Shows
PCTA FYRE PodcastA Conversation with School Board Member, Eileen LongIn this episode, we sit down with Eileen Long to discuss her achievements as the elected board member of Pinellas County School District 4 and her plans if re-elected for another term.
Eileen is endorsed by PCTA for the upcoming August 20th election. Her opponent is proudly supported by Moms for Liberty.
You can find more information about Eileen at EileenLong2024.com.2024-07-2242 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastTales from the Legislature: FYRE Goes to Tally!We're joined by fellow FYRE activists Emily Griest and Heather Fox to talk about their recent lobbying efforts in Tallahassee. During our conversation, we hear some funny stories while questioning the importance of the teacher's voice while the legislature is in session. 2024-02-1743 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastFYRE Reviews: Lean on MeOn this episode of the podcast, the gang takes on the role of film critics to analyze "Lean on Me," starring Morgan Freeman, exploring its message on the career of teaching and the underappreciation of educators in late-stage capitalist society. Join us as we make some laughs, gaffes, oopsies and daisies while losing our minds to this 1980s classic. This one's for you, Gen X. 2024-02-0950 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastState of the Union: January 2024Happy New Year, everyone!
Philip and Brennen are joined by PCTA President Lee Bryant and Executive Director Lindsey Blankenbaker for another important update regarding union leadership, union recertification, and our collaboration with the Common Good Campaign.
The state of our union is stronger than ever as we enter 2024. 2024-01-0738 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastEverybody's Naughty, No Nice.Brennen and Philip meet with two fellow executive board members, Paula Stephens and Tracey McConnell, to discuss behavior problems and discipline procedures that happen in the Pinellas County School District.
During the discussion, we look at behavior issues as they apply to K-12 students, talk about why it is overwhelming to instructional and administrative staff on school sites, and reflect on how parents can help intervening with their children. 2023-12-1648 minPCTA FYRE PodcastState of the Union: November 2023On this State of the Union, Brennen and Lee discuss some critical action steps all members and nonmembers need to follow through to save the PCTA from decertifying in January.
In what may seem like another doomsday message is actually some really great news about our union's plan to remain active all the way throughout this next school year.
We're not going anywhere. Tune in to find out how you can help us make this happen! 2023-11-0825 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastJeff Mann on Americonned: Exposing Economic Inequality and the Role of UnionismIn this episode, we interview executive producer Jeff Mann about the inspiration behind his latest documentary, "Americonned": a "David vs. Goliath story" that pits the working class against corporate giants.
During our discussion, we reflect on the documentary's relevance in regard to recurring inequality and inflation plaguing the country, significant movements of the past that have led us to this point, and how the role of unions might help into play a part in the possible solution.
You can stream Americonned on all major platforms. For more information on the documentary, visit www.americonned.com2023-10-2938 minPCTA FYRE PodcastState of the Union: September 2023Brennen, Philip, and Dr. Anna get together with PCTA President Lee Bryant for their monthly update.
Tune in for for updates concerning our membership deadlines and progress in bargaining. Also, stick around to hear about local community outreach events PCTA has participated in to spread awareness about what's happening in public schools. At the end, we have a quick FAQ with the Bin Questions from the last Faculty Rep Meeting.
Do you have any pressing questions about the state of our union? Email us at pctafyrepod@gmail.com.
2023-10-0431 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastState of the Union: September 2023Brennen, Philip, and Dr. Anna get together with PCTA President Lee Bryant for their monthly update.
Tune in for for updates concerning our membership deadlines and progress in bargaining. Also, stick around to hear about local community outreach events PCTA has participated in to spread awareness about what's happening in public schools. At the end, we have a quick FAQ with the Bin Questions from the last Faculty Rep Meeting.
Do you have any pressing questions about the state of our union? Email us at pctafyrepod@gmail.com.
2023-09-2832 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastMark Doesn't Like CoatsAfter a hellish School Board meeting in August, the hobbits organized with their union and marched onward to get to the meeting an hour early; thus, finally destroying the one ring of power into the fiery depths of Mount Doom...
...Or at least before the Mom's for Liberty could arrive and not have a seat at the meeting...
