"Teaching Tales" Podcast
Everyone loves a good story. Why? Because stories are engaging. Stories are relatable. Stories help us remember things. Storytelling is one of the most powerful teaching techniques there is. Need proof? The greatest teacher ever to walk the earth, a carpenter who could walk on water, frequently taught through stories.
And what’s better than a good story? A story with a message! Join Brent and a different guest each episode as they share a story or two from their experiences in education, along with the lessons they've learned that have helped them grow as educators.
So pour yourself a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy as Brent sits down with other teachers and administrators to share some entertaining and inspirational stories of growth.
And what’s better than a good story? A story with a message! Join Brent and a different guest each episode as they share a story or two from their experiences in education, along with the lessons they've learned that have helped them grow as educators.
So pour yourself a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy as Brent sits down with other teachers and administrators to share some entertaining and inspirational stories of growth.
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E82: Teaching and Leading During a Global Pandemic
October 3, 2020
In this episode, Brent is interviewed by his pastor, John Hansen, for his church's weekly podcast. Brent discusses the joys and challenges of teaching and leading through a global pandemic, offers encouragement and suggestions for teachers and parents, and reminds us we're making more of a difference than we may realize.
E81: What's Your Green Sauce?
August 9, 2020
In an episode borne from his recent blog post, Brent talks about how we should make our classrooms more like...wait for it...El Pollo Loco. That's right. El Pollo Loco. As most of us prepare to begin the new school year in a virtual model, this episode will remind you that our lessons, as great as they might be, may not be what get students up in the morning.
E80: Nyree Clark, Tory Wadlington & An Honest Conversation About Equality
June 16, 2020
Nyree and Tory are both educators in Southern California, Nyree a Curriculum Program Specialist for Technology in the Colton Joint Unified School District, and Tory an elementary special education teacher in the Murrieta Valley Unified School District. In this episode, Nyree, Tory and Brent have an honest conversation about equality, racism, white privilege, and what we can do to make our classrooms and schools inclusive and safe for all students, staff, and families.
E79: John Eick & Lessons Learned From Distance Learning (So Far)
April 19, 2020
John is a passionate educator doing amazing things as the Executive Director of Westlake Charter School in Sacramento, California. In this broadcast, released on both Teaching Tales and the Learn with John Eick Podcast, John and Brent swap stories and lessons learned after one month of distance learning.
E78: Dr. Ed Tse & Fostering Creativity
April 15, 2020
Dr. Ed is the Vice President of Strategy and Content and co-owner of NUITEQ. As a professional and parent, he is deeply concerned about how we can make education relevant for careers that don’t yet exist. In this episode, he chats with Brent about the importance of fostering creativity in students and their teachers.
E77: Solomon Petchers & Writing a Book for Kids
March 15, 2020
Solomon is a veteran educator with more than 20 years classroom experience currently teaching middle school in Southern California. He is also the author of two books for children and young adults, A Ghost in the Attic and Feasters: An Apocalyptic Tale. If you've ever dreamed of writing a book for kids, this episode is for you as Solomon shares the journey he has taken to write and self-publish his two books. You can learn more about Solomon at SolomonPetchers.com.
E76: Jill Coley & How to Better Serve Students in Foster Care
March 8, 2020
Along with his dad and daughter, Brent's amazing wife becomes the third member of the family to be a guest on Teaching Tales. Jill has worked in the field of social work for 25 years and is currently the Chief of Child and Family Programs at International Christian Adoptions, a foster care and adoption agency in Southern California. In this episode, Jill shares valuable information and tips on how all educators, regardless of role, can better serve foster students in their classrooms and schools.
** Click/tap here for a collection of resources referred to in this episode. **
** Click/tap here for a collection of resources referred to in this episode. **
E75: Todd Schmidt & The Importance of Self Care
March 1, 2020
Todd is in his eighth year as an elementary principal in Southern California. Before moving into administration, he spent 13 years as a classroom teacher and two as an assistant principal. Todd is an active member of the educational community, sharing his wisdom, experiences, and resources on Twitter and through his blog. In this broadcast, Todd and Brent chat about self care, both why it's important and practical ways to make it happen.
E74: Amber Teamann & Leading with Appreciation
February 23, 2020
Amber is the proud principal of Whitt Elementary in Wylie ISD in Wylie, Texas. She has co-created a space on Facebook for principals, by principals, that shares staff appreciation and motivation ideas, tips, and tricks to ensure the well being of a campus staff. Amber is also the co-author of Lead With Appreciation, a book filled with practical strategies to revolutionize campus culture. In this episode, Amber and Brent share stories about the importance of expressing appreciation to those we serve.
E73: Dean Deaver & Podcasting with Students
February 16, 2020
Dean is a 3rd grade teacher in the Riverside Unified School District in Southern California. A 22-year veteran in the classroom, his students create their own podcast called the Deaver Scholars Podcast to highlight the amazing things happening in their classroom and school. In this episode, Dean and Brent share stories of the many positive effects of podcasting with students.
