Are we unknowingly training a generation of students for a “middle of the road” future, where creativity and critical thinking suffer at the hands of automation and convenience? In this enlightening episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Matthew Warwood and Dr. Cindy Burnett sit down with Dr. Roni Reiter Palmon, a distinguished professor of Industrial Organizational Psychology at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. They dive deep into the world of creativity in education, exploring the essential skills students need for the future workplace, such as problem identification, empathy, and critical thinking. Dr. Roni Reiter Palmon shares practical examples and research-backed strategies, highlighting the importance of framing problems from multiple perspectives and understanding how creativity and critical thinking are intertwined. The conversation also touches on measuring creativity, the role of AI in assessment and idea generation, and the risks and rewards of integrating technology into creative educational processes. Listeners will also gain insight into current trends shaping the field of creativity research, including team creativity, creativity with constraints, and innovative approaches to fostering creative skills in students. As the current President of the APA Division 10, Dr. Roni Reiter Palmon offers a unique perspective on emerging topics for 2025 and emphasizes the necessity of expertise and deep domain knowledge for meaningful creative work. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or creativity enthusiast, this episode provides actionable advice and thought-provoking questions to help fuel your teaching journey in the age of AI and collaborative innovation. Be sure to check out the show notes for conference links and additional resources! Guest Bio Dr. Roni Reiter Palmon is the John Holland Distinguished Professor of Industrial Organizational Psychology at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. With nearly 40 years in the field, her research zeroes in on creativity and innovation in workplaces, focusing especially on cognitive and social processes, creativity measurement, skill development, and the intersection of creativity with AI and teamwork. With over 200 publications in leading journals and books, Dr. Reiter Palmon is a central figure in creativity research, currently editing the APA Handbook on the Psychology of Creativity and serving as the president of APA Division 10. In 2024, she was honored with the Arnheim Lifetime Achievement Award for her influential contributions to the study of creativity.   Be sure to subscribe on your favorite platform and sign up for our Extra Fuel newsletter for more resources and inspiration. Visit FuelingCreativityPodcast.com for more information or email us at questions@fuelingcreativitypodcast.com.

Can teachers truly be creative if they’re told exactly what tools to use—and how to use them? In this thought-provoking episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood welcome Dr. Punya Mishra, Associate Dean of Scholarship and Innovation at Arizona State University’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. Dr. Mishra delves deep into the concept of “teachers as designers,” drawing on the foundational design theories of Herb Simon and his own background in engineering and design. He explains how teachers, much like designers, operate in complex, ambiguous environments where creativity, improvisation, and reflection in action are essential. Dr. Mishra introduces listeners to the TPACK framework, highlighting the intersections between content, pedagogy, technology, and context, and discusses how educators can transform everyday tools—from textbooks to cell phones—into powerful vehicles for creative learning. The conversation expands into the pressing challenges and opportunities presented by technology, particularly artificial intelligence, in today’s classrooms. Dr. Mishra shares both his excitement and concerns about AI, emphasizing the importance of teacher agency, the risks of top-down, one-size-fits-all edtech solutions, and the need to recognize the implicit learning theories embedded in every technology. He offers examples of AI as a creative partner in both the classroom and his personal creative pursuits, while also warning about issues like bias and over-reliance on technology-generated content. The episode closes with Dr. Mishra’s personal reflections on transformative learning experiences, the vital role of teacher creativity, and a call to retain a critical, questioning stance as technology continues to reshape education.   Guest Bio Dr. Punya Mishra is Associate Dean of Scholarship and Innovation at Arizona State University's Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. He wears many hats—learning engineer, professor, researcher, author, artist, and designer—and his research explores how creativity, design, and technology intersect to transform education. Known for his engaging talks and prolific scholarship, Punya inspires educators to embrace innovation while staying firmly rooted in the art and science of teaching. He believes in empowering teachers as creative professionals and gives voice to the importance of context, flexibility, and genuine care in shaping meaningful learning experiences.   Be sure to subscribe on your favorite platform and sign up for our Extra Fuel newsletter for more resources and inspiration. Visit FuelingCreativityPodcast.com for more information or email us at questions@fuelingcreativitypodcast.com.

