Lead. Learn. Change.: Recent Episodes
David W. Reynolds
Think about the greatest experiences you’ve ever had. What, or who, made them so memorable? What did you lead, learn, or change, and why did it matter? Significant moments in one’s life and career don’t have to be few and far between. Reflect. Observe. Influence. Viewing our accomplishments, our pivots, and our possibilities through a different lens can truly unleash your potential as a leader, a learner, or an agent of change. You have influence. You get to choose how much. If you want to make a real impact, and help others do likewise, then join us as we examine learning, leadership, and change from the perspective of those who truly make a difference, from those who have leveraged their journey in a way that matters. Lead. Learn. Change.
00:00 Introduction
00:50 Ivana Isailovic
3:00 Howard Malitz
5:20 Anjelika Riano
7:50 Julia Roland
9:20 George Wurtzel
Links to full episodes
Ivana Isailovic
Howard Malitz
Anjelika Riano
Julia Roland
George Wurtzel
Canva's Style Match photo editing tool was used in the creation of the episode cover art.
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Instagram - lead.learn.change
Look closely - Farmers Market SEEfood
There is no such thing as an “average person.”
Reflections and Call to Action
Words to Live By
PAGE Break – In-house and in the field
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Instagram - lead.learn.change
4:45 – two (maybe three) rules for AI prompts
5:15 – Rule 0 – mindset
5:45 – Rule 1 - be clear and specific
8:05 – don’t be discouraged
8:25 – Rule 2 - have a conversation
10:00 – keep going, don’t settle
10:50 – the Magic School conundrum
14:00 – Khanmigo – one for teachers and one for students
15:15 – Khanmigo will not provide answers – it’s a tutor
16:15 – Microsoft Copilot
16:35 – Coach.microsoft (reading support)
17:45 – Perplexity (powered by Claude and by ChatGPT)
19:15 – to increase the quality of student work, give them an audience
20:35 – students have stories to tell and they just don’t know how
21:00 – music, curiosity, passion, engagement, poetry, content areas
22:00 – ChatGPT is the Coca-Cola of AI
22:30 – there are a lot of AI chatbot options available, and a number are free
23:45 – image, audio, video “categories” of AI
24:30 – exponential vs. additive potential of AI growth
27:05 – machine learning, language comprehension, image recognition
28:00 – Neuralink – a brain interface chip – drive a computer with your mind alone
28:45 – Blindsight – resolution improving and possibly humans with infared vision
30:30 – the connection between and mutual dependence across: \Power the energy sector, AI data and power consumption, national security, and climate concerns
32:25 – data sets (prior knowledge), compute power (processing time or general intelligence + effort), algorithms for training (teaching, formative assessment)
34:40 – how AI entered the most recent presidential election conversation
35:30 – military, environmental, academic, geopolitical, and economic growth concerns are inextricably connected with AI
39:45 – Donald Dowdy, high school band director
40:40 – Bruce Little, Art Education Practicum instructor, Georgia Southern University
42:30 – honor, discipline, respect, the craft of teaching
43:25 – You can’t replace relationships with AI
Blindsight
ChatGPT
Claude
Coach (Microsoft - reading support)
Khanmigo (main page)
Khanmigo for parents
Khanmigo for teachers
Magic School
Microsoft Copilot
Neuralink
Perplexity
Background image on cover is by Albert Stoynov, on Unsplash. This image replaces the standard cover art by Simon Berger (details in the footer).
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Instagram - lead.learn.change
3:25 – AI has the potential to reshape every industry, job, and life
4:30 – the shift from narrow, programmatic control to individual user control
7:00 – a democratized internet with language comprehension
8:00 – the move from menus to genies
10:00 – you can ask AI virtually anything
10:40 – offsetting the unfortunate reality of the suppression of curiosity
12:00 – Hallucinations, mistakes, guessing, and precision
14:15 – AI iterations are getting better
15:20 – Bias in AI
16:10 – Data matters
16:20 – Notebook LM does not access the web
16:45 – User instructions, or a company’s training, can bias AI
18:15 – Engagement as evidence of curiosity
19:00 – The spectrum of apathy to curiosity
21:55 – Responsible use of AI for formative assessment support
22:45 – AI used with curiosity is a tremendous mentor, coach, and peer
22:55 – AI used with apathy is a threat to your brain . . . it might “make you dumb”
24:40 – You must be aware that using AI in a bad way is very detrimental – AI is not going to tell you this itself
26:45 – How much work do students do that generates pride and satisfaction that leads them to keep that work?
28:40 – All hope abandon, all ye who enter here
29:00 – Great teacher Ms. Smith, Statesboro High School
29:50 – We need artists in the classroom – creative, passionate, flexible
31:10 – a mistake to create a fully AI school
31:30 – Is AI a threat to teachers?
31:50 – AI will never replace good teachers
32:10 – Good teachers are curators of learning experiences
32:55 – Decisions about assessment, pacing guides, etc., are not always meant to benefit students
33:10 – What is the value of consistent instruction?
35:50 – Recruitment problem or retention problem?
36:30 – Low-hanging fruit - break down a lesson into manageable parts
37:00 – Low-hanging fruit - be specific with the target audience for what is to be learned
38:00 – Make this old lesson better, I need resources that cost less than one dollar per student
38:45 – Ask AI to use witty banter, match student interest
39:00 – AI will use analogies, metaphors, and more
39:15 – Teachers still do all of the final curation and make all of the decisions
39:20 – Create songs with Suno, an AI tool
40:20 – “Can AI…?” Assume that the answer is “Yes.”
42:55 – You have a genie. Dream big.
43:10 – Tell AI “how to act”
43:40 – Another AI episode with Daniel Rivera is forthcoming
Daniel Rivera
Suno (music creation)
ChatGPT
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Instagram - lead.learn.change
1:50 – Felicia Mayfield - the noble field of education
2:45 – George Wurtzel - blindness is not the loss of your knowledge and skill
5:20 – Cassidy Magill Evans - a great teacher...
6:45 – Anjelika Riano - support students and keep them focused on a vision
7:55 – Tylan Bailey - treat others well and make a difference
9:55 – Amy Gropper - challenge students to intrigue them
12:15 – David Reynolds - go against the grain every now and then
14:35 – Christy Todd - persistence, not perfection
15:55 – Vlada Galan - world leaders or educators?
In order of appearance, here are links to the full episode for each guest featured in Episode 57 - Great Teachers Matter Greatly.
Episode 12 - Felicia Mayfield
Episode 37 - George Wurtzel
Episode 56 - Cassidy Magill Evans
Episode 2 - Anjelika Riano
Episode 48 - Tylan Bailey
Episode 44 - Amy Gropper
Episode 52 - Christy Todd
Episode 6 - Vlada Galan
Lead. Learn. Change. main podcast page (access to all episodes)
Other Teacher Appreciation Episodes:
2024 – episode 55 – What Great Teachers Do – May 2, 2024 – 15 minutes
Episode Summary
We all have stories about our favorite teachers. Sometimes those memories are about how they led their classes, making everyone feel accepted and valued, and sometimes we recall a humorous moment, or maybe a hat or other accessory that became that teacher's "brand." More often, however, we look back fondly on how that teacher made us feel, what he or she did to help us learn, or the way their concern and understanding was conveyed to us. If you are a great teacher now, you are also building a storehouse of memories. Thank you. If you don't serve in a teaching role, you know someone who does, regardless of their job title. Take a moment to share a word of appreciation with that person. Great teachers make a difference. Let them know that you've noticed.
2023 – n/a
2022 – episode 38 – Great Teachers – Everyone Knows One – May 6, 2022 – 13 minutes
Episode Summary
Released for Teacher Appreciation Week, but pertinent at any time, this episode consists of a brief compilation of comments from Lead. Learn. Change. podcast guests who highlight the importance of teachers and remind us of the impact that great teachers can–and do–have on the lives of those they serve. If you are an educator, listen and be inspired to keep making a difference. Whatever your role, consider taking a few minutes today to contact a current or former teacher and say, “Thank you.”
2021 – episode 34 – Many Voices, One Message – Teachers Matter – April 30, 2021 – 15 minutes
Episode Summary
Released for Teacher Appreciation Week, but pertinent at any time, this episode consists of a brief compilation of comments from Lead. Learn. Change. podcast guests who highlight the importance of teachers and remind us of the impact that great teachers can–and do–have on the lives of those they serve. If you are an educator, listen and be inspired to keep making a difference. Whatever your role, consider taking a few minutes today to contact a current or former teacher and say, “Thank you.”
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Instagram - lead.learn.change
SHOW NOTES
2:25 – heart transplant at age 29, no previous cardiac issues
3:00 – post-partum cardiomyopathy
3:30 – placed on a Life Vest and a low ejection fraction
4:30 – a 49-day stay in the hospital
5:15 – the fear of leaving one’s children behind, without a mom
6:15 – emergency room, to a two-week stay, to “we’ve done all we can for you”
7:00 – options and prognosis regarding Cassidy’s heart
8:30 – praying and deciding to move forward with a heart transplant
9:45 – ECMO
10:15 – shifting one’s perspective during and after a heart transplant
11:00 – Cassidy’s mom, cardiomyopathy, and her heart transplant months after Cassidy’s
12:00 – the wait for a heart, and testing for the best match, for improved outcomes
13:00 – antibodies after pregnancy can affect transplant success
14:20 – a ten-hour surgery
14:50 – the new heart needs to wake up
16:00 – the importance of family and a support system
17:30 –Dr. Allene Magill, an influential leader in education, and in Cassidy’s life
19:00 – Cassidy’s decision to change her career path change
21:00 – Shifting plans to find the “sweet spot” for one’s work
22:30 – teaching and learning, equal importance
23:00 – organ donors changes lives and save lives
25:00 – donor family and recipient interaction
25:30 – a donor’s organ can be classified as high-risk
26:00 – How does life change when you have someone else’s heart replace your own?
27:15 – Piedmont Cartersville, Piedmont Atlanta, Samsky Heart Failure Clinic
28:00 – great teachers…
29:15 – Matt Fox, Becky Reynolds
30:00 – Cassidy’s closing comments
LINKS
Cardiomyopathy
ECMO
Ejection Fraction
LifeVestTM - Cleveland Clinic page
LifeVestTM - Zoll page
LVAD
Organ Donation - American Society of Transplantation
Organ Donation - Donate Life
Organ Donation - UNOS
Piedmont Cartersville
Piedmont Atlanta
Samsky Heart Failure Center
Fairmount Elementary School
Red Bud Middle School
Sonoraville High School
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Instagram - lead.learn.change
Show Notes:
00:15 - Teacher Appreciation Day 2024
00:25 - eight encore excerpts from seven guests
1:15 - Julia Roland - college student, art student, artist (segment 1 of 2)
3:00 - Lana Camiel - pharmacist, herbalist, professor, podcaster
4:30 - Mike Shannon - retired U.S. Army officer, current university president
6:25 - Joy Robinson - former teacher, staff member with the Professional Association of Georgia Educators
7:25 - Megan Golden - world language teacher and author
9:00 - John Beede - mountain climber, author, public speaker
11:00 - Kristin Hatcher - writer, runner
12:25 - Julia Roland - segment 2 of 2
14:35 - "Thank you!" to great teachers
Links:
Julia Roland episode - An Artist's Audio Self-Portrait (38 minutes)
Lana Camiel episode - Rx for Health, Living, and Learning (45 minutes)
Mike Shannon episode - Grit, Excellence, Leadership . . . Purpose (41 minutes)
Joy Robinson episode - We need more Joy in teaching! (37 minutes)
Megan Golden episode - Learning is THE World Language (38 minutes)
John Beede episode - Keep on Climbing! (36 minutes)
Kristin Hatcher episode - Tell Your Story (34 minutes)
Episode 7 - Host on Mic Episode - Teachers Matter (23 minutes)
Episode 16 - In A Moment - Changing the World (4 minutes)
Episode 24 - In A Moment - Thank You! (6 minutes)
Episode 34 - Many Voices, One Message - Teachers Matter (15 minutes)
Episode 38 - Great Teachers - Everyone Knows One! (13 minutes)
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
4:20 – workplace of the future
5:00 – rapid changes in technology and society
5:45 – leaders are made, not born
5:55 – the Leadership Foundry
7:00 – building resilience, self-awareness, agency, and personal interaction skills
8:20 – the complexities, and simplicity, of leadership
9:30 – pursuing the best version of yourself parallels the leadership journey
10:10 – you may never know the impact you have on others
11:40 – storytelling as a means of messaging
13:25 – to script or not to script
14:30 – strength grows out of displaying vulnerability
15:10 – why? how? what? Is there a more effective sequence
17:00 – technology cuts both ways, and can have positive or negative effects on relationships
18:00 – great leaders invest in others
18:35 – talking with others is the “secret sauce” that enhances relationships and effectiveness
20:15 – grit, grace, compassion, and empathy
23:10 – the human encounter in education is as vital now as it has ever been
24:00 – struggling through and towards discovery is magic
24:25 – starting a teaching career at West Point
26:25 – online learning has its place
28:00 – Mr. Keith Jones, high school history teacher
29:10 – the impact of great teachers is priceless
32:00 – the University of North Georgia, 150 and just getting started
32:25 – athletics raises all boats
33:45 – knowing the stories of one’s graduates
34:30 – providing lieutenants for the U.S. Army
35:10 – Fulbright Scholars
35:25 – an ecosystem of excellence
36:35 – fortunate journey, experiences of a lifetime, first generation college student and graduate, military spouse, incredible set of opportunities
37:40 – equipping students to walk toward their purpose
39:50 – five campuses, seven strategic big bets, all serving to change lives
UNG website
Strategic Big Bets
Mike Shannon’s CV+
YouTube monthly update
The Adaptation Advantage
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Show Notes
3:10 – the value of questions
3:20 – the portability of questions
3:40 – questions bring people together (questions can lead to community)
4:10 – ask yourself, “What’s one question I want to carry into the next twelve months?”
5:35 – does everyone have a story to tell?
6:35 – you have a story and there are many ways to convey it
7:30 – writing is a way of trying on ideas
8:35 – “Do I consider myself to be a teacher?”
