Shows
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesQuality Child Care Creates the Foundation for Lifelong LearningSend us a textQuality childcare creates the foundation for lifelong learning and development, but finding the right program often leaves parents confused, frustrated, and uncertain. What should you actually look for beyond a clean facility and friendly staff? How do you know if a program will nurture your child's development in ways that matter?In this illuminating conversation, Dr. Lisa Hassler welcomes Judith Sikora, a respected voice in early childhood education with over three decades of leadership at national organizations like Child Care Aware of America. Sikora cuts through the confusion with practical wisdom...2025-07-3123 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesSecond Chances: How Prison Education Programs Are Reducing Violence and Rebuilding LivesSend us a textBehind the concrete walls and steel bars of America's prisons, something remarkable is happening. Education—once considered an afterthought in correctional settings—is proving to be one of the most powerful tools for transformation, not just for individuals but for entire institutions.Our conversation with Joshua Gilliam, who brings a unique dual perspective as both a former correctional officer and current university instructor, reveals the profound impact of educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals. Drawing on over a decade of experience and his ongoing doctoral research, Joshua shares compelling evidence that participation in h...2025-07-1726 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesJazzing Up Your Music Program: Reignite Teen Engagement With Unison-Based ContentSend us a textSecondary music classrooms are increasingly challenged by student disengagement—especially when traditional models fail to resonate with today’s learners. In this compelling episode, professional bassist and music educator Richard Frank introduces his Unison-Based Content (UBC) approach, a student-centered framework designed to revitalize music programs and re-engage learners of all skill levels.UBC shifts away from the conventional jazz band structure, offering a more inclusive model that welcomes diverse instrumentation—including non-traditional instruments—and varying skill levels from the start. By blending formal (notation and theory) and informal (playing by ear) learning...2025-07-0328 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesThe Healing Power of Wild Mustangs: Biophilia & Equine Therapy with Erin CainSend us a textDiscover the power of equine therapy through the eyes of specialist Erin Cain, founder of Grace Reins Equine Therapy in Colorado. When words fall short in traditional therapy settings, horses step in as powerful healers for children struggling with anxiety, trauma, and emotional regulation.The science behind this approach is fascinating. Horses, with heart rates half that of humans despite their massive size, naturally help children downregulate their nervous systems through a mirroring effect. This physiological connection creates a safe space for emotional processing that bypasses the need for verbal expression...2025-06-1924 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesWhy Outdoor Play Is Essential for Kids' Growth | Susie Spikol on Nature, Learning & ImaginationSend us a textWhat if the solution to many childhood developmental challenges was literally right outside our windows? Naturalist and author Susie Spiegel reveals how unstructured nature play creates the perfect environment for children to develop crucial life skills that structured indoor activities simply can't replicate.Drawing from her book "Forest Magic for Kids: How to Find Fairies, Make a Secret Fort, and Cook Up an Elfin Picnic," Spiegel shares how simple outdoor activities like mixing "potions" from natural materials or creating miniature fairy villages foster imagination while simultaneously developing communication skills, risk assessment...2025-06-0529 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesPeer Mentorship in Action: How a 9-Year-Old Podcaster Is Opening Doors to Literacy and ScienceSend us a text"Books are the key to unlocking your soul's true potential." These aren't the words of a veteran educator or bestselling author – they come from nine-year-old Ishara, host of Ishara's Reading Podcast, literacy advocate, and aspiring astronaut who dreams of leading a mission to Mars.In this inspiring episode, Ishara is at her skating rink (YouTube video of this episode!) She shares how her reading podcast is helping children around the world access literature, explore big ideas, and discover the joy of learning. From environmental stewardship to space exploration, Ishara connects storytelling wi...2025-05-2224 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesSpeech & Language Help for Kids: Expert SLP Tips for Parents and TeachersSend us a textDinalynn Rosenbush, certified speech-language pathologist and host of the Language of Play podcast, shares research-backed approaches for supporting children's communication skills through play when speech therapy services are delayed or unavailable.• Nearly 8% of children ages 3-17 have communication disorders with speech problems being most common• Children need to hear a word approximately 400 times before they begin using it themselves• Understanding the difference between speech (sound production) and language (meaning, vocabulary, sentences)• Simple strategies include having sensory-rich conversations about everyday activities• Expand vocabulary by providing multiple words for common con...2025-05-0829 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesGen Z College & Career Readiness | Helping Students Plan Their Future with LoperSend us a textPost-secondary planning doesn't need to be overwhelming for students, parents, or educators. Sam Bernstein shares how his app Loper is transforming this crucial process into a personalized, engaging experience that meets Gen Z where they are.