Christy Mandin is a New York Times bestselling children's book author, illustrator, and surface designer. She grew up in rural Georgia and credits her country life of solitude as an only child for much of her love of books and nature. You'll find this love of nature along with nostalgia, magic, and whimsy woven into the fabric of her art. When she …

Kwame Sarfo-Mensah has an incredible book hitting shelves TODAY, and it is one of those must read books.In this episode we talk about that book and Kwame's perspective on much more. We explore the importance of understanding one's childhood experiences and how it can help educators better connect with their students. We also discuss the concept of …

Aaron Blabey discusses the creation and conclusion of his beloved children's series, The Bad Guys. He reflects on the balance between humor and deeper messages in storytelling, the emotional journey of saying goodbye to a series that has impacted millions, and the importance of staying true to one's creative vision. Blabey also shares insights on t…

Eliot Schrefer, the New York Times bestselling standout author of many books for kids and teens. The Brightness Between Us is the sequel to The Darkness Outside Us. His books have twice been named finalists for the National Book Award in Young People’s Literature and have garnered a Printz Honor, a Stonewall Honor, and the Green Earth Book Award.Le…

In this conversation, Tricia and Rebecca Skinner discuss the upcoming Neurodiversity Comic Con at Gillen Brewer, emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive spaces for neurodiverse learners. They explore the significance of partnerships, representation in literature, and the role of joy in learning. Rebecca shares insights on the value of comi…

On this week Tricia speaks with Dr. Sirisha Kuchimanchi and Malur Narayan about their new emerging concept to better bridge students with apprenticeships that are meaningful: https://employability.one/Our guests are looking for educator input and perspective. We talk about why that matters now more than ever before.Would you like to connect with th…

This week's episode explores the journey of Heartstopper from its origins as a webcomic to its successful adaptation into a TV series with Author Alice Oseman and Executive Producer Patrick Walters. The creators discuss the importance of staying true to the source material, the emotional resonance of the story, and the collaborative process that br…

In this conversation, Tricia and Daryl Sinclair discuss the launch of Daryl's podcast, DEIJ Hot Takes, which aims to explore diverse perspectives in the DEIJ (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice) space. Daryl shares his journey into the DEIJ field, emphasizing the importance of learning from various practitioners and the need for a platform t…

How can a game help us work on media literacy?On the show this week we talk to Anahita Dalmia about Agents of Influence.Try the game out today:https://www.agentsofinfluencegame.com/As mentioned at the top of the episode:Do you believe in the power of stories?Do you want your students to become active global citizens ready for positive and purposefu…

For Banned Books Week the INCREDIBLE non-profit Pride and Less Prejudice is hosting Banned Together.How can you help them meet their goal for this year?https://www.prideandlessprejudice.org/eventsOleh Tricia Friedman

This week Tricia brings you an espisode of a show she appreciates: The SENIA Happy Hour podcast, where host Lori Boll chats with Tricia Friedman. Tricia shares insights on how algorithms shape our interactions, particularly in education and social media.Be sure to learn more about the show and SENIA: https://www.seniainternational.org/podcast/They …

On the show today Tricia speaks with a renowned expert in HigherED about the ways AI is already shifting the university experience.If you work in K12, what more do we need to understand about that changing landscape?Our guest this week:Dr. Claire Brady is a seasoned executive and recognized change agent and coalition builder with significant experi…

On this week: Alder Van Otterloohttps://aldervanotterloo.com/aboutWe dig into their incredible book and more:https://aldervanotterloo.com/booksThe conversation explores the themes of empathy, understanding, and respect for others, as well as the importance of storytelling and fiction in fostering empathy. It also touches on the intersectionality of…

Kwame Sarfo-Mensah has an incredible book hitting shelves this coming Fall, and it is one of those must read books.In this episode we talk about that book and Kwame's perspective on much more. We explore the importance of understanding one's childhood experiences and how it can help educators better connect with their students. We also discuss the …

On this week:Dr. Kat Schrier discusses the potential of games to help people better connect with themselves and others. She shares her research on using games to enhance compassion, empathy, and reduce biases, as well as her work on a game in Nigeria that teaches about different ethnicities and discrimination. Dr. Schrier also highlights the import…

Skateistan is an international NGO that uses skateboarding as a tool for education and empowerment. It started with a few children in Kabul who were curious about skateboarding and has now grown into a global movement. The organization focuses on providing fun and inclusive spaces for children and at-risk youth to learn, play, and shape their futur…

Earlier this summer we spoke with Nawal Qarooni about her book 'Nourishing Caregiver Collaborations' and the book is just so good we had to follow up....heres' more on why that book is perfect for back to school season.🎙️Connect with our guest and check out her book:https://nqcliteracy.org/https://x.com/nqcliteracy?lang=enLink from Nawalhttps://www…

