This episode of the Innovating Education Podcast is a deep dive into a topic most people overlook: grammar. Dr. Riley Williams sits down with Bob Safran—known to many as "The Grammar Guy"—a pioneer in grammar instruction with over fifty years of experience. Bob has built his career around one mission: reestablishing grammar's critical role in literacy. We unpack how the 1985 NCTE resolution sidelined grammar, and why that mistake continues to hault our literacy efforts. Bob’s journey from public school teacher to textbook editor, career school CEO, and founder of EGUMPP—a fully online English Grammar, Usage, Mechanics, and Punctuation Program. Bob breaks down how grammar isn't just rules; it's the key to unlocking comprehension, precision, and clear communication—from the SAT to workplace writing and beyond. He walks us through how EGUMPP—solvable in just 30–40 hours—unpacks language into manageable, self‑graded modules and one‑page “cheat‑sheet summaries” that make sentence mastery accessible to everyone. Whether you lead a school, teach writing, or just believe in the foundations of literacy, this episode will reenergize your appreciation for grammar. ** What You’ll Take Away:** Why grammar deserves a comeback—not as rote drill, but as the building block of clarity How EGUMPP breaks grammar into four self‑paced modules (Grammar, Usage, Mechanics, Punctuation)—complete with videos, automatic feedback, and certification Insight into how grammar, pronunciation, and structure boost reading comprehension and professional communication Where to Connect:Curious to try out EGUMPP for yourself or in your classroom? Head over to egumpp.com to request a free demo. 

In this episode, Dr. Riley Williams sits down with Eleni Soler—founder of Eleni’s Edge, educator, systems strategist, and certified coach—to dive deep into what it really takes to prepare students for an unpredictable world. Drawing on her journey through business, K–12 teaching, higher ed, and organizational coaching, Eleni unpacks what an entrepreneurial mindset looks like in practice—and why it’s not just for future CEOs. From inquiry-based learning to AI-powered ideation, Eleni makes the case for classrooms that prioritize student agency, curiosity, and risk-taking over rote memorization. She shares how teachers can redesign their roles without burning out, how leaders can foster psychological safety while still holding high expectations, and why thinking differently about failure is the first step toward real innovation. Eleni also breaks down how coaching practices can transform the classroom, how to teach math through story, and how to use Gen AI without losing critical thinking. It’s a masterclass in systems-thinking, culture-building, and reimagining what school can be. If you're an educator, leader, or school designer trying to make real change without burning it all down—this one's for you. 🔗 Resources: Learn more about Eleni’s coaching, speaking, and consulting: elenisedge.com Book Eleni for workshops or keynotes: Email her at eleni@elenisedge.com 🧠 Also mentioned: The Courage to Teach by Parker Palmer The concept of “VUCA” (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) How to use silence as a thinking tool in the classroom Three paradoxes to structure creative classrooms without chaos

Marc Williams is a global speaker, educator, and the co-founder of Speaker Skills Academy, where he helps people—from first graders to Fortune 500 leaders—overcome fear and master the art of communication. He’s also the creator of the acclaimed Rules of Engagement, a ten-part framework that’s reshaping how we teach public speaking across schools and organizations. In this episode of the Innovating Education Podcast, we go deep on why traditional public speaking classes don’t work, and what to do instead. Marc talks candidly about the culture of fear in classrooms, the trap of performative speaking, and how gamification, storytelling, and mindset work can radically transform how people show up and speak with confidence. We also talk about why storytelling should replace speech rubrics, how to build your “communication muscles,” and what it really means to shift from grading speeches to growing communicators. Check out Marc’s work at: https://www.speakerskillsacademy.comConnect with Marc on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcwilliams 🎧 Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow educators, coaches, and leaders.

If you’ve ever cried in your car after school—or stayed up late perfecting a lesson plan—this conversation is for you. Dr. Jen Rafferty gets real about the emotional toll of teaching and the hidden culture that rewards overextension. We explore why burnout isn’t a personal failure, but a systems issue—and how neuroscience, emotional regulation, and identity work can help teachers reclaim their energy and purpose. Whether you’re an educator trying to stay afloat or a school leader committed to meaningful professional development, Jen offers practical, research-based strategies to support staff well-being—from the inside out. ✅ Tools you can use tomorrow.✅ Science that explains what you’re feeling.✅ A path forward that honors both humanity and impact. Get connected:Website: https://www.empowerededucator.comTEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUDvzruMD9IInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenrafferty_/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empowerededucatorfacultyroom Subscribe for more interviews that change how we think, lead, and teach.

