Skip to main content
Navigating Education - The Podcast

Navigating Education - The Podcast

By Matthew Rhoads, Ed.D.

Navigating Education - The podcast provides K-12, higher education educators, and the greater community with a forum to discuss relevant and important issues related to education now in the present as well as the future. This podcast is hosted by Dr. Matt Rhoads, who has hats in both K-12 and higher education. He hosts two different types of episodes for listeners. He produces a 10-minute monologue and 30-minute interviews with educators from across the world. Learn how to take research-based concepts and conversations to implementing them within your classroom, school site, and district.
Available on
Google Podcasts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Episode 31: Part 4 of the Education Coaching Series - Evolving as a Coach Over Time with Coach Todd Malecki

Navigating Education - The PodcastOct 28, 2021

00:00
50:59
Ep 74 - AI and Teacher Workflow and Planning with Priten Shah
Dec 20, 202333:42
Ep 73 - Getting the Most Out of College with Elliot Felix
Dec 04, 202341:19
Ep 72 - Belonging in Education with Dr. Illene Winokur

Ep 72 - Belonging in Education with Dr. Illene Winokur

In Episode 72 of the podcast, we will dive deep into the concept of belonging in the educational space with Dr. Ilene Winokur. Navigating between two homes, Buffalo, NY, and Yarmouk, Kuwait, Dr. Winokur unearthed profound insights about belonging that are intricately tied to learning and well-being. Through her personal journey and rich experiences, she has unveiled layers of belonging - from the self, to personal, to the professional realms. Her book, "Journey to Belonging: Pathways to Well-Being," not only chronicles her own discoveries but offers educators a map to decipher their own sense of belonging. Together, we'll explore the pivotal connection between belonging and the educational journey, and how, as educators, we can leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Guest Bio

Dr. Illene Winokur is an international educator located in Kuwait. She has had experience teaching and leading secondary schools and universities. Her journey began over thirty-five years ago when she moved to Kuwait from Buffalo, NY, and culminated with her retirement in 2019 as Director of the Foundation Program Unit (Math and English) at Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST). Early in her career, she served as a teacher and administrator for early childhood and elementary levels, in addition to teaching intensive English in private institutions in Kuwait for twenty-five years.

Currently, she is an avid blogger, sharing insights from her life in Kuwait and supporting refugee teachers globally. Her podcast, Journeys to Belonging, features guests discussing their personal sense of belonging. She recently authored a book, "Journey to Belonging: Pathways to Well-Being," available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Over the years, she has presented workshops at conferences worldwide, with topics ranging from Kuwaiti culture to visionary leadership and inclusive teaching practices. She's passionate about asset-based teaching approaches that foster a sense of belonging for all students. As a mentor, she guides struggling teachers and budding administrators, often nurturing their leadership potentials.

She values her memberships in educational communities that connect her with other educators. Notably, she's a Wakelet Ambassador and has held leadership positions at ISTE Global Collaboration Network and the TESOL International Refugee Concerns interest section (RCIS). She warmly invites others to expand her professional learning network (PLN) by following her on social media (@IleneWinokur).

A true advocate for continuous learning, she was awarded a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Lehigh University in 2013, possesses an MBA from the University of Miami, Florida (1979), and completed her ESL certification at the College of New Jersey (2000). Her academic interests span topics like psychological safety, belonging, social-emotional learning, project-based learning, and professional development.

Guest Social Media

@ilenewinokur

Learn More About the Podcast

https://matthewrhoads.com/navigating-education-the-podcast/

Oct 02, 202337:57
Ep 71 - Libraries and Informal Learning Environments with Dr. Zachary Stier
Sep 26, 202331:14
Ep 70 - Instruction Without Boundaries
Aug 14, 202328:25
Ep 69 - HEARTS in Education with Dr. Casey Jakubowski

Ep 69 - HEARTS in Education with Dr. Casey Jakubowski

In episode 69 of the podcast, prepare to see education in a whole new light in this episode of Navigating Education - The Podcast. Our special guest is none other than Dr. Casey Jakubowski, a champion of the humanities and arts, who introduces us to his pioneering framework, HEARTS. "HEARTS" stands for Humanities, Education, Arts, Reflection, Technology, and Science, and represents an interdisciplinary approach that balances the conventional focus on STEM subjects with a profound emphasis on the humanities. Dr. Jakubowski believes in the crucial role of humanities and arts in shaping a well-rounded, holistic education that prepares students for future complexities while cultivating their inherent human values. This episode promises a rich discussion that challenges the traditional educational paradigms and affirms the human side of life in education. Join us as we embrace the spectrum of learning with Dr. Casey Jakubowski. Listen now and embark on this transformative journey of reimagining education. Guest Bio: Dr. Casey Jakubowski has held K-12 teaching positions in a wide variety of contexts, such as classroom teacher at the high school level, university professor, and school and district administrator. His passionate about rural education, social studies, and interdisciplinary integration within our curriculum. He is the author of five books and also a consultant. For more information, check out his website at https://www.ctjsolutions.weebly.com.