In this thought-provoking episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, Matthew Worwood and Cyndi Burnett sit down with Dr. Catherine Little, Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Connecticut and President of the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC). Catherine reflects on how the field of gifted education has evolved—where meaningful progress has been made and where key challenges still persist, especially in ensuring all students have opportunities to engage in deeper, more creative thinking. Drawing from her extensive research, she shares practical strategies for integrating gifted education into the everyday curriculum, highlighting the power of facilitating student conversations around open-ended questions to promote curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity. This episode offers rich insights for teachers, gifted coordinators, and education leaders seeking new approaches to creative teaching, teaching creativity, and supporting creativity in education through inclusive and inquiry-driven practices. Plus, a special shout-out to the upcoming National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania—a must-attend event for anyone passionate about gifted and creative education!   About the Guest Dr. Catherine Little is a professor at the University of Connecticut specializing in giftedness, creativity, and talent development. Her research focuses on professional learning, differentiated instruction, and questioning practices for advanced learners. She has led several national initiatives, including Project Spark, Project LIFT, and Project Focus, aimed at recognizing and responding to academic potential, especially in elementary students from underserved populations. Dr. Little currently serves as the president of the Board of Directors for the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC), supporting educators in developing resources and strategies for nurturing the talents of all students. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite platform and sign up for our Extra Fuel newsletter for more resources and inspiration. Visit FuelingCreativityPodcast.com for more information or email us at questions@fuelingcreativitypodcast.com.

Coming soon.

What happens when you mix creativity with the freedom and flexibility of micro schools?   In this enlightening episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Matthew Worwood and Dr. Cyndi Burnett dive into the world of micro schools with special guest David Richards, founder and CEO of ChangeMakeredU. David breaks down what micro schools are—intimate learning environments with 5 to 150 students—and explains how their structure harkens back to the one-room schoolhouse model. He discusses the rapid growth of micro schools in response to rising parental demand for flexible, creativity-driven education, highlighting that 60% of micro schools use self-directed learning models. Throughout the episode, David shares real-world examples of micro schools focused on the arts, STEAM, neuroscience, and social-emotional learning, illustrating how these small, community-centered schools empower teachers to build the creative learning experiences they've always dreamed of.   Listeners will gain insights into launching a micro school, including the business and operational steps, potential funding models, and the importance of tailoring offerings to the needs and values of local communities. David details how the micro school model creates space for true creativity, collaborative multi-age learning, and active parent involvement—environments that traditional schools often struggle to provide. The hosts express their excitement about the potential of micro schools to usher in a revolution in education, and David shares his most creative educational experience—designing a new school model with students using design thinking principles. If you're an educator, parent, or community leader interested in fostering creativity and reimagining learning, this episode offers a roadmap to getting started and highlights the resources available through ChangeMakeredU.   Be sure to subscribe on your favorite platform and sign up for our Extra Fuel newsletter for more resources and inspiration. Visit FuelingCreativityPodcast.com for more information or email us at questions@fuelingcreativitypodcast.com.

Can we really measure creativity in the classroom—or are we missing the bigger picture?   In this engaging episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Matthew Worwood and Dr. Cyndi Burnett sit down with Dr. Selçuk Acar, Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of North Texas and a leading voice in creativity assessment. Together, they dive deep into the complexities of measuring creativity in educational settings, examining the ongoing debate between domain-general and domain-specific creativity, and discussing the challenges teachers face in recognizing and nurturing creative potential among students. Dr. Acar offers practical advice for educators, emphasizing the importance of open-ended, ill-defined questions to encourage creative thought, and highlights emerging tools and strategies for integrating creativity assessment directly into classroom content. A central focus of the discussion is Dr. Acar’s work on MOTES, a groundbreaking new measure of original thinking that leverages AI technology to objectively and efficiently score creative responses. The conversation explores how AI is revolutionizing creativity assessment, making it more accessible and scalable in educational environments, and the broader implications this holds for teaching and learning. Dr. Acar reflects on his own formative creative experiences as both a student and educator, underscoring the lifelong value of cultivating curiosity and original thinking. Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or researcher, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring perspectives on the future of creativity in schools.   Be sure to subscribe on your favorite platform and sign up for our Extra Fuel newsletter for more resources and inspiration. Visit FuelingCreativityPodcast.com for more information or email us at questions@fuelingcreativitypodcast.com.

