The Pixel Classroom Podcast
By Ryan Read
As Andy McIntyre once said: "Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” “Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.”
The Pixel Classroom PodcastNov 30, 2019
Episode 179 with special guest, Kim Strobel
I am joined in episode 179 by educator and book author, Kim Strobel. Kim Strobel is a renowned motivational speaker and author of Teach Happy: Small Steps to Big Joy, sought after by schools, businesses, and organizations worldwide. With her powerful message about the impact of happiness on well-being and the pursuit of fulfillment, she traverses the globe, sharing her insights. Kim specializes in empowering educators and professionals, equipping them with the necessary tools and strategies to shift their mindsets, reclaim their happiness, reignite their passion, and lead with purpose.
You can connect with Kim over at her website at: https://strobeleducation.com/
Episode 178 Surviving a School Year
In episode 178, I talk about Surviving a School Year. From past reflections to now and going from surviving, to thriving to living and enjoying.
Building the Thinking Classroom Reflection
In episode 177, I reflect on the changes I made with the Building the Thinking Classroom Model. From it's beginnings to how it is in my curriculum and what is coming up next. You can learn more at Building Thinking Classrooms.
Landmark Episode 175 with Special Guest, Helena Hains
I am joined for the Landmark Episode 175 by The Present Teacher, Helena Hains. A teacher and a coach for first year and new teachers. When Helena graduated in 2018 with her M.Ed in Elementary Education from Eastern Oregon University at the age of 20. Helena moved to Pecos, New Mexico to teach Kindergarten for 3 years. During this time she became overwhelmed and reached teacher burnout and was diagnosed with depression and anxiety during her first year of teaching. From there Helena learned everything about time management and found a way to complete her teacher workload so that she could leave at contract time during my 2nd year of teaching. During this time, Helena decided to start The Present Teacher, a community where new and first year teachers could learn how to manage their workload in the classroom so they can enjoy their life outside of teaching. During this time Helena also created the Thriving Teacher Framework. A framework that helps new and first year teachers management their workload and have a thriving career. The stages are as follows: classroom management, communication, lesson planning and prepping, data and grading, organization, and teacher workload.
You can connect with Helena at:
https://www.instagram.com/thepresentteacher/
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-present-teacher-podcast/id1607791717
https://tiktok.com/@thepresentteacher
Book Reviews 50 Ways to Engage Students with Google Apps & Amplifying our Practice
In episode 176, I review the books, 50 Ways to Engage Student by Alice Keeler and Heather Lyon and Amplifying our Practice: Teachers talking Teaching by Pawan Wander and Chey Cheney. These books are great about teacher practices, engaging students from all grade levels up to college and more. I give these both 5 stars and I hope you check out the books for your reading.
Episode 174 with special guest, Jonathan Nalder
In episode 174, I am joined by my friend, Jonathan Nalder from half way around the world in Australia. Through 23 years in Education, Jonathan ‘the Edunaut’ has been at the bleeding edge of learning how digital tools (STEM, AR/VR, AI, environment sensors) and a focus on our humanity can boost the success of students everywhere. He has also learned by working with luminaries such as Dr Rubin Puentedura (SAMR), Dr Larry Johnson (NMC) and Prof Stephen Heppell (Learnometer), the FutureWe Community, and his current role as Chief Futures Officer at STEM Punks, how tools alone are not enough - but must be combined with human-focused design and futures thinking to truly transform lives.
Jonathan is also a globally awarded Innovator, Mars Society Ambassador, ISTE online presenter and CoSpaces and Merge Edu Ambassador.
Episode 173 with special guest, Jon Corippo
I am joined by Eduprotocols co-founder, Jon Corippo who returns to the podcast to talk about the most recent book release of TK-2. Jon also shares how Eduprotocols works so well in any classroom, how it builds and scaffolds with students. We even talk about home improvements during our conversation. You can learn more about Eduprotocols and Eduprotocols Plus on their website here.