Guest Social Media

CaseyJ_EDU


Learn More About the Podcast

https://matthewrhoads.com/navigating-education-the-podcast/




Aug 06, 202333:22
Ep 68 - International School Leadership and Athletics with Nick DeForest
Jun 12, 202333:43
Ep 67 - Eduprotocols and Social Studies with Dr. Scott Petri
May 30, 202341:01
Episode 66 - Navigating Artificial Intelligence in Education

Episode 66 - Navigating Artificial Intelligence in Education

In this episode, we delve into the topic of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI in education and discuss the challenges and opportunities of integrating these technologies into educational contexts. Our guest, Alfonso Mendoza, provides valuable insights on the definition of AI and Generative AI, successful implementations, ethical considerations, personalization of learning experiences, limitations, inclusivity, professional development for educators, promoting digital literacy, and emerging research areas. We explore how educators can navigate the complexities of AI in education and ensure responsible and inclusive use of these technologies for the benefit of all learners. Join us as we navigate the fascinating world of AI in education and its implications for the future of learning.

Guest Bio: Alfonso Mendoza is an Instructional Technologist & Google Innovator from South Texas, U.S.A. with 15 years of experience in education. He is a K-12 Instructional Technologist. He also has a Masters in Educational Technology along with a graduate certificate in E-Learning and a graduate certificate in Technology Leadership in Education. He is a servant leader and am always looking for ways to help my learning community use the power of technology.

Guest Social Media: @myedtechlife (Twitter, Instagram)

Learn More About Navigating Education - The Podcast

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

More Podcast Episodes: https://matthewrhoads.com/navigating-education-the-podcast/


Apr 28, 202333:49
Ep 65 - Heroes Change Classrooms and Lives

Ep 65 - Heroes Change Classrooms and Lives

 In the final episode of Season 2 of Navigating Education - The Podcast, guests Nancy and Elizabeth Jorgensen will join the podcast to outline how teaching about heroes in classrooms can have positive outcomes for our students. They will outline how they've used the story of their sister, Gwen Jorgensen, who is an Olympic Gold Medalist in the triathlon at Rio 2016 as an example to illustrate the humanity of our heroes as well as outline how heroes are a gateway to finding mentors. This will be a great podcast to inspire educators and to think of ways to bring our student's heroes and their stories into the classroom to learn more about their journey's to build important lifelong learning skills.

Guest Bios:

Elizabeth Jorgensen is a high school writing teacher from Wisconsin. She focuses on process-based assessment that provides students with feedback throughout their time with her in their class. An advocate and practitioner of a gradeless class, she prides herself on giving students opportunities for authentic learning experiences.

Nancy Jorgensen earned a Bachelor of Music from Alverno College and a Master of Music from the University of Wisconsin. She taught high school choir and music theater for many years in Wisconsin. In 2009, her production of CATS was named best high school musical by USA Today. Her choir program of 400 students appeared frequently with the Wisconsin Philharmonic Orchestra, Present Music, and at Holy Hill Basilica in Hubertus, Wisconsin. Nancy conducted biannual student tours of New York City, and presented multiple times at the Wisconsin Music Educators' Conference. She served as both conductor and accompanist for her choirs and directed the pit orchestra for musical theater productions. 

Since 2015, Nancy has been a writer, concentrating on book-length memoir and short creative nonfiction. She is also a collaborative pianist, partnering with instrumentalists for recitals and programs.

Guest Social Media

Twitter: @lyzaJo @nancyjorgensen

Website: www.lizjorgensen.weebly.com, https://nancyjorgensen.weebly.com/

Learn More About Navigating Education - The Podcast

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

More Podcast Episodes: https://matthewrhoads.com/navigating-education-the-podcast/

Dec 23, 202239:00
Ep 64 - Gratitude and SEL with Dr. Mariah Mayer
Dec 17, 202237:04
Ep 63 - Teaching Critical Thinking & Asking Questions with Dr. Nathan Lang-Raad

Ep 63 - Teaching Critical Thinking & Asking Questions with Dr. Nathan Lang-Raad

In this episode, Dr. Nathan Lang Raad will discuss how we can teach critical thinking and asking questions. In a world full of misinformation and challenges that require problem-solving and asking questions, building our student's abilities to ask questions and critically think is more important than ever before. We will provide a discussion on strategies that can be implemented within classrooms. Last, Dr. Lang-Raad will discuss his new upcoming book Never Stop Asking. This is an episode you will not want to miss out on!

Guest Bio:

Dr. Nathan D. Lang-Raad is an educator, speaker, and author. He is the Vice President of Strategy at Savvas Learning. Throughout his career, he has served as a teacher, elementary administrator,  high school administrator, and university adjunct professor. He was the Director of Elementary Curriculum and Instruction for Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools, as well as education supervisor at NASA's Johnson Space Center. He was also the Chief Education Officer at WeVideo. He serves as the US State Ambassador for the Climate Action Project, a collaboration between the United Nations, World Wildlife Fund, NASA, and the Jane Goodall Institute, and an advisor for TAG (Take Action Global).


