at all) 

- The role of the teacher/elder and "classic" information in the realm of student-centered learning 

- A successful week of teacher-centered professional development in Taipei, Taiwan 

Success Stories mentioned by Dr. Soponis:
1. Summit Schools
2. Expeditionary Learning
3. Big Picture Learning
4. Nueva School
5. Springhouse Community School
6. Digital Promise's League of Innovative Schools

Guest Links:
Dr. Trevor Soponis
Founder and Chief Learning Officer of The Sustainable Learning Projects
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-soponis-phd/
Website: https://www.thesustainablelearningprojects.com/

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Dr. Adriana Galván is the Dean of Undergraduate Affairs at UCLA and the former head of an adolescent psychology research lab. Through a lens of mindfulness, hosts Seth and Lauren join Dr. Galván in exploring lván the persistence of outdated teaching methods, the innovative potential of Galván's leadership role, and her remarkable journey as a female POC to a major position of influence. Woven throughout are her insights about adolescent psychology - especially on peer influence and risk taking - which offer a fresh perspective for educators.

Guest links:
1. Dr. Galván's Wikipedia Bio
2. Dr. Galván's First TED Talk and Second TED Talk on the adolescent brain

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

On this week's episode, host Seth Fleischauer interviews Preston Smith, CEO and co-founder of Rocketship Schools. The discussion revolves around Rocketship's -innovative, community-centered approach. Any Rocketship campus begins with an exploration of the school's families' and community's values. Preston describes how these diverse ideas are incorporated while scaling around a central model and how conscious parent engagement begins with meaningful relationships. We also examine Rocketship's introduction of digital citizenship in early elementary years. Tune in to discover how trust and mindfulness drive Rocketship's educational success.

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Preston Smith co-founded Rocketship in 2006.  He has held numerous roles at Rocketship, including teacher, principal, Director of Schools, and Chief Achievement Officer. Preston has led Rocketship’s professional development, leadership development, integrated special education, and student and teacher recruitment. In 2013, he was named CEO. Prior to Rocketship, Preston was founder and Principal of L.U.C.H.A. Elementary School, part of the Alum Rock Unified School District in San Jose, CA. After its first three years of operation, L.U.C.H.A. was the fourth highest performing low-income elementary school in California. Preston began his career in education as a Teach for America Corps (TFA) member at Clyde Arbuckle Elementary School (CA). In 2003, Preston was named “Teacher of the Year” at Arbuckle and was also nominated as one of six finalists for TFA’s Sue Lehmann award, given to TFA corps members with the highest classroom academic gains in the nation. Preston is also an Aspen New Schools Fellow.

Preston is a proud Rocketeer parent: Zeke and Phoenix are alumni of Rocketship Fuerza Community Prep. He earned his Master in Educational Leadership from San Jose State University and graduated from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in Latin American Studies, Phi Beta Kappa.


---

Guest Links:
Rocketship Schools - https://www.rocketshipschools.org/


Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

This episode features Carrie Rogers-Whitehead, founder of Digital Respons-Ability. Carrie, Seth (the president of an edtech company), and Lauren (a tech integration specialist) discuss mindful approaches to teaching digital citizenship. Carrie explains how a mindless approach would focus solely on the technical aspects without considering the emotional impact, whereas a mindful approach balances technical skills with emotional intelligence and the identification of the root of any given behavior. She also highlights risk and protective factors that lead to positive or negative online behaviors. Sleep, screen time balance, definitions, transparency, and communication skills are key themes. Her framework for managing screen time involves modeling healthy use, setting boundaries, explaining rationales, and offering engaging alternatives. By building community and teaching responsibility, Carrie aims to spread compassion through digital citizenship. Carrie emphasizes the need for shared definitions and standards within the field and the importance of peeking under the hood of how technology works (especially social media). She addresses navigating political challenges by focusing on shared values and avoiding polarization.


Guest Links:
Digital Respons-Ability - https://respons-ability.net/


Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

In this enlightening episode, we are joined by Dr. Grant Atkins, educational researcher with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt as we discuss mindful approaches for professional learning and literacy instruction.  Dr. Atkins shares invaluable insights gathered from observations of and conversations with a diverse range of teachers. He argues that administrators can leverage teacher buy-in to quality professional development by creating a system of improvement at schools, not just a series of thought provoking one-offs. 

We also explore the current landscape of literacy instruction. Dr. Atkins passionately dismantles the concept of the "Reading Wars" - the active debate in literacy instruction that pits phonics instruction against the whole language approach. Dr. Atkins believes that this term is unhelpful and overly simplistic. He prefers a more nuanced discussion about evolving teaching methodologies in literacy education and how they match specific student populations. Specifically, says Dr. Atkins, there are five components of literacy - phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Teachers tend to be less concerned with the so-called Reading Wars when they are figuring out which of these components is most needed in their classrooms. Dr. Atkins also argues that there is not actually much of a disconnect between educational research and the teaching practices at most schools; rather, the disconnect is between what the research shows is actually happening and what the general public *thinks* is happening.

---

Dr. Grant Atkins is an Education Research Director managing the Professional Services research work at HMH. He conducts efficacy studies to examine the effectiveness of ICLE, Math Solutions, and Literacy Solutions implementations. He manages studies that investigate various delivery models of professional development, including workshops, trainings, professional learning communities, and in-person, online, and blended coaching.

Prior to his work at HMH, he developed and conducted research on literacy intervention programs. Grant holds a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology focusing on literacy research from Columbia University Teachers College. He also holds an M.Ed. in Human Development and Psychology from the Harvard Graduate School of Education and a B.A. in Psychology from Princeton University.