Ruthe Farmer is a force of nature in the fight for tech equity. She served in the Obama White House as the Senior Policy Advisor for Tech Inclusion, helped launch the national CSforAll movement, and created programs that have brought thousands of girls and underrepresented students into computer science. Today, she's the founder of the Last Mile Education Fund, an audacious initiative that gives financial lifelines to low-income students on the verge of graduating with STEM degrees. This conversation with the Innovating Education Podcast is unfiltered, urgent, and packed with real stories—like not having a laptop, bus fare to an internship, or stable housing. She shares real stories, hard truths, and radically practical solutions. No fluff—just strategy, impact, and the kind of innovation that changes lives. 🛠️ Support the work:https://www.lastmile-ed.org/ 📲 Follow Ruthe Farmer:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthefarmer/ 💬 Know an educator or policymaker who needs to hear this? Share it.Subscribe, review, and keep these conversations moving.  

David Woodward is the founder and president of Forefront Education, a platform helping schools harness real-time classroom data to drive meaningful instructional change. He’s also the author of Universal Screeners for Number Sense, and a nationally recognized expert on standards-based assessment and data-driven instruction. In this episode, we go deep on why classroom assessments—not interim tests, not state exams—are the most powerful tool educators have to actually improve learning. David talks candidly about the systemic misalignment between instruction and assessment, the rise of adaptive testing, and how districts can reclaim teacher time and drive outcomes by focusing on the data that actually matters. We also talk formative assessment (spoiler: it’s not a product), why most benchmarks miss the mark, and what it’s going to take to shift the culture around data in schools. Check out David Woodward’s work at: https://www.forefront.education.com Learn more about his book Universal Screeners for Number Sense: https://www.forefront.education/resources/universal-screeners-for-number-senseWant to see Forefront in action? Schedule a free demo: https://forefront.education/contact/ Follow David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwoodward 🎧 Subscribe, leave a review, and share this one with the educators and leaders in your network.

Justin Pickens is a teacher, coach, speaker, and father on a mission to change school culture from the inside out. Our conversation goes deep on what it really takes to thrive in a school system that often leaves teachers burned out and students unseen. Justin shares what saved him, what still fuels him, and why he believes joyful, intentional educators are the greatest generational change agents we’ve got. You’ll hear: Why “remember your why” isn’t enough—and what to do when that no longer motivates you How to pre‑decide your mindset before the day begins What strong school culture really looks like (spoiler: it starts with remembering people’s names) The reason storytelling—not statistics—is what actually builds trust and connection One question every school leader should ask their students How small actions from teachers led him out of generational trauma and into purpose This one’s part pep talk, part mindset reset. If you’re feeling stretched thin or unsure if the work still matters—Justin’s clarity, heart, and humor will hit home. Booking & Contact Info Interested in bringing that spark to your next event? Reach Justin Pickens directly: Email: justin@justinpickens.com  Website / Booking page: justinpickens.com You can also connect via LinkedIn—he’s most active there  

In this episode of the Innovating Education Podcast, Dr. Riley Williams sits down with Nick Farrenkopf, founder and CEO of Wibly, to explore how knowledge trees—interactive visual maps of interconnected concepts—are transforming the way students learn math. Drawing from his background in both private tutoring and machine learning, Nick shares how Wibly bridges cognitive science and edtech to reduce cognitive overload, support neurodiverse learners, and make abstract math more concrete. Whether you're a classroom educator, instructional leader, or system innovator, this conversation offers practical insight into how we can make math more engaging, more intuitive, and more human. 🔗 Learn more and join the waitlist at wibly.co📬 Connect with Nick on LinkedIn: Nick Farrenkopf