Nathan is the author of:
Everyday Instructional Coaching
The New Art and Science of Teaching Mathematics, co-authored with Dr. Robert Marzano

WeVideo Every Day
Mathematics Unit Planning in a PLC at Work
The Teachers of Oz, co-authored with Herbie Raad
The Boundless Classroom, co-authored with Dr. James Witty
Instructional Coaching Connection
Never Stop Asking

Guest Social Media

Twitter: @drlangraad

Website: https://www.drlangraad.com/about

Learn More About Navigating Education - The Podcast

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

More Podcast Episodes: https://matthewrhoads.com/navigating-education-the-podcast/

Dec 11, 202237:26
Ep - 62 Coaching Teachers in 2023 with Dr. John Schembari
Dec 11, 202239:55
Ep 61 - Augmented and Virtual Reality in Classrooms with Rachelle Dene Poth

Ep 61 - Augmented and Virtual Reality in Classrooms with Rachelle Dene Poth

In this episode, we will be discussing with our guest and expert in AR and VR, Rachelle Dene Poth, on how schools and teachers can implement augmented and virtual reality tools to support and amplify student learning. From the types of tools available and purchasing decisions, to implementing them into our classroom instruction, we will be covering these important topics. Our goal will be to outline steps to support making AR and VR a reality in our K-20 classrooms.

Guest Bio:

I am an educator, consultant, author, attorney and keynote speaker. I love the work that I do as a Consultant and  as a Spanish and STEAM: What’s nExT in Emerging Technology Teacher at Riverview Junior Senior High School in Oakmont, PA. I earned my Juris Doctor Degree from Duquesne University School of Law and have a Master’s Degree in Instructional Technology. I am currently pursuing a doctorate in instructional technology.

I  have presented at the state, national and international level. I have spoken at conferences including ASCD, BETT, CUE, FETC, Future Ready Nebraska, ICE, iNACOL, ISTE, MASS CUE, Microsoft E2, PETE&C, PSMLA, Southern Oregon EdTech Conference, Spring CUE, USM Summer Spark, and TETC on topics such as assessments, SEL, emerging technology (AI, AR/VR), blockchain, metaverse, innovation, STEM and technology integration.

Guest Social Media

Twitter: @Rdene915

Website: https://sites.google.com/view/rachelledenepoth/about-me?authuser=0

Learn More About Navigating Education - The Podcast

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

More Podcast Episodes: https://matthewrhoads.com/navigating-education-the-podcast/

Nov 23, 202235:25
Ep 60 - Teacher Happiness with Robert Dunlop

Ep 60 - Teacher Happiness with Robert Dunlop

In this episode, we will discuss teacher happiness. In our current climate, teachers have ever-increasing demands and stresses. How can we improve this to help teachers who want to come to work every day to be their best selves and practitioners as possible? Our guest, Robert Dunlop, an expert in teacher happiness, will provide insights and tips to help teachers and schools create environments for themselves to put themselves into positions where they have opportunities to be happy!

Guest Bio

Robert Dunlop is an Assessment, Evaluation, and Technology Coordinator within a district in St. Catherines Ontario. He was a technology coach and then a middle school teacher beforehand. He is the author of STRIVE for Happiness in Education. He credits working with thousands of educators as paramount to his research for this book. Robert's teaching journey has been one of peaks and valleys. His work in schools and his role in creating the Terry Fox Lesson Plans for educators around the world, led to him being honored with the Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence. Although Robert has enjoyed many peaks throughout his career, he credits his valleys for his greatest learning. The message he shares in this book, online and through his speaking comes from his passion to reconnect to his love of teaching

Guest Social Media

Twitter: @robdunlopEDU

Learn More About Navigating Education - The Podcast

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

More Podcast Episodes: https://matthewrhoads.com/navigating-education-the-podcast/

Nov 14, 202244:23
Ep 59 - Leadership and Instructional Design for Deeper Learning with Dr. Scott McLeod
Oct 28, 202232:24
Ep 58 - Learner Accessibility with Stacey Roshan

Ep 58 - Learner Accessibility with Stacey Roshan

In this episode, guest Stacey Roshan will discuss strategies and EdTech tools to create accessibility within our classroom for all learners. She focuses her work on making learning accessible to students who may be introverted in how they socially interact with others. Listeners will have a toolkit of strategies to utilize in their classrooms regardless of the content they teach and the age of their students!

Guest Bio: Stacey Roshan is an educator, consultant, keynote speaker, and author of Tech with Heart. I am passionate about discovering and sharing innovative ways to leverage technology to cultivate deeper compassion in the classroom and provide each learner the optimal platform to express their ideas in a format that best fits their learning style. I aim to equip teachers with ideas and tech tools to create more inclusive, equitable, and empowering classrooms for every student to find their voice, build their confidence, and take ownership of their learning. In my math teaching, I continue to enjoy improving my flipped and online teaching models.