9:30 – countless opportunities to learn
10:25 – some of the most profound learning occurs when teaching and learning (and those roles) are blurred
11:05 – from a small diary, to journaling, to blogs, to personal essays
12:25 – the definition of “published”
13:35 – “Am I a writer? Am I an author?”
14:10 – writing is a continual act of self-authorization
14:55 – Writing and its parallel to the question, “Are you a runner?”
16:40 – two options to get started on your writing journey
16:55 – another use for junk mail
17:55 – write with another person
18:40 – noticing the impulse to write
19:40 – ten minutes a day fits into real life
20:40 – accompaniment - someone walking alongside us, and vice-versa
21:35 – “None of us should be left alone with our bad writing.”
24:35 – reaching for goals in the great outdoors - pushing the limits
25:05 – Brainstorm Road – a structure to accomplish a Dream Project
26:40 – not necessarily (or only) becoming a writer, but becoming the kind of person who can write a book
27:45 – stories and questions, plus seeing the individual, are part of being a great teacher
28:20 – an art teacher who painted the cast on my arm
29:45 – my dad leading me through questions and stories
30:00 – Tommy and Teresa Turtle
31:20 – tremendous respect for teachers – thank you
32:00 – if you feel compelled to write, you can do it
https://www.instagram.com/kristin__hatcher/
https://kristin-hatcher.com/
Instagram - @kristin_hatcher
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
SHOW NOTES
2:30 – teachers are bridge builders
2:55 – a passion for building connections and helping others realize their potential
3:40 – overwhelming appreciation for men and women in the U.S. military
5:50 – being better tomorrow than you are today
6:10 – focus most on what you need to do well, show up the next day, and improve
7:00 – chorus director Janice Folsom was an inspiration
8:10 – the capacity to command a room, getting a team to work toward a common goal
8:35 – painting a picture of goals and transfers to the real world, and why that’s important
9:10 – building opportunities for students to engage in Georgia’s booming creative industry sector
9:50 – shift from a traditional choral background to focusing more on creation
10:25 – learning how to build relationships and partnerships, and using those skills in the classroom
11:20 – a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent Georgia’s teachers
11:40 – great experiences to connect with a wide representation of various sectors
12:35 – Gen Z – philanthropic intentions and a desire to be social media influencers
13:35 – if you want to be an influencer, be a teacher!
14:15 – there are elements of being a teacher that are difficult and you can make a huge difference
15:15 – Top Ten Back to School Tips project – collaborating with other Teacher of the Year candidates
15:40 – I am an ambassador, not the best teacher in the state or even in my school – this is a chance to elevate the profession
16:20 – a diverse range of best practices is a great way to honor others’ voices
17:00 – from a focus on teaching academic standards to an application of learning
17:30 – learning what the pivotal knowledge and skill sets are in different careers
19:30 – Trilith Studios (Marvel films+) leading to an idea for students to create new and original content, help them become entrepreneurs, etc.
20:15 – students creating music and more – help from Tiffany I. M. Jones (then in an Atlanta Symphony Orchestra outreach role)
21:10 – forming an entertainment label – Hall Pass Entertainment and opening the door to students’ interests – students naming the label, creating art work, forming teams and committees
22:15 – middle school students releasing music albums, posting to a YouTube channel, and starting a podcast
23:00 – former middle school students now in high school are returning to Rising Starr Middle School to assist with the current work students are undertaking
23:45 – even once a semester, make sure that students are engaged in at least one project that is strongly connected to career roles
24:00 – share the stories of success and the great work students are doing
26:55 – AI (artificial intelligence) – stifling or enabling and accelerating creativity?
27:30 – first use of a floppy disk and an iPod – life-changing moments
28:15 – despite capabilities, there are things that AI doesn’t do very well
29:45 – the future of work may bend toward jobs centered around creativity
31:40 – which is more important, teaching or learning?
32:30 – retired teachers, your job isn’t yet done
32:55 – Teacher:Student impact ratio is huge
33:10 – Who did you inspire?
33:30 – it’s often the small moments that make the biggest impact
33:40 – teacher Teddye Martin knew I needed a place to belong and connect
34:30 – Ms. Martin instilled the love of education
34:55 – a teacher’s superpower is building connections, and we change the future when we help students see their potential
35:50 – first thoughts when announced as Teacher of the Year
36:20 – students, parents, colleagues, community partners can teach us as well, and help us look at things in a different way
36:55 – gratitude for so many people who helped me along the way and who have made possible this opportunity to serve as an ambassador
Email: Christy.Todd@doe.k12.ga.us
Facebook:GATeacher
X: @2024GaTOTY
Blue Angels F/A-18 Super Hornet flight story
Georgia Teacher of the Year webpage
Georgia Teacher of the Year events request
Christy Todd 2024 Georgia Teacher of the Year press release
Rising Starr Middle School, Fayette County Georgia
Trilith Studios
Georgia Lawyers for the Arts
Hall Pass Entertainment
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
SHOW NOTES
0:55 - Contextual introduction for this episode’s unique features
3:20 – Sample DJ clips
4:15 – Guest introduction
5:05 – Cancer, voice change, a long stint behind the high school football stadium game night microphone
6:00 – Rick starts his three-decades of announcing Friday night home games
7:55 – Son Rowdy follows Dad Rick at the football field
8:45 – Family members want to hear the players’ names
10:30 – Daughter Grace, a performance from the (very) early years
12:00 – David (Reynolds) stands in for Brad Pitt
13:25 – Wife Margaret makes a huge difference in the community
15:55 – The story behind Be Nice to Grace Day
21:05 – Jeanne Burr (and Walter Hooper) as a catalyst for Rick on the air for the first time (at age 17)
24:45 – Listening to Chicago’s AM station WLS
27:00 – John Records Landecker
30:00 – A lesson learned about making others feel important
32:24 – Interviewing Garth Brooks
33:40 – The first time cancer rears its head
39:30 – Focused radiation, bolted to the table, and a special mask
43:10 – Jimmy Buffet embedded in a family tradition
44:40 – Cancer reappears – in a new location
46:00 – Friend Amy’s powerful question
46:40 – God’s gameplan for Rick
49:45 – Lydia, a face from the past, and a new connection for the future
52:35 – High school reunion delays
54:10 – Living in a small town, great friends, great community
58:00 – Sharing one’s story to give others hope
59:40 – A lesson Rick wants us to hear
1:04:40 – One of many similar stories of good fortune – Running out of gas on I-75 North
1:07:00 – A mini-facelift’s role in the past twenty years of Rick’s life
1:07:50 – The most recent doctor’s visit and current prognosis
1:09:40 – The unexpected result of Rick losing his voice
LINKS:
Instagram: @therickontheradio
John Records Landecker
Emory Proton Center
Rowdy Zeisig, the new Dalton High School football announcer
Jeanne Burr
Dunaway Drug Store
Beaulieu’s beginning
Jimmy Buffet’s ’Twas the Night Before Christmas
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
2:50 – words (including jackalope) and an older book
4:30 – everyone “owns their own channel” now
4:50 – you don’t have to wait for permission
5:30 – teaching experience
5:45 – difference between learning and education
5:55 – connection between autodidacticism and conditions for learning
6:10 – a good day is when…
6:40 – Mr. Jon Guillaume decided to change my life
7:00 – not an accident that the arc of one’s life can be redefined because of a teacher
7:40 – helping others become who they want to be is a calling
8:40 – why the first U.S. teachers’ college was called the Normal School
9:00 – teaching to the test correlates with restrictions
9:20 – options, decisions, and choices are still available
9:40 – little things, repeated - with a goal - add up to big things
10:05 – persistence is always generous
10:20 – Beth Rudd, a great teacher with tremendous impact
11:15 – teachers are not given nearly enough recognition
12:20 – respect for public school educators
12:40 – learning creates positive tension
13:20 – useful incompetence is a tool for learning
15:00 – word choices are a symptom of how our brains work
15:35 – Will this be on the test?
15:45 – curiosity is the Why, not the What
18:00 – Song of Significance
18:15 – dignity and respect
18:45 – spectator or participant?
19:05 – questions to ask that lead to improvement
19:45 – redefining creative work
20:45 – the standard solution is not the creative one
21:40 – The Art of Possibility
22:10 – when I turn 84…
22:45 – Where is the community orchestra in your life?
23:00 – What supports your achievements?
23:35 – generosity is not synonymous with free
24:30 – raising the quality and making a difference are generous behaviors
25:00 – there are many kinds of learning
25:25 – sharing one’s thinking about what is being noticed
26:15 – writing for one’s readers and for those with whom those readers will share the writing
27:15 – attitude is a skill
28:15 – the real skills of honesty, integrity, enthusiasm, loyalty
29:05 – The Carbon Almanac and Michel Porro
29:40 – owning a camera, taking a photo, and properly using pictures with intent
30:20 – Alt text
31:30 – Seth’s mom
32:30 – generosity plus initiative equals possibility
33:00 – Sotheby’s event – imperfect but amazing
35:00 – learning from others while working together
35:35 – no such thing as closing thoughts
35:45 – the best way to pay it forward
37:25 – end
Links and credits:
Cover Photo of Seth – Darius Bahsar and Archangel
The Song of Significance
The Art of Possibility
The Boston Philharmonic
Seth’s blog
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Be ready to go
Traffic Lights and Bumper Stickers
A glance in the rearview mirror is not the best compass.
The Sankofa Bird
Reflections and Call to Action
Filters
PAGE Break – Members Matter
Sankofa - Berea College link
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
SHOW NOTES:
3:00 – deciding to be a teacher when in middle school
4:10 – as a teenage dad, deciding to be a good father
6:00 – your support system is your true family
6:40 – fairness, love, respect – Hightower family and blood family
7:50 – homeless, couch surfing, and fourteen schools
8:20 – road to success is very hard
8:35 – choices, decisions, and consequences – life!
9:45 – Jun2 2, 2017 – everything changes
10:45 – delivering newspapers for the AJC, seven days a week, eleven years
11:40 – Be More! – be a teacher
12:45 – managing priorities – keep the main thing the main thing
13:25 – if you want to gain, you have to take some things away
14:40 – if you bring work home, home can become work
16:30 – doing something for myself, for the first time
17:00 – this is meant for me because it’s happening to me
17:30 – I never thought I would be on anyone’s podcast
17:50 – meet your blessing halfway
19:40 – Mr. Ron Kitchens
20:20 – students, technology, and physical activity
21:45 – favorite sports
23:15 – involving all students in physical education – opportunities to learn and lead
24:45 – stamina – custodian and PE teacher
25:30 – communicating with students- providing guidance and encouragement
26:15 – anything you set your mind to, you can do it
26:25 – if you want good, you can have good
26:45 – minimal surprises, but with kindergarten…
27:45 – seeing growth and development of students
28:30- teaching or learning, which is most important?
29:10 – great teachers listen and learn
29:50 – other teachers – Ms. Stanford, Ms. Sherwood, Ms. Ware, Ms. Peeples, Ms. Dumars, Ms. Wilson
31:20 – if you want something, go after it
32:00 – thanks for listening to my story
Links:
DeKalb County Schools
Hightower Elementary
Briar Vista Elementary
Indian Creek Elementary
GSU PETE (Physical Education Teacher Education) department
Good Morning America – ABC news
Steve on Watch (show, Steve Harvey)
Story by Reese Waters
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
SHOW NOTES:
NOTE: Episode 47 will be followed by a guest episode, Tylan Bailey, who made a career move from school custodian to . . . teacher. You won’t want to miss it.
Thereafter, guest, book, guest, book, guest… will serve as the pattern for our epidsodes until the book selections are completed.
Today’ s episode includes:
Lead purposeful change
Where are We Now? Where are You?
Change the Story!
We learn best from others, and PAGE has learned more from teachers than from any other source.
What has truly changed as a result or your learning, your leadership, and your work?
Work on relationships
The Narnia Principle
Success is linked to beliefs, imagination, relationships, and focus.
PAGE Break – Shared commitment
All educators deserve access to quality learning experiences.
Words to Live By (Mark Cuban, Albert Einstein, Constance Baker Motley, Allene Magill)
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Measuring What We Do in Schools: How to Know if What We are Doing is Making a Difference, by Victoria Berhnardt
Learning Forward’s standards for professional learning
SHOW NOTES:
Set your direction
Which Gear?
Improvement isn’t instantaneous, but movement toward it is manifested in individual moments.
Begin with those you serve
Who’s on First?
PAGE Break – CCRPI
Don’t dwell solely on answers – spend time getting the questions right.
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Another installment of readings from Lead. Learn. Change., the book, pages 19 to 41.
- Book Selection installments and Guest episode pattern
- Acknowledgement correction
- Foreword or Forward?
- This is my favorite book…
- How to use this book
- Your work cannot thrive in isolation
- Make a difference
- If a complainer whines in the woods
- Great teachers impact lives
- Transformation might be a synonym for learning
- All of us can learn from all of us
- You are creating your legacy
- Your questions might be more insightful than your answers
- Set your direction
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
SHOW NOTES
2:30 – second-career educator and an effective, thoughtful, and creative teacher
3:30 – every never you utter in life becomes your roadmap
3:45 – I will never be a teacher. I hate school
4:00 – perhaps not the greatest horse rider but a great teacher of horse riding
5:00 – going back to school to become a teacher
5:15 – David as Amy’s first assistant principal
5:30 – engage and intrigue students
5:45 – first experiences in higher ed
6:10 – tech ed in the private sector
6:50 – coordinator of field placement – working with student teachers
7:05 – HOW to teach is the overarching theme and key component of the teaching and learning process
8:15 – Amy gave names to the PCs in her classroom
9:20 – don’t use technology gratuitously – have a rationale
10:05 – technology can enhance collaboration
10:30 – ask, “How will technology enhance learning?”
10:45 – Answer Garden, word clouds, discussions and connections between what surfaces via tech and human interaction and “wondering”
12:55 – you must establish structure, boundaries, and routines
13:05 – you must get to know your kids (your students, your learners)
13:35 – respectful dialogue is a precursor to learning
14:15 – what is a professional boundary?
15:05 – norms AND non-negotiables
16:00 – David’s interaction with students In School Suspension
17:50 – breaking convention for learner benefit
18:15 – am I enjoying what I am doing right now?
