The Resistance: An Underground Educators Podcast

What we call “bad behavior” in schools isn’t the issue, control is. In this episode of The Resistance, I peels back the layers on why students resist, refuse, and retreat in classrooms and why that resistance is sacred. From pit schools to secret marriages, enslaved Africans modeled resistance in big and small ways. Today, our students are doing the same.

If you’re an educator constantly asking “Why won’t they just listen?” this episode is for you. “Our students are the descendants of people who resisted with their entire being. Why are we surprised when they do the same?”
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You are not crazy. You're just out here trying to be a revolutionary in a system that wasn’t built for you to win. In this episode of The Resistance, I get real about the silent struggle so many educators are carrying, feeling like the only one in your building who gives a damn about joy, student voice, and justice. If you’ve ever sat in a PD wondering if you’re the problem because you actually care about your kids more than their test scores... this one’s for you.

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Welcome to the first episode of The Resistance, a podcast for underground educators fighting the system from the inside. This first episode is my truth about why I do this work and who I do it for. It's an unpolished walk through my life, growing up as the oldest daughter of a mother battling addiction and mental health challenges, navigating seven schools in seven years, being thrust into adult responsibilities before I could even spell them, and still showing up every day ready to learn, lead, and love hard.

The way we’ve been trained to teach, manage, and “raise scores” is doing real harm. The Resistance is where we unlearn that mess. We stop saying “that’s just the way it is” and start building classrooms that center humanity, healing, and high expectations.

Whether you’re a day-one revolutionary or just starting to question the system, this episode is your call to get in formation.

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Welcome to the final episode of the Black on Black Education Podcast! I started this podcast in 2020 and after over 130 episodes this is the last one (but don't worry as long as you are subscribed you'll be around for what's next!). For our final episode, I sit down with longtime friend and revolutionary educator Tee Freeman, PhD candidate, founder of Takeover Academy, and unapologetic advocate for Black youth development. What starts as a reunion turns into a sermon on everything that’s not working in our schools, and what we must do if we’re serious about change.

This one is just two educators calling out the nonsense and calling us all into deeper commitment.

In this week's episode of the Black on Black Education Podcast, I sit down with the Dr. Jocelyn Logan-Friend, an education strategist who’s worked in every part of the education system, from the classroom to the U.S. Department of Ed. Together, we broke down what it means to be qualified to teach, why transforming classroom culture starts with your mindset, and how we empower students to question everything including us. We also talk about our upcoming trip to South Africa to run a camp for teenagers in Cape Town, and what it means to lead a silent revolution in education.

share this episode with another educator who's about this life.

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Welcome to The Resistance: An Underground Educators Podcast In this very first episode of The Resistance—formerly known as the Black on Black Education podcast—I’m telling the full story. The real one. The one I’ve only hinted at before. This rebrand isn’t just about changing a name. It’s about standing 10 toes down in what I believe: educators deserve better, and our kids deserve freedom, joy, and justice in their classrooms right now.

In this episode, I’m opening up about:

• Why I rebranded the podcast and what it means to be a part of The Resistance

• Getting fired—and how that experience revealed just how toxic school cultures can be

• What it feels like to be perceived as "disruptive" simply for doing what’s right for kids

• The moment I realized I was starting to mimic the harm I was fighting against

• How I realigned through reflection, rest, and radical honesty

• The three promises I made to myself this school year: let go of what I can’t control, have more fun, and take care of myself

This isn’t just my story. It’s the story of so many of us who’ve been told to sit down, stay quiet, or follow the rules in systems that were never built for us—or for the young people we serve. If you’ve ever cried in your car after work, felt silenced, or been penalized for telling the truth while still teaching your students to use their voices—this episode is for you.

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In this episode, I sat down with Mariah L. to talk about the power of mentorship, the adultification of Black children, and how empathy must play a bigger role in education. We explored what makes a great teacher, how we evaluate educators, and why listening to students is the key to creating classrooms that truly support them.

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With everything going on in education, it feels impossible not to feel stuck, burnt out, or powerless in your teaching practice. In this episode, we unpack how learned helplessness is plaguing the students, and educators alike. This conversation is about what you can do to reclaim your joy, autonomy, resistance inside the classroom. Let this be your reminder: you're not the problem—the system is.