Twitter: @buddyxo

YouTube: StaceyRoshan

Learn More About Navigating Education - The Podcast

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

More Podcast Episodes: https://matthewrhoads.com/navigating-education-the-podcast/

Oct 16, 202245:34
Ep 57 - App Smashing with Alex Isaacs
Oct 16, 202233:24
Ep 56 - 7 Mindshift's for School Leaders with Connie Hamilton, Dr. Joe Jones, and Dr. TJ Vari

Ep 56 - 7 Mindshift's for School Leaders with Connie Hamilton, Dr. Joe Jones, and Dr. TJ Vari

In this episode, guests Connie Hamilton, Dr. Joseph Jones, and Dr. TJ Vari discuss seven mindshift's school leader's can utilize to navigate the present and future of education. With unpredictable policies and systems and school cultures to cultivate, reform, and establish, leaders, need to have mindshift's and the ability to focus on systems to take on perennial problems facing them. Listeners will learn how to use these mindshift's in their own leadership practices! They have a new upcoming book called the 7 Mindshifts for School Leaders, which they refer to throughout the podcast. 

Guest Bios:

Connie Hamilton - Connie Hamilton has served many roles in over two decades as an educator. She has been an elementary and middle school teacher and instructional coach. As an administrator, Connie held positions as a principal at both the elementary and secondary levels and a central office curriculum leader. Her experience in these positions fueled a passion for supporting high quality instruction.

Dr. TJ Vari - Dr. T.J. Vari ​is the Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools and District Operations in the Appoquinimink School District in Delaware. He is a former middle school assistant principal and principal and former high school English teacher and department chair. His master’s degree is in School Leadership and his doctorate is in Innovation and Leadership where he accepted an Award for Academic Excellence given to one doctoral student per graduating class. He holds several honors and distinctions, including his past appointment as President of the Delaware Association for School Administrators, his work with the Delaware Association for School Principals, and the honor in accepting the Paul Carlson Administrator of the Year Award.

Dr. Joseph Jones - Dr. Joseph Jones​ is the Superintendent of the New Castle County Vocational-Technical School District in Delaware. Joe is a former high school social studies teacher, assistant principal, and principal. As principal, he was named the Delaware Secondary Principal of the Year and during his tenure, Delcastle Technical High School was the first high school to receive the state’s Outstanding Academic Achievement Award. He received his doctorate from the University of Delaware in educational leadership and was awarded the outstanding doctoral student award of his class.

Guest Websites

Websites: www.ConnieHamilton.org, www.theschoolhouse302.com 

Learn More About Navigating Education - The Podcast

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

More Podcast Episodes: https://matthewrhoads.com/navigating-education-the-podcast/

Oct 01, 202247:15
Ep 55 - Student Student Habits with Elizabeth Jorgensen
Sep 11, 202234:08
Ep 54 - Trauma Informed Practices with Joshua Stamper
Aug 28, 202234:33
Ep 53 - Balance EDU with Erin Kiger
Aug 18, 202243:17
Ep 52 - Building Classroom Community and Relationships with Students with Bonnie Nieves

Ep 52 - Building Classroom Community and Relationships with Students with Bonnie Nieves

Aug 12, 202244:05
Ep 51 - The Technology Integration Matrix and Integrating it into Coaching with Renee Dawson

Ep 51 - The Technology Integration Matrix and Integrating it into Coaching with Renee Dawson

In this episode, teacher and technology coach Renee Dawson discusses the Technology Integration Matrix as well as how she utilizes it to coach teachers on integrating technology and pedagogy to amplify student learning. We outline what the TIM is and how we can integrate it into our coaching to build capacity in using instructional strategies with technology. Many practical applications are outlined to assess teacher progress and implementing the matrix within coaching cycles. Also, various resources are discussed to help coaches, schools, and districts implement the matrix. 

Guest Bio

Renee Dawson is an Educational Technology Specialist, Verizon Innovative Learning Coach, and Verizon Innovation Lab Mentor from Atlanta, Georgia working at the middle school level. Before moving into her current role, she spent 14 years in Special Education, working with students from Pre-K to Adult Transition in self-contained physical disabilities, co-teaching, resource, and Reintegration for Juvenile Delinquents


Supplemental Documents/Resources Mentioned in the Podcast

TIM Practice Videos: https://fcit.usf.edu/matrix/professional-learning/practice-videos/

TIM Evaluation Tool Info: https://fcit.usf.edu/matrix/evaluation-tools/

Coaching Playbook: Canva Template: https://www.canva.com/design/DAE2j7r9Fjk/8NCY1a5OQdxXXn8_Zc93qQ/view?utm_content=DAE2j7r9Fjk&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=publishsharelink&mode=preview