Shelly Page discusses her upcoming debut novel, Brewed with Love, and the importance of the book cover. The cover reveals hints about the story, including a heartbreak tonic and a romance between the main characters. Shelly also explores the theme of fear in her writing and how it relates to the journey of young characters. She discusses the genre …

On the show this week:Shannon Hobbs-Beckley shares her insights and wisdom on transitioning between jobs and the psychological process of going through a transition. She discusses the distinction between change and transition and the importance of acknowledging the endings and beginnings in the process. Shannon also emphasizes the significance of l…

This week explores the theme of collaboration and inclusion in caregiving and education. Special guest, Nawal Qarooni, discusses the importance of valuing collaboration over competition and highlights the need to shift towards honoring collaboration in our communities. She emphasizes the significance of understanding the unique contributions of eac…

This week Tricia brings you a conversation from her other (other, other) podcast the Shifting Schools podcast. She speaks with an expert in the field of play. Learn more about our guest:Acey Holmes is the founder of BoredLess, this week she discusses the importance of play for adults and its impact on social connection, work culture, and personal w…

Robin Gow discusses their book 'Dear Mothman' and the power of middle grade fiction. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the value of youth literature and the unique perspective it offers. Gow discusses the exploration of monsters and cryptids in the story, drawing on their personal interest in the subject. They also address the themes of …

Tricia interviews Alvina Chamberland, author of the book 'Love the World or Get Killed Trying.' They discuss the connection between writing and publishing, the difference between love and lust, and the power of representation. They also explore the stylistic choice of autofiction and the importance of place in the book. The conversation highlights …

The conversation revolves around the importance of libraries and the challenges they face, particularly in relation to book banning. The hosts of Rogue Librarians discuss their (amazing) show, which focuses on books that have been banned or challenged, and highlight episodes that they are proud of. They also emphasize the role of libraries as commu…

The conversation explores the concept of allyship and how the editors of the book 'Teaching Pride Forward' aim to help readers think critically about it. They emphasize the importance of love and critical love in building connections and doing the work of allyship. The editors discuss how they collaborated and nudged the authors to explore allyship…

Michael Leali discusses the origin story of his book 'Matteo' and its evolution, the collaborative writing process, the emotional challenges of reworking a book, and the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in literature. He also shares insights on supporting LGBTQ+ authors and the release of his third middle-grade novel, 'The Truth About Triangles'…

How will you take action for Pride?On the show this week we talk about a practical, powerful opportunity our communities have.Lindz Amer discusses the return of Queer Kid Stuff, emphasizing the need for community support and the show's impact. The reboot aims to expand topics and combat misinformation. The conversation also delves into lessons for …

The conversation focuses on the importance of reciprocal partnerships in service learning. The speakers discuss the need for deep, meaningful connections with community partners and the challenges of achieving reciprocity. They provide examples of successful reciprocal partnerships and emphasize the power of language in shaping relationships and po…

Amy G., a sports journalist and author, discusses her work on the Smarty Marty series, which has a brand new addition out now. She explains how her career as a sports journalist inspired her to create a children's book series that tackles gender stereotypes in sports. Amy also reflects on her experience as a former athlete and how it has shaped her…

Maymouna discusses her unique perspective on innovation and the importance of leaving a legacy. She shares about her upbringing and how innovation was ingrained in her from a young age. Maymouna emphasizes the power of storytelling and building bridges to connect with others. She also talks about the many ways you can learn with SLC.Learn more abou…

What does it mean to be 'AI for everyone?'CEO and Founder of Latimer, John Pasmore tells us about the vision and CTO Malur Narayan talks about what it means to be accountable to the vision for Latimer.Learn more about Latimer:https://www.latimer.ai/Learn more about their partnerships:https://www.wnycstudios.org/podcasts/otm/segments/why-new-york-am…

Dr. Anthony Muhammad discusses his new book, The Way Forward, and its connection to his previous work. He shares his journey from being a teacher to an administrator and how he became passionate about studying school culture. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on student learning and shares strategies for supporting struggling teams. Dr. Muha…

Dr. Emily Garside discusses her book on Russell T. Davies and the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in media. She shares the inspiration behind her research and the process of writing the book. The conversation explores the impact of representation on individuals and the significance of positive representation in shaping identities. Dr. Garside a…

In this episode, Tricia and Dr. Emily Garside discuss the book 'Seasons of Love' and why a deep dive into Theatre is an amazing way to cultivate critical thinking. They highlight how Rent was a pivotal moment in musical theater history, both in terms of its musical style and the themes it addressed. The conversation also delves into the significanc…