Here's our report of the September 12 school board meeting at the Pinellas County School District office in Largo. There are laughs, there's goofing, and we endorse an unlikely force of nature. 2023-09-2355 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastThe "S-Word"**STIRKING IS NOT ENDORSED BY PCTA OR FEA**
Brennen, Ramsey, Kelsey, Anna, and Philip debate about the history and concept of striking in Florida.
During this episode we discuss the nuances and common frustrations that anyone would hear a young educator air out about their standing in the profession.
Special thanks to Philip Belcastro, Artifact, and Danya Vodovoz for allowing their music to air on this episode.
Thank you to the following monthly supporters: Misha Chernov, Jacob Albert, and Kathleen and Greg Thomas
2023-08-2642 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastState of the Union: August 2023Welcome to the State of the "Union"! Word play... get it?
Join Brennen Pickett, Dr. Anna Margiotta (they/them), and Ramsey Aziz as they talk about the current state of affairs of the Pinellas Classroom Teachers Association with the president himself, Mr. Lee Bryant.
In this series, Lee will provide updates and answer the important questions our members have left us.
Do you have any pressing questions about the state of our union? Email us at pctafyrepod@gmail.com.
Thank you to the following monthly supporters: Misha Chernov and Jacob Albert.2023-08-1324 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastA Rumble in the JungleIt's time for our school year kick off!
We're back with Dr. Anna Margiotta (they/them), Philip Belcastro, Ramsey Aziz, and Kelsey Donegan to discuss the recent school board meeting on August 1st as well as reflect on where we are, mentally, as educators. Spoilers: Florida is a dumpster fire being railroaded by the true believers.
Thank you to the following monthly supporters: Misha Chernov and Jacob Albert.
2023-08-061h 02
PCTA FYRE Podcast2023 NEA Convention: Part 2This is part 2 of a multipart mini-series. Join Brennen Pickett (he/him), Dr. Anna Margiotta (they/them), and Kelsey Donegan (he/him) travel to the National Education Association Representative Assembly and share their experiences as first-time delegates. In this series, we are centered around explaining the following questions: What are union conventions and why do we go to them?
Learn about how unions work and join us as we figure it out with you.
Thank you to the following monthly supporters: Misha Chernov and Jacob Albert.2023-07-2625 min
PCTA FYRE Podcast2023 NEA Convention: Part 1In this mini-series, Brennen Pickett (he/him), Dr. Anna Margiotta (they/them), and Kelsey Donegan (he/him) travel to the National Education Association Representative Assembly and share their experiences as first-time delegates. In this series, we are centered around explaining the following questions: What are union conventions and why do we go to them?
Learn about how unions work and join us as we figure it out with you.
Thank you to the following monthly supporters: Misha Chernov and Jacob Albert.
2023-07-2217 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 23 - DeSantis v BirkenstockSmall man, big mouth.
In this episode, we are joined by alumni Brandi (she/her) and student activist Josh Epstein (he/him) to discuss the ongoing challenges faced by faculty and students at New College of Florida, located in Sarasota, since Governor DeSantis's overhaul of the board of directors on January 6th, 2023. We primarily explore the impact these changes have had on campus culture and student life, shedding light on the nature of these changes. Additionally, we delve into the actions taken by students, alumni, and activists in their efforts to resist and counter the policies implemented by the...2023-07-1351 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 22 - The Union's Not AAAIn this episode, we are joined by Rob Kriete (he/him), President of the Hillsborough Classroom Teacher Association, along with our friend from across the bay, Emily Griest (she/her). During our discussion, Kriete and Griest enlighten us on the details of their recent labor victory—a two-year struggle with a contractual impasse. Together, explore the pros and cons of this commonly feared union challenge and explore its strategic significance within the collective bargaining process. Later, we engage in speculation about the future of public education in the Tampa Bay area, examining the far-reaching implications for teachers across the state of...2023-06-1143 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 21 - "Rules to Win By: Power & Participation in Union Negotiations" With Abby LawlorIn this episode, we're joined by Dr. Anna Margiotta (they/them) to interview Abby Lawlor (she/her), co-author of the bestselling book "Rules to Win By: Power & Participation in Union Negotiations." During our discussion, we explore various strategies and approaches that unions can adopt to bolster membership through activism and foster member engagement during Collective Bargaining. Finally, we speculate on the current political landscape by discussing effective measures unions can take navigate the challenges posed by culture wars.