E72: Meredith Johnson & Connecting Educators Through the Power of Books
February 2, 2020
Meredith is a veteran educator in Florida with over 40 years of experience as a substitute, classroom teacher, and building principal at the elementary and middle school levels. Though officially retired, Meredith is still impacting educators around the world through #BookCampPD, a weekly Twitter chat she created to connect educators with each other and with the outstanding educational books available to help teachers and administrators grow their practice. In this episode, Meredith shares stories about the impact #BookCampPD has had on those who have participated.
E71: Sarah Johnson & Leading With Faith, Not Fear
January 22, 2020
Sarah is a former English Teacher and building principal turned author and entrepreneur who is living her own leap of faith on a mission to teach masses. She is a co-author of Balance Like a Pirate, the author of Lead with Faith, and a state and national conference speaker around topics of balance, resilience, and faith. In this episode, Sarah and Brent share stories of the importance of living in faith, not fear.
E70: Ann Kozma & Amplifying Student Voice with Flipgrid
December 4, 2019
Ann is an Educator Innovation Lead at Flipgrid, helping teachers all over the world engage and empower their students by recording and sharing short videos. In this episode, Ann shares a TON of powerful ways educators can easily use Flipgrid to amplify student voice. You don't want to miss this episode!
E69: Ashleigh Burnette & Lessons Learned From Student Teaching
December 1, 2019
Ashleigh is an incredibly talented instructional assistant at Brent's school who is currently finishing up her student teaching as she prepares to embark on her teaching career. In this episode, Ashleigh shares some of the important lessons she's learned from her time in the classroom, both as an aide and student teacher.
E68: Meghan Coley & A Student's Perspective on What Makes Teachers Great and School Memorable
August 27, 2019
Brent's talented daughter, a recent high school graduate, joins him as a guest in this special episode of the podcast. Before heading off to college to further her education, Meghan sits down and shares a student's perspective on what makes teachers great and school memorable.
E67: Kristen Koppers & Differentiating Instruction
July 24, 2019
Kristen is a National Board Certified Teacher in Illinois, currently teaching high school English to 10th and 12th grade students. She is also a blogger, presenter, and author, having recently published Differentiated Instruction in the Teaching Profession with EduMatch Publishing. In this episode, Kristen shares how differentiating instruction is more than simply giving students different assignments.
E66: Jeff Kubiak & The Big Impact of Small Acts of Kindness
July 16, 2019
Jeff is the principal of Nelda Mundy Elementary School in California. Before moving into administration, he taught for 10 years as an elementary school teacher in grades 4, 5, and 6. Jeff is also the author of One Drop of Kindness, a children's book that beautifully illustrates the fact that it only takes one drop of kindness to fill a heart with love. In this episode, Jeff and Brent share stories of how acts of kindness, even the really small ones, can pay big dividends.
E65: Crystal Chavez & The Importance of Caring for Students (and Ourselves)
June 27, 2019
Crystal has been an educator for more than a dozen years, spending the first half of her career teaching in a brick and mortar school and the last several years teaching online. She has a passion for Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), presenting at conferences and writing on the subject on her blog Teacher Love Tribe. In this episode, Crystal and Brent share stories and tips on how we can focus on and nurture the wellness of not only our students but ourselves as well.
E64: Tamara Letter & A Passion for Kindness
June 20, 2019
Tamara is a mom, educator, and writer. A veteran of over 20 years in education , she has served as a classroom teacher, differentiation specialist, technology integration specialist, and instructional coach. Tamara is also the author of A Passion for Kindness, a book in which she shares her own kindness journey and showcases experiences from other kindness cultivators around the world. In this episode, Tamara and Brent share stories of how simple acts of kindness can positively change the world of those around us.
E63: Brent Coley & EduInfluence: The Power of Relationships
May 9, 2019
In this episode, Brent reads a chapter from his book Stories of EduInfluence, sharing several stories illustrating the life-changing impact we can make when we put relationships over rules.
E62: Brandon Blom & The Journey Toward Standards-Based Grading
April 11, 2019
Brandon is the Director of Educational Technology for the Roseville City School District in Northern California. He is passionate about making school fun for students and staff, as well as looking critically at what we do in our schools so we can meet the needs of our students. Brandon has been a CUE Rockstar Teacher camp presenter, CUE Rockstar Admin presenter, CUE Rockstar Admin Keynote, NAESP presenter, district keynote speaker, and Education Conference keynote speaker. In this broadcast, Brandon shares the story of the journey his district is making to switch to standards-based grading.