Google Slides Template: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1MUS_fpz2Hha-olnoeCKad2WOWR_IfeLp24dq8ZOK1I4/copy#slide=id.p

Badging, Leaderboard, & more: flippity.net


Learn More About Navigating Education - The Podcast

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

More Podcast Episodes: https://matthewrhoads.com/navigating-education-the-podcast/


Jul 22, 202234:16
Ep 50 - Themes from 50 Episodes to Navigate the Present and Future of Education
Jul 15, 202229:44
Ep 49 - Evolving with Gratitude with Lainie Rowell
Jul 01, 202234:48
Ep 48 - Breaking the Blockbuster Model with Nate Ridgway

Ep 48 - Breaking the Blockbuster Model with Nate Ridgway

In this episode of the podcast, we will be discussing instructional models we see in our schools. Currently, there have been pockets of instructional innovation as well as a pushback to traditional instructional models. Our guest, Nate Ridgway has developed a multitude of different strategies and EdTech integrations to try to break away from the traditional educational instructional models we see in schools that are not meeting our student's learning needs. We will discuss our current instructional paradigm as well as future instructional models that can best fit where our learners are going as they move through their educational journey. Join us as we delve into each of these fascinating topics!

Guest Bio

Nate Ridgway is a History Teacher, Author, Speaker, and Consultant from Indianapolis. He teaches history at the secondary level and also has experience teaching Special Education. Nate enjoys researching and tinkering with instructional models and strategies that make learning engaging and equitable for students. He enjoys creating content for his students to amplify their voices in addition to establishing classrooms that provide 24/7 instruction. He is the author of two books, Don't Ditch that Tech and Breaking the Blockbuster Model. 

Guest Social Media

Twitter: @teachfromridge

Website: www.teachingfromtheridge.com 

Learn More About Navigating Education - The Podcast

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

More Podcast Episodes: https://matthewrhoads.com/navigating-education-the-podcast/

Jun 26, 202238:51
Ep - 47 The Art of Talking with Children with Rebecca Rolland, Ed.D.
Jun 10, 202230:04
Episode 46 - Tech Coaching with Ainsley Hill
Jun 03, 202232:42
Episode 45 - The Collective Mindset with Drs. Richard Bernato and Al Pisano
May 17, 202236:13
Episode 44 - The Expert Effect with Zach Rondot and Grayson McKinney

Episode 44 - The Expert Effect with Zach Rondot and Grayson McKinney

May 13, 202237:15
Episode 43 - Sustainable Teaching and Personalized Learning with Paul Emerich France
May 04, 202236:07
 Episode 42 - Creating Engaging & Choice Based Classes with Laura Boyd
Apr 24, 202230:18
Episode 41 - Tech in Language Teaching and Learning with Joe Dale
Apr 14, 202242:08
Episode 40 - Comparing Adult Education in the US vs. the UK
Mar 27, 202244:32
Episode 39: School Finance with Dr. Larry Dake
Mar 20, 202237:01
Episode 38: New EdTech Tool Integrations for 2022 with Stephanie Howell

Episode 38: New EdTech Tool Integrations for 2022 with Stephanie Howell

In this episode, we discuss EdTech tool integrations that can best meet teachers' needs as we move through the first quarter of 2022. Much of our conversation outlined blended learning strategies like station rotation and how to implement them in blended learning strategies. Additionally, we discuss coaching and how to best approach instructional and EdTech coaching during this time when we are experiencing high levels of burnout. We narrow in on co-teaching as one of the favorite strategies of coaches and teachers during this time to learn new strategies and tools. 

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

Guest Bio: Stephanie Howell is a renowned EdTech integrationist and coach from Ohio. She works within the K-6 setting coaching and supporting teachers on integrating strategies with EdTech tools to amplify learning. She also is a consultant who coaches other coaches and teachers on EdTech integration. 

Website: www.goldedu.org 

Twitter: @mrshowell24

Mar 15, 202235:50
Episode 37 - Data Literacy in K-12 Education with Kyle Holder
Mar 05, 202248:46
Episode 36 - Community Based School with Danielle Timmerberg
Feb 20, 202239:21
Episode 35: Season 1 Podcast Summary and Reflections
Nov 30, 202111:58
Episode 34: Part 7 of the Education Coaching Series - Reflecting on Major Coaching Themes from the Series
Nov 23, 202115:59
Episode 33: Part 6 of the Education Coaching Series - Coaching with An EdTech Integration Mindset with Jake Miller

Episode 33: Part 6 of the Education Coaching Series - Coaching with An EdTech Integration Mindset with Jake Miller

In this final episode of the Education Coaching Series, Dr. Rhoads sat down with Jake Miller to discuss coaching with the EdTech Integrationists mindset. Our conversation focused on several strategies to help teachers utilize technology in classrooms. We outlined steps to how to select EdTech tools to meet a teacher's needs. Additionally, we had a conversation about our goal as coaches is to make a teacher's life more efficient and to align the tools we want to use with their instructional goals. Part of our conversation was on Jake Miller's new book, "Educational Ductape: An EdTech Integration Mindset," which provides a very detailed outlook towards the technology that's available, how to best implement it, and how we can focus our instruction with EdTech present in our classrooms. Finally, as the episode ended, we discussed Mr. Miller's EdTech conference persona's that he sees, which aligns directly to coaching as some teachers may be overly enthusiastic or pessimistic when it comes to utilizing new EdTech in their classroom. 