18:45 – if you are not connecting with your students, figure out why and work on adjusting what needs to change
19:35 – the "endless bulletin board”
19:55 – Think Tank and the Issue Fish
21:10 – an idea, borne out of panic
21:45 – be willing to dive in and try something – if it doesn’t work, try something else
22:00 – student work as an opportunity for affirmation
23:45 – what teacher-leadership looks like
24:20 – be a leader with those you lead
25:00 – intentional boundaries – individual and contextual, but consistent
25:15 – don’t take yourself too seriously – don’t feel sorry for your own failures
26:05 – an orchid named Spike
27:00 – everything good I learned about education, I learned in the barn
27:30 – first horse at age eight, competition, and lessons about good riding
27:45 – listening, waiting, life is not all about me
29:30 – grateful for the experiences I have had
30:05 – teaching or learning – which is more important?
30:15 – if we stop learning, we’ve given up
31:00 – find what happened good today
31:35 – learning and courage drive change
31:50 – be brave enough to learn something new or that’s different from what you expect
32:25 – I’ve had an amazing life (and I did want to serve in the military), but I really wouldn’t change anything
33:45 – why teach? To help people discover who they are, to facilitate a deeper level of understanding
34:45 – not to tell them what to think, but to teach students about their potential as thinkers
35:15 – working with professors on and retrieval practice and backward planning – adding pedagogy skill sets (the teaching craft) to content expertise
36:20 – an opportunity to positively impact future teachers
37:00 – I would not be the person I am today without my father (whose undergone an incredible transformation in his life), and Dr. Beverly Armento at Georgia State University (a mentor and amazing educator)
Links and other show details:
Amy's email
Flagler College
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
5:05 – the meaning of engagement, with an emphasis on relationships
6:30 – engagement, challenge, reflection, and learning
7:35 – initial awareness of the concept of working on the work
8:25 – theory, practical application, and context for a student-centric approach
9:40 – a book is borne out of a passion for teaching
10:55 – sharing content on the internet is easy but taking it to the next level takes effort
12:35 – what it means to be a teacher leader
13:10 – leadership cultivates an environment that models for learners how to maximize learning’s benefits
14:25 – technology increases connections and provides a platform for interaction with many others
15:10 – it’s important to convey to students the value of what they are learning
16:10 – learning world languages can have an impact beyond the classroom
16:45 – literacy’s broad significance
17:55 – colonialism’s intersection with language and identities
18:30 – “Who are we?” and “Where do we come from?” are sometimes answered inside a study of world languages
20:30 – design qualities – the most important ones are those that appeal to the learners and draw them into the work
21:20 – novelty and variety – a great idea, when properly leveraged
24:20 – young people, to be successful, need to understand that their voices matter
25:25 – students need to realize the consequences and impacts of their decisions
26:45 – teachers need to be intentional about creating a classroom where every student is heard and valued
27:50 – ensuring that student talents and interests have a platform in the classroom
30:00 – the organization of the book is intended to provide a spectrum of support from Why? to What can I do tomorrow? And
30:45 – Mr. Bob Pollock, Lakeside High School, DeKalb County Schools, Georgia – storytelling as a teaching tool
32:30 – the importance of the backstory and highlighting connections that are sometimes missing in some educational materials
33:20 – the call to action – make sure that student voice and student empowerment are part of each student’s school experience
35:00 – read the book, use the book, one bite at a time, and it will make a difference in your teaching
Megan’s website
Designing the Modern World Language Classroom: How to Guide Students to Proficiency
The Schlechty Center
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
SHOW NOTES
3:40 – learning contains all of human potential
4:20 – learning can occur at any age
4:50 – little fulfillment correlates with little learning
5:05 – Carol Dweck - growth mindset vs. fixed mindset
6:20 – Mrs. Ramsay’s influence
6:55 – one of the benefits of going to school
7:45 – Mrs. Ramsay’s caring approach
8:05 – family response to Robbie’s first school report
8:35 – Robbie’s creative future assessed
9:40 – carrying the wrong story around for many years
10:35 – Mrs. Ramsay’s assessment corrected
11:15 – our memories aren’t very accurate
13:00 – the relationship between coaching and change
14:00 – commitment to a coaching process
15:00 – how coaching changes the world
15:45 – coaching’s connection to teaching
16:40 – coaching’s connection to leadership
17:15 – coaching’s connection to learning (curiosity)
17:50 – listen to learn
19:05 – does learning drive change or does change drive learning?
19:50 – individual learning leads to change in the world
20:55 – Ingrid Goff-Maidoff poem
22:30 – coaching is a creative endeavor
22:55 – creativity is creating a change
24:45 –what is one’s most meaningful pursuit?
26:00 – coaches want to see the impact of their work
26:45 – impeccable commitments
27:50 – when you can’t keep your word, honor your word
30:25 – maybe create a twelve-minute podcast
31:00 – everything starts with a decision
32:00 – changing careers, securing the support of a coach, and address obstacles
33:00 – create accountability - make a significant commitment
34:30 – sometimes what you are resisting is what you should be doing
35:15 – how the number twelve became a pivotal piece of the 12-minute method
37:45 – what makes a great teacher great?
38:20 – The Inner Game of Tennis
39:20 – we’re naturally inclined to learn
40:15 – creating a space where students want to be
40:30 – the best teachers taught more than subject area content - they taught about life
41:30 – another twist on BLT
43:00 – more books on the way
45:00 – a project around honor
48:15 – inspiration is all around us
50:00 – confidence comes after you do something, not before
50:30 – small actions can add up to a meaningful body of work
51:05 – share your work
www.robbieswale.com
robbie@robbieswale.com
How to Start When You're Stuck: Practical inspiration to get your idea off the ground
How to Keep Going When You Want to Give Up: Practical inspiration to help you create good habits and stay focused – even when it’s hard
Mailing list for updates on Robbie’s coaching and writing
The Coach's Journey podcast
David Gemmell’s work – referenced by Robbie
Ingrid Goff-Maidoff – God Spoke Today in Flowers and other poems
The Inner Game of Tennis (Timothy Gallwey)
Conscious Business (Fred Kofman)
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
SHOW NOTES
1:25 - Dedication page
2:05 - Table of Contents samples
2:40 - Preface
5:05 - Acknowledgments
8:00 - One (quote)
8:10 - One (Dr. Magill)
Lead. Learn. Change. the book
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
SHOW NOTES
4:35 – 35th wedding anniversary
5:25 – key qualities to a strong and meaningful relationship
6:00 – team approach
6:45 – facing unexpected fears, head on, one day at a time
7:25 – discovering inner strength
7:55 – Olivia, the amazing daughter and sister
9:05 – Special Love, Inc., Tom and Sheila Baker
9:35 – BRASS Camp
11:10 – Ryan, first cancer diagnosis at two years old
11:35 – ordinary family with an extraordinary circumstance
11:50 – leukemia meets it match with Ryan’s grit
15:00 – choosing hope is choosing life
15:15 – Make-a-Wish trips
16:15 – leading through advocacy
17:05 – management is key
17:45 – gratitude for such remarkable support – it kept us going, it keeps us going
19:25 – Camp Fantastic (Special Love, Inc.)
20:15 – no one wants to join the club of parents of children with cancer
21:00 – adult skills learned as a child through trial and error
23:30 – rhythm of life, impact on traditions, a roller coaster of life
24:35 – bringing home a puppy in the midst of the challenges
25:45 – ready to go to the hospital on a moment’s notice
27:10 – selecting quotations that capture the essence of one’s thoughts and intended message
29:05 – meeting Ryan’s bone marrow donor, Scott Harris
31:05 – consider joining the bone marrow registry
32:00 – graft versus host disease can be deadly
32:40 – Sharon and Lee Johnson, the ultimate role models and friends
35:15 – manufacturing sunshine
36:00 – Ryan’s loud pants
37:05 – writing a second book (Joyride Journeys)
38:30 – naming our cars and upcoming cross-country driving trip
39:20 – post-traumatic growth and gains
40:05 – how do we channel our loss?
41:40 – advocate for yourself
Focused Fight book
Ryan’s speech
Camp Fantastic
Bone Marrow Registry
Terri’s website
Post-Traumatic Growth article
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
May 31, 2019 - Episode 1
May 31, 2022- Episode 39
Changes
Constants
Learning
Public school students
Public school teachers
What can and will you do?
The unknown inside the known
Make a difference
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
Grad numbers 2019 - https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2020/66-point-2-percent-of-2019-high-school-graduates-enrolled-in-college-in-october-2019.htm
Grad numbers 2020 - https://www.thinkimpact.com/high-school-statistics/
Grad numbers 2021 - https://www.thinkimpact.com/high-school-graduates-that-go-to-college/
Number of students in U.S. public schools - https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=372
US population - https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/us-population/
SHOW NOTES
Joy Robinson (1:40)
Dale Rogers (2:30)
Felicia Mayfield (3:10)
George Wurtzel (4:05)
Maria Xenidou (4:55)
Howard Malitz (8:05)
Lana Camiel (9:00)
Ivana Isailovic (9:25)
John Tanner (10:20)
Joy Robinson - We need more Joy in teaching!
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/joy-robinson-we-need-more-joy-in-teaching
Dale Rogers - School, Industry, School - Always a Teacher
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/dale-rogers-school-industry-school-always-a-teacher
Felicia Mayfield - A Class Act: Lessons For All of Us
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/felicia-mayfield-a-class-act-lessons-for-all-of-us
George Wurtzel - Woodworker, Teacher, Athlete, Visionary
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/george-wurtzel-woodworker-teacher-athlete-visionary
Maria Xenidou - Share Now. Teach Now.
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/maria-xenidou-share-now-teach-now
Howard Malitz – What kind of chemistry? A former scientist answers this question.
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/what-kind-of-chemistry-a-former-scientist-answers-this-question-howard-malitz
Dr. Lana Camiel - Rx for Health, Living, and Learning
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/lana-camiel-rx-for-health-living-and-learning
Ivana Isailovic - Minimizing Bias, Acknowledging Diversity, and Fostering Empathy
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/ivana-isailovic-minimizing-bias-acknowledging-diversity-and-fostering-empathy
John Tanner - Accountability is About the Future
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/john-tanner-accountability-is-about-the-future
Episode 34 - Many Voices, One Message: Teachers Matter (Teacher Appreciation 2021 episode)
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/many-voices-one-message-teachers-matter
Episode 7 - H.O.M.E. - Host On Mic Episode - Teachers Matter (a 2019 teacher appreciation episode but not released during the official week of recognition)
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/highlights-from-the-insights-lessons-learned-host-on-mic-episode-1
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
SHOW NOTES
(2:30) Biscuits vs. bread pudding
(3:00) Bio
(4:25) George reminds the audience that he is blind
(5:10) Writing desk project
(5:30) Ten years and now ready to bring the idea to fruition
(7:30) Finding the right desk for the project
(9:30) The dream – collaborating with 100+ blind and deaf-blind craftsmen
(10:00) Donation to a fund established by Helen Keller
(11:25) Residential school for the blind – 200 miles from home
(12:00) Skills, talents and abilities are based on who you are, not on your blindness
(14:00) Being asked to never tune a piano again
(16:00) Losing your vision doesn’t’ mean you’ve lost your knowledge, expertise, and wisdom
(16:40) Teaching artisanship vs. teaching “how to be blind”
(17:15) Using industrial arts as a tool to teach confidence
(18:30) Rebuilding confidence
(19:00) Only accept advice from people who are invested in the advice they are giving
(19:45) Courteous audience members trying to get George’s attention
(20:20) Highland Hardware, a scorp, a recommendation, and an unexpected encounter
(22:15) “Meet the Masters” video series – honored to be a featured guest
(22:45) Prediction from the 1970’s comes true – featured in Fine Woodworking magazine
(23:30) The resilience of young people
(23:55) Blind students and experiments on the school ship – totally capable
(25:00) Fish species identification
(26:45) Plankton identification, shell identification and a blind experts on shells
(27:30) Sometimes we think something is difficult and that turns out not to be true
(28:30) Using one’s senses to identify wood, including a lesser known method or two
(31:20) Maple vs. birch, with a nod to black walnut
(33:30) Safety issues when operating machinery – learning is the key
(35:00) The table saw blade is not the issue, it’s your hand movements
(36:30) How to avoid a sudden reaction to “wood failure” – again, learning and experience are key
(39:30) Moms have great “blindness skills” – being aware of your environment
(40:45) Great teachers assess learner skills and talents and adjust teaching methods to match student learning
(43:35) Musicians’ talents translating to woodworking skills
(45:15) Building Stevie Wonder’s coffee table
(46:15) Cabinet building school wouldn’t let blind students enroll
(46:30) Never said “I don’t know how.” Instead, “I can do that.” And then go learn.
(47:30) Former students - Emilie Gossiaux – a serious artist who stretched George’s teaching skills.
(49:15) Making the shift from drawing to sculpture (to express ideas)
(51:10) If you are active in the world, you learn every day
(51:30) If I know how to do something and you want to learn how, I will teach you
(51:45) Every person I’ve ever taught to carve wood has ended up a better carver than I am
(52:25) Two ways of looking at how things are put together in the world – reductive vs. cumulative
(54:00) From skiing for fun to the Paralympic Games to world travel
(55:30) Sticking with it – finishing in the last spots in a race, but many others dropped out
(58:30) Persistence, longevity, effort, and adapting to change.