Co-Host Links:

Seth Fleischauer

Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/

Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto

Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/

Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Komal Shah

Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal

Website: https://thekomalshah.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

In this episode we interview Dr. Chandler Chang of Therapy Lab. Dr. Chang discusses how - though they are not expected to act as therapists - teachers play an important role in supporting students' mental health in schools. Dr. Chang's therapy company has experience providing wellness services in schools. Her school pilot program provides brief coaching sessions that teach students concrete life skills to destigmatize therapy. She explained that common issues therapists are seeing in adolescents post-Covid include anxiety, depression, grief, and isolation. Teachers can help by building caring relationships with students, teaching them coping skills, and recognizing when a given issue goes beyond their expertise and requires assessment by a mental health professional, such as the school counselor.  To support student mental health, teachers can also incorporate simple wellness practices into class routines like breathing exercises, journaling, and mood check-ins. These help build self-awareness and coping skills. When talking with struggling students, teachers should listen without judgment and validate feelings. It's important to refer students with serious ongoing issues to professionals rather than trying to counsel them oneself. To start a wellness initiative at your school, consider student needs, get administrator support, and start small with evidence-based approaches. Finally, teachers should prioritize their own self-care and mindfulness to avoid burnout and so they can model wellness behaviors for students.

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Guest Bio:
Using evidence-based treatments and a compassionate approach, Dr. Chang offers expertise based on almost two decades of clinical experience, both in private practice and at prestigious research-oriented psychology programs, including UCLA and NYU’s Child Study Center.

Chandler has a passion for incorporating science into psychological practice and a mission to train other therapists in this way, while providing affordable mental health services for all.

Outside of work, Chandler loves yoga, trying new recipes, walking her labradoodle Lisa, and watching The Great British Baking Show with her two sons.

Guest Links:
Therapy Lab: https://www.therapylab.com/


Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

In this episode, Seth and Lauren interview Dr. Kiersten Greene, an expert in literacy education and teacher preparation. Dr. Greene shares insights on the next generation of teachers - Gen Z candidates who seem driven by making an impact rather than just finding a secure job. She acknowledges the very real recruitment and retention crisis in teaching, but says those who still pursue the career tend to be motivated by shaping young lives.

Dr. Greene discusses practical solutions to address the teacher shortage, like better compensation and work conditions. She also talks about responsible technology integration - it should enrich student learning, not replace human connections in the classroom. While AI may have a role, it can't substitute for real teachers.

Teacher prep programs could better attract applicants by emphasizing meaningful aspects of teaching and providing classroom exposure early on. These programs also need to equip teacher candidates with practical skills to handle real-world pressures, from managing financial struggles to bridging the ideals of the profession with its gritty realities. More collaboration between teacher colleges and school districts could strengthen the pipeline.

Overall, Dr. Greene provides reason for hope in the next wave of passionate and dedicated teachers.

Guest Links:
1. KierstenGreene.net
2. Roller Doc on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roller.doc/
3. ACLU report on surveillance in schools - Digital Dystopia: The Danger in Buying What the EdTech Surveillance Industry is Selling - https://www.aclu.org/report/digital-dystopia-the-danger-in-buying-what-the-edtech-surveillance-industry-is-selling

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

After leaving teaching for a few years, our former cohost Komal Shah recently returned to the classroom, drawn back by the innovative project-based learning model at High Tech High. Unlike many teachers fleeing the profession today, she was inspired by her colleagues and the hands-on, relevant learning happening in the classrooms.

Students at High Tech High engage in project-based learning (PBL) where they tackle real-world problems that require critical thinking, collaboration, iteration, and public presentation of their solutions. This develops key skills like initiative, problem-solving, dealing with ambiguity, communication and more. Teachers act as facilitators, helping students acquire knowledge and skills through self-directed projects versus traditional direct instruction.

Komal contrasts her PBL students with those in more traditional settings. PBL students display more curiosity, personal agency, willingness to take healthy risks and learn from failure. They advocate for their own needs and interests. Projects integrate multiple subjects and connect students to their communities, keeping learning timely and relevant compared to standardized curricula. This relevance fuels students’ motivation and engagement.

While the PBL model attracts self-directed students, it may not suit everybody. But aspects can be integrated into traditional contexts, perhaps through a single project linking students with community members to solve real problems. The key is giving students purpose and real-world impact to drive buy-in and effort. For Komal and the staff at High Tech High, PBL brings learning to life for students and teachers alike.

Takeaways

• Project-based learning (PBL) allows students to focus on real-world problems and make an impact in their communities.
• Flipping the lesson order and starting with real-world problems can increase student engagement and problem-solving skills.
• Collaboration and curiosity are key skills developed through PBL.
• Teachers can implement elements of PBL in traditional settings by integrating real-world applications and partnering with community organizations.

Show Links:
1. Follow PBL experts Kyle Wagner (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kwagssd3/) and Loni Bergqvist (https://www.linkedin.com/in/loniatimagineif/)
2. Project Cards for PBL on HTH Unboxed: https://hthunboxed.org/project-card-home/

Guest Links:
Komal Shah
Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal
Website: https://thekomalshah.com
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Dive deep into Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and its intersection with technology with guest Margot Toppen. 

How can technology support, without overshadowing, the human-centric nature of SEL? We unravel the apparent contradiction of using technology in an inherently human domain, acknowledging that while tech offers valuable tools, it cannot replace the human empathy and understanding essential for effective SEL.