E61: Chuck Poole & Making an Unforgettable Impact with Students
April 3, 2019
Chuck is a classroom teacher of 20 years, currently teaching Language Arts at the middle school level in New Jersey. He is also the creator of the fantastic teaching resource Teachonomy, the host of the Teachonomy Talks Podcast, and the author of uNnforgettable: Your Roadmap to Being the Teacher They Never Forget. In this broadcast, Chuck shares powerful stories about the impact we make and how we can be the teacher students never forget.
E60: John Martinez & Making an Impact Regardless of Your Position
March 27, 2019
John is an elementary principal in the Rowland Unified School District in Southern California. He is also the co-host of the fantastic podcast "Between the Johns" where he and John Staumont share their ideas, questions, and connections between leadership, Personal Learning Networks, and their work towards supporting, scaling, and sustaining technology integration and innovation. In this episode, John and Brent share stories of how we can all make an impact with students, regardless of our position.
E59: Albert Thomas & Fostering Creativity in Students (and Adults)
January 27, 2019
Albert is an educational leader with more than fifteen years in the field of education. His passion is to develop and curate unique and innovative solutions that improve the quality of the learning experience and to inspire educators by telling stories through cinematic, documentary-style films. Albert shares a multitude of resources on his website at educopilot.com and, in this episode, he and Brent share powerful stories of the importance of giving students (and adults) opportunities to be creative, without the fear of failure.
E58: Craig Badura & Overcoming Fear in the Classroom
January 21, 2019
Craig is a K-12 Technology Integration Specialist and high school golf coach for Aurora Public Schools in Aurora, Nebraska. An active contributor online, he shares resources for teachers at thedigitaldogpound.com and on his website at craigbadura.com. In this episode, Craig and Brent share stories about overcoming the fear of failure when it comes to trying new things in the classroom.
E57: Jon Corippo & Building School Culture
January 17, 2019
Back for a second "Teaching Tales" episode, Jon is the Executive Director of CUE, leading cutting-edge professional learning opportunities for educators throughout California and Nevada. He is an Apple Distinguished Educator, Google Certified Innovator, and the creator of CUE Rock Star Camps and CUE Bold. Jon has helped create countless game-changing moments for teachers and administrators, and in this broadcast he and Brent share stories about the importance of building school culture.
E56: Brian Kulak & Laughter in Education
December 31, 2018
A veteran in the field of education for 20 years, Brian is a former English Journalism teacher, Chief Academic Officer, and current K-5 principal in New Jersey. His blog, leveluplead.com, combines shared educational experience with his analogous style to challenge readers to see themselves and their leadership differently. He is also the author of Level Up Leadership, a book in which Brian challenges readers to advance their EduGame through an extended analogy between gaming and educational leadership. In this Episode, Brian and Brent share humorous stories from their careers. From unexpected moments to funny things kids say, get ready to smile and laugh!
E55: Dene Gainey & Reaching (Not Just Teaching) Students
December 15, 2018
Dene has been a teacher for 12 years and is passionate about making connections with students. As he states, "It's one thing to teach. It's another thing to reach." Dene is also the author of Journey to the "Y" In You, a book helping educators discover their "why" so they can be their best for students. In this episode, Dene shares powerful stories about how teaching is more than just delivering content.
E54: Brent Coley & The Power of Sharing
December 7, 2018
In this short, bonus episode of Teaching Tales, there's no special guest, just Brent flying solo to share a powerful story about how sharing our wisdom and resources can have a life-changing impact on others.
E53: Eduardo Rivera & Gamification
November 8, 2018
Eduardo is an instructional technology specialist in the Palm Springs Unified School District. He enjoys researching new technology and is constantly looking to improve the learning environment for students. Eduardo blogs and shares resources on his website at EdTechEddie.com, and in this episode, he shares stories of how gaming can be leveraged to enhance student learning.
E52: Sam Fecich & Investing in the Teachers of Tomorrow
October 2, 2018
Sam is a professor at Grove City College in Pennsylvania who works with preservice teachers in the areas of educational technology and special education. She is also the author of EduMagic: A Guide for Preservice Teachers, a book providing positive examples, helpful tools, and plenty of encouragement for preservice teachers to learn, to dream, and to do. In this episode, Sam and Brent talk about the importance of investing in teachers before they enter the classroom.
E51: Heidi Baynes, Taylor Rodriguez & What Students Remember
September 16, 2018
Heidi is a Coordinator of Educational Technology at the Riverside County Office of Education and has a background in social studies. Taylor is working as an instructional aide while earning her credential to become a special education teacher, and she is a former student of Heidi. In this broadcast, Heidi, Taylor, and Brent share stories of what they remember from some of their favorite teachers, and how those memories have little to do with curriculum.
E50: Toby Price & Knowing Our "Why"
July 31, 2018
Toby is a former elementary school teacher and current Principal of Richland Upper Elementary School in Richland, Mississippi. He is a passionate educator who actively shares encouragement, resources, and expertise through his blog and on Twitter. As his Twitter profile reads, he loves his wife, kids, tweeting about tech, teaching, #parenting, #comics, #autism, books & #StarWars. In this episode, Toby and Brent chat about the importance of knowing our "why."