The Eduprotocol Field Guide Primary Edition TK-2
I review the latest book from the Eduprotocols book series with Primary Edition TK-2 by Jenn Dean and Ben Cogswell partner with series pioneers Marlena Hebern and Jon Corippo to empower early-grades teachers to present key course content through activities that are easy to implement, engaging, and crucial to fostering the Four Cs: critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity.
I talk about the strengths of the book and how it not only first in Primary Grades, but also can transfer to high school level and beyond. Check out Eduprotocol on their website.
Episode 171 with Make Learning Magical author, Tisha Richmond
Teacher, speaker, Instructional Coach and book writer, Tisha Richmond returns to the Pixel Classroom Podcast. Tisha talks about her journey in education. From Culinary Arts Teacher to Instructional Coach. What lead to her writing her books, setting up her two podcasts and working with her son, Tommy on their new book, Dragon Smart.
Episode 170 with Special Guest, Kathleen McClaskey
I am joined by Kathleen McClaskey on the 170th episode of the Pixel Classroom Podcast. Kathleen McClaskey, M.Ed. (@khmmc) is CEO and Chief Learning Officer of Empower the Learner, LLC (empowerthelearner.com), Founder of Make Learning Personal (kathleenmcclaskey.com) and co-author of bestsellers Make Learning Personal and How to Personalize Learning. She is an innovative thought leader, international speaker, professional developer, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) consultant with over 30 years experience in creating learner-centered environments as a teacher, K-12 administrator and consultant. Kathleen is passionate in empowering ALL learners to thrive with tools, skills and practices so they become self-directed learners, learners with agency, who are future ready for college, career and life.
You can connect with Kathleen at:
khmcclaskey@gmail.com
Episode 169 with special guest Darrin M Peppard
I am joined by Road to Awesome founder and author, Darrin Peppard. Darrin Peppard is a school district superintendent, speaker, author, publisher and consultant focused on what matters most in leadership. Darrin’s an expert in school culture and climate as well as coaching and growing emerging leaders. He is known for his keen insight, culture-first leadership style, and dynamic personality. We talk about how effective strategies help leaders of all experience levels become more effective at their craft.
You can connect with Darrin on his website Road to Awesome.
The Pixel Classroom Episode 168 with special guest, Starr Sackstein
I am joined for episode 168 with special guest star, Starr Sackstein. Starr Sackstein is an accomplished educator, author, and advocate, dedicated to transforming education through innovative practices. With a background in secondary education, she has championed student-centered learning, assessment reform, and technology integration. As an author of several influential books, including "Hacking Assessment," Starr empowers educators globally with practical strategies for creating learner-driven classrooms. Her insights, shared through speaking engagements, workshops, and online platforms, inspire educators to reimagine traditional teaching paradigms. Starr's commitment to fostering critical thinking, growth, and equity underscores her role as a thought leader shaping the future of education.
Building the Thinking Classroom Week 4
In the 4th episode of my Journey into the Thinking Classroom Model. I share my experiences with: note taking, formative and summative assessment in my classes. I also share the uses of the EduProtocols models in aiding in Thinking Classroom Note Taking and use of STEM with assessment uses.
Building the Thinking Classroom Week 3
In Week 3 of my series, I talk about using EDUprotocols in my lessons and how to start assessing my students work and how notes are taken in my classroom that is 70% paperless.
The Pixel Classroom Podcast Episode 163 Special Guest Adam Peterson
I am joined by my first guest star of 2024, Adam Peterson. An energetic, passionate and motivating educator and speaker. He is also an author of several books (that of course I own). We talk about his career in education. What lead him to being a speaker for schools and conferences. The origins of Yellow Day and ways to engage students of all ages.
You can learn all about Adam on his website here.
Building the Thinking Classroom Week 2
In the second week of my new weekly episodes, I talk about the introduction of the Thinking Classroom Practices with my students. Both the pros and cons of the first few days of using this new type of curriculum in my high school classes. I give a shout out to the EduProtcols Team, who helped to make this possible. I also talk about the facebook group that has been helping me come up with ideas and practices for this journey. I also have a new Donors Choose Project active to help us get more needed supplies for the Thinking Classroom.