(59:15) If you are static in your thought processes you will not go very far
(1:01:00) Cutting a pencil line in half on a bandsaw
(1:02:00) Mr. Rosnowski – Georges’ idol and role model – a great teacher
(1:03:00) Find a mentor and spend time with them
(1:03:30) One thousand and one hundred attempts at composite skis that outperform wooden skis
(1:04:30) Final thoughts: write a book? I’ve done a lot of cool things in my life
(1:05:00) My picture of success
(1:05:45) If you want help with woodworking, let me know and I will help you
EPISODE-SPECIFIC LINKS
George Wurtzels’ website - www.gmwurtzel.com
Helen Keller Foundation - https://helenkellerfoundation.org
Subaru TV ad (30 second version) - https://www.ispot.tv/ad/dwTL/subaru-outback-see-the-world
Highland Woodworking, episode #44, “Meet the Masters series”- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTZdzPqjHUM
Former student – blind entrepreneur Jason "JJ" Meddaugh - runs a technology access company (for the blind) atguys.com
Former student - artist Emilie Gossiaux http://www.emiliegossiaux.com/ - struck by a truck while cycling and lost her vision as a result of that collision
Former student - Dr. Josh Miele – read his story here - https://www.rd.com/article/joshua-miele-inspiration-from-an-unthinkable-crime/, and here https://forward.com/news/476159/joshua-miele-went-blind-at-4-now-hes-a-macarthur-genius/
Can You See How I See? Documentary PREVIEW - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PeqgeRJnOO8
George’s friend Jeff Thompson – blind podcaster – www.blindabilities.com
Woodworking for the blind – www.ww4b.org and https://www.facebook.com/ww4b.org
Be My Eyes - https://www.bemyeyes.com
Greenville Woodworkers Guild - https://www.greenvillewoodworkers.com
Recurring Links
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
Instagram - lead.learn.change
SHOW NOTES
John’s background via audio clips and an intro (0:55)
The connection between mountain climbing and public speaking (3:55)
The origin of interest in mountain climbing – scouting (4:55)
The beginning of John’s writing (6:10)
Goal setting, choose your summit, go! (6:40)
Feedback from readers (7:00)
My purpose in life (7:15)
Why is kindness mentioned first in the title? (8:20)
There’s always more strength (8:40)
Lessons from the mountain (10:20)
Greatest obstacle as a writer (11:25)
An accomplishment when working with young people (12:20)
A significant surprise on the journey (13:45)
Turning back (15:00)
Identifying one’s battle crew (16:05)
Failure and current circumstances are not the end (16:35)
Stepping up (17:15)
Warrior Challenge – the book – call to action (20:00)
The mountains (21:45)
Papua, New Guinea, Indonesia, and warring factions (22:00)
Malaria (24:20)
Kindness in the classroom (27:10)
Courage in the classroom (27:55)
Grit in the classroom (28:30)
John’s favorite teacher (29:15)
A final word – a call to action reemphasized (32:00)
Contact information (33:00 and Show Notes)
After the closing music – place of learning (34:10)
John’s contact information and book information:
Twitter at @johnbeede
Instagram at @johnbeede
Online at johnbeede.com
www.WarriorChallengeBook.com
John’s Amazon page
The Warrior Challenge
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view of Altmünster am Traunsee, Austria, by photographer Simon Matzinger, published on www.unsplash.com
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page
SCAD (3:30) – Savannah College of Art and Design
Introduction to art via one’s environment (4:30)
Art Direction as a career option (5:00)
Deciding to be an artist (6:15)
A fine arts magnet school experience (6:30)
Presenting one’s work at an early age (7:15)
Garrison Middle School and Savannah Arts Academy (7:30)
Painting? (8:00)
Varied interests and art opportunities (8:50)
Access to materials as a factor for the pursuit of art (9:30)
Why keep learning? (11:00)
How is college different from high school? (11:45)
Basketball with no high school team (13:00)
Turning point moments in art (15:45)
Believing in one’s potential, plans, and possibilities (16:15)
A parent’s support (16:45)
COVID’s impact on schooling (18:00)
A high school principal’s generous act (18:30)
An unexpected benefit of the changes resulting from the pandemic (19:15)
Greatest influencers (20:30)
Artists inspiring others (21:00)
José Lucio (21:20)
Julia’s ongoing affection for the worm sticker (22:00)
The beginning of requests for art from friends and family (23:00)
Commissioned work for the Taste of the Junction Festival in Iowa (24:15)
From a shy child to speaking with others about her art (25:15)
Make art, local recognition, meaning, and impact (26:00)
Rafiki (26:45)
Parents’ wedding portrait (27:30)
The lobster’s interview (28:30)
Self-Portraits (29:45)
A great teacher, Margo Ecke (32:30)
The learning needs to connect to the student and the teacher (34:45)
Julia Roland on Instagram
@j.r.art_
Esther F. Garrison School for the Arts
https://spwww.sccpss.com/schools/efg/Pages/default.aspx
Savannah Arts Academy
https://spwww.sccpss.com/schools/saa/Pages/default.aspx
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
https://www.scad.edu/
SCAD Atlanta
https://www.scad.edu/locations/atlanta
Margo Ecke
https://www.scad.edu/academics/faculty/margot-ecke
America’s Team
https://www.amteamsport.com/
Jose Lucio
http://www.joselucio.com/ and jose@joselucio.com
Taste of the Junction Festival, West DesMoines, Iowa
https://www.tasteofthejunction.org
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
Links and episode descriptions below (for the Lead. Learn. Change. episode where the speaker was a guest of a full-length installment) for each person featured in this Teacher Appreciation Episode:
Information listed in the same order that each guest appeared in today’s episode.
Episode 23- Vamsi Reddy and Akul Munjal - Future Surgeons, Lifetime Learners
Published 5/22/20
Minutes - 35
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/akul-munjal-and-vamsi-reddy-future-surgeons-lifetime-learners
Episode Summary
Medical school is an intense, focused, and sometimes seemingly unrelenting endeavor. However, when the investment of time is viewed through the lens of lasting benefits, and when the chosen specialty intersects with one’s area of high interest, the journey is potentially more fulfilling. And, as with all other learning experiences, teachers matter. Medical students Akul Munjal and Vamsi Reddy share a few of their thoughts about teaching and learning, and they each tell us about their favorite teacher.
Episode 33 - Debbie Reynolds - Diving into Data Privacy with the Data Diva
Published 3/29/21
Minutes - 42
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/debbie-reynolds-diving-into-data-privacy-with-the-data-diva
Episode Summary
Facial recognition, rebooting your computer, your online twin, the GDPR, and FIDO – Debbie Reynolds the Data Diva shares common-sense guidance as well as updates about regulations, algorithmic bias, controlling your data, and many more facets of virtual privacy. Apps copying your clipboard, passwordless access to digital vaults, and how events in World War II led to legislation and robust conversation about privacy as a human right are just a few of the issues that Debbie highlights for listeners. A highly informative episode!
Episode 15 - Maria Xenidou - Share Now. Teach Now.
Published March 5, 2020
Minutes - 42
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/maria-xenidou-share-now-teach-now
Episode Summary
Maria Xenidou, host of the Impact Learning podcast, explores how great teachers expertly balance resources, guidance, coaching, and discovery to create opportunities for students to learn. Maria’s mom created a solid foundation for a lifetime of learning and Maria’s teachers served as leaders and mentors, influencing her thinking to this day. Maria created the Impact Learning Fund and supports that endeavor in a way that truly defines dedication and commitment.
Episode 4 - Howard Malitz – What kind of chemistry? A former scientist answers this question.
Published August 16, 2019
Minutes - 38
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/what-kind-of-chemistry-a-former-scientist-answers-this-question-howard-malitz
Episode Summary
Scientist-turned-teacher Howard Malitz touches on the chemistry that matters most – the chemistry of connections and relationships between people. Howard describes just how fulfilling life can be when leading young people on the path to adulthood and success. And, he shares his thoughts with an honesty and intensity that will really make you think. There are many reasons that people pursue this noble calling, and if you are grappling with a career choice, or know someone who is, this conversation may provide the guidance needed to make this life-changing decision.
Episode 8 - Ivana Isailovic - Minimizing Bias, Acknowledging Diversity, and Fostering Empathy
Published November 1, 2019
Minutes - 35
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/ivana-isailovic-minimizing-bias-acknowledging-diversity-and-fostering-empathy
Episode Summary
In this, the first of two episodes with this guest, Ivana Isailovic, Ph.D., reflects on the path she has taken from Yugoslavia to France to the United States and beyond. Along the way she offers keen insights about how teachers can successfully navigate increasingly diverse classroom learning environments. Ivana’s childhood was a happy and fulfilling one, even as military and civil conflict consumed much of the region where she was born. Her thoughts on education will resonate with anyone interested in what matters most in teaching and learning. Read the Show Notes for more details!
Episode 9 - Ivana, Part 2 - Students as Customers?
Published November 14, 2019
Minutes - 37
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/ivana-part-2-students-as-customers
Episode Summary
In this, the second of two episodes with this guest, Ivana Isailovic, Ph.D., flips the conversation and temporarily fills the role of host, pushing David’s thinking deeper into the principles that undergird teaching and learning exchanges. Ivana also highlights differences she has observed during her educational experiences in Europe and the United States. Read the Show Notes for more details!
Episode 10 - Mark Garrison - Guilty! Of making a difference. Professional learning that matters.
Published November 30, 2019
Minutes - 66
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/mark-garrison-guilty-of-making-a-difference-professional-learning-that-matters
Episode Summary
Dr. Mark Garrison, of West Texas A&M, founder of NewEdu, and research partner with the Professional Association of Georgia Educators, highlights what he has discovered after spending time with some great teachers, administrators and students in Georgia’s public schools. The conversation touches on many topics, including the origins of standardized tests, practical steps policy makers can take–immediately–to support educators, the importance of listening to what teachers have to say, and the value of a new approach to professional learning.
Episode 27 - Joy Robinson - We need more Joy in teaching!
Published 7/2/20
Minutes - 37
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/joy-robinson-we-need-more-joy-in-teaching
Episode Summary
Graduating at the age of sixteen from a high school in a “failing school district,” lifting lessons from the Sankofa bird, and learning from those who taught her and from those she teaches now, Joy Robinson’s passion for building relationships and community shines through in a wonderful way during this insightful and inspiring interview. If you want to catch a glimpse of what great teachers do every day, you owe it to yourself to listen to this high-energy, optimistic and dedicated teacher-leader as she shares her story and her perspective.
Episode 5 - Scott Perry - Meaning, Purpose, Passion, Impact
Published September 6, 2019
Minutes - 31
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/scott-perry-meaning-purpose-passion-impact-URjk_hfE
Episode Summary
Creative on Purpose founder Scott Perry shares his thinking about finding meaning in one's work, and highlights core principles that maximize the impact of one's service to others. Today's guest emphasizes why relationships are vital to the teaching process, and how collaboration is a critical element of change. Author Scott Perry believes that we can all lead from where we are if we truly know "What's now?" and "What's next?"
Episode 2 - Anjelika Riano – Hope and Vision in a New World - Part 1
Published June 18, 2019
Minutes - 31
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/hope-and-vision-in-a-new-world-part-i-anjelika-riano
Episode Summary
From the Soviet Union to Chattanooga, Tennessee, listen to the story of Anjelika's incredible journey from one world to a very different one. Glean valuable insights about what learners truly need to be successful, and rediscover the universality of human resilience.
Episode 3 - Anjelika Riano – Hope and Vision in a New World - Part 2
Published July 17, 2019
Minutes - 26
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/https-soundcloudcom-davidreynolds3560-hope-and-vision-in-a-new-world-part-2-anjelika-riano-s-d6txi-0ZiB6za_
Episode Summary
The final segment of a two-episode interview with educator Anjelika Riano. Anjelika extends her story–one that started in the former Soviet Union and is now playing out in Chattanooga, Tennessee–as she shares with us her vision for newcomers to our United States. Anjelika eloquently emphasizes the tremendous talent that teachers tirelessly leverage on behalf of their students, in the service of learning, and highlights a few examples of the success resulting from such an investment of effort, caring, and compassion.
Episode 1 - Hannah Talley – One Great Teacher’s Insights
Published May 31, 2019
Minutes - 20
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/one-great-teacher-s-insights-hannah-tal
Episode Summary
Listen in on a phone conversation with Hannah Talley, a mom, wife, veteran public school educator, teacher, media specialist, and a true lifelong learner. Hannah shares her thoughts on what leads to learning–and what stifles it–and addresses the importance of adjusting to changes in technology and shifts in students' needs. She challenges us to embrace new opportunities for learning and to engage in self-reflection in order to maximize learning for ourselves and for others.
Episode 25 - Dale Rogers - School, Industry, School - Always a Teacher
Published 6/12/20
Minutes - 48
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/dale-rogers-school-industry-school-always-a-teacher
Episode Summary
National Board Certified Teacher Dale Rogers, a self-described technology evangelist, and an early adopter of teacher created video tutorials (before YouTube was “a thing”), has always viewed teaching through the lens of the learner. Join the conversation for some educator insights–from a perspective you may not have previously considered.
Episode 6 - Vlada Galan - Success at the Intersection of Leadership, Learning, Change, and Hard Work
Published September 26, 2019
Minutes - 39
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/vlada-galan-success-at-the-intersection-of-leadership-learning-change-and-hard-work
Episode Summary
Political consultant and public school graduate Vlada Galan shares her perspective on working hard, beating the odds, and serving as a catalyst for significant change. The story of Vlada’s world provides a glimpse into the complex array of components that comprise an election campaign and highlights the incredible value of education–and of the great teachers who support learning in highly meaningful ways.
Episode 12 - Felicia Mayfield - A Class Act: Lessons For All of Us
Published January 6, 2020
Minutes - 73
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/felicia-mayfield-a-class-act-lessons-for-all-of-us
Episode Summary
Dr. Felicia Mayfield will inspire you with her wisdom, educate you with her story, and compel you to make a difference with your talents and your time. This educator’s approach to life is deeply embedded in her view of the world, her interactions with others, and her hope for the change that relationships and learning can generate. Join Felicia as she provides insights from the perspective of a self-described “child of civil rights,” reflecting on the day Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was assassinated, her childhood growing up in a mission, nearly half of a century as an educator, and as a key figure in actions taken as a result of litigation addressing desegregation. Her faith, convictions, and professionalism have permeated all of her experiences, and her optimism about the noble field of education grows stronger each year. Join our guest as she touches on concepts such as social media, social justice, and social responsibility, mentions the role that historically black colleges have played–and can play–in advocacy for everyone, and discusses the balance between research and practice in the teaching and learning process. Felicia is a master gardener, a keeper of the dream, a mother and grandmother, and a true professional, in every sense of the word. This is an episode you will definitely want to share with others.