In this episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood sit down with innovative art educator Jason Blair to explore the often overlooked discomfort adults feel around "real creativity"—something Jason dubs "inconvenient creativity." Jason shares powerful personal stories, from creative chaos in his daughter's room to spontaneous, student-driven art projects in his classroom, illustrating how true creativity frequently emerges in unexpected moments that disrupt the status quo. He explains why adults and educators can be unsettled by these uncontrollable, messy instances and emphasizes the importance of leaning into these opportunities instead of suppressing them.   The conversation delves into strategies for infusing creativity across all classrooms, not just the arts, with Jason offering practical ideas for sparking student imagination and engagement in any subject area. The hosts and Jason also explore the need for an educational revolution, not just evolution, highlighting the urgency to shift focus from content and efficiency to nurturing the dispositions and mindsets that help students thrive in a rapidly changing world. The episode wraps with a memorable account of a cross-age, student-led project that encapsulates authentic learning, collaboration, and the joy of creating for others, leaving listeners inspired to invite more serendipity and creativity into their own teaching practice.   Be sure to subscribe on your favorite platform and sign up for our Extra Fuel newsletter for more resources and inspiration. Visit FuelingCreativityPodcast.com for more information or email us at questions@fuelingcreativitypodcast.com.

Is it time to completely tear down the education system and start over if we truly want creativity to thrive in our schools?   In the first debrief episode of Season 11, hosts Cyndi Burnett and Matthew Worwood take a reflective dive into insights from their most recent three guests on the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast. The discussion begins with Dr. Henry Smith from Johns Hopkins University, who explored the intersection of creativity and education policy, notably discussing the controversial topic of school vouchers and advocating for a revolutionary approach to education reform—“tearing down the house” to build a truly creative system from the ground up. Cyndi and Matt examine both the promise and concerns of vouchers, especially their impact on equity, and tease an upcoming episode on micro-schools that further expands the conversation. The hosts then turn to classroom creativity with Emily Jamison, an elementary teacher known for fostering a family-like atmosphere and utilizing clever, agency-giving feedback strategies to empower students. They reflect on the importance of playful, positive feedback—even down to students choosing the color of their feedback pen—and discuss how creating a safe, supportive environment nurtures creative expression at any grade level. Wrapping up, Cyndi and Matt share their takeaways from an interview with renowned creativity researcher Dr. Keith Sawyer, unpacking ideas from his latest book, "Learning to See." They discuss the importance of perspective in creativity, the value of “studio talk” for reflection and creative growth, and creative exercises—like photographic challenges—that can deepen both student engagement and teacher understanding. The episode closes with personal stories, anticipatory teasers for future guests, and a fun nod to trying new things—even learning to “shuffle” on YouTube!   Be sure to subscribe on your favorite platform and sign up for our Extra Fuel newsletter for more resources and inspiration. Visit FuelingCreativityPodcast.com for more information or email us at questions@fuelingcreativitypodcast.com.

What if creativity doesn’t start with inventing new things, but with learning to see and interpret the world differently?   In this engaging episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood sit down with Dr. Keith Sawyer, a leading creativity researcher, jazz pianist, and professor at UNC Chapel Hill. The conversation centers on Sawyer’s new book, Learning to See, which explores the idea that true creativity begins with learning to notice, perceive, and interpret the world—and oneself—in new ways. Together, they unpack how artistic and design educators approach fostering creativity, often avoiding the very word itself, instead focusing on guiding students through iterative processes that develop their ability to “see” and think critically. Keith shares insights from more than a decade of interviews with art and design professors, highlighting the deliberate, teachable practices and mindsets that underpin creative achievement. The discussion broadens to consider how these principles translate across disciplines, from the arts to the sciences and humanities. The hosts and Keith emphasize the importance of process over outcome—encouraging experimentation, feedback, and reflection as keys to creative growth. The episode also delves into the concept of “studio talk,” where educators model their own thinking and decision-making out loud, providing students with a window into expert creative processes. Listeners will come away inspired to infuse their teaching with opportunities for personal transformation, risk-taking, and iterative exploration, regardless of subject area. Plus, Keith offers a preview of his upcoming book focused on personal creative transformation, making this episode a must-listen for educators and creativity enthusiasts alike.   Be sure to subscribe on your favorite platform and sign up for our Extra Fuel newsletter for more resources and inspiration. Visit FuelingCreativityPodcast.com for more information or email us at questions@fuelingcreativitypodcast.com.