Drawing on insights from a recent SWOT analysis conducted for CASEL, our guest sheds light on the potential of AI in mitigating the student mental health crisis. This analysis provides a nuanced view of AI's strengths and limitations in the context of SEL, offering key takeaways from her groundbreaking research.

Addressing the contentious debate about tech use, social media, and screen time, we explore their roles in the youth mental health crisis. Our guest offers a balanced perspective, acknowledging the potential risks and benefits of digital engagement in the context of SEL.

One of the highlights of our episode is the introduction of GenAI, an innovative strategy that blends generational insights with AI to enrich SEL. Our guest shares valuable tips and strategies derived from this approach.

Finally, we get an insider's view of how our guest developed a series of SEL prompts tailored for AI in education. She walks us through her creative process, illustrating how these prompts are designed to foster emotional intelligence, empathy, and resilience in students.

Join us in this enlightening episode as we navigate the delicate balance between technology and the human essence at the heart of social-emotional learning.

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Guest Bio:

Margot Toppen is a whole child wellness and EdTech leader, program & partnership developer, and dynamic communicator with 15+ years of experience leading social enterprises.

Show Links:
1. Margot Toppen's website https://margot-toppen.com/
2. Exploring the Intersection of AI and SEL: https://margot-toppen.com/ai-sel/
3. AI + SEL & The Mental Health Crisis: How Can We Leverage New Tech to Meet the Moment? (and What Are the Risks?) https://casel.org/blog/ai-sel-the-mental-health-crisis-how-can-we-leverage-new-tech-to-meet-the-moment-and-what-are-the-risks/
4. Digital Wellness Lab - Children in AI Research Brief - https://digitalwellnesslab.org/research/research-brief-children-and-artificial-intelligence/
5. Center on Reinventing Public Education’s 2023 “State of the American Student” report - https://crpe.org/the-state-of-the-american-student-2023/
6. Teens Open Up About Mental Health in the Age of AI and the Long Shadow of the Pandemic https://www.the74million.org/article/to-be-a-student-in-2023-10-teens-open-up-about-mental-health-the-age-of-ai-and-the-long-shadow-of-the-pandemic/
7. Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andrae - https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/765148
8. The Perfect Prompt 

Summary
Dr. Caroline Miller, a high school English teacher and department head at an elite private school, discusses academic integrity, the impact of proximity to power, engaging students in long-form education, unconventional paths to teaching, and the ethical dilemmas of AI and ChatGPT. She emphasizes the importance of balancing creativity and academic standards, reducing homework, and anxiety. Dr. Miller also highlights the role of EdTech in the classroom and the need to focus on process rather than output.

Takeaways

• Balancing creativity and academic standards is crucial in education.
• Recruiting teachers with other backgrounds can bring fresh ideas and approaches to the classroom.
• Reducing homework and anxiety can help students be more present and engaged in their education.
• Teaching students to assess AI tools like ChatGPT is essential to ensure academic integrity and critical thinking skills.

In the latest episode of the podcast, hosts Seth and Lauren delve into the intricate relationship between technology and education with their guest (and former co-host), Komal Shah, a seasoned middle school teacher. Their conversation pivots around the unique technological landscape at High Tech High, emphasizing how it integrates with and enhances Project-Based Learning (PBL). A key focus of their discussion is the critical role of technology in facilitating the exhibition aspect of PBL, a cornerstone of the High Tech High experience. The trio also explores the school's specific device policy, probing into its implications for student behavior and academic development. They shed light on the concept of technology as a tool, emphasizing the importance of educating students on using tech for specific purposes, rather than as a constant presence or crutch.

The episode further addresses the multifaceted impact of social media on middle school students, particularly concerning their self-esteem and self-image. Seth, Lauren, and Komal confront the harsh realities of cyberbullying, discussing its common forms and the profound effects on the mental health of young students. Additionally, they highlight the necessity of teaching students about their digital footprint and data privacy. The role of parents in managing their children's digital life, especially in relation to social media and online interactions, is also a crucial part of their dialogue. Throughout the episode, the hosts and their guest emphasize the importance of mindfulness, metacognition, and the development of social-emotional skills in navigating the digital world. The conversation culminates in the shared responsibility of parents and teachers in preparing students for their digital lives, stressing the need for setting boundaries, modeling healthy tech use, and fostering human connections in an increasingly digital age.

Takeaways

• Mindfulness and metacognition are essential in guiding students' use of technology and helping them navigate the digital world.
• Parents and teachers have a shared responsibility in preparing students for their digital lives, including setting boundaries and modeling healthy tech use.
• It is important for students to recognize their own emotions and practice self-regulation when using technology.
• Building human connections and engaging in face-to-face interactions are crucial in the digital age.

Guest Links:
Komal Shah
Speaker, Author, & Entrepreneur
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/consultkomal
Website: https://thekomalshah.com
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Raise-Your-Hand-Consciousness-Education-ebook/dp/B09FNT6B45/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

In this episode of Make It Mindful, host Seth Fleischauer delves into the dynamic world of media literacy with Julie Smith, a renowned instructor at the School of Communications at Webster University. Their conversation covers a broad spectrum, highlighting the profound impact of media literacy on both children and adults.