Social Media

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com 

Guest Bio

Jake Miller is an EdTech and learning enthusiast who hosts the Educational Duct Tape podcast and shares #EduGIFs at @JakeMillerTech and on JakeMiller.net. He works as a science teacher in Ohio and previously spent 5 years as a technology integration specialist and an additional 13 years in the classroom teaching math, science & STEM at various grade levels. Jake’s favorite job, however, is his full-time position as a husband and father.

Social Media

@JakeMillerTech

Twitter

Instagram

Facebook

Website: www.jakemiller.net

Nov 16, 202131:56
Episode 32: Part 5 of the Coaching Series - Coaching Educational Leaders with Janelle McLaughlin

Episode 32: Part 5 of the Coaching Series - Coaching Educational Leaders with Janelle McLaughlin

In this episode, Dr. Rhoads interviews Janelle McLaughlin in Part 5 of the Coaching Series, which focuses on Coaching Educational Leaders. Throughout the episode, we discuss how coaching school and district leaders can lead to transformational effects on teachers and students. One of the themes expressed throughout the episode is building trust and the relationship with the coach to ensure that accountability is established and maintained. Additionally, we outline how it's important that everyone regardless of their position within an organization should have a coach as there are many benefits professionally and personally that can be yielded from these experiences. This was further discussed when Janelle provided a short summary of her new book on leadership, which outlines five qualities that can create effective leadership for classroom, school, and district leaders. Last, Janelle provided a few quick coaching tips to help amplify your coaching practice!

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com 

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

More Podcast Episodes: https://matthewrhoads.com/navigating-education-the-podcast/

Guest Bio: Janelle McLaughlin, is an Education Consultant for Advanced Learning Partnerships working with districts all across the United States. She is a former curriculum director for Manchester Community Schools in Indiana. Prior to that role, Ms. McLaughlin spent 14 years as a classroom teacher. Her experiences as a consultant range from job-embedded coaching for teachers and administrators, to leading reflective collaborations and facilitating action-plan development.

Ms. McLaughlin has a strong belief in the power of education and the role leaders play in building a strong foundation for the organization. She has worked with educational leaders in over thirty different states and two countries. She has presented on numerous topics at national and international events.

Ms. McLaughlin holds a B.S. and M.A. in elementary education from Ball State University. She has obtained further licenses in school leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University, and gifted/talented education from Manchester University.

Social Media

Twitter: Ms_Mac4

Book: Leadership at Every Level: Five Qualities of Effective Classroom, School, and District Leaders

Website: www.innovativeeducationsolutions.net


Nov 04, 202127:16
Episode 31: Part 4 of the Education Coaching Series - Evolving as a Coach Over Time with Coach Todd Malecki

Episode 31: Part 4 of the Education Coaching Series - Evolving as a Coach Over Time with Coach Todd Malecki

On this episode of the podcast, Dr. Rhoads sits down with his high school AAU basketball coach Todd Malecki. Coach Malecki has been a mentor of mine over the course of my playing career as well as throughout my life. I wanted to have Coach Malecki on the podcast for this series as he's been the most instrumental coach I have ever had. As a result, I wanted to pick his brain to learn many important nuggets on how to motivate, evolve over time, and constantly learn to become a better coach. Coach Malecki provides numerous examples of this throughout the episode, which can be applied to coaching in any domain; especially within education. You'll see how basketball is used as a vehicle to talk about coaching, but the lessons learned can apply to whatever you may be coaching in your life. This is truly an episode you will not want to miss out on as its entertaining and insightful to help anyone wanting to expand their coaching capacity.

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

Instagram: DrRhoadsEDU

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com 

Guest Bio: Coach Todd Malecki has been coaching basketball for 29 years. He has coached NCAA Division 2, Summer NBA Free Agenda, Youth, Junior College, and AAU. Throughout his career, he has helped over 168 players get placed in college basketball through Icemen Basketball, his AAU basketball club. Besides coaching club basketball, Coach Malecki hosts events to showcase player talents. Additionally, he founded the Desert Valley All-Star Games in 2007 to showcase the top senior in Riverside County. Coach Malecki has over 75 recommendations from high school, college, and pro players who he has made an impact on through his coaching. 