E49: Mandy Froehlich & How Our Past Can Make Us Stronger
June 11, 2018
Mandy is a Director of Innovation and Technology where she provides professional development and teacher coaching as well as co-teaching in the area of technology integration. She is also a Google for Education Certified Trainer and an ambassador for Canvas LMS. She is the author of The Fire Within: Lessons From Defeat That Have Ignited a Passion for Learning, a compilation of stories from educators who have faced personal adversity head on and have become stronger people for it. In this broadcast, Mandy shares stories of how negative experiences from our past can help us become stronger educators.
E48: Brian Costello & The Value of a Mentor
May 28, 2018
Brian is a Digital Innovation Specialist, Google Certified Innovator/Trainer, author of the book The Teacher's Journey, and host of a podcast by the same name. He shares a multitude of resources on his website at Costello's Corner, and in this episode, Brian shares stories of the positive impact a mentor had on his career.
E47: Jon Harper & Learning From Our Mistakes
May 14, 2018
Jon is currently the assistant principal at Sandy Hill Elementary School in Cambridge, Maryland. A firm believer in the power of educators sharing their stories, he hosts the podcast "My Bad" where teachers and administrators share stories of mistakes they've made and the lessons learned from those mistakes. In this episode, Jon and Brent share stories of times they missed the mark and how they're now better educators because of those experiences.
E46: Sarah Thomas & The Power of Connecting with Other Educators
April 28, 2018
Sarah is a Regional Technology Coordinator in Prince Georges County, MD. She is passionate about blended learning, gamification, and helping educators connect globally. Sarah founded EduMatch in September 2014, an online resource designed to leverage the power of social media to help foster collaboration and connections among educators around the globe. In this broadcast, Sarah shares stories of how tools like EduMatch can transform your practice by connecting with like-minded educators around the world.
E45: Ryan O'Donnell & Building Grit
April 22, 2018
Ryan is currently a Teacher on Special Assignment and high school video production teacher in Northern California. An educator since 1997, Ryan is an advocate for all things tech. He is on the board of CapCUE and is also the co-host of the "Check This Out" podcast where he and Brian Briggs chat weekly about new ed tech resources and ideas. You can find his blog and other great resources on his website at creativeedtech.com. In this episode, Ryan and Brent share stories about the importance of building grit in students and ourselves.
E44: Mark French & Building School Culture
April 8, 2018
Mark has been an educator for 36 years, the last 21 as a site principal. He is a past president of the Minnesota Elementary School Principals' Association and in 2015 was named a National Distinguished Principal. Mark blogs at PrincipalFrench.com and is passionate about enhancing his knowledge and skill in using technology to increase teachers’ confidence, student learning, and communication. In this broadcast, Mark shares stories of how simple it is to improve school culture through actions like a Good News Call of the Day.
E43: Angela Maiers & Noticing the Value in Others
March 25, 2018
Angela has been creating and leading change in education and enterprise for 31 years, teaching every level of school from grade school to graduate school and consulting with companies around the world. She founded Choose2Matter to bring the world hope by helping every individual embrace their value and potential contribution. Initially launched to challenge and inspire students to work collaboratively to develop innovative solutions to social problems, Choose2Matter has evolved into a movement that support parents, educators, and employees around the world. In this broadcast, Angela shares powerful stories of the incredible impact we can have when we notice and communicate the value in others.
E42: Shawn Wisley & Reflecting On Our Own Past Practices
March 12, 2018
Shawn currently serves as an assistant principal in Selma, California. Before moving into administration, he taught high school Spanish for 17 years in San Diego. He is a Google Certified Educator (Level One), one of the moderators of #CAedchat (Sundays, 8pm), and blogs at mrwisley.blogspot.com. In this episode, Shawn shares stories reminding us that reflecting on our past practices, even the ones we're not proud of, is necessary in order to grow as educators.
E41: Kyle Anderson & How Risk Can Lead to Growth
March 5, 2018
Kyle is currently a high school physical education teacher in Las Vegas, Nevada. He previously taught US Government, US History, and AP US History, was a technology learning strategist, and served as a middle school Dean of Students. Kyle is also a Google Certified Educator Level 1 & 2, a Remind Connected Educator, and Vice President of CUE Nevada. In this episode, Kyle shares his personal story of how taking risks throughout his career has helped him grow as an educator.
E40: Pam Gildersleeve-Hernandez & Shifting to a Culture of Love and Care
February 4, 2018
Pam is the superintendent/principal of the San Antonio Union School District in Northern California, serving students in a small, rural community. She is also the Vice President of San Louis Obispo ACSA and a board member for SLOCUE. In this broadcast, Pam shares several powerful stories about the impact building a culture of love and care can have on students.