Key Points Covered:

• "What is media literacy and why is it important?": Julie Smith illuminates the concept of media literacy, emphasizing its vital role in fostering critical thinking skills. 
• The Role of Educators and Parents: We explore the pivotal responsibility that teachers and parents hold in teaching media literacy, offering  advice on integrating media literacy into various curricula and subjects.
• Navigating Digital Emotions: We delve into the nuances of short form vs. long form education and how platforms like Facebook can elicit strong emotional responses. Julie discusses the importance of curating media consumption and maintaining a mindful approach to our digital interactions.
• Lateral Fact Checking: In an era where misinformation is rampant, Julie stresses the significance of lateral fact checking as a key tool in media literacy. She provides actionable steps for verifying information to help listeners navigate the complexities of the digital information landscape.
• AI's Impact on Media Literacy: A fascinating segment that examines the influence of AI on media literacy. Julie shares her insights on how AI shapes our media consumption and the necessity of staying informed and vigilant in this rapidly evolving field.
• Promoting Well-Being Through Media Literacy: The conversation concludes with a thoughtful discussion of the impact of media literacy on the mental and emotional well-being of both students and teachers.

Don't miss this episode of Make It Mindful as we uncover the intricacies of media literacy and its vital role in our digital age. Join us in learning how to empower ourselves and the younger generation with tools to critically assess and engage with the media landscape.

Guest links:
1. Julie's list of AI tools https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1M6w3zlv5suAV16XEXgR86AbWCshU6QbKEE8UH9n7BXc/edit#gid=0
2. Julie's Misinformation Resources https://drive.google.com/file/d/12o0db1MRK5OcJveMkvEkzOc7qMFF5iM0/view
3. Andrew Easton's Good Life Edu Podcast featuring Julie Smith https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/media-literacy-in-the-era-of-generative-a-i/id1512974122?i=1000635584006
4. Julie Smith's email address: heyjuliesmith@gmail.com

Guiding questions for media literacy:
1. Whose message is it? 
2. Why is the message being put out there? 
3. How does it go about getting the viewer’s attention? 
4. Who benefits/profits?

In this insightful episode of Make It Mindful, Seth and Lauren delve into the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the educational landscape with the expertise of Andrew Easton, a seasoned educator, speaker, author, and consultant. Andrew illuminates the importance of embracing a growth mindset and the necessity for continuous learning amidst the swift advances in technology. He explores the vast possibilities AI offers for personalized learning experiences, highlighting how AI tutors and chatbots can cater to individual student needs by providing a safe space for inquiry and enhanced search capabilities. Andrew also touches on the ethical dimensions of AI integration in education, stressing the enduring value of skills such as empathy, listening, and leadership despite the technological evolution.

The conversation further navigates the various proficiency levels in AI and its application in creating more tailored educational experiences. Andrew's insights on the role of AI in fostering personalized learning underscore the significance of adapting to technological shifts in education methodologies. The episode wraps up with a look at beloved obsolete technologies and directions in which Andrew's work is heading for those interested in further exploration. This episode not only sheds light on the immediate impacts of AI in education, but also prompts a thoughtful reflection on the skills and ethical considerations that will shape the future of learning.

Guest links:
Andrew's Website: andrewdeaston.com, The GoodLife Edu podcast

AI for Education Resources:
Diffit - https://web.diffit.me/
Curipod - https://curipod.com/
Magic School - https://www.magicschool.ai/

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

In this episode, Seth and Lauren interview Harben Porter and KK Neimann from World Savvy, an education nonprofit focused on embedding global competence into teaching and learning. They discuss the concept of global competence and the importance of mindset shift in education. The guests explain how global competence is not just about geographic knowledge, but also about the skills and dispositions needed to navigate a diverse and interconnected world. They emphasize the need for a shift in teaching  approach, moving away from a focus on content and compliance towards student-centered, project-based learning. The guests also address challenges and pushback in implementing this approach and provide advice for teachers in traditional systems. They highlight the importance of humility and curiosity in fostering a mindset for lifelong learning. Overall, the conversation explores the transformative potential of global competence in preparing students for a complex and ever-changing world.

Takeaways

• Global competence is about the skills and dispositions needed to navigate a diverse and interconnected world.
• A shift in teaching approach is necessary, moving from content-focused education to student-centered, project-based learning.
• Implementing a mindset shift in the classroom requires teachers to decenter themselves and create relevant learning experiences.
• Maintaining a mindset shift in the face of turnover requires building a collaborative school community and supporting new teachers.
• Teachers can bring about change in traditional systems by advocating for professional learning opportunities and engaging in conversations with school leaders.
• Humility and curiosity are essential to fostering a mindset for lifelong learning and preparing students for a complex world.

Guest links:
https://worldsavvy.org/

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

In this episode, Seth and Lauren interview Jordan Lewis, a Partner Development Specialist at MyBlueprint, a student success and career education company. They discuss the concept of competency-based education and how it is changing the traditional education model. Jordan explains the importance of digital portfolios in showcasing student growth and reflection. They also explore the connection between career and technical education and digital portfolios, highlighting the role of communication in implementing these practices. The episode emphasizes the need for student-centered learning and preparing students for the future.

Takeaways

• Competency-based education focuses on personalized learning and mastery of skills.
• Digital portfolios provide a platform for students to showcase their learning and reflect on their growth.
• Communication is key in implementing new practices and involving stakeholders in education.
• Career and technical education and character education are interconnected and essential for preparing students for the future.