Journal Prompt: When was the last time you felt powerless at work? What would reclaiming that moment look like?

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I sat down with Dr. Edmund Adjapong to talk all things hip-hop pedagogy and why Teach Like an MC is the blueprint for culturally responsive teaching that actually moves kids. We got into what it means to build critical consciousness, center student voice, and stop pretending school has to be boring to be rigorous. This episode is a masterclass in standing on business for Black and Brown students—period.

In this episode of the Black on Black Education podcast, I sit down with Simone Gamble and Adela Effendy for a powerful conversation about justice-centered education, the role of joy and play in learning, and the transformative work they do through OAAARS andThe Kids Are Ready program. We break down the difference between JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) and traditional DEI frameworks, emphasizing why justice must be at the core of our work with young people. Tune in as we explore how educators can truly listen to and learn from students, create inclusive spaces, and push for real, justice-driven change in our schools.

In this episode of the Black on Black Education podcast, I’m breaking down what it really means to start a quiet revolution in your classroom—because waiting for the system to change isn’t an option. I’m giving you five steps to reclaim your power, center student voice, and build a classroom that actually works for you and your students. By the end, you’ll be ready to shake things up, because real change starts with you.

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Leading a school isn’t for the weak-hearted. It’s messy, it’s hard, and sometimes it feels like you're juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle. But GOOD leadership is actually the key to unlocking the student-centered classrooms we dream about!

If we’re only worried aboutwhat we teach and nothow we teach it, we’re already missing the point. In this episode, I’m getting real about what it means to center students, push past the fear of policies that try to limit us, and show up as the kind of educators our kidsactually need. We’re talking about building community, making teaching joyfulagain, and using our classrooms as a space for real impact. If you’re ready to shift from justteaching totransforming, this episode is for you!

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Science class doesn’t have to be boring, and Dr. J is here to prove it! In this episode, we dive into her journey from future doctor to biology teacher and how she’s making science come alive for students who might otherwise check out. We’re talking about real strategies to engage students, build confidence (especiawlly for kids with ADHD), and create a classroom where all students feel seen and capable. If you’re ready to shake up your teaching, challenge old-school methods, and make learning joyful again, this one’s for you!

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In this episode, I’m breaking down why student-centered practices aren’t just a nice-to-have—they’re the key to transforming your classroom into a space where students actually want to learn. Because let’s be real—when students feel heard, seen, and valued, the whole vibe shifts.

We’re talking about the power of connection, the importance of understanding our students’ experiences, and how YOU, yes you, can create a classroom culture that’s built on trust, respect, and engagement. If you’ve been feeling stuck, if your students are checked out, or if you just need a reminder that this work matters—this episode is for you.

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Let’s keep it real—teaching in urban schools can feel like a rollercoaster some days. But what if I told you that the secret to managing behavior and building a thriving classroom is all about your energy, mindset, and the respect you show your students?

In this episode, I’m bringing the high-energy brilliance of Rodrick Johnson, the Energized Educator, to the mic. Together, we dig into what it takes to flip the script on classroom management and create spaces where students feel seen, heard, and ready to show up as their best selves.

Here’s what you’ll get:

• The real tea on why students are the “customers” of education and how you can own your role as the CEO of your classroom.
• A no-nonsense approach to using restorative justice and reflection to re-engage students and turn tough moments into teachable ones.
• Roderick’s secrets for balancing high expectations with real connection, because respect isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of everything.
• How to stop power struggles before they start and create a classroom where joy, community, and learning thrive.

This isn’t about adding more to your plate—it’s about rethinking how you show up and leaning into the magic already in your room. Roderick will have you laughing, reflecting, and walking away with a toolbox full of strategies to finally tackle those classroom challenges with confidence and joy.

I really don't have much to say here, I just hope you listen to this, and then listen to it again...because this is everything I needed to hear BEFORE I stepped into a classroom, and what every educator in a classroom needs to hear RIGHT NOW!