In this episode, Dr. Riley Williams sits down with Dr. Sandra Brees—CEO of School Founders Academy and founder of Telesis Center for Learning—to uncover how one mother’s mission to help her son launched a movement for hands-on, inclusive learning. From founding a school in her duplex to navigating fire codes with only 10 days to spare, Dr. Brees drops real talk on what it takes to lead with resilience, flexibility, and unshakable belief. She also shares the #1 mistake new school founders make—and how to avoid it. You’ll hear about: Her journey from kitchen table idea to K-12 charter network The surprising phone call that nearly shut her school down What every founder needs to prepare for—and no one talks about Why “community” isn’t just a buzzword, it’s the engine of long-term success Her story is featured in the anthology The Power of Community: Courage, Compassion, Collaboration—and this conversation is your behind-the-scenes look. 🔥 “You have to be strong enough to push through it—and you will succeed. Because that’s exactly what happened to me. And they can too.” 🔗 Resources & Links: Learn more: School Founders Academy Read the book: The Power of Community on Amazon

In this episode of the Innovating Education Podcast, we sit down with psychologist, author, and strength-based education expert Dr. Steven Baron. With over 30 years in schools and private practice, Dr. Baron has helped thousands of students reframe their identity—not around what they lack, but around what they already bring to the table. From a kid who turned his obsession with dogs into a leadership role at school, to a teacher who ditched red Xs in favor of green checkmarks—this conversation is packed with real stories, hard-earned insights, and zero fluff. We talk growth mindset, teacher expectations, and how one simple question on day one—“Who here is afraid of making a mistake?”—can change the entire trajectory of a school year. 🔥 If you're tired of quick fixes and ready to do the deep work of building connection, motivation, and meaning—this episode is for you. 📘 Grab Dr. Baron’s book: Teaching with a Strength-Based Approach🌐 Learn more or get in touch: drstevenbaron.com  

In this episode of the Innovating Education Podcast, Dr. Natasha Veale unpacks how school leaders can lead with purpose—and design environments where all teachers can thrive. If you’ve ever said “we can’t keep our special ed teachers,” this episode is your call to action. Drawing from decades in the classroom and her groundbreaking research, Dr. Veale explores why transformational leadership—not quick fixes—is the missing link in teacher retention. You’ll learn why emotional support matters just as much as instructional resources, what daily leadership habits actually move the needle, and how trust is built not on perfection, but on presence. This is more than a conversation about retention. It’s a blueprint for rethinking how we value, support, and lead the educators shaping our most vulnerable students’ futures. Key Topics: Why transformational leadership is a game-changer for special ed retention The biggest mistakes principals make—and how to avoid them A simple daily habit every leader should start tomorrow Real talk on building inclusive school culture without the buzzwords 🎧 Listen now—because retaining great teachers starts with changing how we lead.

Back-to-School Special Episode What happens when 90% of your staff wouldn’t send their own child to the school they work at? That’s the reality Michael Maine walked into—and the catalyst for one of the most dramatic school turnarounds in recent memory. In this special back-to-school edition of the Innovating Education Podcast, Dr. Riley Williams sits down with Michael Maine—a relentless school leader who transformed a D-rated campus into an A-rated success story in just two years. This isn’t theory—it’s real talk from the trenches. 🔥 In this episode: The brutal staff truth that sparked a cultural reset How short-cycle data and student work analysis drove daily instruction Strategies for hiring and retaining high-impact educators Why staying the course is more powerful than chasing every new initiative If you're heading into a new school year with big challenges and even bigger hopes, this conversation will give you the strategy, clarity, and fuel you need to lead change with purpose.

Back to School Special Episode How do you honor the legacy of a 31-year superintendent while forging your own path? Mark Moring shares how he approached his first year leading Durant ISD with humility, vision, and a deep commitment to collaboration. With a deep belief in collaboration, community engagement, and employability-driven education, Mark shares the challenges and triumphs of building trust, listening deeply, and designing systems that support every student—academically and beyond. From mobile STEM labs to aviation programs and health sciences pathways, discover how Durant ISD is preparing students for real-world success while staying rooted in local partnerships. Whether you're a school leader navigating a transition or an educator rethinking what it means to serve a community, this conversation is rich with insight, honesty, and hope.