Building the Thinking Classroom Week 1
For the final episode of 2023, I begin my new weekly episodes about building the The Thinking Classroom. The "Thinking Classroom" model has been coined by mathematician Dr. Peter Liljedahl and his work of creating math learning spaces that encourage students to think more with their math tasks. In this episode (161), I talk about the inspiration I got from the Chey and Pav podcast and how I am building it into my curriculum. In this first episode I give a quick breakdown of the Thinking Classroom Model. What materials I will be using for student work and recording. How I am using the Eduprotocols model with it, especially with Hexagonal Thinking.
Show Notes
Wipeboard Start Building a Thinking Classroom
2023 Reflection and into 2024
Episode 160 has me doing a reflection on 2023. From the classroom to life in general. As I look ahead into 2024 with the Thinking Classroom Model. New live stream EDU and moving forward into the new year.
Dragon Smart Book Review by Tommy & Tisha Richmond
I review the book, Dragon Smart by the mother/son team of Tommy and Tisha Richmond. The book follows the story of Tommy the Dragon. He is gifted, smart, knows his facts, but when it comes to tests, Tommy isn't the best. The book is amazing look into something we have all experienced. We know our facts, we do our studying, we love learning, but when it comes to tests, we panic or can't do our best. Yet, we are smart in our own ways, we are talented and we will find a way to explore and understand. We are all Dragon Smart.
Book Review Lessons that Last & Chasing Rabbits
I review the books: Chasing Rabbits: A Curious Guide to a Lifetime of Mathematical Wellness by Sunil Singh. Lessons that Last: 185 Reflections on the Life-Shaping Power of a Teacher by Julie Schmidt and Laura Estes-Swilley. Both books are must pick ups if you are a teacher, administrator or even starting your educational journey.
You can Take a Break
In episode 157 I reflect on the past few weeks I have not recorded an episode. Talking about that it's ok to step away from things for a while. Relax, find out what is important and how you can grow and learn from it.
Episode 156 with Special Guest, Rae Hughart from Teach Better
I am joined by one of the Teach Better Team co-founders, Rae Hughart on the Pixel Classroom. The Teach Better Team imagines a world where every educator is connected, supported, and inspired to be BETTER every day; so that all learners can discover and develop their passions to positively impact our communities. Rae shares her history as an educator, how the Teach Better Team works with other educators and organizations to bring the best for students, teachers and administrators.
The Pixel Classroom Podcast with Adam Muller Episode 155
I am joined by my friend, and fellow Co-host of Games, Comics and Coffee live stream, Adam Muller. The two of us talk about games, currently media and copyright laws and upcoming games we are excited about. Adam also goes into depth about why gamification in education is important to students and learning.
The Pixel Classroom Podcast with Josh Tovar Episode 154
I am joined by Josh Tovar, an educator with thirty-two years in education. The two of us talk about education, technology, STEM and SEL. We also spend most of the episode talking about why relationships and establishment with students is very key to learning in education. From Sports to the Classroom, Josh goes into why it matters to know your students.
Season 5 Begins
Kicking off the 5th season with Episode 153, I return for a new year of education, joy, fun and a few announcements. Please join me as the Pixel Classroom Podcasts dives into learning, emergin, collections and joy. You can check out our YouTube Channel, my new co-hosting of Games, Comics & Coffee and please help clear my Classroom Amazon List this year. Thank you everyone for your support.
Season 4 Finale of the Pixel Classroom Podcast
Wrapping up the fourth season of the Pixel Classroom Podcast. I reflect on my many guests this season, the closing of my blog, the challenges of education at the moment and more. I also talk about my upcoming summer video series on my Youtube Channel which you can find at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyETMH0uK8XFRBbImkUy_GQ. This episode is partial sponsored by Wired Nutrition.
Book Reviews: A Place They Love and The Adventures of Little Mickey Keep on Going
I review the books A Place They Love by Elijah Carbajal and The Adventures of Little Mickey Keep on Going by Mickey Smith Jr. for Episode 151. Both books are very well done and inspirational to both teachers and students.