E39: Joe Sanfelippo & Being Intentional About Building Relationships
January 28, 2018
Joe is the Superintendent of the Fall Creek School District in Fall Creek, WI. He co-hosts the Successful Schools Podcast and co-authored The Power of Branding--Telling Your School's Story, Principal Professional Development: Leading Learning in a Digital Age and Hacking Leadership: 10 Ways Great Leaders Inspire Learning That Teachers, Students and Parents Love. In this broadcast, Joe shares some powerful stories to encourage educators in any position and at any level that we must be intentional about building relationships with those we serve.
E38: Dave Burgess & Preheating the Grill of Learning
January 15, 2018
Dave is the New York Times best-selling author of Teach Like a Pirate and a highly sought after keynote speaker well known for his outrageously energetic performance style and inspirational, yet practical, message. He is also the president of Dave Burgess Consulting, Inc., a disruptive publishing company specializing in innovative, creative books and professional development programs designed to transform education and uplift educators to reach their full potential. In this broadcast, Dave shares stories of how teachers can make their lessons sizzle by "preheating the grill," rather than simply introducing content to a "cold" group of students.
E37: Students Answer the Question "What Makes School Memorable?"
January 8, 2018
How can teachers and administrators make school a can't-miss experience for students? In this episode, Brent goes to the experts for an answer, as he is joined by Jillian and Zavian, two of the amazing 5th grade students at his school. In this broadcast, you'll hear about what really matters to students, as Jillian and Zavian each share stories of their favorite memories of elementary school.
E36: Brent Coley & The Power of the Simple Things
December 13, 2017
In this short, bonus episode of Teaching Tales, there's no special guest. Just Brent sharing the powerful story of how he was reminded that while something may be simple in the eyes of adults, it can be huge in the eyes of students.
E35: Adam Welcome & Making Goals, Not Excuses
December 11, 2017
Adam is currently the Director of Innovation for a large school district in the Bay Area of California. A "20 To Watch" Technology Leader for the National School Board Association, Adam is passionate about technology integration in schools and a huge advocate of social media and connecting with other educators from across the country. He is the co-author of Kids Deserve It! and author of Run Like a Pirate, set for release in 2018. Along with Todd Nesloney, Adam also hosts a podcast series called “Kids Deserve It” where they interview inspiring educators and allow them to share their stories with the world. In this episode, Adam shares inspiring stories of the power of goal setting and how the biggest obstacle we sometimes face is selling ourselves short.
E34: Todd Nesloney & The Responsibility to Share Our Stories
December 5, 2017
Todd is the Principal/Lead Learner at a PreK-5 school in Novasota, Texas. He is the award-winning co-author of Kids Deserve It! and author of the soon-to-be-released Stories from Webb. Todd has been recognized by the National School Board Association as one of the “20 to Watch in Education," by the Center for Digital Education as one of their “Top 40 Innovators in Education,” and by the White House as a "Connected Educator Champion of Change.” Along with Adam Welcome, Todd also hosts a podcast series called “Kids Deserve It” where they interview inspiring educators and allow them to share their stories with the world. In this broadcast, Todd and Brent chat about the responsibility teachers have to share their stories and experiences, as they may be just the thing others need to hear.
E33: Cate Tolnai & Gamification
November 13, 2017
Cate is the Director of Member Engagement for CUE, California's organization dedicated to inspiring innovative learners in all disciplines from preschool through college. A Google Certified Trainer, she is a leading innovator and passionate learner of educational technology practices and strategies to make the profession reflective of current social and emotional trends. In this episode, Cate and Brent share stories of "gamification" and how incorporating game mechanics in the classroom and professional development can increase engagement and enhance learning.
E32: Eric Sheninger & Giving Up Control
October 30, 2017
Eric is a Senior Fellow and Thought Leader on Digital Leadership with the International Center for Leadership in Education (ICLE). Prior to this he was the award-winning Principal at New Milford High School. Under his leadership his school became a globally recognized model for innovative practices. Eric oversaw the successful implementation of several sustainable change initiatives that radically transformed the learning culture at his school while increasing achievement. He shares resources on his website and has authored the books Digital Leadership, Uncommon Learning, BrandEd, and Learning Transformed. In this episode, Eric shares his story of how giving up the need to be in total control led to transformational changes to student learning and culture in his school.
E31: Rob Lurkins & Expecting the Unexpected
October 12, 2017
Rob has been a teacher, teacher on special assignment, assistant principal, and now serves as Principal of Murrieta Elementary School in Murrieta, California. His instructional leadership skills, technology expertise, and passion have helped his teachers and students excel under his leadership. In this episode, Rob and Brent share stories of how things don't always go as planned, and how as teachers and administrators, we must always keep calm and expect the unexpected.