Guest Links:
1. myBlueprint - https://myblueprint.ca/
2. SpacesEDU - https://spacesedu.com/en/
3. Growth Over Grades Podcast - https://youtu.be/V0_VB54rnTg?si=VyFTwrV6Umkx_UxE
4. Jordan's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-lewis-spacesedu/

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Link for creating student portfolios: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPp_pIbFsTU. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhTrcr3sk7k,
 

Liz Gallo, the founder and CEO of Why Maker, joins host Seth Fleischauer to discuss the potential to revolutionize education through the lens of design thinking. Liz outlines her vision of making education more relevant and impactful by teaching students critical problem-solving skills and fostering empathy, all while preparing them for the complexities of the modern world (including navigating the implications of AI). She details Why Maker's ambitious goal to train one million educators over the next decade, emphasizing the potential to transform classroom environments into hubs of innovation and real-world relevance. Liz's insights on integrating design thinking into various content areas beyond STEM, and the balance between direct instruction and project-based learning, highlight the adaptability and breadth of this approach.

The episode delves deeper into the practical application of design thinking in education, underscoring the significance of process over product and the importance of nurturing empathetic thinkers. Liz shares how Why Maker's professional development initiatives aim to empower teachers by making them feel supported, valued, and equipped to bring about change in their teaching methodologies. This approach not only enriches the curriculum but also enhances students' readiness to tackle real-life challenges with creativity and empathy. Seth and Liz provide educators with a compelling blueprint for embedding design thinking in their classrooms, thereby paving the way for a future where education is closely aligned with the evolving demands of society and the workforce.

Guest links:
Liz Gallo
Why Maker - http://www.whymaker.co/
An Educator's Guide to Design Thinking (Liz's Book): https://a.co/d/dFCkJ2g

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

On this week's Make It Mindful, hosts Seth Fleischauer and Lauren Pinto welcome guest Forest Bronzan, co-founder and CEO of Digital Detox. The episode delves into the complex relationship between technology use and our lives. Bronzan shares insights from his work, particularly focusing on achieving a mindful balance between our digital interactions and core values, what it is to be present, and strategies for overcoming technology addiction. The dialogue is enriched by findings from Student Dora, a survey aimed at gauging the digital wellness of students, revealing how schools grapple with digital wellness and the imperative of fostering mindful technology use to positively augment our lives.

The episode navigates the polarized perspectives surrounding technology, underscoring the scarcity of a balanced stance, and categorizing parents based on their approach to technology and its regulation. It probes the expectations placed on educational institutions to develop digital citizenship, emphasizing the collective responsibility of schools and parents.  Additionally, the conversation acknowledges the importance of self-awareness of digital habits and the ramifications of ignoring the reality of technological impact. Bronzan and the hosts also contemplate the positive facets of technology and social media, advocating for afacilitated approach to children's engagement with digital platforms. Concluding on a lighter note, the dialogue veers into personal preferences in emojis and how Bronzan maintains a minimal digital presence, primarily through LinkedIn, underscoring the overarching theme of mindful and intentional technology use.

Guest Links:
1. Digital Detox: https://www.digitaldetox.com/
2. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/forestbronzan/

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

In this episode of Make It Mindful, host Seth Fleischauer is joined by Danelle Almaraz, Chief Impact Officer for Innovate Ed, who brings over a decade of experience in the field of continuous improvement in education. Together, they explore the universal challenges faced by educators, including the leadership pipeline shortage and the necessity of fostering student empowerment and future readiness amidst rapidly evolving educational demands.

Danelle discusses the importance of defining what "future ready" actually means and insists on a clear focus to help schools adapt and thrive. She emphasizes the role of continuous improvement processes and shared leadership in achieving substantive, sustainable changes in schools. The conversation also covers the strategies for building trust and buy-in among educators, which are critical for implementing successful changes.

Key insights include the need for clarity in goals, the empowerment of teachers through shared decision-making, and the creation of supportive environments that encourage innovative practices and continuous learning. Danelle and Seth discuss practical steps for schools to become future-ready—emphasizing student-centered learning, flexibility in approaches, and the importance of community and collaboration among educators.

Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on making meaningful and lasting impacts in educational settings, understanding the complexities of system-wide changes, and the importance of aligning with core values and clear objectives to effectively prepare students for the future.


Guest Links:
1. Innovate Ed - https://innovateed.com/
2. LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danelle-almaraz/

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

In this episode of Make It Mindful, host Seth Fleischauer engages with Monica Burns, a former New York City public school teacher and the voice behind the popular Class Tech Tips blog and podcast. Monica shares her journey from classroom teaching to becoming a pivotal figure in educational technology. She discusses the evolution of her career, sparked by her early adoption of iPads in a one-to-one classroom setting, leading to significant engagements with educators nationwide.

Monica and Seth delve into the concept of using technology mindfully and with intention in the classroom, emphasizing the importance of aligning technology with educational goals rather than letting the allure of new tools dictate the teaching process -- "task before apps."  They explore practical strategies for educators to integrate technology meaningfully, ensuring it enhances learning without overwhelming educational intent. Their conversation also touches on the broader implications of emerging technologies like AI, discussing both the excitement and the cautious skepticism that accompany its integration into educational settings.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how to approach technology not just as a tool, but as an ally in crafting engaging and effective educational experiences. Monica provides actionable advice on simplifying the digital landscape for teachers and students, reinforcing the necessity of a foundational understanding of core subjects to fully leverage technological advancements.

Guest Links:
1. Class Tech Tips - https://classtechtips.com/
2. Monica's AI resources - https://classtechtips.com/artificial-intelligence-resources/
3. Easy EdTech podcast - https://classtechtips.com/podcast/
4. Twitter - https://twitter.com/ClassTechTips
5. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

SPECIAL EPISODE!