Reflecting on the 2022-2023 School Year
In episode 151, I reflect on my first year at my new school year. The triumphs, set backs, accomplishments and even looking at how far I have gone in the last 11 years. I also wish my graduating class of 2023 good luck.
The Big 150th Episode with Elijah Cabajal
I talked with Shut and Teach's Elijah Cabajal for the big 150th episode of the Pixel Classroom podcast. Elijah talks about his career, his podcasts, learning sessions and some of his upcoming projects. Including the release of his book and his EDU Couples Podcast with his wife.
Episode 149 My Favorite Star Trek Ships
In this fun filled Star Trek fan episode. I look back at my favorite ships on Star Trek over the course of the series 50 years. From the original, Enterprise to the Defiant. All information is pulled from the current volume of the Ships of Star Trek and Memory Alpha. Have fun listening.
Episode 148 Book Reviews: The AI Educator, The AI Classroom, The Science Box and Study like a Gamer
In one of the last book reviews for season 4, I review The AI Educator by Matt Millar. The AI Classroom by Daniel Fitzpatrick, Amanda Fox & Brad Weinstein. The Science Box by Kim Adsit and Adam Peterson and finally, Study like a Gamer by Kai Rush. All books are great for your summer reading and looking into: AI, STEM/STEAM and Student Studies skills from SEL to PBL. Check them out today.
Getting back to your Roots
In episode 145, after several recording issues. I reflect on where I am as the school year begins to draw to a close with the final 9 weeks of the 2023 school year. How returning to Community Theater allowed me to look at where I came from. Where I am now and where I am going forward.
The Pixel Classroom Podcast Episode 146 with the Zen Teacher, Dan Tricarico
I am joined in episode 146 with Dan Tricarico. Dan Tricarico has been a high school English teacher for over thirty years. He is also the author of The Zen Teacher: Creating Focus, Simplicity, and Tranquility in the Classroom (DBC, Inc. 2015) and Sanctuaries: Self-Care Secrets for Stressed Out Teachers (DBC, Inc. 2018). In his spare time, he enjoys writing, listening to music, reading mystery novels, watching movies, and staring out of windows. One of his first loves is writing poetry, and he has published many poems both in print and online.
You can connect with Dan at:
@thezenteacher (Twitter)
@zenteacher (Instagram)
teachingzen@gmail (email)
Episosde 144 with guest, Sarah Thomas
From our first live stream episode, I am joined by educator and author, Sarah Thomas. Sarah Thomas, PhD is a Regional Technology Coordinator in a large district in Maryland, and the founder of EduMatch, an organization that empowers educators to make global connections across common areas of interest. She has spoken and presented internationally, participated in the Technical Working Group to refresh the 2017 ISTE Standards for Educators, and is a recipient of the ISTE Making IT Happen award. Sarah is a co-author of the ISTE Digital equity series, Closing the Gap. You can connect with her on all social media platforms @sarahdateechur.
We have moved to Live Streaming on Youtube and you can subscribe to our channel here.
The Pixel Classroom Podcast The Design Thinking Classroom
In our first livestream episode for episode 142, I review The Design Thinking Classroom: Using design thinking to reimagine the role and practice of educators by David Jakes. This is the latest book from the IM Press. You can learn more on David's Website at: https://davidjakesdesigns.com/
The 6th Month Reflection
I reflect on the first six months of my new position. Talking about what lead me to my current classroom. Some of the struggles, challenges and successes that have occurred so far in the first three quarters of the 2022-2023 school year. I also talk about moving to Live Streaming for my upcoming podcasts. Promoting my Donors Choose Projects and seeing where the next three months of the school year will take me.
Book Reviews: Write There and Now and Snapshot in Education 2022
I wrap up the month of January with episode 141 with a pair of book reviews. The first being Write There and Now by the Zen Teacher himself, Dan Tricarico and Edumatch: Snapshot in Education 2022 where I am one of 26 educators who contributed to the book.
To Blog or Not to Blog
In episode 140, I talk about starting my blog over again. Why I started in back in the Summer of 2012. How it was a great tool to use my reflection and sharing and connecting with the education community. How it started to wane and became more of a website to house my latest podcast episodes. Now, in 2023, how I'm looking forward to restarting it with a new look, a new mission and using it as a reflection not just in my journey in a new year in the classroom, but also what I love to do.