E30: Dennis Grice & The Joys and Challenges of Teaching Abroad
September 18, 2017
Dennis, a Google Certified Teacher and STAR Discovery Educator, has been a cutting-edge teacher for 20 years. He is currently in his third year as Technology Coordinator at Concordia International School in Shanghai, China. Dennis is also the co-host of the Tech Talk Roundtable podcast, sharing valuable information about integrating technology in education. In this episode, Dennis joins Brent to share stories of the joys and challenges of teaching in another country.
E29: Michelle McCarthy & The Social-Emotional Side of Perseverance
September 11, 2017
Michelle has been a teacher for over 20 years and is currently a literacy coach in the Murrieta Valley Unified School District. In addition to providing outstanding instructional support for students and teachers, Michelle is passionate about building relationships with students to build perseverance. She has helped found the nonprofit organization Project 99 to help raise awareness and prevent suicide across the nation. In this episode, Michelle shares powerful stories about the need to foster the social-emotional side of perseverance, and how doing so can literally save a life.
E28: George Garcia & Becoming Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable
September 4, 2017
An educator for 10 years, George is currently an instructional coach in the Santa Clara Unified School District, helping teachers incorporate STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) and Project-Based Learning into their classrooms. He is Leading Edge Certified and a Google Certified Educator Level 1 and 2. In this episode, George shares stories of how we can build grit and perseverance not just in students, but in ourselves. To do so, we must learn to break out of our comfort zones, to become comfortable with being uncomfortable.
E27: A Parent's Perspective on the Importance of Building Relationships with Students
August 28, 2017
In this broadcast, Brent sits down with two actively involved parents at his school, Railene Flores and Cassie Lira. Where previous episodes of Teaching Tales have had teachers and administrators share their stories, this episode provides a parent's perspective on what makes a school successful. Through their stories, Railene and Cassie highlight how a teacher connecting with his/her students can make all the difference in the world.
E26: Amy Fadeji & Starting a New School Year Off Right
July 24, 2017
Amy is the principal of Penngrove Elementary in Petaluma, California. Before moving into administration she taught second and third grade in Alabama and California. Amy is passionate about supporting teachers, modeling and encouraging risk-taking, and collaborating with other educators in her community and all over the world. She shares inspiration and resources through her blog at http://mrsfadeji.blogspot.com, and in this episode, Amy and Brent share stories of how to make the first few days of school the best they can be, both for students and staff.
E25: Ann Kozma & The Positive Impact of Technology in the Classroom
July 17, 2017
Ann was a 1st grade teacher for 10 years and is currently a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) in Fullerton School District, supporting both teachers and students with the innovative and instructional use of technology. She is an Apple Distinguished Educator, Google Certified Educator, and Leading Edge Certified. In this broadcast, Ann and Brent share stories of how integrating technology in the classroom can push student engagement through the roof and take learning to a whole new level -- even in kindergarten and even if you’re not in a 1-to-1 environment!
E24: Jon Corippo & Game-Changing Moments
July 10, 2017
Jon is the Chief Innovation Officer for CUE, leading cutting-edge professional learning opportunities for educators throughout California and Nevada. He is an Apple Distinguished Educator, Google Certified Innovator, and the creator of CUE Rock Star Camps and CUE Bold. Jon has helped create countless game-changing moments for teachers and administrators, and in this broadcast he joins Brent to share some of his own eye-opening experiences that took his practice to a whole new level.
E23: John Eick & The Power of Appreciation Pt. 2
June 19, 2017
John, the Executive Director of Westlake Charter School in Sacramento, California, is back for another episode!. A passionate educator, John shares resources through his high-energy podcast "Learn With John Eick" and website of the same name. In this broadcast, John and Brent continue their conversation started in Episode 20, sharing more powerful stories about the power of a "Thank You." If you haven't yet listened to Episode 20, start there and then come back to Episode 23!
E22: Weston Kieschnick & Old School Wisdom + New School Technology
June 12, 2017
Weston is a Senior Fellow at the International Center for Leadership in Education. A former high school history teacher, assistant principal, and district administrator, he now provides teacher development, coaching, and keynotes to educators all over the country, specializing in blended learning and educational technology. Weston and his wife Molly host Teaching Keating, an acclaimed podcast where pop-culture and pedagogy collide. Bold School, his book about combining old-school wisdom and new-school technology to create blended learning that works, will be available July 5. In this broadcast, Weston joins Brent to share stories about how teachers are combining innovative technology with tried and true practices to take student learning to the next level.
E21: Jennifer Wagner & Online Student Projects
June 5, 2017
Jennifer is back for another episode! If you haven't yet listened to Episode 1, be sure to take some time to do so as Jen and Brent share stories about a teacher's influence. Jennifer is a K-8 technology teacher, Google Certified Teacher, BrainPOP Ambassador, and Discovery Education Guru. In this broadcast, Jen talks about how she helps teachers all over the world collaborate with each other through her online projects at Projects By Jen.