In this episode of Make It Mindful, we are crossposting a stellar episode from host Seth Fleischauer's other podcast, Why Distance Learning? In this episode, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Allyson Mitchell, and Tami Moehring welcome Noam Gerstein, CEO of the Bina School and a leading expert in precision education. Noam shares her journey of creating a global, digitally native school that reimagines how education serves young learners, blending emotional connection, cultural diversity, and innovative uses of live virtual learning. The episode explores Bina School’s unique approach to play-based, personalized learning for students aged 4 to 12, with a focus on fostering global awareness and nurturing emotionally safe, collaborative learning environments.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The importance of emotionally held learning spaces in live virtual education.
• How Bina School uses thematic biomes and SDG projects to create meaningful learning experiences.
• The role of adaptive content generation in balancing personalization and standardization.
• Building a global community for young learners and redefining what a school can be.

Guest Bio: Noam Gerstein is the CEO of the Bina School, a pioneer in precision education and a thought leader in the field. With a background in history, technology, and social innovation, Noam has spent years researching global education systems and building solutions to meet the needs of Gen Alpha learners. She is a frequent speaker at education conferences and a passionate advocate for blending cultural diversity with cutting-edge technology.

Host Links:

1. Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.
2. Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.

Episode Links:

• Bina School - thebinaschool.com
• Contact Noam Gerstein: noam@bina.school

In this episode of Make It Mindful, Seth Fleischauer welcomes Dr. Jordan Smith, a retired Marine Corps Major, secondary math teacher, and author. They explore fostering resilience, addressing the belief gap in education, and creating personal connections to empower students. Dr. Smith shares strategies for engaging students through culturally responsive teaching and motivating them with growth mindset practices.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Building resilience and addressing systemic barriers in education.
• The belief gap: fostering optimism and confidence in students.
• Culturally responsive teaching and personalizing lessons.
• Strategies for teaching growth mindset and fostering intrinsic motivation.

Guest Bio: Dr. Jordan Smith is a retired Marine Corps Major turned secondary math teacher and author of Against the Odds: Chronicles of Resilience. He advocates for empowering educators to foster resilience and confidence in students through innovative, culturally responsive teaching strategies.

Episode Links:

• Get Dr. Smith’s book 11 Effective Strategies for Teaching Math at teachleadandinspire.com.

Host Info: Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning uses technology to enhance digital and cultural competence in teachers and students.

In this episode of "Make It Mindful," Seth Fleischauer explores transformative education practices with Tierra Crothers, Director at the School of Education, Sacramento County Office of Education. With 25 years of educational experience deeply rooted in family tradition, Tierra shares her journey from classroom teaching to district-level administration. She discusses the impact of her work across various educational roles and highlights the innovative teacher residency program she leads. This program integrates intense, year-long mentorship, allowing new teachers to experience the full cycle of a school year, thereby enhancing their readiness and effectiveness from day one. Tierra's insights into building a sustainable, impactful educational environment through mentorship, community involvement, and strategic teacher preparation provide a roadmap for addressing teacher shortages and improving educational outcomes.

Guest Links:
Statewide Residency Technical Assistance Center and CTC website: https://www.ctc.ca.gov/educator-prep/grant-funded-programs/statewide-technical-assistance-center-grant-program

Sacramento County Office of Education website: https://www.scoe.net/

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

In this episode of Make It Mindful, host Seth Fleischauer sits down with author, actress, and producer Sheetal Sheth. They explore the impact of Sheth's children's books, including her Anjali series and Raashi's Rakhis, and discuss how her stories highlight cultural competence and representation for young readers.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Sheth’s journey from acting to writing children's literature.
• The importance of diverse representation in children's books.
• How storytelling can foster empathy and understanding in classrooms.
• Approaching sensitive topics in children's literature without shying away from tough conversations.
• Tips for teachers on incorporating diverse stories into classroom settings.

Call to Action:
Listen to this episode to learn how to use diverse stories to enrich classroom experiences and teach cultural competence.

Episode Links:

1. Sheetal Sheth's Website – www.sheetalsheth.com
2. Sheetal Sheth's Instagram – @beneaththesheetz
3. Reading is Fundamental (RIF) – www.rif.org
4. Be Podcast Network – www.BePodcast.network

Guest Bio:
Sheetal Sheth is an actress, producer, and the author of the Anjali series, the first children's book series featuring a South Asian hero. Her latest book, Raashi's Rakhis, continues her mission of creating engaging, inclusive stories for children.

Host Bio:
Seth Fleischauer: Learn more about Seth’s work at Banyan Global Learning, where he helps educators bring cultural and digital competence and transformative learning into classrooms worldwide.

In this episode of "Make It Mindful," Seth Fleischauer delves into the transformative power of AI in supporting students' mental health. With Lauren Pinto on break, Seth welcomes Brenda Peña and Scott Freschet to discuss the groundbreaking Alongside app. Scott, a co-founder of Alongside and a seasoned EdTech professional, outlines the app's role as a 24/7 mental health tool that offers an AI chatbot named Kiwi. This bot engages students with interactive features such as mood trackers, mindfulness exercises, and instant support for severe mental health issues.

Brenda, as Director of Social Work at Chelsea Public Schools in Massachusetts, shares how Alongside has made mental health resources accessible to students who might shy away from traditional counseling due to stigma or discomfort. This episode explores how Alongside not only supplements existing mental health services by filling gaps but also empowers students by providing immediate, judgment-free support in a format they are comfortable with.