Episode 29 - Dr. Hayward Cordy - Choosing to Rise Above
Published 8/14/20
Minutes - 40
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/dr-hayward-cordy-choosing-to-rise-above
Episode Summary
From a house with more than a dozen children, to a schoolhouse with hundreds of students. From sharecropper and stutterer, to serving as superintendent. From abject poverty to accomplished professional, Dr. Hayward Cordy's story will delight you and will inspire you to better your own life and the lives of others. With a heart for the soul of children as his focus, Hayward will lead to you reflect on life's purpose, as well as its promises and dreams.
Episode 23- Vamsi Reddy and Akul Munjal - Future Surgeons, Lifetime Learners
Published 5/22/20
Minutes - 35
https://lead-learn-change.simplecast.com/episodes/akul-munjal-and-vamsi-reddy-future-surgeons-lifetime-learners
Episode Summary
Medical school is an intense, focused, and sometimes seemingly unrelenting endeavor. However, when the investment of time is viewed through the lens of lasting benefits, and when the chosen specialty intersects with one’s area of high interest, the journey is potentially more fulfilling. And, as with all other learning experiences, teachers matter. Medical students Akul Munjal and Vamsi Reddy share a few of their thoughts about teaching and learning, and they each tell us about their favorite teacher.
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
Accomplishments and learning to cook (3:30)
Chicago, Illinois - Gary, Indiana - parents valued education (4:50)
Mother’s reading of a book led to initial interest in data privacy issues (5:30)
Personal interest and “hobby” is now a career (6:00)
The Nazi’s practices gave rise to the undergirding principles of the GDPR - General Data Protection Regulation (7:00)
GPDR – EU’s first law that could impose large monetary fines on corporations (7:30)
Privacy as a fundamental right – EU and the US (7:55)
More details about GPDR’s connection to events of World War II (9:00)
High school or college coursework and connections with current events (10:10)
Drama courses and the significant impact on life and career (11:40)
“A right to be forgotten” (13:10)
The GDPR covers individuals when they are in the EU (13:25)
An individual’s GDPR rights travel with their data (13:50)
What should students learn about data privacy? (14:50)
At what age should students learn about data privacy? (16:10)
Any tips for parents? (16:20)
The need for educators to be aware of data privacy issues (17:55)
Avoid the co-mingling of your personal and professional work online (18:45)
Use multiple browsers, avoid clicking on links, keep software up to date, reboot your computer regularly (19:20)
Passwords, password managers (20:30)
FIDO – accessing information without passwords (22:05)
Differentiating awareness, information, and detail based on client knowledge and need (24:10)
Collect only the data you need (24:45)
A teacher who could demystify for their students (26:10)
Attention commands attention (26:25)
Debbie’s journey to become the Data Diva (27:25)
Speaking in the Big Mac room (28:20)
The law follows the technology (29:45)
Apple’s iOS14 – impact on advertising (30:30)
Apps reading your clipboard, including passwords (31:10)
Debbie’s mentors and colleagues - Dawid Jacobs, Pia Tesdorf, Emma Lindley (33:00)
Fake identities, digital twin, bias in algorithms (33:40)
How educational organizations be prepared for the next digital change (35:40)
Temperature data, archived information, schools and businesses, transparency (36:00)
Facial recognition, bias, false positives, mistaken identity (37:00)
Computers only do what the programmers tell the computer to do, industry standards (38:40)
People, not statistics – the ripple effects of error rates (39:40)
Favorite teacher -high school drama (40:10)
Communicate, convey information, and learn how to move through the world (40:30)
Debbie Reynolds Consulting
Debbie Reynolds LinkedIn
The Right to Privacy, by Ellen Alderman and Caroline Kennedy
Emma Lindley LinkedIn
Pia Tesdorf LinkedIn
Dawid Jacobs Linkedin
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Vladimir’s audio clips (0:55)
Julie and Vladimir – opening banter, welcome (5:10)
Vladimir’s background/intro (8:30)
24 months in concentration camps, 1300 months of life (10:40)
Childhood memories – an only child, sports, scouts, a good life (11:30)
The Nazis occupy Czechoslovakia when Vladimir was fourteen years old (11:50)
Jewish children no longer allowed to attend public school (12:00)
Taking the train 300 miles to take exams (12:20)
Vladimir and his friend receive their test results (13:45)
Remembering his first, third, and fifth grade teachers (14:30)
Seventh grade chemistry teacher and the academic “contest” with Vladimir’s father (15:00)
March 15, 1939 – the Nazis came to Pardubice (16:00)
Instant implementation of anti-Jewish laws (16:30)
Czechoslovakia split and Bohemia became part of Germany (16:50)
Banishment from theaters, organizations, scouts, and forced to work at age sixteen (17:10)
Jews and non-Jews separated at work – building radios, and a chance to hear the news (18:00)
Called to be transported to Terezín, the ghetto concentration camp (19:25)
Conflicting interests in the war as the Germans were winning against fascism (20:00)
Disappointment with France and Great Britain, and a lack of belief in other countries’ promises, fed into a type of [initial] support for Germany's war efforts (20:45)
The difficulty of maintaining public friendships after the occupation (21:45)
Vladimir’s dad turns down help with luggage to keep friends from getting into trouble for assisting Jews (23:10)
Difficult to talk about family, parents (23:45)
Swimming and skating with his mother, and skiing on vacation, and playing on the mounds of coal at the factory at home (24:00)
Spending time with his dad in the laboratory at work, learning about analytical balances (24:30)
A valuable lesson from his dad about hypotheses and data (25:30)
Stolpersteine commemoration of Vladimir’s parents (27:30)
Life at Terezín (29:30)
From Terezín to Auschwitz, October 1944 (30:45)
“Selection” at Auschwitz and separation from his father (31:00)
Face to face with Josef Mengele (32:15)
Learning about the reality of Auschwitz (-Birkenau) (33:30)
Waiting for his mother (34:30)
Vladimir’s future wife Kitty (35:00)
How does someone survive such an experience? (36:00)
The death march to Blechhammer (39:00)
Waking up to a virtually empty camp, and the ensuing barrage from tanks (40:00)
Bread (42:00)
Momentary fast-forward to bread baking after retirement (43:45)
January 26, 1945 – taking a chance with some guards (44:30)
True liberation at last, bumazhka, and cooking without water (46:20)
A hospital stay, then back home to Pardubice (48:55)
More audio clips to introduce the closing segment of the conversation (49:30)
The beginning of a professorship in the United States (52:00)
Soviet occupation in 1968 leads to Plattsburgh, New York (53:00)
Teaching keeps you young – Forty-four years old for fifteen years (54:45)
A decision to retire (56:00)
“Every chemist is a good cook” (56:40)
Vacations and travel with Kitty (57:30)
Tragedies may not always and forever be in a foreign country (58:30)
Live a normal life, not the life of a Holocaust survivor (59:20)
The shared ordeal at Terezín created a special bond with Kitty (1:00:00)
Students’ stories, students’ interest in his story, student letters (1:01:00)
LINKS
Film documentary
Homepage:
Return to Auschwitz | Home
and, Return to Auschwitz: The Survival of Vladimir Munk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGIWje7EzYs&feature=emb_logo
and, the GoFundMe site for the documentary:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/r3jpq-return-to-auschwitz-the-survival-of-vladimir-munk
The working title for Julie Canepa’s book is Vlada and Kitty: A Holocaust Love Story. Slated for completion and publication in 2021. You can visit Julie's website to read excerpts of the book.
smalltowngirlproduction.com
General information about the Stolperstine project can be found online. Here are a few starter links:
http://www.stolpersteine.eu/en/home/
https://theculturetrip.com/europe/germany/articles/stumbling-upon-europes-stolpersteine/
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David's LinkedIn page
The many hats of Lana Camiel (3:20)
Lover of dogs (3:50)
A dog’s joy of snow leads to a life lesson (5:30)
Pharm D or Registered Pharmacist? (6:15)
Herbalist or? and? pharmacist (8:05)
Two valid paths to wellness (9:00)
Exploring herbal solutions to address a significant situation (9:15)
Prevention is an important component of quality of life (10:00)
Integrative medicine is closer than the horizon (11:00)
A wise combination of approaches is “good medicine” (11:30)
An immigrant at the age of sixteen (12:25)
Computers, medicine – a shift in interests (13:05)
Great-grandmother – homeopathic pharmacist in Kiev, Ukraine (13:25)
Great-grandfather – conventional pharmacist (13:40)
Childhood memories of remedies administered by mother and grandmother (14:00)
Pharmacy school’s demanding coursework (15:00)
A hot August afternoon and being overwhelmed (15:30)
Anxiety attack (16:00)
Success, but with questions (16:25)
An awareness of the need for self-care (16:35)
Seeking out mentors with an interest and understanding of natural medicines (17:00)
Experimenting and creating personal experiences (17:50)
Maintaining a pharmacist’s mindset and practice - adverse effects, indications, interactions (18:00)
Herbal medicine is a living medicine (18:10)
We are here because of plants (18:25)
Grandmother taught Russian language and literature for fifty years (19:10)
Have to look for solutions – as a teacher or in survival mode (19:45)
Being generous with others is a big part of living a good life and a long life (20:10)
Curiosity inherited from grandmother (20:30)
Chernobyl explosion, relocation, earthquake in Moldova (20:50)
Plants where you might not expect them (23:15)
The resilience of plants and their medicinal benefits – weeds?! (23:50)
Disturbed soil and disturbed environments mitigated by plants (24:30)
Plants as aids to digestion and central nervous system issues (26:50)
Peter Rabbit and herbal medicine (26:25)
COVID-19, stressors, and advice for these difficult times (27:30)
Need more emphasis on vitamin D, physical activity (28:30)
Medicinal mushrooms and the immune system (29:05)
Plants can help deal with stress (29:45)
The best way to learn is to create experiences, focus on how things go together (31:10)
Experiment to learn (32:00)
Apply learning to your own life (33:00)
Curiosity is a main connection to learning (34:00)
What do you want to learn? What is your passion? What are you trying to solve? (34:30)
The first step in learning must be incredibly meaningful (35:15)
PlantLoveRadio.com – deep and wide content (35:50
Aging gracefully, stress, chocolate, sleep, city living, vegetarianism (36:15)
Medicine making, clinical use, cooking and eating (37:00)
Herbs as adaptogens, cognition boosters, wild remedies (37:45)
Herbs can enter your life in many ways – tea, spices (39:15)
Smuggling herbs into your life – a free downloadable guide (40:00)
Favorite teachers and mentor - grandmother – kind, giving, community (41:00)
Another favorite teacher and mentor – simplify, early wins, build (41:35)
Lana’s LinkedIn page
Lana’s podcast page and website
Brain boosters Plant Love Radio podcast episode
Wild remedies Plant Love Radio podcast episode
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Free Downloadable Guide – Smuggling Herbs Into Your Life
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
34 Across
I was speaking with my dad recently. During our phone call I asked him about crossword puzzles, because I wanted to know more about his interest in them. As a young child, and as a teenager, I often saw him complete the crossword puzzle in the daily or Sunday newspaper. This glimpse into his world of skills and interests helped me see, although I didn’t fully recognize it at the time, how my dad‘s mind worked and what his talents were, and this was not an easy conclusion to draw, as he would readily tell us, or anyone who asked, that he really had no hobbies or specific pursuits he would be spending his time on once he retired (which was quite a long way off at the time). So, crossword puzzles it was, apparently, Not golf, fishing, running in local 5K road races, or even reading the classics or writing his autobiography. Crossword puzzles.
Once, a number of years after I had left my childhood home, my wife and I were visiting my parents and I was in my dad‘s office area in the basement. On the back of the door leading to his workspace, there was a giant crossword puzzle thumbtacked there. I recall that I counted the number of spaces in this behemoth of a grid, this Crossword Challenge that was, based on the ratio of filled in:blank squares, on its way to succumbing to my father’s eventual conquering of it, demonstrating his superiority over the clever clue creators that posed their hints for the novice or skilled puzzle warriors. I didn’t file away a mental note of the exact number of words required to complete this puzzle, but a new calculation today, based on the size of the door and my recollection of the size of each square, AND factoring in the typical percentage of shaded squares (for an American style grid), it is completely reasonable to estimate that there were nearly 6,500 blank squares to fill. No matter how you slice it, that’s a lot of words.
So, during our call the other day, I asked my dad a bit more about his crossword puzzle habits. That simple question opened the door for some interesting insights and, naturally, his answers to some of my queries ended up spinning off into other topics of discussion. We ended up having a very enjoyable chat. I discovered that my dad has been purchasing packages of crossword puzzle books. I didn’t even know that was a thing. He indicated that he could appreciate the nicer, higher quality books–those printed on better paper and with a substantial front and back cover. He also spent some time highlighting the differences in difficulty levels based on the publisher and/or the newspaper in which the puzzles are printed. At one point, some quick math generated the number 15,000 as the likely quantity of puzzles my dad has completed over the years.
Our phone call left me with a better understanding of what he enjoys, as well as what he does not find frustrating. For example, I asked about his accuracy rate and his completion rate, and he shared with me that he does not (can not) fill in every square in every puzzle, nor, when he is able to do so, are all of his answers always “correct.” He went on to say though, that, of course, sometimes the “wrong” answer is in fact nevertheless accurate and works very well as a right word for the given clue.
Then, at one point during the call my dad said that my mom wanted to talk to me for a few minutes. Mother got on the phone and we chatted about a few things and then she handed the phone back to my dad. He told me that while he was away, he had started and completed a crossword puzzle, and that he checked it against the answers and he had indeed, on this one, gotten all of the answers correct. He then qualified his statement by telling me that this was one of the easy ones, though, and that the more puzzles you work, the more frequently you will see similar clues and similar answers. It was almost as if he did not want to take credit for his puzzle prowess. He does have more time now to complete puzzles, and he did say that doing so keeps one’s mind sharp and helps you think, and that “just for fun,” he sometimes flips through a completed book of puzzles and checks accuracy of every sixth or eight page (or even twenty or so random pages) to see what his general “score “is overall. As it turns out, at least based the numbers he humbly shared with me, his expertise is quite impressive.
He also quizzed me by posing three of the clues from the puzzle he completed during my brief chat with my mother. Granted, I had the distinct disadvantage of not looking at the puzzle in question or knowing the letters of any perpendicular and connected words, but I was able to correctly answer one of the three clues. Given those constraints, we both considered my 33% score to be quite acceptable.