Update: Starting May 28th, we will be releasing episodes biweekly until the 2023-24 school years restarts in August...2023-05-2845 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 20 - We Did It With CarsWhat do a couple of Schmoes and a cop think about gun violence?
In this episode, we're joined by Ken Afienko (he/him) and Lee Bryant (he/him) to discuss gun violence in American culture. We touch on gun safety, mental health, and the role of public servants in addressing mass shootings. While delving into the importance of responsible firearm ownership, we also emphasize the importance of proper training and education and the need for accessible mental health services to prevent acts of gun violence.
To what extent does the government mediate this issue and how can our communities help...2023-05-2146 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 19 - Andrew SparWhat's the state of our "union"?
In this episode, we examine the existential crisis teachers face in organized labor with the president of the Florida Education Association, Andrew Spar (he/him) and the president of the Pinellas Classroom Teacher Association, Nancy Velardi (she/her). During our discussion we shed light on a multitude of challenges, achievements, and ongoing impact on the education landscape. Later, we speculate at the direction Florida's education system. We look at where we're heading by exploring recent developments, policies, and their potential implications for students and educators alike.
...2023-05-1448 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 18 - Q&A with HCTA*EXPLICIT LANGUAGE AND MATURE THEMES ARE DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE*
Surprise! We have a "lost episode" for you today.
Enjoy an unedited conversation we have with the Hillsborough Classroom Teachers Association's finest, Emily Griest (she/her) and Rob Kriete (he/him). Our discussion floats around a couple different tangents that loosely answer some questions provided by Orlando Weekly's McKenna Schueler.
How off-script does it get? Find out here!2023-05-1032 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 17 - Nobody Cares About the Woods AnymoreThe band is back together!
In this episode, we're joined by our friends Dr. Anna Margiotta (they/them) and Kelsey Donegan (he/him) to discuss the recent school board meeting on April 25th. During our discussion we delve into the nuances of the recent business conducted concerning the district wide bus shortage as well as the heated public comments that shortly followed.
The teacher's rallied. Hear all about it. 2023-05-071h 02
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 16 - Only Alphas and ChadsGotta go F.A.S.T!
In this episode, we're joined by Tracey McConnell (she/her) and Ramsey Aziz (he/him) to discuss the role of standardized testing in elementary schools, with a particular focus on the new roll out of the Florida Assessment for Student Thinking (FAST). We explore the social and emotional effects that testing has on students, and how this may contribute to apathy towards education in later years. We also question the effectiveness of standardized testing as a means of educating young children and debate the usefulness of the data collected from these tests, considering the...2023-04-3039 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 15 - Nothing is Real"Wrongs to Our Kids and Employees" or WOKE or "We Thought of a buzzword First" or WTF? Uhh...
In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Anna Margiotta (they/them) and the United Faculty of Florida's UCF President, Robert Cassanello (he/him), as we discuss the decades long "History Wars" in the state of Florida and the controversial HB 7, also known as the "Stop WOKE Act." During the show, we speculate on the far-reaching implications of this legislation for educators, students, and parents across the state, while also examining the true intentions of the state legislature. As always, we emphasize the...2023-04-2440 minPCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 14 - Because the Governor Said SoWe've heard of Florida's teacher shortage, but what does this look like in practice?
In this episode, we are joined by mathematics teacher Stephanie Rozell (she/her) and ESE support Mary Gressle (she/her) to discuss the impact of the lack of personnel in their field on their day-to-day work. We hope to shed some more light on how this shortage of professional support can contribute to overall student performance and behavior on campus. Furthermore, we reflect and speculate on the recent signing of HB 1 into law by Ron DeSantis, which will divert billions of taxpayer dollars away from public...2023-04-1734 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 13 - Aziz on the Streets 2: The Electric BoogalooThe Educator Strikes Back!