How can an elementary classroom feel more like a family than a traditional learning space—and why does that matter for creativity and learning?   In this episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Matthew Worwood and Dr. Cyndi Burnett sit down with Emily Jamieson, an elementary school teacher renowned for creating classroom communities that feel more like families. Emily, currently preparing to teach second grade at St. Gregory the Great School in Connecticut, shares her journey from aspiring landscape designer to passionate educator. She discusses how formative experiences working in a children's garden ignited her love for connecting students with nature and hands-on learning, and reveals how those early lessons continue to influence her classroom approach today. The conversation delves into the value of integrating outdoor experiences, like field trips and Earth Day activities, to build curiosity and stewardship in young learners. Throughout the episode, Emily emphasizes the importance of nurturing students’ interests and adapting assignments to individual needs, particularly in developing writing skills and encouraging creative expression. She explains her unique strategies for providing feedback in supportive and empowering ways, fostering an environment where children are not only unafraid to make mistakes but also eager to share their authentic selves. The hosts and Emily also explore the challenges and rewards of building a classroom culture rooted in psychological safety, trust, and mutual respect, allowing every child’s strengths and personality to shine. The episode wraps up with Emily reflecting on her own most memorable creative learning experience—a collaborative video project about the Oregon Trail—which inspired her belief in making education personal, meaningful, and joyfully creative.   Be sure to subscribe on your favorite platform and sign up for our Extra Fuel newsletter for more resources and inspiration. Visit FuelingCreativityPodcast.com for more information or email us at questions@fuelingcreativitypodcast.com.

Dr. Henry M. Smith, EdD, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Education under President Clinton, joins Matthew Worwood and Cyndi Burnett to unpack why creativity often gets sidelined in the system of public schooling, and how alternative models like vouchers might open new possibilities—if equity can be addressed.

Welcome to Season 11 of the Fueling Creativity in Education podcast! Co-hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood are back—and this season, we’re excited to offer video episodes on YouTube in addition to our regular audio format. To kick off the new school year, Matt and Cyndi each share three go-to activities they use to set the stage for creative teaching and teaching creativity from day one. These activities help students build trust, take creative risks, and tap into their own curiosity—whether they’re in an elementary classroom or a college seminar. 🎒 In this episode, you’ll learn: How Matt uses the Marshmallow Challenge to spark conversations about the creative process How Cyndi’s short creativity prompts build momentum and engagement early in the semester Practical ways to embed creativity in education while supporting classroom community 📝 Read Matt’s blog post: Using the Marshmallow Challenge to Kickstart the Creative Process 📺 Explore Cyndi’s YouTube channel 🌐 Visit us at FuelingCreativityPodcast.com for more resources and to subscribe to our Extra Fuel newsletter. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your teaching journey, this episode offers meaningful, ready-to-use strategies to inspire creative thinking and start the year strong.

As part of our Fueling Creativity in Education Throwback Series, co-hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood selected this episode to help educators reignite their passion for creative teaching as they prepare for the new school year. In this powerful conversation, they welcome back Dr. Ron Beghetto and Laura McBain, Co-Director of the K12 Lab at the Stanford d.school, to explore the lessons behind their book, My Favorite Failure: How Setbacks Can Lead to Learning and Growth. Together, they dive into how educators can reframe failure as a catalyst for learning, growth, and teaching creativity in a more human-centered way. Discover how personal stories of failure, classroom strategies, and emotional vulnerability can be used to foster creativity in education. Learn the difference between mistakes and failures, and why acknowledging emotions, expectations, and risk-taking is essential for both teachers and students. Whether you're a new teacher or a veteran looking to try something bold this year, this episode will inspire you to see failure as a starting point—not an ending.