The last thing I remember my dad telling me about puzzles was that sometimes he puts the book or newspaper aside, and doesn’t pick it up until the next day, or even a few days later. Then, looking again at one of the clues for a missing word going across or going down, the “fresh eyes” seem to make a difference. On occasion, for some reason, the way the clue is worded lands differently in his mind the second or third time around, and it triggers a new thought or a potential answer. When that new word is penciled into the appropriate squares, it often turns out to be correct and has a cascading effect of generating multiple correct answers where there were no good ideas before. Along the same lines, he told me that sometimes an answer to a particularly difficult clue simply pops into his mind, seemingly out of the blue, and it may be while he is engaged in some seemingly unrelated task. That moment of inspiration typically ripples into the completion of other words and the once stalled puzzle is revived and on its way to becoming another successful venture.
So, aside from a fun and engaging conversation with my 86-year-old dad, what did I learn? Other than going down a rabbit hole and reading some material about how crossword puzzles are created and how these word games differ slightly from country to country, there were more than half a dozen takeaways for me.
First, alleged perfection–achieving 100% on every task–is an unreasonable standard, and is not necessary to find fulfillment, generate learning, or create satisfaction. In the same vein, a “poor score” may be good enough, if you learn something and no harm is done.
Second, there are often multiple solutions that are correct, that work well with other ideas with which they intersect, and they can serve as an indicator of a learner’s creativity and knowledge base.
Third, persistence matters. A temporary roadblock is just that, temporary. A new perspective can create a new lens, and an alternative solution can work as well as the one originally intended by others who are involved in various phases of the same project.
Fourth, if you spend time with a student, colleague, family member, or client, and truly listen, that allows you to extend the discussions (based on what you hear), and you can get to know the other person even better. This deeper understanding creates opportunities to support them–and delight them–in ways that you may not have previously imagined.
Fifth, taking an interest in what someone else finds fascinating may pull you toward your own new learning path, and who knows where that might lead! Keep an open mind! Maybe Subject X or Book Y is, in fact, interesting after all, and perhaps diving into it will yield unexpected benefits for you and your work, via connections not considered before.
Sixth, you tend to spend time (either through work or activity that is visible to others, or via intense thought) pursuing what interests you and challenges you. The learning that results from this focus begets more learning, and the cycle continues.
Seventh, it’s okay–even beneficial–to occasionally place some tasks on pause and engage in other work. Ideas frequently surface in one area that rhyme with or collide with other projects or problems, producing possibilities for potential progress and laying the foundation for future endeavors. Approaching life, our work, and our relationships through our talents, skills and interests keeps us mentally sharp and productive, and opens doors to help others do the same.
Are there some colleagues, clients or students that could benefit from you knowing more about them—what makes them tick?
How could your progress on a current or planned project gain new momentum as a result of learning more about those with whom you work?
What moments can you capitalize on to make your next interaction a win-win for everyone involved?
Take a moment to learn more about your own work.
Take a moment to learn more about those you serve.
My final thought.
34 across. Six letters. Four clues.
1: a tiny slice of today;
2: an instant in time;
3: a pivotal second;
4: you can lead, learn or change in one of these.
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
www.unsplash.com
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
David’s LinkedIn page
Interesting information about crossword puzzles
Dr. Hayward Cordy, executive director of the Oconee Regional Educational Service Agency in Georgia, and former teacher, principal, and superintendent (2:00)
Hayward’s book, Damaged Goods: Lessons Learned in Poverty, Applied to Life. (3:25)
Large family, sharecroppers, living in intense poverty (3:30)
Surrounded by love and support (4:20)
18 people in one three-bedroom home, with no bathroom (4:45)
No bathroom tissue (5:00)
Importance of personal hygiene, a reflection of who you are as a person (6:00)
Bathing in a #3 washtub – using sunshine to heat the water (6:30)
Newspaper vs. Charmin (7:15)
Things don’t make you – our worth comes from giving back (7:50)
Father was a first-grade dropout and wanted all of his children to excel in school and life (9:00)
Education as the equalizer (9:35)
Report card day (9:50)
A black male, growing up in poverty, brought challenges that had to be overcome (10:20)
Rise above mediocre to move beyond one’s current situation (10:40)
Poverty is temporary and changeable (11:20)
Teaching to the souls of children (11:45)
Soul – thoughts, will, emotions – must be in alignment with one’s goals (12:00)
You are capable, you can be successful, you must persist with your desire to succeed (12:30)
“The bottom rail will come to the top one day” (13:15)
Born a chronic stutterer (14:20)
Standing on the sidelines (15:00)
The power of words (16:00)
Struggles taught me persistence (16:40)
We all have shortfalls – we all stammer at times (16:45)
Race? Who owns the problem? (17:00)
Not letting those who have issues with race define you (17:40)
There are good and bad people – choosing to believe that most are good (18:15)
Dented cans, damaged goods (19:00)
I saw everybody else as perfect, and me as imperfect (20:20)
How value is truly determined (20:50)
I held my view of me in my own hands (21:10)
Diddy Waah (21:45)
“High-minded poor boy” or reminder of big dreams, potential and promise? (22:45)
Grandmother Carrie Lily – a special bond with “Boy” Hayward (23:50)
Making me feel special, among fifteen children (24:30)
Working, fighting spirit, a bastion of hope (25:15)
My mother’s persistence and determination (26:00)
Oldest siblings worked the fields two days each week, and attended school the other three days (27:00)
Able to love all fifteen children with a special love (27:30)
Balanced, skills, and being somebody is based upon what’s in your heart (27:40)
Dr. Mays – always have goals, and set them high (28:00)
Dedication (Hayward’s thoughts), foreword (Dr. Allene Magill) – book excerpts (29:35)
Mentoring others, starting in high school (30:30)
Be for others in their life, what I missed in mine (31:00)
“I didn’t choose…where I was born, or my family, but I can choose my destiny” (31:30)
Reaching the hearts of people matters most (32:00)
First grade teacher Ms. Williams looked beyond the stuttering to see a gifted child (32:10)
Troy Taylor, from the alternative school – from suicide attempts to published author and working in the medical field, serving the underserved (32:40)
French fries – a simple act that changed a life (33:30)
“That’s what it’s about. Changing lives. It’s not about me.” (33:50)
Reginald, in the hallway – one of six godsons who call still Hayward “dad” – a question and a word of encouragement (34:30)
Life was changed – now a successful contractor, and visits Hayward in Wrightsville, GA to this day (35:00)
Ms. Nadine Hunt – the El dog and her approach to life, modeling what Diddy Waah dreamed (36:00)
“Life is not perfect, but life is worth living.” (36:55)
“Become hope for those who are hopeless.” (37:25)
“I was born poor, I am still black, and I was born a chronic stutterer, but I chose to make life better for myself. It wasn’t easy, but it is possible…The question has to be, ‘How badly do you want to make life better for yourself and for others? We have a choice.” (37:45)
“I am not a victim. I am a victor, in life.” (38:30)
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Brothers go on a rafting trip
A bodysurfing challenge
Impending tragedy
How to navigate trouble
Mutual support
Stand up
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
The many accomplishments of Joy Robinson (3:30)
Early thoughts about becoming a teacher (4:30)
My teachers were my role models (5:20)
Why students are the best part of my job (5:55)
I also come to school to learn from my students (6:15)
Peer tutoring as an elementary, middle, and high school student (7:10)
Understanding? “The more you read it…” (8:25)
Kindergarten? No. (10:00)
Finding the right grade level (10:10)
Learning starts with relationships, not with lessons (11:30)
Truly knowing one’s students (11:45)
Stretch students to outside their comfort zone (12:30)
Pull things out of students that they didn’t know they could do (12:50)
When students use their learning in an authentic way (13:15)
Determining teacher effectiveness (14:00)
The most important gauge of student growth (14:40)
Kindness, maturity, participation as indicators of progress (14:55)
Passion, walk the talk, specific examples (15:45)
Visit my classroom (16:15)
Sense of community is huge in the classroom (16:30)
Professional learning must be specific, appropriate and applicable (18:50)
Adult learners must also be met at their point of interest, need, and motivation (19:30)
Teacher-leaders are passionate and vocal about things that matter (21:15)
Connection is a vital component of relationships and teaching (22:00)
Where we are now has a lot to do with where we came from (23:15)
The Sankofa bird’s message about blending the past and the future (23:30)
Growing up in a rough neighborhood in a “failing school district (24:00)
A graduating class of success stories (24:30)
The absolute best teachers, serving in the face of naysayers (25:00)
Collecting experiences and ideas from one’s teachers (26:00)
Great teachers, by grade level and name (26:50)
“Stretching” students, humor, competitive, music while journaling, conversational, authenticity (26:50)
Teaching and learning is give and take (29:45)
Learn from your students – be open-minded (30:00)
Why the passion, joy, and look to the future? Great teachers are born (30:45)
Don’t forget why you teach (31:30)
Teaching more than seventy students every day (33:00)
What next? Immediately, teaching! (34:30)
Board of Director Bio
Joy Robinson, a fourth-grade teacher at Lake Park Elementary School in Lowndes County, represents District 8 on the PAGE (Professional Association of Georgia Educators) board of directors. As a board member, Robinson said she will be a voice on PAGE, representing and communicating the interests of educators and students in her southeastern Georgia district.
The life-long learner and participant in PAGE Professional learning maintains that knowing your students is at the core of effective lesson design. “Knowing one’s students and their families gives an educator great insight, enabling the teacher to truly design instruction that caters to each student’s needs,” she recently told PAGE One magazine. “Having a relationship with student families further reinforces trust that the educator will share helpful information about the student and that the information will be received well. When all the pieces are in place and operating smoothly, authentic learning will occur — and with it, the byproduct of increased student achievement.”
Considered a teacher leader and an influencer amongst her colleagues, Robinson takes an active role and interest in education at all levels. In her community, Robinson has served as a member of the Parent Action Committee and the Community Partners in Education committee, which she has chaired. She has also served on her school’s redesign and improvement teams. On the district level, the Google-certified educator has served on the system technology committee and learning management system committee, as well as on the district’s instructional framework committee and advanced ed strategic planning committee. On the state level, she presented at the Georgia Reading Association forum on standard implementation and served on the Georgia Milestones review team. She was instrumental in developing standards-based social studies units for her school leading to proficiency gains. And in her role as part of PAGE's South Georgia School District Network, she has fond memories of working closely with the late Dr. Allene Magill on Burke County’s district transformation initiative.
Robinson is a career-long member of PAGE, beginning in college. She also serves as her school’s PAGE building representative. “All of my experiences with PAGE have aided in molding me as an effective educator,” she added.
Robinson earned a degree in early childhood education from Valdosta State University, graduating magna sum laude. In 2018, she was named her school’s teacher of the year.
