Honest Conversation Episodes

After 41 years in education, Don Bott believes great teaching depends on optimism, adaptability, reflection, and an unwavering belief in students. He joins Steve and Sophie to discuss the stories that sustain educators, the harm of labeling students and communities, the role of meaningful innovation, and why schools must make it rewarding for excellent teachers to remain in the classroom.

In this season Finale, Steve and Sophie reflect on season three, share upcoming plans for season four, and discuss their experiences with conferences, guest highlights, and new initiatives in education and Edtech.

Austin Levinson joins the podcast to discuss the ongoing engagement crisis in education and why the solution isn’t simply “less technology,” but more intentional, student-centered learning. Drawing on design thinking and project-based pedagogy, Austin argues that real engagement involves active participation and that educators should prioritize empathy for student needs over rigid adherence to curriculum. The conversation also explores healthier approaches to assessment—emphasizing feedback over constant grading—and more meaningful reflection by capturing learning moments as they happen. Finally, Austin introduces immersive simulation-based learning through Megaminds, where students practice communication, critical decision-making, and career exploration in low-stakes, AI-driven scenarios, helping them build confidence, persistence, and agency.

On this episode, Steve and Sophie reflect on 2025 and chat about goals for 2026six and 2027.

On this episode of Under the Hat, we are chatting School Culture with Brian Kulak. Listen in as we breakdown the importance and implementation of a sustainable school culture....and yes, this includes staff! Brian Kulak is in his 26th year in education. For the first fifteen, he taught English and journalism at his alma mater in New Jersey before joining leadership in 2014. He has been both a Chief Academic Officer and K-5 principal. Brian has written two books: Level Up Leadership: Advance Y...

Under the Hat is back with Season three! Listen in as Steve and Sophie chat about the upcoming guest lineup, potential topics, and what is top of mind as we get into the 2025-2026 school year.

Listen in as Steve and Sophie reflect on season, discuss season three, updates, and announcements!

On this episode, we have Dr. Casey Jakubowskig helpling us unpack bullying in education, teacher burnout, and Steve's favorite...CIVICS! We are thrilled to learn from Casey's knowledge and educational journey. Want to learn more from Casey? Here are the links: Website X Instagram

Listen in on this episode of Under the Hat as Steve and Sophie chat about gratitude, teaching, and what is coming up next for the show.

On this episode of Under the Hat, Steve and Sophie welcome Scott Nunes who brings an enormous amount of experience in education, Edtech, business, and passion for creativity! Want to learn more from Scott? Here are the links: Podcast Twitter/X Instagram YouTube LinkedIn

On this episode of Under the Hat, we have Marissa Villanueva who is going to share her journey as an education specialist happily serving the Severely Emotionally Disturbed population, one that is often overlooked in special education. Want to learn more from Marissa? Here's where you can find her: Facebook Instagram

We are super excited to have the man behind all Teacher Goals content, Brad Weinstein, on Under the Hat! Listen in as Brad shares his experience and passion for discipline/restorative practices and what he is working next! Be sure to check out Brad's work at Teachergoals.com.

On this episode, we have the pleasure of having Kelsey Sorenson on the show to chat about teachers taking care of themselves more this school year to alleviate burnout utilizing the strategies from her book. Super important topics and we SHOULD BE be afraid to talk about it. Want to learn more from Kelsey? Here are her links: Website Podcast Instagram Facebook Pinterest TikTok

On this episode of Under the Hat, we hear from Kelsie Marks who shares her story of being in education and her journey of making an Educated Exit. Want to learn more from Kelsie? Here are the links: EdcuatedExit.com Twitter/X Instagram LinkedIn TikTok

To kickoff season two, Steve will be sharing updates, changes, and announcements for season 2!

On this episode, Steve sits down with Ali Simon and JoDee Scissors of Teacher Shift to discuss their Edu passions of alternatives to college and arts integration. Ali and JoDee will also share their work as Podcasters on Teacher Shift and the amazing work they do on their show. A podcast hosting other podcasters? How fun! Want to learn more from Ali and JoDee? Here are the links: Website Podcast Instagram Facebook YouTube Linkedin

In this episode, we have Dr. Furwa Rizvi who shares her story of how schools saved her on various different levels. Her research interests include, early childhood education, supporting BIPOC teachers, and professional development for educators. Dr. Rizvi received her bachelor's degree in psychology, Masters in Education and Teaching, and Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Join this episode to hear the AMAZING Frankie Cilliers discuss having a personal brand as a teacher. Not just about self-promotion, but about effectively communicating your purpose, and showcasing your passion for education to make a positive impact on the broader educational community. It's also about authentically telling YOUR story creatively. Through a strong teacher brand, you're able to showcase your unique qualities, create a legacy, and engage your community on a deeper level. Want...

Join this episode of Under the Hat where Steve has his teacher bestie on the show, Sophie, to discuss how they met. This conversation will stress the importance of having that person or group of people that is ALWAYS there for you. Sophie and Steve will share their story as friends, coworkers, and adventures! Want to learn more from Sophie? Here are the links: Twitter/X Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn TikTok

What weight do WE ALL carry at a school? In this episode of Under the Hat, Matthew Bowerman talks about Heartleading the weight that we all carry and how that impacts trauma in our schools. Come learn his perspective on Teacher Goals, supporting school communities with equity, social emotional strategies, and trauma responsive strategies. Want to learn more from Matthew? Here are the links: Website Book

Steve is joined by Lindsey Bird who has years of teaching experience that included a Language Institute in Modesto, California. Listen to Lindsey's story and truth around practices, policies, and leadership with multilingual support. Want to learn more, here are the links: Website Twitter/X TedTalk LinkedIn Teach Plus California

Looking for some inspiration for your classroom? Check out this episode where Stacey and Steve talk about teaching with the WHOLE learner in mind. This organic conversation dives deep into various tech tools for the classroom, Flipped Learning, attention span, teaching with hear! Want to learn more from Stacey? Check out her links: Website Twitter/X Instagram YouTube LinkedIn Pinterest TikTok Tech With Heart

In this episode, he have the talented Michael Rotondo discussing what is Top Of Mind from the perspective of a teacher, poet, and content creator. Get ready for creativity flow as Mr. Mike does what he does best.....tells a story.

Teachers are in the trenches of Apps, Apps, and MORE Apps! Fonz from Edtechlife helps us understand how to keep things simple with countless amount of technology to use in the classroom. Alfonso Mendoza Jr. is a distinguished figure in educational technology. As an Instructional Software Specialist at Sharyland ISD, he excels in advocating for digital literacy and the seamless integration of technology into education. Alfonso's 'My EdTech Life Podcast' has become a pivotal platform for hig...