Episode 139 with returning guest, Keven Rinaman
Keven Rinaman returns to the Pixel Classroom Podcast. If you don't remember Keven from episode 85, Keven Rinaman is an educator and author. He has taught history, math, and technology at middle and high school grades, and has served as the technology director and Dean of Students for his district. Keven has coached numerous sports including: wrestling, golf, baseball and esports. He is a graduate of Heidelberg University and Western Governors University, earning both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree. He also serves as an adjunct professor at Tiffin University. Keven is the author of 3DU: A Guide to 3D Printing in Every
Classroom, the host of an educational podcast titled, Magic Potion EDU, and blogs at TeachersTechToolbox.com. Keven has spoken at numerous national and regional conferences including FETC and OETC. Keven lives with his wife Katie, and son, Cooper in Tiffin, Ohio.
Contact Keven at kevenrinaman@gmail.com
Episode 138 with guest, Adam Juarez the Ed Tech Coach
I am joined by former teacher and Ed Technology Coach and author, Adam Juarez in the first big episode for 2023. Adam Juarez is a Technology Integration Coach and Consultant for AdaKat EdTech Consulting. For 17 years, he served the teachers and students of Cutler-Orosi Joint Unified School district as a middle school and high school US and World History Teacher and Technology Integration Coach. Beyond the classroom, he coached middle and high school girls’ soccer. Currently, he supports teachers through individualized coaching, demo lessons and professional development. Adam is a Google Certified Trainer and Innovator, CUE Board Member, Leroy Finkel Fellowship Finalist, co-founder of #CVTechTalk, 2020 30 K-12 IT Influencers Worth a Follow (EdTech Magazine), 2022 ISTE Featured Voice and co-author of The Complete EdTech Coach: A Organic Approach to Supporting Digital Learning. You can check out his website and connect here.
Happy New Year 2023
I kick off 2023 with a reflection on 2022. From starting off rocky at my previous district to starting a new job and position at my current school district. I also talk about a new book I was a contributing author to, which you can find here. I also talk about my goals in 2023, what I'm hoping for the podcast as the year moves forward and wishing everyone a happy and safe, 2023.
December Hiatus
I will be on Hiatus until mid or late January 2023. I have personal pieces to focus on. See everyone in the New Year.
Talking with EduProtocols co-founder, Jon Corippo
In what we have nicked named the "hard luck episode". As this was recorded over the course of a few weeks. I am joined with EduProtocols co-founder, Jon Corippo. Jon has served a decade at the K-8 level, opened a 1-1, PBL, Google-based high school, served in two county offices, including as an Assistant Superintendent and It Director. Jon has been recognized a County Teacher of the Year, a 20 to Watch Educator by the NSBA, and was a finalist in the EdTech Digest Awards. Jon also holds the Apple Distinguished Educator, Google Certified Innovator, and Microsoft Innovative Educator badges. We talk about the EduProtocols system, student engagement and what is coming up for the EduProtocols starting as soon as this winter. You can learn more about the EduProtocols and connect with Jon at their website.
Book Review Time with: Leading the Whole Teacher, Lights, Camera, Teach! and Empowered to Choose
In episode 134, I sit down to do a book review of three great books from DBC Inc. Empowered to Choose by Andrew Easton. Lights, Camera, Teach! by Kevin J. Bulter and Leading the Whole Teacher by Allyson Apsey. Three great books for teachers, administrators, student teachers and instructional coaching. I highly recommend reading these books this winter.
As I Walk Home November 4, 2022
In this reflection episode, as I "sit at home", I talk about resting. How it comes in different ways, but also how you have to be careful that your rest doesn't over take your life. It's about a balance of what you do, what your goals are and learning to breathe and reflect in those times. It can be from enjoying your favorite sports, to simply reading a good book, or working on that shelving unit in your garage.