Teaching is hard, but creating a student-centered classroom doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we chat with Dr. Courtney Rose, assistant teaching professor and author, about the power of teacher identity, student voice, and co-creating classrooms that empower everyone. We explore:

• Breaking down barriers to centering student voice.
• Building community and fostering authentic connections.
• Practical strategies for creating joyful, collaborative classrooms.

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In this episode, we’re sharing how you can transform your teaching and classroom culture with actionable strategies that bring joy, balance, and purpose back to your work.

In this episode of the Black on Black Education podcast, I’m introducing the B.O.B.E Framework—a powerful tool to help you shift to a student-centered mindset. We’ll dive into why curiosity, open communication, community building, and continuous growth are key to creating supportive and engaging classrooms.

I’ll also reintroduce the Teacher Action Board, a community built to give educators like you the coaching, resources, and support needed to implement these practices. Plus, I’ll share the exciting bonuses available for joining by December 31st. If you’re ready to invest in equitable, joyful classrooms, this episode is for you!

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In this episode of the Black on Black Education podcast, Rob, an eighth-grade ELA educator, discusses the significance of student-centered education. He emphasizes the importance of listening to students, navigating literacy challenges, and creating safe spaces in the classroom. Rob shares his experiences in implementing student-centered practices, the role of identity in teaching, and the power of poetry to engage students. Through feedback and choice, he aims to foster a supportive learning environment that empowers students to express themselves and develop critical thinking skills. In this conversation, Evalaurene Jean-Charles discusses the importance of authenticity in education, the power of poetry as a means of connection, and the healing journey of writing. She shares insights on her upcoming book, 'Lay Me Down to Sleep,' and emphasizes the significance of literacy in empowering students. The dialogue highlights the role of educators in creating safe spaces for students and the transformative power of sharing personal stories and experiences.

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We are at the point in the year when the foundation we've set in our schools and classrooms shows it's strength and highlights the cracks. Instead of crawling to winter recess burned out, too tired to enjoy the break, let's use our student-centered practice to help us strengthen our school and classroom culture so we go into break feeling joyful, and connected to our students, and our work; and come back ready to start 2025 strong.

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This week on the ILP podcast we talk about why we SHOULDN'T wait until January 1st to reset and do the things you've been saying you are going to do for however long. If you have a laundry list of things that you've been saying you are going to do and they've been nagging at you for a while, and making you feel bad about yourself, this episode if for you!

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Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you are gearing up for a great food, good company and a reminder of the deep importance of finding gratitude for the work we get to do for young people everyday. On today's episode, I share 7 of things I'm most grateful for in teaching and actualizing Black on Black Education's mission. Additionally, this episode serves as a reminder to all of us to learn and grow in how we acknowledge and support the indigenous community during this time. Although for many of us the meaning of Thanksgiving has change, the history is one that cannot be forgotten or dismissed because the oppressive systems that Black and Brown folks are working to dismantle are unequivocally linked to those of our indigenous brothers and sisters. Below are a few resources to help you focus on gratitude, today and everyday and an incredible post that serves as a starting point for learning about the history of thanksgiving, and the real consequences of the continued propaganda associated with the holiday.

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The name of this episode tells it all. On today's episode of the ILP podcast, I focus on the crucial need for teachers to take your Paid Time Off (PTO) to rest and rejuvenate and maintain a happy and healthy lifestyle. I give you ideas of how to utilize PTO days effectively, whether for relaxation, personal hobbies, or connecting with loved ones. Teaching is stressful and we must remember that well-rested and happy teachers that take their days are more effective than burnout and tired ones that are there everyday.

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Today's episode serves as a reminder that NO ONE IS COMING TO SAVE US , so we need to use the 168 days of the school year to save ourselves (the 180 day school year minus your PTO and two observations), regardless of who the president or the secretary of the department of education is.

Want some inspiration during what feels like dark times? Check out this weeks episode where I break down the very real need for us to get serious about community, culture, and student-centered practices.

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If we've heard it once, we've heard it 1000 times, there is no one coming to save us, and as terrible as that might sound it could also serve as the most empowering thing on our student-centered journey. When we know that the system is not going to save us, that empowers us to make the choices that will serve our students the way they need.