In this episode, Ramsey Aziz (he/him) hits the streets once again to interview a variety of demonstrators at "The Rally to Defend Public Education" in St. Petersburg that took place on April 1st. We reflect on the demonstration with Stephanie Rozell (she/her) while discussing the significance of the teacher unions as it advocates for the rights of educators and students. We also examine the effectiveness of this demonstration as well as speculate on its potential to influence legislators in Tallahassee.
We highly appreciate your feedback and would love to hear your opinions and ideas...2023-04-1039 min
The Real News Podcast"You're going to see more books get banned": The war on schools in Ron Desantis's Florida | Working PeopleRead the transcript and shownotes for this podcast: https://therealnews.com/youre-going-to-see-more-books-get-banned-floridas-war-on-public-schoolsThings are getting very dark in Florida, and educators at all levels have found themselves on the frontlines of a reactionary political crusade led by Republican governor Ron DeSantis. "As the new semester began," Florida-based journalist Michael Sainato recently reported, "teachers throughout Florida were faced with new state laws strictly limiting curricula—prompting schools to remove droves of books from their classrooms and libraries for fear of being in violation of the draconian but opaque new laws. An already-chilling reality gripping the third most populous state is...2023-04-051h 10
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 12 - A Good Guy With a DroneWhen will it end?
In this episode, we are joined by Hayley Hamblin (she/her) and Emily de la Paz (she/her) to discuss the issue of gun violence in schools. Hayley shares her personal experience as a witness to the 1988 shooting at Pinellas Park High School, where an assistant principal was shot and killed. We gear our discussion around how the incident affected Hayley both as a student and later as a mother. Finally, we end our conversation by speculating on why this issue keeps occurring in America and brainstorming potential solutions.
We highly...2023-04-0339 min
Working PeopleTeaching in Ron DeSantis's Florida (w/ Philip Belcastro & Brennen Pickett)Things are getting very dark in Florida, and educators at all levels have found themselves on the frontlines of a reactionary political crusade led by Republican governor Ron DeSantis. "As the new semester began," Florida-based journalist Michael Sainato recently reported, "teachers throughout Florida were faced with new state laws strictly limiting curricula—prompting schools to remove droves of books from their classrooms and libraries for fear of being in violation of the draconian but opaque new laws. An already-chilling reality gripping the third most populous state is getting even chillier in the wake of controversial legislation such as the “Don’...2023-03-301h 10PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 11 - I Would Be a Happy Sheep FarmerKids these days... Am I right?
Brennen and Philip continue their discussion on teacher burnout by exploring the cultural apathy that is developing within the public school system. They are joined by Shannon Vincent (she/her) and Dr. Anna Margiotta (they/them), who share their own experiences with apathy within schools. Together, they examine the challenges that overwhelm teachers on a daily basis and reflect on possible remedies from both the past and present.
We highly appreciate your feedback and would love to hear your opinions and ideas. You can reach out to us at...2023-03-2742 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 10 - Bilbo BargainsIn this episode, we are joined by former PCTA President Mike Gandolfo (he/him) and Ramsey Aziz (he/his) to discuss role unions play in collective bargaining for teachers.
We explore the definition and legislative history of collective bargaining in Florida and discuss the benefits of union representation in negotiating for teachers, with a focus on the Pinellas Classroom Teachers Association (PCTA). We also examine the potential impact of Senate Bill 256 on collective bargaining in education and what happens when teachers lack union representation in collective bargaining.
We highly appreciate your feedback and would love t...2023-03-2035 minPCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 9 - We Do It For The KidsIn this episode, we're joined by two HCTA teachers, Emily Griest (she/her) and Nicole Teagarden (she/her), to discuss the harmful impact of the "do it for the kids" mentality on teacher burnout and the exacerbation of the teacher shortage crisis.
We delve into what this mentality entails and why it is detrimental to teachers' wellbeing and job satisfaction. We also explore how state, district, and administration's actions in circumventing or exploiting class size amendment laws add to the complexity of a teacher's job. Lastly, we provide a call to action, discussing the physical and mental c...2023-03-1341 minPCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 8 - Approaching Eyeroll StatusIn this episode, we will be joined by returning guests, Kelsey Donegan (he/his) and Dr. Anna Margiotta (they/them), to give a wrap-up of the school board meeting that took place on February 28th.