What if your virtual program had a thought partner available 24/7? What if accreditation didn’t just check a box—but actually helped you grow? In this episode of Innovating Education, Dr. Riley Williams is joined by Dr. Christopher Harrington—a national leader in edtech and digital learning—to unpack two major innovations reshaping virtual education: ✅ Digital Learning WORKS – A nonprofit platform from EmpowerED Research Institute offering: A vetted marketplace of digital learning tools On-demand consulting, research, and PD Ask Eddie: a free AI chatbot trained on national standards and best pedagogical practices🔗 https://digitallearningworks.org ✅ AccredVEd – A new accreditation model for online programs: Built around the National Standards for Quality Online Learning Partnered with Cognia, WASC, and others for dual recognition Offers a free self-assessment tool for readiness🔗 https://accredved.org🔗 National Standards: https://nsqol.org🔗 VLLA background: https://virtuallearningalliance.org They cover: Why traditional accreditation leaves virtual programs behind How Eddie is helping leaders design PD and support teachers—at 4am if needed The promise (and limits) of AI in school systems How to move from compliance to quality in digital learning If your school is navigating virtual learning, AI integration, or quality assurance, this episode offers practical insights you can’t afford to miss!

In this episode of the Innovating Education Podcast, Dr. Riley Williams sits down with Dr. Jason Williamson—leadership expert, author, and founder of the Second Mile Initiative—for a powerful conversation on what it means to lead with purpose, accountability, and heart. From his roots in a town of 81 people to roles as principal, military officer, and leadership consultant, Dr. Williamson shares transformative insights on how school and system leaders can move beyond obligation into choice—and cultivate cultures where excellence is not just expected, but chosen. Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies from Dr. Williamson’s P.A.C.E. Framework, real-world examples of leadership under pressure, and a renewed vision for what servant leadership looks like in education today. Topics Include: The origins of the Second Mile Mentality How to build collective commitments and sustain team culture Balancing excellence with empathy in times of uncertainty Why public schools aren’t broken—but often broken-hearted More About Dr. Williamson Website: iamjasonwilliamson.com Connect on social: @IAmJasonWilliamson Purchase the Second Mile: Encouragement on Amazon

In this episode of Innovating Education, Dr. Riley Williams is joined by educator, author, and Innovageous co-founder Shira Woolf Cohen for a transformative conversation about what it takes to lead schools where every student feels connected, engaged, and prepared for the future. Drawing from her new book, Leading Future-Focused Schools: Engaging and Preparing Students for Career Success—OUT NOW—Cohen shares an actionable framework to shift school culture from compliance to purpose. With insights honed over 25 years in youth workforce development and education, Cohen makes the case for a Future-Focused Mindset that transcends career day and transforms every classroom. From building student identity and purpose, to engaging ecosystem partners and designing school-wide career pathways, this conversation is packed with practical tools and inspiring examples. 🎧 In This Episode: Why career readiness can’t wait—and how to embed it in everyday instruction The role of mindset, SEL, and student leadership in real engagement How principals can start small but think systemically Real stories from schools already transforming the way students connect learning to life Bio Shira Woolf Cohen is no stranger to bold leadership. She spent 19 years growing a Philadelphia charter from 500 to 1,500 students while serving as teacher, dean, vice principal, and principal. Today, she mentors future leaders, teaches at the graduate level, and facilitates the National Youth Leadership Council’s Instructional Leadership in Service-Learning Program. A recipient of the G. Bernard Gill Award and a Senior Neubauer Fellow in Educational Leadership, Shira brings deep expertise and a core belief that expanding opportunity is the most powerful way to transform lives and communities. Through her work at Innovageous, she partners with schools to design courageous, equity-centered strategies that prepare students for a rapidly changing world. 🛠️ Resources and tools mentioned in this episode—including reproducibles, frameworks, and a full career development continuum—are available at: www.innovageous.com/future-focused And, don't forget to order her new book from, www.innovageous.com/books. Discounts are available for multi-copy orders.   