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Today on the Black on Black Education podcast we speak with attendance strategist, Johnetta Moore, about the detrimental impact, cause, and solutions to of chronic absenteeism. If you are an educator or school leader trying to figure out how to battle excessive student absences this is an incredible episode to get some tips, tricks, and tools on how to win the battle the student-centered way.

We Discussed:

• Definition of chronic absenteeism.
• The impact of chronic absenteeism on the classroom and school community.
• The various issues that impact student attendance.
• The ways that both teachers and school leaders should welcome and support students struggling with attendance.
• Making attendance an important part of school culture.
• The power of student and parent incentives.

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In this episode of the ILP Podcast, we're discussing the three powerful mindset shifts that help me stay focused on my students, even as we navigate these challenging times. With the political landscape creating a backdrop of uncertainty, I still plan on maintaining a student-centered classroom where joy, care, and purpose stay at the .

I Discussed:

• The importance of focusing on what we can control, rather than getting overwhelmed by larger, uncontrollable forces.
• The role of rest, self-care, and building community as foundational practices for maintaining resilience and positivity.

• Why teaching is an investment in our students' futures, emphasizing how the skills and mindsets we foster today will shape their tomorrow.

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We are grieving what could have been. We are feeling fear, anger, and every emotion in between but still we must fight. In today's episode of the Black on Black Education podcast, we talk about what we are fighting for and what we are fighting against. We are all we have, and no one is coming to save us, let's save ourselves.

I Discussed:

• How we got here?
• The impact of illiteracy and a lack of critical thinking in this country.
• The impact of the outcome of this election on our young people.
• The importance of our work in our students lives.
• Our path forward.

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It's time for another deposit into your ILP (Individualized Living Plan). Are you making intentional time to move your body? If not, you are missing out on decreased stress, improved mood, better sleep, improved self-esteem, and so much more. Let's fix that together on this week's episode of the ILP podcast.

I Discussed:

• The importance of movement in living a happy and healthy life
• The idea I learned from Peloton instructor Robin Arzon that movement is medicine
• Manageable ways to incorporate movement in your everyday life

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Education has a problem and student-centered practice has the power to solve it. On this Halloween, let's explore the scary truth about a business as usual, teacher-centered approach to the future of education. It's time to make the shift.

I Discussed:

• The nightmare that is our current education system, and the worse reality if it stays the same.
• The impact of student-centered practice that can turn the nightmare into a dream
• The small choices we can take make to live the dream now.

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Everyone and their mama is talking about AI but are your schools helping you maintain your student-centered practice using AI...I bet not, good thing I'm here!

I Discussed:

• How I use AI tools can help maintain my student-centered teaching practice.
• The practical AI platforms I use for lesson planning, grading, and student engagement.
• My simple steps to integrate AI into my classroom while maintaining balance.
• The importance of data privacy, reducing bias, and choosing ethical AI tools.

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Rest is not a want but a NEED! If you want to be a student-centered educators you need to have the capacity to show up and out for them everyday!

I Discussed:

• The impact of rest on us as a whole and in the classroom
• Tips for prioritizing rest
• The mindset shift needed to prioritize rest

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The real reason I am still doing student-centered practices is because it makes my life easier and this episode will help make your teacher life easier too.

I Discussed:

• How giving students a voice and choice in the classroom boosts their motivation and participation.
• Strategies to empower students to set their own goals and take ownership of their learning.
• How involving students in setting class norms leads to a more positive, self-regulated learning environment.
• The benefits of shifting from a "director" to a "facilitator" role, making teaching more sustainable and enjoyable.

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This week on the ILP Podcast, we explore the importance of setting healthy boundaries both in and out of the classroom to protect your time, energy, and mental health. The emotional toll of teaching can often lead to burnout if we don’t take steps to safeguard our time and energy.

I Discussed:

• Why boundaries are critical for maintaining your mental well-being.
• Tips for setting clear work-life boundaries (e.g., avoiding work emails after hours, saying no to extra responsibilities, and delegating tasks when possible).
• How to communicate boundaries to students, colleagues, and administration in a respectful yet firm way.
• The relationship between boundary-setting and self-care.