Interview for writer, J.M. DeMatteis
In episode 132, I am joined by award winning and long time writer, JM DeMatteis. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, J. M. DeMatteis was a professional musician and rock music journalist before entering the comic book field. DeMatteis has written almost all of the major DC and Marvel icons—including memorable runs on Spider-Man (his classic "Kraven’s Last Hunt". Also co-writing Justice League (winning DeMatteis and his collaborators, Keith Giffen and Kevin Maguire, comics’ highest honor, the Eisner Award); but his greatest acclaim has come for sophisticated original graphic novels like Seekers Into The Mystery, Blood: A Tale, The Last One, and Mercy.
In our interview, JM talks about his work in the business, his various projects and current projects such as his Kickstarter, The DeMultiverse consists of four all-new, all-different comic books he has written. Each of the four initial DeMultiverse titles is completely different in tone and style, and each one is co-created by a different artist and his upcoming Spider-Man: The Lost Hunt this November. JM is a very inspirational writer and his words really resonated in this episode.
Adam Bellow and Breakout EDU
I am joined in Episode 131 by Adam Bellow. Adam is a dedicated educational technologist, father of two young boys, and is CEO and Co-Founder of Breakout EDU, the immersive gaming platform that enables teachers and students to transform classrooms into places of discovery and inquiry-based learning. Previously, he served as a Presidential Innovation Fellow for the White House, created several edtech learning platforms including eduTecher and eduClipper. Adam has written numerous books about educational technology and speaks internationally on the subject of education and technology.
You can find out more about Breakout EDU here.
Talking with Maverik Education founder, Erik Francis
I am joined in episode 129 with Maverik Education Founder and Professional Development speaker, Erik Francis. He is an international author and presenter with over 25 years of experience working in education as a classroom teacher, a site administrator, an education program specialist with a state education agency, and a trainer who produces and provides professional development for teachers and school leaders. He is the author of Deconstructing Depth of Knowledge: A Method and Model for Deeper Teaching and Learning published by Solution Tree and Now THAT'S a Good Question! How to Promote Cognitive Rigor Through Classroom Questioning published by ASCD. He is also ranked consistently as one of the World's Top 30 Education Professionals by the research organization Global Gurus.
Erik specializes in providing academic professional development, consultation, and coaching to K-12 schools, colleges, and universities on how to develop rigorous learning environments and deliver engaging educational experiences that will prompt and encourage students to demonstrate different levels of thinking and understand and use their depth of knowledge (DOK) in diverse contexts, new situations, and their own unique way. He has extensive experience working with diverse populations of schools, staff, and students at all grade levels from pre-kindergarten to post-graduates.
Please visit Maverik Education Today.
As I Walk Home October 7, 2022
In this week’s episode I talk about my experience at the district’s institute day and meeting Adam Peterson.
Episode 128 with guest, Unlimited Teacher Marisa Thompson
I am joined by Marisa Thompson (M.A. Teacher Education) who has seventeen years of experience teaching various levels of English including advanced and support classes. As a Curriculum & Intervention Coordinator, she assesses success and develops goals and curriculum, K-12, and designed a role to become her previous district’s first Innovation Support coach. She is a designated cooperating teacher for several credential programs and a Professional Development instructor for University of San Diego. Besides teaching, she has traveled with students on educational trips to Europe, South America, and Asia. Traveling internationally for 30 years, she believes in "the power of education, the transformative effects of travel and experience, and the joy the unexpected can bring" and pushes students to move past "so-called limitations" by embracing student voice, choice, talent, and inspiration. Her experiences culminate in a pedagogy she calls “Instruction-less Teaching,” which includes her TQE Method, currently in classrooms around the world from kindergarten to graduate school. Marisa appears on many podcasts including Cult of Pedagogy, writes for her own blog and others, and speaks regularly at districts’ professional development, universities’ credential programs, and education conferences. She recently won the 2019 Ed Innovate Live Pitch competition and was named CUE’s 2019 San Diego Innovative Educator of the Year.
You can connect with Marisa at:
Twitter: @MarisaEThompson
Instagram: marisa.e.thompson
Facebook: Marisa Thompson
Website: Unlimited Teacher.com