Sankofa bird
Teacher website
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
The 1969 Mercury Grand Marquis
Never really driving
Driver’s education
A humiliating moment, but a learning moment
Applicable observations
Knowing the people that you serve
You have choices
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
My favorite principal, Mr. Ed. Worley (3:05)
Fairly smart until eighth grade (4:00)
Drafting class with applied geometry led to thoughts of being an educator (5:00)
Collaboration with colleagues as a goal, in the service of student learning (5:30)
Leading edge of technology? (7:00)
You need to understand the basics before tech is useful (7:50)
The county’s first 3-D printer, in 2013 (9:30)
STEM, first used as a term in 2001(10:30)
STEM described for students, parents, and others (11:00)
Student competitions – robotics, plus (12:15)
Teaching students and teaching teachers – professional career goal realized (12:30)
Frankel students coming off of a first-place finish in 2019 (14:15)
2020 competition cancelled due to the coronavirus (15:10)
Technology evangelist (15:45)
Moving from the classroom to industry (17:40)
Developing teacher-made video tutorials – years before YouTube (19:15)
Developing video tutorials for employees on the manufacturing plant floor (20:00)
Human Resources becomes yet another role (20:15)
Skills gap resulting from the push for all high school graduates to attend college (23:00)
Creating an initiative to incentivize the pursuit of a manufacturing career (24:00)
The Kalamazoo Promise concept leads to the Tribar Promise (24:45)
Connecting learning institutions and industry for mutual benefit (25:30)
The host puts words in the guest’s mouth – Ha! (26:55)
Society’s view of what teachers do (27:15)
Respect for educators (27:45)
Teachers’ challenged with 30+ students in a class are now tasked with designing work in a new way (29:00)
Technology resources need to be used and we need to support teachers in the transition to new tools and learning formats (30:15)
Stepping up to the plate with technology and generosity, to help during a time of crisis (32:15)
An expected “no” turns into a “yes” and accelerates production (35:30)
Navigating school guidelines and timelines, and intersecting with others to assist medical providers (36:00)
Guest blogger on Education week (37:30)
Inspection vs. quality processes (38:00)
Consider changes to core components of the teacher preparation structures (38:30)
A shout out to some great teachers (39:00)
Acknowledgment matters, greatly (40:30)
Relationships matter more than rules (41:30)
The 40-40-40 concept (42:45)
Getting to know one’s students and allowing one’s students to know you (44:45)
Dale Rogers – LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dale-rogers-nbct/
Dale Rogers – blogpost – the flipped classroom
https://lookatthiscowbell.blogspot.com/2020/05/the-flipped-classroom-its-not-just.html
Dale Rogers – Education Week guest column
https://blogs.edweek.org/teachers/teacher_in_a_strange_land/2013/08/run_schools_like_businesses_sure_heres_how.html
TV news spot about the face shields from 3-D printers
https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/local/2020/04/07/staff-at-west-bloomfield-school-make-face-shields-with-3d-printers/
The Frankel Jewish Academy
https://www.frankelja.org/
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
One year podcast anniversary
Pilot episode guest Hannah Talley’s huge contribution
Teacher-leaders help others move forward
Great teachers are consistently generous
Step by step–and interaction by interaction–is how meaningful change happens
We all have teachers around us, whether we are “in school” or not
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
Neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery (2:15)
Borborygmi – its meaning and significance (3:00)
Why be a physician? (4:15)
Meaningful work (4:45)
The neurosurgery Operating Room (OR) at every opportunity (5:30)
Don’t pursue medicine for the wrong reasons (6:15)
Look ahead – consider one’s life in a particular area (6:30)
Practical experiences at nth Dimensions (7:30)
A good medical rotation illuminates potential (8:00)
Hammers and screws and people – orthopedic surgery! (8:15)
20+ years of school plus residency – a lot of schooling (9:00)
Teaching skills adjust with the structure of the learning environment (9:45)
Important to convey the reasons for the content being taught (11:05)
Teachers need to remember what it’s like to be a beginner (11:45)
Great teachers understand each student’s perspective and context (12:30)
View each student as full of potential (13:15)
Teaching requires true understanding (14:30)
Thinking in “the language” of the content (world language, science, math…) (15:00)
Monkeys can’t actually explain the slides (15:30)
Understanding doesn’t automatically equate to being able to teach (16:00)
Standardized tests’ value (17:20)
Approach teaching by asking if the format and content are accessible and meaningful for the students (18:30)
Strengthen the relationship between first and second year medical students and their third and fourth year colleagues (19:15)
Don’t judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree (20:20)
Expand on what captures student interest (21:10)
Kahn Academy concepts (21:30)
The LSAT as an indicator of law school acceptance and as a gauge of one’s professional practice thereafter (22:30)
Focus on “next” and individualize earlier (23:05)
Memorable learning experience – a change of pace (24:45)
Problem based opportunities where “facts” are applied (25:10)
A kind word of interest and support makes a huge difference (25:45)
Take the time to “notice” (26:15)
Hand surgery – trust plus support equals a boost in confidence and skill (26:30)
The real lesson from Theory of Knowledge - Brain in a Vat (27:00)
We need to engage in intellectual humility (27:45)
Mr. Gribble – cared enough to attend the White Coat ceremony (28:15)
Ms. Mary Britt – really knows and cares about her students (29:35)
Thanks, educators, for your sacrifices (30:50)
Teachers and doctors - both have impacts on the populations they serve (31:25)
Borborygmi: Food for Thought podcast (32:10)
Todnem-Ready Review app for Neurosurgery resident board exams (32:25)
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Medical College of Georgia link: https://www.augusta.edu/mcg/
Borborygmi: Food for Thought podcast link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/borborygmi-food-for-thought/id1507529435
nth Dimensions – advancing women and minorities in specialty fields - www.nthdimensions.org
Kahn Academy – www.khanacademy.org
Riverwood International Charter School - https://www.fultonschools.org/Page/181
Theory of Knowledge: https://sites.google.com/site/ricsibtok/home
Brain in a Vat: https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=sites&srcid=ZGVmYXVsdGRvbWFpbnxyaWNzaWJ0b2t8Z3g6MjkyYTE4NWYzODE3YjI3YQ
AP World History: https://sites.google.com/site/ricsapworldhistory/about-me
Brookwood High School - https://www.gcpsk12.org/BrookwoodHS
Simon Ratcliffe asks a question
Levity during times full of heavy hearts
Life check
Decision prep
Relationships
Meaningful work
Don’t take it for granted
Educators never stop serving
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Characteristics of a good teacher (2:15)
Students who love the teachers who love their students (3:05)
Knowing one’s students (3:45)
STAR program (5:45)
Hope for the future - great teachers and great students (7:45)
The filter for decision making that will lead to engagement and learning (12:15)
Targets for student engagement (16:00)
Authenticity as a key characteristic of work (16:30)
Listening to the students (17:00)
Who is it for? (18:00)
Responding to criticism that schools may not be preparing students properly (21:00)
Poor learners? (24:35)
Lessons learned during a career in education (28:30)
Common to all educators’ experiences (33:15)
Thank a teacher today (34:15)
MCG link: https://www.augusta.edu/mcg/
Borborygmi: Food for Thought podcast link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/borborygmi-food-for-thought/id1507529435
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
PAGE One magazine – The Promise of a Rising Generation: How Young Georgia Scholars are Impacting the World – see pages 10-16: https://issuu.com/pagemagazines/docs/page_one_jan_feb_2020_high_res
Engagement resources: www.schlechtycenter.org
David’s Linkedin page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
How has coronavirus affected education? (3:17)
A shift to virtual learning platforms (4:00)
Teachers are still approaching their work with professionalism and a focus on student learning (6:00)
A potential new understanding of, and appreciation for, what teachers do (6:55)
Will higher ed make adjustments in learning as a result of COVID-19? (8:40)
Immersion in content alongside practitioners (11:05)
Technology is more than digital (12:00)
Communicate to learn (13:00)
Technology based decisions must be made in service of who is being served and what needs to be accomplished (13:30)
I quit teaching after one year in the classroom (15:10)
Connections between education and work in other sectors (16:35)
Learning opportunities exist in virtually every situation (17:30)
Each student’s potential to learn is not determined by what they know now (18:30)
How has the U.S. educational model changed since the 1980s? Many options for one’s education (19:10)
Jamie Vollmer - Schools Cannot Do It Alone (20:30)
The increasing scope of responsibilities connected to public schools (21:20)
The chalkboard. A relic? (21:30)
Notes to students - before texting, email and access to photocopiers (23:10)
Public schools or private schools - which is best? (24:45)
Public school - opportunity, authenticity, and diversity (25:30)
Teachers as the heart of the school (27:00)
Preparing for students for whatever next is the key to gauging school effectiveness (27:45)
Public schools as a foundation of our nation’s government and culture (28:30)
Innovation, creativity, and ingenuity (29:15)
Predictive tests (standardized tests) and their inappropriate place of prominence as evaluative tools (30:00)
The sum total of one’s learning (30:50)
What you know, understand, and are able to do (32:00)
Kindergarten as an example of the need for a more authentic process to gauge student progress (33:00)
Test scores or recommendations about work ethic, understanding, initiative, as components of admission requirements (35:30)
SAT and/or ACT - vital? (37:00)
Indicators of a great school (37:30)
Standardized testing and “the practice of” - finding the balance (38:00)
The inadequacies of a limited bank of test items (41:00)
Engaging with a true practitioner and with emerging mentors (42:45)
Relationships must be a big part of doing one’s work well (45:15)
MCG link: https://www.augusta.edu/mcg/
Borborygmi: Food for Thought podcast link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/borborygmi-food-for-thought/id1507529435
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s Linkedin page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Where are you from?
Picture yourself at a gathering, or perhaps you are attending a virtual gathering, on a video call with five, ten, twenty, or even a hundred others. Regardless, you are with other people. Everywhere you turn, there are lots of faces looking at you (or not). The initial silence is beginning to be punctuated by small talk, verbal icebreakers and stereotypical opening lines are exchanged, and maybe a few people are still “on the edges,” not yet fully immersed in conversation.
This is not an unfamiliar scenario. How many times have you found yourself in this type of setting? Within minutes you meet another person and the “Hi, I’m So-and-so. Nice to meet you…” introduction is made. This is inevitably followed by “What do you do?” And, sometimes, “Where are you from?” is asked.
How do you answer those questions? Do you parrot the greeting in your response? “Nice to meet you, I’m David, and I work for the Professional Association of Georgia Educators. What do you do?”
I think it’s time that these situations are viewed as the tremendous opportunities that they actually are, versus being relegated to a rote set of statements that are as benign and memorable as “How are you?” and the “Fine, thanks” expected response.
Where are you from?
Would you be willing to say that you are from a place of many blessings, or maybe a place of great contentment or even struggle, or perhaps a spot low on many learning curves (but headed up!), or somewhere else?
In what other ways could you answer this question? What creative responses could you share that might spark a meaningful conversation?
What about the other questions?
What do you do? That is a very common one!
Should our replies be restricted to official titles and organizations, or would the discussion immediately take on new depth if we conveyed the impact of our work, and what we really want to lead, learn, change, or accomplish next?
Don’t misunderstand – there’s nothing inherently wrong, at all, with common courtesy, expected niceties, and polite banter. Most of us would readily argue, and correctly, that we need to encourage pleasant discourse today, maybe more so now than at any other time. So, by all means, keep that concept alive!
If, though, you are fully invested in an effort to make better things, or make things better, view these moments as opportunities
to lead people to think,
to learn something new yourself, and
to start pondering what might change as a result.
And, even better than an insightful response might be posing different questions altogether.
Think about that for a moment.
What questions could you ask that would provide a welcome springboard for others to talk about their work, their hopes and dreams, their ideas, and their “what next?” (“What next?,” by the way, is another very good way to plant a thought about the scope and reach of one’s future efforts.)
My friend Maria Xenidou, host of the Impact Learning podcast, likes to ask, “What’s your story?”
That’s so simple and straightforward, it’s answerable by anyone, and it opens doors to all sorts of conversation possibilities, and who knows what after that?!
Are you a teacher? A principal? Or do you support colleagues or learners in some other way, or in some other sector?
What could you ask in order to learn more about those you seek to serve?
What would help you truly get to know your customers, co-workers, students (or their parents), so that you could design experiences for them that will have the most value?
Questions truly matter.
Take some time to think about the questions. Time spent on questions may indeed be a better investment than hours expended crafting wonderful answers.
I once had the privilege of working with one the best first-year teachers I have ever met.
Her name is Juli, and she took the time, along with HJ, the paraprofessional in the classroom they led, to pen a short note to each student’s parent, every week or two, in a little stapled, paper booklet.
The kindergartners they taught carried these low-tech (but immensely effective) tools of correspondence from school to home, and back again, all year.
The written communication embedded in these bits of daily highlights, family insights, humor, and sometimes heartache, were brimming with content that added a rich level of understanding, in all directions, for everyone involved, and the trust that was developed as a result of this generous exercise truly benefited the children in that class. Sometimes, often times, it’s the simple act of expressing genuine interest that makes the biggest difference in someone’s life.
The great thing is, we are all presented with chances to make that difference, quite often, if not every single day.
What would you like to see and hear asked at your next interaction with new friends, colleagues, or students? Make it happen!
Where are you from?
How about, “Where are you headed?”
Capitalize on these moments. Learn from them. Lead the change.
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Coming soon...
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Full transcript
In a Moment - Collaboration. Optimism. Vision. Inspiration. Dedication.
Recent events have upended daily routines, financial markets, and life in general.
Changes of great magnitude occur from time to time. When there is no hint that a significant problem is imminent, and when the specifics of one’s circumstances are being experienced for the very first time, the lack of preparation-especially in a world where instant feedback and resolutions are sometimes viewed as the norm-can be disconcerting or even frightening.
How should we respond to such change?
What should we learn from what is going on around us?
How do we lead in the face of uncertainty?
Not by creating Confusion.
Not through Overreaction.
Not via Vague messages.
Not as Irrational decision makers.
And certainly not by Division.
Instead, we Collaborate to make the best of a situation.
We adopt and act on an Optimistic outlook.
We share our Vision about a positive tomorrow.
We Inspire by unleashing the creativity of others.
We remain Dedicated to our mission.
The organization in which I work, the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE), is viewing the current events swirling around us through a lens of opportunity. While we are taking seriously the threats posed to various aspects of life as we currently know it, we also believe that this season will pass. And, we believe that great educators will mitigate the difficult aspects of this unprecedented change, and that they will continue to demonstrate leadership, via their ongoing commitment to teaching and learning.
Toward that end, it is a privilege to share with you a brief overview of a decision that PAGE made in the past few days. It serves as a solid example of how a future-oriented approach can make a difference for many people.With schools closed, and with some of our organization’s work impacted by these closures, the flexible use of resources has emerged as one means of leveraging current events in a positive way. We should all be asking ourselves right now, “What resources might I use–in a way not previously considered–that might help someone else?”
PAGE moved swiftly and crafted an opportunity for PAGE members to apply for grants to support teaching and learning. During the current and immediate shift towards virtual platforms, educators are seeking out ways to enhance their skill set and are looking for resources that can directly benefit students. PAGE’s educator grants were developed to reinforce these needs.
In the first 60 minutes after the grant application notification was distributed to our educator members, over 200 applications were received. That’s an application every eighteen seconds! Eighty-two percent of the applicants were classroom teachers and the overwhelming majority of the grant requests will directly benefit students!
Clearly, Georgia’s great educators are not resting. They are eager to provide learning experiences for their students. In the last two weeks, I have had the privilege of engaging in conversations with some Georgia educators as well, via video conferencing tools. Those discussions reinforced the notion that great teachers are viewing this time as a learning opportunity. Teachers are exploring ways to make online interactions–with people and with content–as meaningful as possible.
I am proud to work with an organization that stays true to its purpose, taking full advantage of every opportunity to support educators, all in the service of learning. I am also honored to be acquainted with many dedicated professionals who commit their careers and their lives to making sure that young people have every chance possible to be successful, and to be prepared for whatever is next.
It is important to view every moment as an opportunity to make a difference.
Change happens in a moment.
Learning can happen in the moment.
Leadership can make or break the moment.
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
- Does the world need changing?
- What is meant by “world?”
- The value of roles and relationships
- Leaders, followers, and influencers
- Collective and individual impact
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Learning impacts life (4:20)
No space in pre-school (5:15)
Mom leading the reading and learning (5:30)
Learn, early on (6:30)
Obstacles serve as a catalyst for moving forward (6:45)
Different pathways to learning (7:40)
Self-directed learning (8:00)
Intentional learning (8:30)
Learning from others (9:00)
Learning from those who have experience (10:00)
Learning via interest and opportunity (12:15)
Create space and opportunity for learning (12:55)
What to teach directly and what to allow to unfold (14:20)
The most important conditions for learning (15:35)
Access to resources is vital (15:40)
Cultivating an environment that cultivates curiosity and exploration (16:40)
Independent learners and thinkers are problem solvers (17:15)
Learning by doing (17:30)
Put your learning into practice (18:40)
Focus on the most difficult parts (18:55)
Difficulty as an indicator of a potential learning moment (19:10)
Share as you learn, not only later (21:20)
“Teacher” means someone with more experience (22:25)
Sharing as teaching (23:25)
Maria’s elevator question (24:15)
Leveraging knowledge and skills to help others (24:30)
Helping others moves your own work forward (24:50)
Finding and solving problems as a key to learning (25:55)
Resources can become distracting (27:00)
Remove what you don’t need to learn, and learn only what you need (27:15)
What kind of work do you want to do? (27:55)
A teacher goes above and beyond (29:55)
Handwritten lessons and problems for Maria and her sister (31:00)
Figure out a way to get resources to people (32:20)
A teacher’s amazing insight, confidence, coaching, and mentoring (33:05)
Public schools, working class, low income family receiving great support (34:40)
The Impact Learning Fund (35:25)
Commitment – a year’s salary as a VP (35:55)
Fifty dollars or one hundred dollars can provide education for a child without access to resources (37:00)
Learning to reach out to “community” to make progress (38:00)
Connections help with decision making, especially in a world of abundance (38:50)
Content creation – podcast interviews and written resources (39:40)
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
GUEST CONTACT INFORMATION FOR LISTENERS
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariaxenidou/
Podcast - https://impactlearning.simplecast.com
Recycling center
New yesterday, old today, gone tomorrow?