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This week, we are expanding on our conversation about leadership, but bringing it back to the classroom. We're diving into the power of student leadership and how we, as educators, can cultivate the next generation of change-makers.

I Discussed:

• Why student leadership matters .
• Strategies to Foster Leadership in the Classroom
• How fostering student leadership makes your job easier.
• “Remember, the leaders of tomorrow are sitting in your classroom today. Let’s give them the tools they need to shine.”

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Same platform but new podcast! Our students with different needs have IEPs, I think us educators should have them too, that's why we need ILPs, Individualized Living Plans. Listen to this new weekly mini podcast to help you juggle this crazy life and show up as the happiest, healthiest version of yourself for your students.

I Discussed:

• What an ILP is
• Why we all need an ILP
• Setting boundaries
• Incorporating mindfulness in the classroom
• Journaling

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School leaders out there, if you want your teachers to empower their students you have to start by empowering them. This week on the podcast we took a deep dive into the world of teacher-centered leadership because I don't want you moving like Dan in these streets.

I Discussed:

• What teacher-centered leadership is and why its important.
• The principles of teacher-centered leadership
• How leadership supports teachers in maintaining their student-centered leadership.
• The impact of teacher-centered leadership on school culture.

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In this bonus episode of the Black on Black Education Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Donna J. Nicol, a professor of history at California State University, Long Beach, to discuss the often overlooked but critical role that Black women have played in shaping higher education and civil rights activism beyond the 1960s. Dr. Nicol sheds light on the life and legacy of Dr. Claudia Hampton, the first Black woman trustee at California State University, and her relentless fight to save affirmative action. We explore the challenges, opportunities, and future of equitable access to higher education and how Black women have continually broken barriers to ensure justice and equity.

What We Discussed:

• The critical role Black women have played in ensuring access and equity in education and civil rights activism beyond the 1960s.
• The concept of "sly civility" and how Black women like Dr. Claudia Hampton used their influence to create institutional change.

• Dr. Nicol’s upcoming biography of Dr. Claudia Hampton and what her story teaches us about leadership, equity, and perseverance.
• How today’s educators and leaders can draw lessons from the past to push for a more equitable future.

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Education doesn't need more of the same, it needs us to focus on building positive school culture, see the true genius in our students, and help them learn and grow with love. But we can't make this happen, when there is a Dan leading your school. What is a "Dan" you might ask, tap in and I'll tell you all about it...

We Discussed...

• The characteristics of a "Dan"
• How a "Dan"'s leadership impacts school culture, teacher wellness, and student outcomes
• Practical tools to thrive in toxic environment

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As we here in NYC wrap up week 4 of the school year I used this epsioed to reflect on everything I've learned so far. Educator friends, we do a hard job, and even though it took 5 years, I'm FINALLY learning to enjoy the journey.

Also, just as an FYI I had an incredible episode planned for this week but I didn't have time to effectively plan and do it justice, so in the name of consistency, I recorded this and it's really good if I do say so myself.

We Discussed...

• My key takeaways from this year so far
• The transition to middle school
• Innovation in education
• The mindset of a student-centered educator
• My journey to having the BEST SCHOOL YEAR EVER

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Have you heard folks talking about student choice but have not idea how do that without the classroom getting chaotic?

Well you found yourself in the right place, this week's episode we talk about the practical tools you can use to create space for student choice, empowering your students to be active participants in their own learning. This episode is not about the theory, it's all about the tips and tricks I use to give student choice.

We Discussed...

• Why we need student choice
• How student choice supports our students long term
• What student choice is NOT
• My top tips for giving students choice in the classroom

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Want to implement student-centered practices but don't know where to start? Want to put your students in the driver's seat? Want to see them thrive?

In this week's episode, we talk about the practical tools you can use to implement student-centered practices. This episode is not about the theory, it's all about the tips and tricks I use to center my students.

We Discussed...

• Why we need student-centered practices
• Student empowerment
• Building student confidence, problem solving, and critical thinking skills
• How to implement student-centered practices
• Build relationships with students
• Making students do the heavy lifting
• Creating intentional space for student feedback

Questions to help you really get to know your students:

• What are you afraid of?
• What do you want to be when you get older?
• How do you like/don't like to be engaged with?

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