E20: John Eick & The Power of Appreciation
May 29, 2017
John, a former high school drama teacher, assistant principal and principal, is the Executive Director of Westlake Charter School in Sacramento, California. A passionate educator, John shares resources through his high-energy podcast "Learn With John Eick" and website of the same name. In this broadcast, John and Brent share stories about the power of "Thank You" and how affirming those around you can have an immeasurable impact.
E19: Chris Passafume & Creating Engaging Classroom Environments
May 22, 2017
Chris is in his 12th year in education, currently teaching 3rd grade teacher at Monte Vista Elementary School in Murrieta, California. Always looking to create engaging experiences for his students, Chris brings high-interest activities like PlayStation, fidget spinners, and fantasy football into his classroom. He also shares resources with his students and their families through his website at teampassafume.com. In this broadcast, Chris and Brent share stories of how making your classroom a can't-miss destination can lead to increased student engagement and learning.
E18: Cori Orlando & Stepping Out of Our Comfort Zones
May 15, 2017
Cori is a mother, teacher, and encourager of others. She is currently a Teacher On Special Assignment (TOSA) in the Simi Valley Unified School District. She is a Google Certified Educator (Level 1 and 2) and the co-moderator of the #SVTChat, #SVTBook, and #VCHSChat Twitter chats. She also regularly provides inspiration and encouragement through her blog Leading In Limbo. In this broadcast, Cori and Brent share stories of how moving out of our comfort zones, while sometimes uncomfortable, can stretch and grow us.
E17: Tony Vincent & The Impact of Making Connections with Other Educators
May 8, 2017
Tony is a former 5th grade teacher now working as an educational consultant, sharing resources through his website at learninginhand.com. He has worked with educators in almost every state, Canada, Australia, England, and the Caribbean to facilitate workshops and make presentations to K-12 educators and students. He has authored books, produced videos, developed an iPad app, and blogged about learning and technology. In 2001 he had a 1:1 classroom full of Palm Pilots, and in 2005 he started one of the first podcasts from an elementary school (Radio WillowWeb). In this broadcast, Tony and Brent share stories about the incredible influence educators can have by connecting and sharing with others.
E16: John Stevens & Promoting Parent-Student Conversation
May 1, 2017
John is an educational technology coach for Chaffey Joint Union High School District who has taught high school Geometry, Algebra 1, middle school Math, Service Learning, and Robotics, Engineering, and Design. He co-founded and moderates #CAedchat, the weekly teacher Twitter chat for the state of California, and is the co-founder and organizer of EdCamp Palm Springs. John is also the co-author of The Classroom Chef, a book designed to help teachers take risks in their classrooms and encourage them to prepare a lesson like a fine meal. In this broadcast, John shares stories that prompted him to write Table Talk Math, a book encouraging parents to engage in math-based conversations with their children.
E15: Dr. Todd Schmidt & The Best Parts of Being a Principal
April 24, 2017
Todd is in his fifth year as the principal of Harbor View Elementary in Corona del Mar, California. Before becoming the lead learner at Harbor View, he spent 13 years as a classroom teacher and two as an assistant principal. Todd is an active member of the educational community, sharing his wisdom, experiences, and resources on Twitter and through his blog. In this broadcast, Todd and Brent chat about the best parts of being a principal.
E14: Kelly Ruiz, Donnie Walton & Reflecting on Homework Practices
April 17, 2017
Kelly and Donnie are two of the amazing teachers at Brent's school, teaching fourth and fifth grade respectively. True lifelong learners, they are both passionate about student learning and always looking to improve their craft. In this broadcast, Kelly and Donnie sit down with Brent to share stories of how they are reflecting on their homework practices, tackling the question "Why are we doing what we're doing?"
E13: Jeff Bradbury & The Power of Podcasting
April 10, 2017
Jeff is the Coordinator for Technology Integration for the Westwood Regional School District in New Jersey. He is also the creator of TeacherCast.net, TeacherCast University, and Educational Podcasting Today. Jeff is an ASCD Emerging Leader, Google Certified Teacher, Google Education Trainer, PBS Learning Media Digital Innovator, Microsoft Innovative Educator, Microsoft Surface Expert, speaker, writer, podcaster, broadcaster, consultant, and educational media specialist. In this broadcast, Jeff and Brent share stories about the impact podcasting can have on students and teachers.
E12: Rushton Hurley & Making Staff Meetings Can't-Miss Events
April 3, 2017
Rushton is back for another episode! A former Japanese language teacher and principal of an online high school, Rushton is the founder and executive director of Next Vista for Learning, a free library of videos by and for teachers and students at NextVista.org. He now trains teachers and other professionals all over the world and shares inspiration in his book Making Your School Something Special. In this broadcast, Rushton and Brent share stories about staff meetings (yes, staff meetings) and how they don't have to be something teachers just survive, but rather engaging, can't-miss events.