As part of our Fueling Creativity in Education Throwback Series, co-hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood selected this episode to help educators reignite their passion for creative teaching as they prepare for the new school year. In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Frank LaBanca—educator, researcher, and founding principal of Westside Middle School Academy Magnet—shares his powerful approach to inquiry-based learning. As one of the few principals in the country who still teaches in the classroom, Frank offers a unique lens on how to cultivate creativity and problem-solving through student-driven exploration. Discover how teaching students to ask better questions can transform learning, why project-based learning empowers both teachers and students, and how real-world feedback—not just teacher evaluation—deepens creative growth. From developing faculty to embracing uncertainty, Frank’s insights offer practical and philosophical guidance for educators committed to teaching creativity in meaningful, lasting ways.

As part of our Fueling Creativity in Education Throwback Series, co-hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood handpicked this episode to help educators gear up for a new school year with fresh ideas for teaching creativity in the classroom. In this conversation, elementary STEAM teacher Andrea Mango shares how she brings creative teaching to life by connecting creativity research with everyday classroom strategies. From building student choice into projects to creating a safe environment for risk-taking, Andrea offers practical insights on engaging all learners—including those reluctant to participate. Whether you’re teaching STEAM or looking to kickstart creativity across the curriculum, this episode is filled with back-to-school inspiration for cultivating creative thinking from day one.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter here! In this special summer edition of the Fueling Creativity in Education podcast, hosts Matthew Worwood and Peter Reynolds welcome renowned children’s author, illustrator, and songwriter Barney Saltzberg. Best known for his playful, heartfelt stories like Beautiful Oops and Crazy Hair Day, Barney shares insights into his two newest books: Just a Banana and Rabbit's Feet. The episode explores how Just a Banana uses humor and interactive surprises to encourage children and educators to see everyday objects—like a banana—in new and creative ways, reminding listeners of the value in play, divergent thinking, and finding joy in imagination both at home and in the classroom. The conversation then shifts to Barney’s second new release, Rabbit’s Feet, a thoughtful story born from artistic experimentation that ultimately champions selfless acts and doing what’s right without seeking recognition. Whether you’re a parent or an educator, this episode provides inspiration for nurturing creativity in children, and practical ideas for promoting a growth mindset through creative storytelling and play-based activities. Don’t forget to check out the show notes for links to Barney’s books, his YouTube creativity challenges, and further resources to enrich your summer reading and professional development journey. Eager to bring more creativity into your school district? Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect! Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education! For more information on Creativity in Education, check out: Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education

Sign up for our weekly newsletter here! In this special Listen and Learn episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood welcome back Katie Trowbridge, an educator with over 20 years of experience and the creator of the CREATE method. Katie discusses her newly released book, Deeper Thinking in the Classroom, which is designed to guide educators in weaving creative and critical thinking strategies into existing K-12 curricula. She emphasizes that creativity is not just for the arts—debunking the myth that it’s a classroom “add-on”—and showcases how curiosity forms the foundation of deeper thinking across all subjects. The CREATE method (Curiosity, Risk-taking, Experience, Attitude, Team building, and Evaluation) provides teachers with practical steps and a clear structure for nurturing student creativity and critical thinking. Katie also talks about her companion book, aimed at helping teachers recognize and cultivate their own creativity both personally and professionally. The conversation highlights the importance of evaluating creativity in classrooms, not just through traditional rubrics, but by involving students in co-creating assessment criteria, fostering self-reflection, peer evaluation, and metacognitive skills. Practical tips and resources are shared, reinforcing the book’s hands-on approach, and connecting to topics discussed in previous episodes—making this episode a valuable resource for educators seeking to reinvigorate their teaching with strategies for deeper, measurable creative engagement. Eager to bring more creativity into your school district? Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect! Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education! For more information on Creativity in Education, check out: Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education