Social Media

Twitter: @toddmalecki

Instagram: moddtalecki

Facebook and Linkedin: Todd Malecki

Website: Icemenbasketball.com

Oct 28, 202150:59
Episode 30: Education Futuring - What is it and How it can Benefit School Leaders and Teachers to Navigate the Present and Future with Dr. Richard Bernato

Episode 30: Education Futuring - What is it and How it can Benefit School Leaders and Teachers to Navigate the Present and Future with Dr. Richard Bernato

In the 30th episode of Navigating Education - The Podcast, Dr. Rhoads discussed the topic of Education Futuring with Dr. Richard Bernato. We outlined several important definitions and background of futuring and how it can help schools and districts navigate and prepare for the future in our ever-changing world. From curriculum, EdTech integration, to organizational planning and changing laws and demographics, education futuring is an immensely important skill all educators need to take time to develop in their capacity as educators. Dr. Bernato outlines how we future all of the time in our daily lives. Dr. Bernato discusses how futuring needs to be a focus of educational organizations so they can plan for future trends and variables like climate change, changing laws and funding, and future pandemics may bring. This is an episode you will not want to miss out on as Dr. Bernato is a wealth of knowledge experience as you will see in this conversation!

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com 

Guest Bio: This is my 52nd year in Education that began as a social studies teacher, continued to a Curriculum Specialist, Dean of students, Pupil Personnel Services Director, Principal, Director of Humanities, and as Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services. Parallel to these leadership positions in K-12, I was an adjunct Associate Professor of Education for Social Studies at Dowling College and later Associate Professor in that college’s Educational Doctorate program that eventually culminated as Assistant Dean for their School of Education as their NCATE coordinator. After that, I became an Associate Professor in the Doctoral Program in their Department of Administration and Instructional Leadership at St. John’s UniversityCurrently, I continue to be an adjunct professor at St. John’s and also at the State University at Stony Brook. 

Throughout my educational career, my passions have been curriculum design, particularly educational simulation design and publications. I have written and led many committees in developing curricula that concentrate on experiential higher-order thinking skills and creativity. My other academic passions include systemic school reforms through leadership competency development. Included in these are futuring practices, strategic action planning design, and co-empowerment. Books and articles are devoted to enabling leaders, leader candidates, and their stakeholders to change their dispositions by practicing and mastering new leadership change skills not ordinarily practiced. I am about to offer a blend of my passions by using a simulation I’ve designed, entitled Alchemy, the Leadership Simulation with interested district and building leaders that will be delivered via my social media efforts on serioussims.net. I have also consulted with and delivered presentations to many metropolitan New York districts about these and other pertinent topics as well as mentored many leaders. I am especially proud of my two recent companion books, Futures-Based Change Leadership; and Futuring as Planning, Planning as Futuring. A new book co-authored with my Leadership Redefined Consultant colleagues, Dr. Al Pisano and Dr. Anthony Annunziato, is new book coming out soon, titled The Collective Mindset.

Social Media

Linkedin :  https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-bernato-1658854/

Twitter: richDis48

Website: https://serious-sims-f35b.mykajabi.com/

Oct 20, 202137:33
Episode 29: Part 3 of the Coaching Series - Coaching and Mentoring as an Instructional Leader with Sean Scanlon

Episode 29: Part 3 of the Coaching Series - Coaching and Mentoring as an Instructional Leader with Sean Scanlon

Dr. Rhoads sat down with Sean Scanlon to discuss EdTech and instructional coaching for Part Three of the Coaching Series. In this episode, we discussed building relationships, going slow and steady, and what are some of the best strategies to roll out professional development throughout the year. We touch on the importance of empathy and asking teachers to never do anything you would not do. Additionally, we outlined transparent observations and ways to provide effective feedback. Mr. Scanlon provides great insight throughout the episode as he has held teacher, coach, and instructional leadership positions, which provide listeners a holistic viewpoint that dives into the micro and macro lens of improving the capacity of an organization with EdTech. This is an episode you will not want to miss out on!

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Guest Bio: Sean Scanlon is the Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Marian Catholic High School in Chicago Heights IL and president of IDEA’S Chicago Prep chapter. He has guided Marian's 1:1 iPad program for the past 6 years and designed Marian Catholic's PLC program.  He has a Master's in Educational Leadership and taught Social Studies and Video Editing for over 25 years. His passion is to help teachers integrate technology in ways that help engage students, and help students discover new ways to reach their full potential while preparing them with necessary skills for their future.

Social Media: 

Facebook: polonerd

Twitter: @polonerd

Website: scanlonblog.wordpress.com

Oct 13, 202128:20
Episode 28: Part 2 of the Education Coaching Series - Coaching and Mentoring Pre-Service Teachers with Dr. Samantha Fecich

Episode 28: Part 2 of the Education Coaching Series - Coaching and Mentoring Pre-Service Teachers with Dr. Samantha Fecich

Oct 07, 202123:06
Episode 27 - Part 1 of the Coaching Series: Beginning the School Year as an Instructional Leader/Coach with Etienne’ aka Steven Langlois

Episode 27 - Part 1 of the Coaching Series: Beginning the School Year as an Instructional Leader/Coach with Etienne’ aka Steven Langlois

In this episode, Dr. Rhoads met with Steven "Etienne" Langlois in Part 1 of Navigating Education - The Podcast Coaching Series. We both discussed how instructional coaches at the beginning of the year can build relationships and start the year off on the right foot with teachers and their administrative team. Much was discussed about observing at the beginning of the year and having an assortment of meetings to get a feel as to what's on everyone's mind and where everyone is at to begin the year. If you are wanting to know about coaching and getting the year off right as a coach, teacher, or instructional leader, this is an episode to listen to!