E11: Scott Bedley & Our Favorite Teachers
March 28, 2017
Scott has been a passionate educator in Southern California for over 20 years. Currently teaching 5th grade, he was selected 2014 Orange County Teacher of the Year, was a California State Teacher of the Year Finalist, and was the winner of the 2013 Project Tomorrow's Innovative STEM Teacher Award. Scott is also the co-creator of Global School Play Day, creator of Technology Applied Science Fair, and co-host of two podcasts (The Bedley Bros and Grumpy Old Teachers). In this broadcast, Scott and Brent share stories about the best teachers they had growing up and what we can learn from those teachers.
E10: Monique Petrucci & The Power of Apology
March 20, 2017
Monique works alongside Brent as one of the amazing teachers at his school, teaching transitional kindergarten and kindergarten. Anyone who thinks kindergarten lacks rigor and is all about nap time has never visited Monique's classroom. Students under her instruction are developing critical thinking skills, performing at incredibly high levels, building community, and most importantly, loving learning. In this episode, Monique and Brent transparently share personal stories of falling short with students and the incredible power of an apology.
E9: Tim Bedley & How I Became a Teacher
March 13, 2017
Tim has been providing students innovative learning experiences for nearly 30 years. Always looking for new ways to engage his students, Tim has transformed his classroom by incorporating outside-the-box lessons, flexible seating, and Gallery Learning. He is the co-founder of Global School Play Day and shares his experience and expertise at educational conferences and through his two podcasts: The Bedley Bros. (with his brother Scott) and the 5-Minute MishMash. In this episode, Tim and Brent share their unique stories of how they got into education and what they learned through the process.
E8: Cassie Caldwell & Making the Unexpected Difference
March 6, 2017
Cassie serves alongside Brent as the Assistant Principal of Alta Murrieta Elementary School. Before moving into administration, Cassie served as Resource Specialist, Read 180/System 44 teacher, and Intervention Specialist. In this broadcast, Cassie and Brent share stories of how we won't always see all the fruits of our labor, that we make a big impact in the lives of students, even when we don't realize it.
E7: Rushton Hurley & Making Connections with Students
February 27, 2017
Rushton is the founder and executive director of Next Vista for Learning, a free library of videos by and for teachers and students at NextVista.org. A former Japanese language teacher, principal of an online high school, and educational technology researcher, Rushton now trains teachers and other professionals all over the world and shares inspiration in his book Making Your School Something Special. In this broadcast, Rushton and Brent share stories about connecting with students and how those connections can transcend curriculum and create lifelong memories for students.
E6: Don Coley & The Importance of Relationships
February 20, 2017
Recognize the last name? Yep, Don is Brent's dad. Don has more than 35 years of experience in executive-level marketing and management and is the author of A Steward’s Journey, Solving the Money Maze. Since 2006, Don has served as Teen Challenge of Southern California’s Chief Administrative Officer, teaching both formally and informally on a daily basis. In this broadcast, Brent and his dad share stories of how good teaching starts with relationships.
E5: Pat Kelley & How Personal Shapes Professional
February 13, 2017
Pat Kelley has worn many hats during his career in education. He has served as a middle school teacher, Coordinator of Child Welfare and Attendance, Assistant Principal, Principal, Director and Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, and now serves as Superintendent of Murrieta Valley Unified School District. In this broadcast, Pat and Brent share stories of how our personal experiences can help shape us professionally.
E4: Lisa Dabbs & The Power of Collaboration
February 6, 2017
Lisa started her career as an elementary school teacher in Southern California before moving into administration where she served as an elementary principal for 14 years. Now an educational and social media consultant, Lisa is passionate about supporting and mentoring new and pre-service teachers, committed to the mission that no teacher should have to go through his or her teaching days alone. In this episode, Lisa and Brent share stories about how connecting with other educators can pay huge dividends.
E3: Bill Selak & Taking Risks as Admin
January 30, 2017
Before becoming the Director of Technology at Hillbrook School in Northern California, Bill taught elementary music, kindergarten, and second grade. He is an ISTE Kay L. Bitter Vision Award winner, ISTE Emerging Leader, Google Certified Innovator, and is Leading Edge Certified. He shares all things #eduawesome via his website, Twitter, and Snapchat (@billselak). In this episode, Bill and Brent share stories about taking risks as administrators.
E2: Lori Poliska & Taking Risks in the Classroom
January 23, 2017
Lori has been providing innovative learning experiences for students for over 30 years. Always seeking to improve her practice, she is currently working toward National Board Certification. In this episode, Lori and Brent share stories about flexible seating in the classroom and the need to take risks in order to meet the needs of all students.
E1: Jennifer Wagner & The Power of Observation
January 16, 2017
Jennifer is a Google Certified Teacher, BrainPOP Ambassador, Discovery Education Guru, and helps teachers all over the world collaborate with each other through her online projects at Projects By Jen. In this premiere episode of Teaching Tales, Brent and Jen share a few stories reminding listeners of a teacher's influence.