Sign up for our weekly newsletter here! In this special summer Listen and Learn episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education podcast, hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood welcome back the inspiring Principal EL to discuss his new book, "Meet Their Needs and They'll Succeed." Principal EL, a celebrated educator and chess coach, shares the heartfelt story behind his book—highlighting how a personal hospital experience inspired him to reflect on the importance of meeting every child’s individual needs with care, compassion, and love. He introduces his “four C’s of school success”: being crazy about kids, curious about their lives, providing consistent support, and cultivating a culture of love, resilience, and creativity in schools so that every student feels seen, heard, and valued. Throughout the episode, Principal EL addresses the misconception that joy and learning cannot coexist and passionately advocates for the vital role positive relationships and community partnerships play in transforming students' lives. He shares practical strategies from his book, including trauma-informed teaching, creative teaching practices, and fostering a school environment where both educators and students thrive. By emphasizing the power of teaching creativity alongside emotional well-being, this conversation offers inspiration for building dynamic, supportive classrooms. Whether you’re an experienced school leader or new to education, this episode will leave you motivated to create a meaningful impact through daily acts of joy, encouragement, and belief in every child's potential. Don’t miss out on this energizing conversation and check out the full summer reading list at fuelingcreativitypodcast.com/summerreading2025.   Eager to bring more creativity into your school district? Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect! Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education! For more information on Creativity in Education, check out: Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education

Sign up for our weekly newsletter here! In this special summer Listen and Learn episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Cyndi Burnett and Matthew Worwood welcome back Dr. Anna Abraham, the E. Paul Torrance Professor and Director of the Torrance Center for Creativity and Talent Development at UGA. Dr. Abraham introduces her new book, The Creative Myths and Truths, which explores seven enduring myths—or “myth truths”—about the creative brain. The conversation unpacks popular misconceptions, such as the oversimplified notion of the "creative right brain," the perceived link between creativity and madness, and the influence of dopamine, intelligence, psychedelics, and even brain injuries on creative thinking. Dr. Abraham explains that while these ideas often contain a kernel of truth, they are frequently exaggerated or distorted—especially in educational settings. This episode is essential listening for educators passionate about Creative Teaching and teaching creativity in meaningful ways. Dr. Abraham emphasizes the importance of moving beyond appealing but inaccurate narratives and instead grounding classroom practice in scientific research. She offers practical strategies for those looking to cultivate creativity in education, including how to use accessible language while still honoring the complexity of the science. Be sure to check out the episode for thought-provoking perspectives, and visit the show’s summer reading list for more resources—including where to find Dr. Abraham’s book in Kindle format. Eager to bring more creativity into your school district? Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect! Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education! For more information on Creativity in Education, check out: Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education

Sign up for our weekly newsletter here! In this special summer edition of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood welcome back Dr. Zorana Pringle, senior research scientist at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, to discuss her new book, "The Creativity Choice." In a concise, listen-and-learn format, Dr. Pringle offers a compelling overview of her book, which explores what happens after we've come up with creative ideas—emphasizing the process of transforming those ideas into tangible outcomes. The conversation highlights that creativity isn't limited to the arts; it's a multifaceted process relevant to lesson planning, curriculum design, and problem-solving in any educational context. Dr. Pringle also addresses common misconceptions about Teaching Creativity, such as the belief that it requires complete freedom or is only about idea generation, emphasizing instead the importance of constraints and the emotional journey involved in creative work. Listeners will gain practical insights into how emotions impact different stages of the creative process, from playful ideation to critical evaluation. Dr. Pringle shares actionable advice, encouraging educators (and anyone cultivating creativity) to recognize their own emotional patterns and leverage them—using energized moods for brainstorming and more subdued moods for critical review. The episode not only introduces inspiring new perspectives on creativity in education but also serves as a sneak peek into Dr. Pringle’s book, recommended for educators, leaders, and coaches alike. Be sure to visit the podcast website for the complete summer reading list, and stay tuned for more enriching episodes in this summer professional development series.   Eager to bring more creativity into your school district? Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect! Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education! For more information on Creativity in Education, check out: Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education