This conversation explores the diverse portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters in the TV show Schitt's Creek and the positive impact it has had on fandom and conversations about queerness. It emphasizes the importance of media literacy and critical analysis when consuming media. The conversation also highlights the significance of Schitt's Creek for Pride M…

"Libraries are one of the few remaining egalitarian institutions left on planet Earth." - Jennifer LaGardeOn this episode Jennifer aka The Library Girls tells us about her brand new podcast project!We also talk about her incredible book and she gives us strategies for better supporting librarians.Learn all about her podcast:https://www.librarygirl.…

Contact Tricia to learn more about the AI 3 Week Cohort in February: tricia@shiftingschools.comLearn more about it www.shiftingschools.comTake 50% off registration with code PLC3W50-----------------------------------------------------------Guest from the episode:Dr. Laura Erickson-Schroth (she/they), MD, MA, is the Chief Medical Officer for The Jed…

On this episode Tricia brings you a look at the coming new season from the Unhinged Collaboration Podcast.On today are the co-founders of ODIS. The mission of ODIS is:"Our goal at ODIS is to create a movement within all international schools (not just IB) and the expat community at large to expand the scope of international education beyond current…

Did you know that according to their own internal research apprx 80% of all content viewed on Netflix is viewed because of their 'recommender service'? How will algorithms increasingly become more influential in shaping our media diets?Thats's the question at the heart of this week's episode which hopes to help you think about your media literacy r…

Tricia shares a bonus episode where she was invited to speak with the new show out this year:The Benjamin Franklin International School Podcast (BFIS podcast)This is a small school podcast with a difference. We aim to showcase our school’s future-oriented vision for learning.Our goal: acting as agents of change in an educational world that must ada…

On this special bonus episode, Tricia is proud to introduce a brand new initiative she's been working on:Sustainable Innovation: By and for K-12 educational leadersNEASC is proud to present this five-part podcast series created by and for educational leaders on themes of key importance including artificial intelligence (AI), technology in education…

Explore how Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSAs) in schools can leverage cutting-edge AI research tools to enhance their advocacy and information design efforts. Specifically, this episode is an exploration of three powerful AI tools - Elicit, ChatPDF, and Consensus - and how they can be used to amplify the GSA's voice and impact.Those three resou…

We are celebrating the one year anniversary of one of my favorite books by the amazing Angeline Aow and Dr. Sadie HollinsCelebrating milestones is so important, so this week we return to a recap of the Book Launch Party for Dr. Sadie Hollins and Angeline Aow's book "Becoming a Totally Inclusive School: A Guide for Teachers and School Leaders." In t…

Explore the profound impacts of digital literacy and political engagement initiatives by CIVIX, and discover resources that can transform classrooms into hubs of critical thought and respectful discourse. This week Tricia switches gears and points you to an episode from her other show: Shifting Schools podcast with her co-host Jeff Utecht.Learn mor…

Discover the ten pivotal reasons why GSAs should embrace AI literacy and the role they play in bias mitigation, representation, and inclusive research. Explore probing questions to guide GSA groups on their AI discovery journey. Let's explore ways to boost activism, and advocacy within the AI landscape from an LGBTQ+ perspective.Want to enter to wi…

In light of Halloween being just around the corner, we are bringing you a repeat episode that explores a remarkable seasonal text to explore with the YA fans in your life!On this episode of the podcast we hear from Shelly Page (with a brief intro from Alex Brown)as she walks us through the process of bringing the soon-to-be-released collection 'Nig…

In this episode Dr. Kraft shatters misconceptions and reveals the power of gaming for building social-emotional skills. How can educators effectively integrate gaming into their SEL programs? Are You Ready To Unlock the Power of Gaming? The power of gaming can be harnessed to forge strong peer connections among students. By instilling the elements …

On this episode we talk about the art of listening, the significance of bringing a critical lens to our media diet, and much MUCH more.It is such an honor to have Bridget Todd on the show.🎙Learn all about our guest:Bridget is the Communications Director at UltraViolet. She got her start teaching courses on writing and social change at Howard Univer…

Zoe Tokushige (she/they) originally hails from Southern California, but has spent the past decade on the East Coast. After attending NYU for a BS in media, culture, and communications, Zoe received an MFA in creative writing from Emerson College before returning to New York to work in publishing. Zoe currently works in pre-press production at Pengu…

Hannah V. Sawyerr was recognized as the Youth Poet Laureate of Baltimore in 2016. Her spoken word has been featured on the BBC’s World Have Your Say program, as well as the National Education Association’s “Do You Hear Us?” campaign. Her written word has been included in gal-dem, Rookie, and xoNecole. She holds a BA in English from Morgan State Uni…