During our discussion, we will explore the various agendas from the interest groups and stakeholders who participated in the meeting such as the Pinellas Classroom Teachers Association (PCTA), Families for Strong Public Schools, and the Mom's for Liberty. Additionally, we will express our concerns about recent legislation moving quickly through Tallahassee, such as HB 1, the universal voucher bill proposed by the Republican supermajority...2023-03-0642 minPCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 7 - Aziz on the StreetsIn this episode, we had a conversation with Anita Green (she/her) and Ramsey Aziz (he/him) about the recent protest at TD Ballpark during the Governor's Baseball Dinner. Our discussion focused on exploring the identities of the protesters, their concerns, and ways in which the public can engage more with educational issues in Florida.
We highly appreciate your feedback and would love to hear your opinions and ideas. You can reach out to us at pctafyrepod@gmail.com.2023-02-2742 minPCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 6 - Magic Mike's Restorative PracticesIn this episode, we sat down with veteran teacher Brandt Robinson (he/him) and Lee Bryant (he/him) to discuss the issue of political extremism in our school curricula and the targeted attacks on equity-based components within our education system. Our conversation centered around gaining a deeper understanding of "restorative practices" - its intended purpose, how it is meant to function, and why political opponents, such as Mom's for Liberty, have taken a strong stance against it.
We highly appreciate your feedback and would love to hear your opinions and ideas. You can reach out to us at pctafyrepod...2023-02-2239 minPCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 5 - Buc-ee's Employees Make More Than TeachersIn this episode, we had the opportunity to speak with veteran teacher Shannon Vincent (she/her) and first year teacher Dr. Anna Margiotta (they/them) about the challenges posed by standardized testing in public schools. Our discussion centered around the effects of excessive testing on school climate, culture, staff, and students. We delved into the intricacies of the topic, examining both the purpose of standardized testing and its actual impact on education.
We highly appreciate your feedback and would love to hear your opinions and ideas. You can reach out to us at pctafyrepod@gmail.com.2023-02-1640 minPCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 4 - Union DadIn this episode, we sat down with first-year teacher Dr. Anna Margiotta and veteran teacher Lee Bryant to discuss their reasons for joining the union and how they maintain strong union membership at their school. Our conversation explored the question of how to effectively organize at a worksite. We delved into the complexities of recruitment, asking whether friendship or solidarity comes first.
We value your feedback and would love to hear your thoughts and suggestions. Please feel free to reach out to us at pctafyrepod@gmail.com.2023-02-0943 minPCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 3 - Who Coaches the Coachman?In this episode, we chat with first-year teacher Ramsey Aziz (he/him) and Mr. Teacher-Trainer-Coach Joey D'Alessandro (he/him) about the nuances driving the teacher shortage in the state of Florida. We speculate on the question, "Is it just the low salary?" Our discussion only scratches the surface, as we gain the perspectives of different teachers and what might be driving them out of the profession.2023-02-0546 minPCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 2 - Teacher Cop Doesn't Have a UnionIn this episode, we chat with first-year teacher Dr. Anna Margiotta (they/them) and veteran teacher Shannon Vincent (she/her) about the recent PCTA town hall meeting on February 1st and the "Empower Educators" agenda proposed by the DeSantis administration for the next legislative session. We speculate on the question, "What does DeSantis hope to achieve in this next legislative session?" Our discussion delves into the intricacies of these anti-teacher policies and their potential consequences should they become law.2023-02-0243 min
PCTA FYRE PodcastEp. 1 - The Genderbread Man Isn't a Real BookIn this episode, we speak with first year teachers Kelsey Donegan (he/his) and Dr. Anna Margiotta (they/them) about their experiences at the recent school board meeting on January 24th. During our discussion, we explore the question, "Why must the community rally behind teachers in support of Public Education at a school board meeting?" We also address our concerns about recent changes in Florida law and how we're currently at the epicenter an alt-right culture war within the United States. 2023-01-2542 min