The conversation also touches on the broader implications of AI in education, discussing the potential risks and rewards of relying on technology for emotional support. Scott emphasizes the app's design, which encourages real-world application of coping strategies, ensuring that AI is a gateway to human interaction rather than a replacement. This episode offers a critical look at how technology is reshaping the approach to student wellness and educational support.

Guest Links:
Alongside.care

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

Welcome to this week's episode of Make It Mindful, where we dive deep into the innovative ways technology is used in education. Seth Fleischauer hosts a compelling conversation with Jed Stefanowicz, an elementary educator turned Director of Digital Learning and Innovation. Jed brings decades of experience to discuss the thoughtful integration of AI in classrooms, emphasizing the human aspect of education technology. Their discussion spans the role of AI in enhancing student engagement, the challenges of maintaining teacher expertise amidst automation, and the balance of technology and traditional teaching methods. Jed's insights on mindfully applying technology serve as a guide for educators aiming to optimize learning while preserving the essential elements of teaching. A truly enlightening exchange for anyone interested in the intersection of education and technology.

Guest Links:
1. Jed Stefanowicz's website: JedPD.com
2. Books by Jed: Beyond the Bulletin Board: Crafting a Culture of Content Creation; Impact to Influence: Pathway Portraits of Risk-Takers, Rule-Breakers, and Changemakers; Aim Toward Digital Learning.

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

🚨 “AI won’t replace teachers, but it will change what great teaching looks like.” 🚨

Educators are being pushed to adopt AI—but is it actually making teaching better? Too often, AI in education is used for efficiency rather than transformation, leaving teachers feeling like they’re just automating tasks instead of improving learning.

🎧 In this episode of Make It Mindful, Seth Fleischauer sits down with Vriti Saraf, founder of Ed3 DAO, to tackle the real impact of AI on teaching and learning. Instead of using AI to churn out generic lesson plans, how can educators harness it to deepen student engagement, critical thinking, and global collaboration?

Key Takeaways:

✅ AI should enhance great pedagogy, not just automate bad teaching.

✅ The danger of cognitive offloading—how relying on AI too early can weaken essential teaching and learning skills.

✅ Why first-year teachers shouldn’t start with AI-generated lesson plans—and how to integrate AI thoughtfully instead.

✅ The “City of Learning” vision: What if an entire city became a classroom, powered by AI-driven learning experiences?

✅ The Portrait of a Teacher project: How AI might redefine who teaches and how we measure great teaching.

💡 PROBLEM → SOLUTION → ACTION

AI can be an incredible tool—but only if it’s used with intention. If you’re an educator wondering how to prepare students for a world where AI is everywhere, this episode is for you.

About Today’s Guest:

Vriti Saraf is the founder of Ed3 DAO and K20 Educators, pioneering the integration of AI, digital identity, and Web3 into global education. She works at the intersection of pedagogy and emerging technology, helping schools worldwide reimagine how learning happens.

Episode Links:

 • Ed3DAO

 • Vriti’s Substack

 • Vriti Saraf on LinkedIn

Host Links:

 Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.

In this episode of Make It Mindful, Seth Fleischauer sits down with Marina Badillo-Diaz, known as the "AI Social Worker," to discuss how artificial intelligence can support social work within schools. They explore the ethical concerns and transformative potential of AI tools in enhancing efficiency for social workers and educators alike, especially when faced with the post-pandemic mental health crisis. Marina shares practical examples, from using AI to streamline IEP goals to supporting administrative tasks, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining ethical standards while integrating technology into social work.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The intersection of social work and AI: ethics, efficiency, and innovation.
• AI applications for school social workers, including IEP refinement and event planning.
• The significance of relationship-building and mindfulness in student mental health.
• Emerging tech solutions like VR role-playing to prepare new social work practitioners.
• Strategies to support overburdened social workers and teachers in post-pandemic schools.

Guest Bio: Marina Badillo-Diaz, also known as the AI Social Worker, is a school social worker and consultant focused on leveraging technology responsibly to support social work practices. She advocates for ethical AI use in education and provides resources for social workers to integrate tech effectively.

Host Bio: Seth Fleischauer is the founder of Banyan Global Learning and a dedicated advocate for teaching digital and cultural competencies through a global lens to foster meaningful educational change.

Episode Links:

• Marina’s Guidebook on AI Prompting for Social Work Practice: mabdconsulting.com

In this episode of Make It Mindful: Insights for Global Learning, host Seth Fleischauer welcomes Michael Davis, founder of Mindful Bytes and Merek Security Solutions, to explore how mindfulness and cybersecurity intersect in education. They dive into the transformative potential of teaching digital citizenship through mindfulness practices to young learners, focusing on how educators can help students develop a healthier relationship with technology. Michael shares insights from his innovative pilot program, which empowers students to build digital agency and emotional awareness while navigating the digital world.

Key Topics Discussed:

 • Michael’s career journey from Navy cybersecurity expert to mindfulness educator.

 • The importance of understanding the “space between you and the device.”

 • Strategies for fostering mindfulness in children aged 6-10 to develop healthy tech habits.

 • Role-playing exercises that help kids recognize and regulate emotions in digital spaces.

 • The responsibility of schools in teaching digital citizenship and creating mindful technology users.

 • Early results from the pilot program, including increased family discussions about technology use.

 • How Mindful Bytes is addressing the emotional and psychological challenges of the digital age.

Guest Bio:

Michael Davis is the founder of Mindful Bytes, a platform that integrates mindfulness into digital citizenship education, and Merek Security Solutions, a cybersecurity consulting firm. A Navy veteran with over 20 years in cybersecurity, Michael’s passion for exploring the human side of technology has led him to pioneer innovative approaches to education. His work focuses on equipping young learners with the tools to navigate the digital world with awareness, courage, and emotional intelligence.