Are you telling the right stories—or just sharing updates? In this conversation, Dr. Riley Williams sits down with Adam Olenn, founder of Russell and Spark, to explore how schools can use narrative not as marketing, but as a strategic lever for engagement, culture, and change. From faculty and students to donors and board members, Adam unpacks what makes storytelling work—and why it’s essential for leaders shaping the future of education. 🎧 Whether you're shaping school culture, stewarding stakeholder relationships, or driving institutional strategy—you’ll walk away with fresh, actionable insights. Learn more about Adam’s work at russellandspark.com/story Follow Russell and Spark on LinkedIn and Instagram

What if the students who seem the most “put together” are actually the ones quietly struggling? In this episode of Innovating Education, Dr. Riley Williams speaks with Justyna Bronski—certified teen life coach, former Teacher of the Year, and founder of Justyna Bronski, LLC. Drawing from over a decade in the classroom, Justyna unpacks how perfectionism, people-pleasing, and social anxiety can hide in plain sight—and how educators can respond with clarity, compassion, and connection. This conversation is packed with actionable strategies for teachers, school leaders, and parents looking to strengthen emotional safety, build student confidence, and rethink the role of failure in learning. Topics We Cover:– Why high-performing students may be masking anxiety– What emotional intelligence looks like in practice– How to foster authenticity and resilience in teens– Coaching strategies educators can apply tomorrow– What it takes to make SEL stick schoolwide 🔗 Learn more about Justyna’s work at justynabronski.com📱 Follow her on Instagram: @justynabronskicoaching

In this bold and eye-opening episode of Innovating Education, Dr. Riley Williams sits down with Dr. Darrin Peppard—former superintendent, best-selling author, and CEO of Road to Awesome—to unpack how one powerful question during a staff meeting changed his entire approach to leadership. From 2,200 discipline referrals to a student-led culture of recognition, Dr. Peppard shares: Why focusing on what students do right is a radical leadership move. How to build school-wide systems of positive referrals and leadership. The “Jeep wave” mindset shift that changed everything. How administrators can lead with clarity, intention, and heart. Whether you're a school leader, teacher, or aspiring changemaker, this episode is packed with stories and strategies that will reshape how you think about climate, culture, and the power of showing up differently. Listen in, and discover why engagement—not compliance—is the true path to impact. 📘 Resources Mentioned in This Episode Download Dr. Peppard’s free Principal Academy Planning Tool: https://mailchi.mp/roadtoawesome.net/principalplanner Explore his new book, Culture First Classrooms: https://a.co/d/6U5AjMf 👤 About Dr. Darrin PeppardDr. Darrin Peppard is a dynamic keynote speaker, leadership expert, and consultant with a passion for transforming organizational culture and developing the next generation of leaders. As a former high school principal turned leadership coach, Darrin draws from nearly 30 years of experience in education to inspire leaders to embrace clarity, purpose, and joy in their work. He is the best-selling author of Road to Awesome: The Journey of a Leader and the new book Culture First Classrooms: Leadership, Relationships, and Practices that Transform Schools. Darrin also hosts the popular Leaning Into Leadership podcast, where he shares actionable insights on leadership, team development, and creating thriving, purpose-driven cultures. With his engaging and authentic approach, Darrin helps organizations reimagine their culture, cultivate strong leadership, and foster environments where people and teams can truly excel. 🌐 Website: roadtoawesome.net 🔗 Connect with Dr. Peppard on Social Media: LinkedIn X/Twitter: @DarrinMPeppard Instagram: @darrin_m_peppard Facebook: darrin.peppard TikTok: @DarrinMPeppard   

In this episode of Innovating Education, Dr. Riley Williams is joined by Rachel Doty and Courtny Drydale, two digital learning specialists leading the charge on AI integration in schools. Together, they explore how districts can embrace AI without compromising ethics, equity, or human connection. From combating bias in AI grading tools to supporting English learners and neurodivergent students, Rachel and Courtny share hard-won insights, practical rubrics, and a powerful message: responsible AI is not just about tools—it’s about trust, transparency, and teacher leadership. 🎧 Topics Include: Demystifying AI fears in the classroom Ethical challenges: data privacy, cheating, and algorithmic bias Frameworks for equitable, district-wide AI use Why AI is a bridge—not a barrier—for diverse learners Whether you're an educator, administrator, or policymaker, this conversation offers both vision and actionable tools to lead with integrity in the age of AI.