What if school was designed around student agency, real-world learning, and deep relationships—instead of compliance and test scores? In this episode, I take you inside Fannie Lou Hamer Freedom High School, a Big Picture Learning school in the South Bronx that is reimagining what education can be.

I spent two days observing classes, talking with students and teachers, and experiencing firsthand how this school operates within the constraints of the public school system while centering student voice and engagement. You'll hear about:

• How Fannie Lou’s advisory system, looping, and block scheduling create a close-knit, supportive learning environment
• Why students don’t take standardized tests and instead defend portfolios of work
• How extended learning opportunities (ELOs) and internships connect students to real-world experiences
• The role of AI and technology in supporting student-driven, competency-based learning
  What it actually looks like to make relationships the foundation of a school

Fannie Lou’s approach isn’t a magic bullet or an exclusive model—it’s a public school choice within NYC’s Department of Education that any student can opt into. Listen in to hear what’s possible when we trust students, empower teachers, and rethink what high-quality learning truly looks like.

Get the shareable article/transcript for this episode here.

We’re tackling one of the biggest challenges educators face today: keeping students engaged in a world full of distractions.

AJ Juliani joins me to explore how to create meaningful and relevant learning experiences that resonate with today’s learners, even in the age of TikTok, smartphones, and endless notifications.

He’s an educator, author, and speaker who serves as an instructor for the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education (PLN). AJ has worked towards innovative learning experiences as the Director of Learning and Innovation for Centennial School District, as Curriculum Coordinator, as Tech Director, English teacher, football coach, and K-12 Instructional Coach. His favorite role is being dad to five kids. You might know AJ from his books Adaptable, Empower, Launch, or The PBL Playbook.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Why simply removing phones or distractions won’t solve the engagement problem.
• How to balance direct instruction with collaborative, student-centered learning.
• Why meaningful, relevant tasks are more effective than “rigorous” assignments for long-term learning.
• The “traffic light” system for integrating technology and AI into classroom activities.
• How to help students develop focus, self-regulation, and intrinsic motivation.
• Strategies for using choice and ownership to foster deeper learning experiences.
• The surprising truths about rigor, assessment, and knowledge transfer.
• How to create performance tasks that build real-world skills and make learning stick.
• Why human connection and relationships are more vital than ever in education.
• Practical advice for building long-term habits of engagement that go beyond quick fixes.

AJ also shares insights from his latest book and offers actionable strategies for educators who want to make their teaching meaningful and impactful in a rapidly changing world.

Get the shareable article/transcript for this episode here.

Are you considering stepping into a leadership role in education but feeling unsure of where to start? In this episode, I sit down with Starr Sackstein, an experienced educator, consultant, and author, to talk about the journey from teacher to leader. Starr shares her personal story of leaving the classroom, the challenges she faced in leadership, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

We dive into practical steps for preparing yourself for leadership, how to balance progressive ideas with system demands, and the importance of staying connected to the heart of teaching—your students. Starr offers honest advice on overcoming imposter syndrome, advocating for yourself, and navigating the unexpected responsibilities that often come with leadership roles.

Whether you’re aspiring to lead your department, take on an instructional coach role, or simply want to grow your influence within your school, this episode is packed with insights to empower you to take the next step with confidence.

Tune in to discover:
• How to know when you’re ready to leave the classroom for leadership.
• Strategies for building credibility and trust with your peers.
• Ways to stay connected to students and avoid “initiative fatigue.”
• Practical tips for advocating for your goals and protecting your time.

If you’ve ever wondered whether leadership is the right move for you, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to take action.

Get the shareable article/transcript for this episode here.