Host Bio:

Seth Fleischauer is the founder of Banyan Global Learning, specializing in teaching digital, linguistic, and cultural competencies through live global learning experiences. A former classroom teacher, Seth brings a thoughtful approach to exploring how education can adapt to an ever-changing world.

Episode Links:

 • Mindful Bytes: mindfulbytes.io

 • Merek Security Solutions: merrick.io

 • Connect with Michael Davis on LinkedIn: Michael Davis LinkedIn

In this episode of Make It Mindful, host Seth Fleischauer engages with Justin Reich, an MIT faculty member who critically examines the rapid evolution of AI and its implications in the educational landscape. Reich provides a nuanced perspective, challenging the prevailing excitement around AI's exponential growth and its integration into educational settings. He discusses the historical context of AI development, notably the shift from GPT-3 to GPT-3.5, and raises concerns about the sustainability of improvements in AI technologies given the finite nature of data sources. Reich also explores the classification of technologies as either adoption or arrival technologies, with AI posing unique challenges due to its sudden and pervasive emergence. Throughout the discussion, Reich emphasizes the importance of understanding AI's operational mechanics and advocates for a thoughtful and informed approach to integrating AI in educational practices, highlighting potential risks and the need for a critical assessment of new tools. His insights urge educators to consider both the immediate and long-term effects of AI on teaching and learning dynamics.

Guest Links:

1. Justin Reich's podcast, the Teach Lab Podcast: Teach Lab Podcast
2. Justin Reich's professional group at MIT, the Teaching Systems Lab: Teaching Systems Lab
3. A specific subsection for AI-related content on the Teaching Systems Lab website: TSL MIT AI

Co-Host Links:
Seth Fleischauer
Founder and President of Banyan Global Learning
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-fleischauer/
Website: https://banyangloballearning.com/

Lauren Pinto
Cofounder of Ambitious Ed, Educational Technology Specialist
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-s-pinto/
Website: https://www.ambitioused.com/

In this episode of Make It Mindful, host Seth Fleischauer dives into the intersection of literacy, family engagement, and cultural responsiveness with Judy Paulick, Associate Professor of Teacher Education at the University of Virginia. As part of the 2024 National Literacy Month and in partnership with Reading Is Fundamental, Judy shares how to create transformative educational experiences by understanding and leveraging the cultural and literacy assets of students' families. She explores how home visits, family engagement, and asset-based approaches can reshape literacy instruction to meet the needs of all learners.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The importance of asset-based home visits and how they can deepen teacher-student-family connections.
• How family engagement enriches literacy practices by incorporating storytelling, cultural values, and everyday literacy activities from home.
• Strategies for teachers who may not have access to home visits but still want to leverage family assets in the classroom.
• Using culturally responsive teaching techniques to create a classroom environment where every student sees themselves in the curriculum.
• The challenges and opportunities AI presents in education, particularly around culturally relevant pedagogy and differentiation.

Call to Action:

For more practical, transformative solutions to teaching that emphasize mindfulness and cultural competence, be sure to listen to the full episode! Learn about the tools and strategies Judy Paulick shares that can help educators build stronger connections with their students and communities.

Guest Bio:

Judy Paulick is an Associate Professor of Teacher Education at the University of Virginia. She specializes in language arts instruction and family engagement, with a focus on equity and culturally responsive teaching. Judy's work emphasizes the importance of recognizing and leveraging family and community assets to enrich classroom learning.

Episode Links:

• Reading Is Fundamental (RIF): www.rif.org
• Parent Teacher Home Visits: pthvp.org
• Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s TED Talk on the Single Story: Watch here

Host Links:

• Seth Fleischauer: Learn more about Seth’s work at Banyan Global Learning, where he helps educators bring cultural and digital competence and transformative learning into classrooms worldwide.

Leigh Anne Scherer, Technology Director at North Clackamas School District, navigated the unprecedented challenges of transitioning to online learning during the pandemic, offering key insights into the role of technology in education.

In this episode, Leigh Anne and Seth discuss:

• The rapid shift to virtual learning in 2020 and the lessons learned from navigating this transformation.
• The importance of ensuring data privacy and security in the adoption of digital curriculum and AI tools.
• How accessibility features in digital tools can enhance learning for all students, with a focus on English learners.
• The experimental approach Leigh Anne's district is taking towards AI, allowing teachers to explore tools while maintaining a cautious stance on student-facing AI applications.
• The parallels between how large language models and humans learn language, and the implications for language learners in the classroom.
• The potential and pitfalls of using AI in education, particularly the risks of relying too heavily on translation tools for English learners.

Subscribe to Make It Mindful to explore more deep-dive conversations about transformative solutions in education, available wherever you get your podcasts.

About today’s guest
Leigh Anne Scherer is the Technology Director for North Clackamas School District in Oregon, where she brings her extensive experience as an English learner educator and school administrator to the role. With a focus on accessibility, data privacy, and innovative uses of technology, Leigh Anne plays a crucial role in guiding her district's approach to digital learning and AI integration.

About your host
Seth Fleischauer is the host of the Make It Mindful podcast and the founder of Banyan Global Learning. With a psychology degree from Princeton and a background in elementary education, Seth's work bridges technology, education, and human connection. His company, Banyan Global Learning, has delivered over 40,000 program hours across four continents, focusing on curricula that emphasize cultural competence.