Twitter: mattrhoads1990

Website: matthewrhoads.com 


Guest Bio: Steven "Etienne" Langlosis is an award-wining teacher-rockstar and the author of the best-selling book Rock Your Class. When he's not performing or teaching, he's helping K-12 teachers rock their classes with expert engagement strategies. He has spent a better part of three decades teaching K-12 in many subject areas while taking on various leadership roles as Department Head, Instructional PD Coach, Mentor, and District Program Coordinator. Etienne has won multiple educational lifetime achievement awards and Canada's Artist of the Year honors. 

Twitter: rockyourclass

Website: rockyourclass.com 

Sep 29, 202122:30
Episode 26 - Creating Opportunities to Show and Measure Qualitative Student Growth with Mike Rutherford

Episode 26 - Creating Opportunities to Show and Measure Qualitative Student Growth with Mike Rutherford

In this episode, Dr. Rhoads interviews CEO and Found of GotLearning, Mike Rutherford, on the topic of qualitative data as an opportunity to measure student progress and growth. Mr. Rutherford has had a long experience in and out of K-12 education in both the classroom setting and in the EdTech industry. He and his team developed a tool that provides opportunities for teachers to consolidate qualitative data generated from students and provide feedback to students that is actionable. Our conversation outlines the power of qualitative data as an indicator of growth and ensuring we keep track of it longitudinally. Additionally, this discussion went hand in hand with a short conversation on actionable formative feedback, which is now one of the major foundations of instruction and learning within our classrooms. By the end of this episode, you will see how there's an opportunity for a paradigm shift from quantitative measures of student growth to more qualitative and longitudinal data samples exemplifying student growth and development that can be stored in one place to demonstrate learning. 

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Guest Bio: Mike has been in education all his life either as a student, middle school teacher, K-12 technology professional developer, school district EdTech director, K-12 industry consultant, and business development (starting the K12 division of Blackboard one of the first LMS’s in K12), educational publishing and professional development executive, middle school and high school teacher, librarian and EdTech entrepreneur - actually in that order!

Most recently Mike moved back to the States from Bangkok, Thailand where he had returned to the classroom as a 6th grade English Language Arts and Social Studies teacher at International School Bangkok. After returning to the U.S. Mike started Growth Over Time Learning (gotLearning) in 2020 based upon the software he built to manage the learning conversations in his middle school classroom.

Twitter: @growthovertime

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-alan-rutherford/ 

Website: www.gotlearning.com 

Sep 23, 202117:51
Episode 25 - Digital Assessment Tools with Samantha Shaffner

Episode 25 - Digital Assessment Tools with Samantha Shaffner

In this episode of the podcast, Dr. Rhoads interviewed Samantha Shaffner and discussed digital assessment tools. Ms. Shaffner has utilized assessment EdTech tools inside and outside the classroom in her various roles in her career. Our conversation focused on a number of assessment tools ranging from Pear Deck, Edulastic, Wakelet, Quizzizz, and Buncee and how to effectively use them for formative assessment to then collect data to drive our instruction. Overall, if you are a teacher or school leader looking for a few new instructional practices to be used with assessment tools, this is an episode you will definitely want to tune into!

Website: www.matthewrhoads.com

Twitter: @mattrhoads1990

LinkedIn: Matthew Rhoads, Ed.D.

Guest Bio: Samantha Shaffner is a district administrator at Pickerington Local School District in Pickerington, OH. Her current role is to serve as the district’s K-12 Assessment and Accountability Coordinator. Prior to working at PLSD, Samantha has served in multiple administrative and instructional design roles in Ohio community schools. Her most recent work was in a network of Drop-out-Prevention-and-Recovery (DPR) schools in Ohio called Career Prep High School. As a 14-year veteran educator,  An award-winning ELA teacher, Samantha has 14 years of experience in the classroom as an ELA teacher and blended learning expert. She has served as a curriculum designer, content creator, blended learning coordinator, district testing coordinator, and academic coach. Additionally, Samantha is an independent contractor and consultant with cutting-edge educational technology companies. For years, Samantha has advocated for effective remote learning and for student access to the technology they need to succeed in all learning spaces. Samantha serves on the Edulastic Innovator Team and is a contracted blogger and content writer for Edulastic and other cutting-edge Ed-tech companies.

Twitter: @SamanthaShaffn2

Sep 16, 202131:41