Will Esters' approach
Dr. Allene Magill - relationships and building bridges (see link below for information about the "PAGE Dr. Allene Magill Scholarship" for support personnel)
The challenge
Implications for one's own work
https://www.pageinc.org/scholarships-offered/
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Show Notes
From one career intention to another (3:50)
The pervasive but poorly supported failure narrative (4:00)
Working in the standardized testing world and a shift in thinking (4:30)
Who is at fault? (4:50)
What? No ideas for an alternative? (6:00)
Testing and accountability as commensurate with one another (6:35)
Test-based accountability is not the source of the problem (6:50)
Schools deserve an appropriate accountability system (7:30)
Effective organizations use forward-facing accountability mechanisms (8:30)
Forward-facing issues fail to be emphasized in schools (9:20)
Is backward-facing accountability beneficial? (9:40)
Is backward-facing accountability even possible? (10:45)
Destined or expected to repeat the past, year after year (11:40)
Are schools’ accountability practices truly backward-facing? (12:30)
The pitfalls of backward-facing accountability (13:20)
The positives embedded in accountability (13:55)
Imposed accountability (14:35)
Operating in, and ignoring, a context of ongoing change (16:40)
Identifying effectiveness as a prerequisite for accountability (17:25)
Research and logic do not support A-F grading of schools (18:30)
Both effective and ineffective schools do exist (19:30)
Student benefit at the center of school practices (21:30)
Accomplishment vs. measurement (22:20)
Hopes and dreams (23:20)
Hopes and dreams and the level of “mission” (24:00)
Hopes and dreams for a higher test score? (25:20)
Higher test scores or “getting ready for life?” (26:20)
Parents need to have meaningful conversations about their children (31:25)
Mission vs. mission statement (32:20)
For-profits and non-profits have a handful of missions (33:30)
Public schools tend have more than two dozen missions (33:55)
The biggest issue facing public schools today (35:20)
Next steps for TestSense (37:05)
True accountability’s potential as a national movement (37:35)
Legislative solution or legislative support? (38:00)
Mrs. Carlisle – a great teacher (40:25)
Growing up with a disability and Mrs. Carlisle’s wisdom (40:35)
Accountability processes and frameworks do not need to be unwieldy (42:20)
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Episode-specific Links:
www.brave-ed.com
www.testsense.com
Recurring Links:
Music for Lead. Learn. Change. is Sweet Adrenaline by Delicate Beats
Podcast cover art is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Professional Association of Georgia Educators: www.pageinc.org
David’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-reynolds-5a5b0a36/
Instagram - lead.learn.change
Clark Atlanta University, one of 101 Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the nation (3:05)
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. attended college on this campus (3:25)
Social mobility through education (5:05)
Three times a Panther (6:05)
Identified as a future leader in DeKalb County Schools (7:00)
Year 45 and counting – a lifetime dedicated to serving others (9:00)
A court order and Felicia’s first teaching position (9:20)
Nearly a dozen languages spoken in the school (10:05)
Seven years, seven years, seven years… (10:25)
Too many principals of color in some schools (11:05)
Education as the most noble field (12:45)
Teachers perpetuate democracy (13:15)
A child of civil rights (13:50)
A fabulous childhood, in a mission (15:05)
A southern midwestern accent (16:35)
There is something bigger than you (17:15)
The Wallace Foundation, Gwinnett Public Schools, and the Principal Pipeline (18:00)
A teacher’s impact is significant (18:45)
The leader must have the big picture (20:00)
Even when you think big, there’s something bigger (21:20)
Leveraging power to impact a community (22:15)
1953, heart of the civil rights struggle, and a segregated community (23:30)
The “mission of the mission” was pushed by the black aristocracy (24:20)
New Orleans, Dubuque, and Memphis (25:20)
The common enemy was never based on someone’s race (25:50)
The good, and the evil, that is colorless (27:30)
Skin tone, or something else, as a core issue? (28:30)
Are you here to contribute, or are you here to take away? (29:40)
It was right in the middle of a housing project (31:10)
This was definitely a bifurcated community (32:20)
Fathers and mothers were paying attention to a lot of things (33:00)
Happy to be able to be an ambassador for my race (35:00)
Had to prove myself, and I had to make all A’s (35:30)
Segregation was about capacity (35:45)
These women were very progressive (36:20)
We need to make sure that everyone has a voice (37:30)
My mother wanted me to go into education (37:50)
Overwhelming sadness (38:35)
The haze as the sun was setting was orange (39:35)
Our home received a phone call (39:55)
Lessons learned from the civil rights struggle and Dr. King’s assassination (41:20)
There is a significant price paid when one person advances at the expense of another (42:25)
What gives birth to civil wars (43:40)
Educator-leaders are in the middle to mitigate our struggles (44:00)
The risk of forgetting (44:45)
Faith and hope that we will continue to do well, learn, listen, and improve (46:20)
Understanding the human condition, everyone has a voice, and emerging from oppression (47:00)
We are learning on a broader screen (48:30)
Working to harvest the best gifts (48:55)
Empowerment, respect, and using the best of what people have to offer (49:45)
History of women’s needs not being met (50:55)
Outcasts, outsiders, and social responsibility (51:15)
I have a responsibility to share what works (52:30)
This is a wonderful time, with so many rich examples of leadership (55:45)
We know what goes into being successful (54:30)
You can “get the call back” after a mistake is made (55:00)
A leader will not make a perfect call every time (55:35)
Systems theory and vision – long-term and right now (57:25)
You must have an undergirding of service to others (58:10)
Personal care shows–in your face, your countenance, and your productivity (59:40)
Don’t work out your inadequacies on social media (1:00:00)
To lead means that you are giving your best self (1:02:10)
Social justice defined as advocacy (1:03:10)
Dr. Moses Norman - insert yourself into a dark place and turn on the light (1:05:00)
I want my experience to be of benefit to someone else (1:07:30)
Leadership and popularity (1:08:20)
The benefits of the earlier harvest (1:08:50)
Do justly, love mercy, walk humbly (1:10:00)
Retirement just keeps moving away from me (1:10:40)
Dr. Fidel Turner and Barbara Hill providing leadership at CAU (1:11:30)
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
http://www.cau.edu
The History of Black Catholics in the United States https://www.amazon.com/dp/0824514955/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ysvrEbK92EG5V
Introduction, ROI background and explanation
The Narnia story
Lessons learned
Invitation to subscribe, tell others, and share your own story
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Amarillo, Texas, and Buffalo, New York (2:15)
Data, evidence, propositions and their roles in the goals of a case study (4:40)
Focus groups, interviews, documents, email, and student work (7:40)
Standardized test scores and the range of metrics that matter (10:30)
Student input as a vital factor in gauging effectiveness of any approach to teaching and learning (12:20)
The standardized test debate actually started 150 years ago (13:30)
Trust as a pivotal component in “assessing” teachers and schools (14:40)
Technology as a two-sided challenge (15:00)
Standards reflect the values of those who establish them (16:30)
Who should make the decisions? (17:00)
How well do these tests prepare young people for their future? (18:35)
Professional learning that is intentionally transformative (20:30)
Trust surfaces, again – this time as a key to creating the conditions for true engagement (21:30)
The role of a teacher is not simple, one dimensional, or clear to everyone (23:50)
Multiple opportunities for success as an important foundational practice (25:15)
How to “improve things” alongside challenges and constraints (27:35)
Schools do mitigate the negative effects of societal pressures and difficulties, such as poverty (28:15)
The work of teachers has a significant positive impact on students and learning (29:00)
What it really means to offer students choice, and how doing so is a wise move (29:50)
Affirming student performance (31:55)
Quality professional learning uses a framework, not a formulaic, prescriptive, or predetermined set of steps (32:40)
What are these students going through right now? (33:55)
The value of teachers and their work (35:00)
The shifts in the processes used to capture evidence inside PAGE’s research projects (38:00)
Phil Schlechty (the Schlechty Center) – “It’s the activity of the learner that causes learning.” (38:45)
Community and political contexts impact the operational reality of schools (40:00)
Go back to the classroom – the center of teaching and learning (41:25)
One-with-one conversations with teachers – learning from our fellow educators (41:40)
About what do I want to learn more? (45:45)
Suggestions for policy makers (47:05)
Program adoption or a customized approach to an important issue? (47:50)
Organizational health and conflicting initiatives (49:30)
Everybody doesn’t have to do the exact same thing in order to make progress (51:15)
Teaching and learning are all about accountability and responsibility (53:25)
The lack of trust has not improved relationships, interactions, or processes (54:15)
Professional learning can legitimately advance the teaching profession (56:30)
Retirement deferred, career and work revitalized, as a result of thinking about one’s work (59:15)
Skinner’s Ghost and the Smart Machine (1:01:40)
Maybe not measure anything? Analyze patterns instead. (1:03:00)
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
www.markgarrison.net
garrison@neweduconsulting.com
https://www.amazon.com/Measure-Failure-Political-Origins-Standardized-ebook/dp/B007SJNZPI
How did standardized tests become the measure of performance in our public schools? In this compelling work, Mark J. Garrison attempts to answer this question by analyzing the development of standardized testing, from the days of Horace Mann and Alfred Binet to the current scene. Approaching the issue from a sociohistorical perspective, the author demonstrates the ways standardized testing has been used to serve the interests of the governing class by attaching a performance-based value to people and upholding inequality in American society. The book also discusses the implications that a restructuring of standardized testing would have on the future of education, specifically what it could do to eliminate the measure of individual worth based on performance.
https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED517705
Ivana seeks another perspective on addressing biases (2:45)
Engagement cuts across all groups (3:45)
Dr. Phil Schlechty influenced David’s views on learning (4:15)
Your mom’s opinion matters (4:45)
Affiliation requires collaboration (5:30)
All learners “bring motives to the table” (6:25)
It’s the work that engages the learner (7:00)
A, B, or Not Yet (7:00)
Diversity of interest (8:05)
Engagement and learning, cradle to grave (9:15)
Ivana shares some thoughts on balancing universality and individual contexts (9:45)
Engage all or engage most? (10:30)
Attention as the currency of a student’s time (12:40)
Ivana digs into the “student as customer” concept(14:40)
School as a place for the creation of a civic project (15:10)
Students have choices, even in a compulsory attendance context (16:30)
The student-customer metaphor (17:30)
School’s connection to community – the metaphor expanded (18:25)
Different types of teaching and the effect on learner engagement (20:10)
Ivana describes some university experiences in Europe (21:00)
Clarifying the meaning of student choice (22:00)
The most important customers (24:45)
David and Ivana agree (25:20)
Ivana asks about the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (25:25)
Safe schools, wraparound services, funding formula, and the teacher pipeline (26:25)
PAGE benefits – individual, school, profession (28:30)
True accountability (29:15)
Generosity, patience, and community matter (30:25)
Ivana highlights important concepts in the customer metaphor (31:20)
David and Ivana agree, again (32:10)
Ivana points out the great contributions of teachers (32:30)
Ivana’s grandmother is still serving in a teaching role (33:50)
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Academic accomplishments (2:55)
Born in a country that no longer exists (4:40)
Growing up during a war (5:40)
Happy childhood memories (9:05)
Yugoslavia to France, and studying law (10:10)
Columbia Law School (11:00)
Who helps design the learning experience? (13:50)
Meshing diversity and collaborative practice (16:30)
Eliminating bias (18:55)
An immigrant’s perspective influences beliefs about teaching (20:30)
Some great teachers (22:45)
Generosity and patience (24:10)
A new learning experience – sewing (26:20)
What matters most in learning (29:30)
Knowing one’s students drives the design of learning experiences (30:00)
“Bonus material” (33:20, after the outro)
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
H.O.M.E. is where the heart is (0:56)
Ebenezer Scrooge and public speaking (4:04)
Mr. Glenn, a bit of blood, and a second chance (5:10)
Thank a teacher! (12:38)
Joe’s success on the court (14:04)
Serving others (18:45)
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Guiding campaign teams to victory (2:55)
First female vice-president (5:50)
A world traveler (7:00)
Life’s pivot points (8:15)
Influential leaders (11:05)
Immersive learning (14:20)
The benefits of a public school education (16:00)
The gift of a different perspective (19:00)
Whose vision? (20:40)
Teaching and learning embedded in one’s work (22:40)
Success, contentment, freedom, and happiness (25:15)
Making change happen (27:15)
Selfless educators make a huge difference in lives (30:55)
A favorite quotation (32:30)
First female member of the firm and the youngest staff member (34:45)
What next? (36:40)
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Self-help? (3:12)
"We must, when we can, teach others" (5:00)
Learn to blunder in order to learn (7:43)
Finding meaning and purpose (9:57)
The "right people" – pluses, minuses, and equals (12:35)
Anonymous criticism vs. meaningful feedback (15:12)
Encourage engagement (16:33)
Teaching vs. instructing (17:07)
Status quo, certainty, curiosity, and creativity (18:37)
"I still love teaching" (25:52)
Discomfort & frustration, and living & learning (27:58)
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
A new direction – 5:10
Scanning groceries leads to a mindshift – 6:30
Pharamaceutical patent – 9:15
People who make a difference – 15:25
Teacher-leader – 19:55
Teaching has taught me... – 27:45
What matters most – 34:55
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.
Podcast cover art for Lead. Learn. Change. is a view from Brunnkogel (mountaintop) over the mountains of the Salzkammergut in Austria, courtesy of photographer Simon Berger, published on www.unsplash.com.