• Only 74% of Gen Z teens plan to attend college, down from previous generations• Students increasingly interested in staying at home or exploring alternatives to four-year colleges• College rankings create unnecessary stress and don't account for individual fit• Traditional planning tools rely on outdated checklists that don't engage today's students• Average school counselor...2025-04-2429 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesScreen-Free Learning That Works: Why Teachers & Parents Love the "Who Smarted" PodcastSend us a textWorried about too much screen time for your kids or students? Discover how the Who Smarted podcast is helping parents and teachers bring back curiosity, focus, and fun — without a screen in sight.In this episode, Jerry Kolber, co-founder of Atomic Entertainment and creator of Who Smarted, shares how his wildly popular educational podcast (with over 3 million downloads!) is changing the game. Learn how short, engaging, screen-free episodes are being used in classrooms and homes to spark learning, boost retention, and cut down on screen addiction.🎧 Why kids engage more...2025-04-1022 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesMaking Teaching Sustainable in a Blended, Self-Paced Learning Environment: The Modern Classrooms ProjectSend us a textRobert Barnett, co-founder of the Modern Classrooms Project, explains how their innovative teaching model helps teachers effectively reach students with diverse learning needs through blended, self-paced, mastery-based learning. Traditional teaching methods struggling with different learning paces, gaps in knowledge, and absent students can be transformed with this approach that empowers both teachers and students.• Traditional teaching models fail when teaching to the middle leaves advanced students bored and struggling students lost• Modern Classrooms Project combines blended instruction, self-pacing, and mastery-based learning• Teachers create short instructional videos that students can pause...2025-03-2724 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & Resources406,000 Teacher Vacancies: The Solution Schools Are Using to Keep Classrooms StaffedSend us a textThe education landscape is in turmoil as schools cope with a teacher shortage that leaves over 400,000 positions unfilled. This episode tackles the pressing issue head-on, exploring how innovative education leaders are transforming staffing challenges into pathways for continuity and excellence in learning. We welcome Nicola Soares, the president of Kelly Education, to share her insights from her frontline experience in education. Discover how Kelly Education addresses staffing shortages through a commitment to training, competitive compensation, and strategic partnerships focused on enhancing the quality of substitute teaching. Throughout the episode, we delve i...2025-03-1324 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesEmpowering Young Women Through Financial Literacy with Her Wealth Founder James CombloSend us a textAre you aware of the gender gap in financial literacy? In this episode, James Comblo shares the impact of programs like Her Wealth, designed to empower girls aged 16-28 with the tools for financial independence. Through candid discussions, relatable anecdotes, and actionable strategies, we explore how parents and educators can foster environments that prioritize vital financial conversations. We aim to dismantle the stigma surrounding money discussions and encourage open dialogues about spending, saving, and budgeting. From practical tips for managing credit to insights on developing a healthy relationship with finances, this e...2025-02-2728 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesSchool-Based Mental Health Initiatives with Counseling in Schools' Kevin DaHill-FuchelSend us a textCan better mental health support in schools transform student success? Join us as we explore this critical question with Kevin DaHill-Fuchel, Executive Director of Counseling in Schools (CIS). With him, we uncover the profound impact of integrating mental health professionals into school environments, a strategy that has notably boosted attendance and graduation rates in New York City. Our conversation takes a deep dive into the challenges faced by schools, especially in accommodating the influx of asylum-seeking children in 2023. We discuss how CIS adapts its strategies to meet the unique cultural needs o...2025-02-1336 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesData Driven Solutions for Chronic Absenteeism with Innovator Chris HullSend us a textWhat if a simple tool could improve the way we address chronic absenteeism in schools? Join me, Dr. Lisa Hassler, as I explore this provocative question with Chris Hull, the visionary founder of Otus. In this episode, we uncover how integrating various data points into a single platform can empower educators to swiftly identify at-risk students and create tailored interventions. Discover how technology not only simplifies the teaching process but also enhances a teacher's ability to meet each student's unique needs effectively.With Chris’s insights, we delve into the capabilities of...2025-01-3038 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesStudents Overcome Math Anxiety with Mathematician Dr. Aditya NagrathSend us a textThe episode explores the science and psychology of math anxiety and features innovative educational approaches aimed at transforming math teaching. With a PhD in Mathematics & Computer Sciences, Dr. Aditya Nagrath shares insights on early intervention, preventive strategies to improve students' confidence, and the importance of viewing math as a language. As the creator and founder of Elephant Learning Mathematics Academy, he's on a mission to empower children with mathematics. • Discussion on the prevalence and impact of math anxiety • Early intervention strategies in mathematics education • Teaching math as a language to imp...2025-01-1623 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesJoyful Learning: Practical Strategies for Navigating Holiday Havoc with Drs HasslerSend us a textEver wonder how teachers and parents can navigate the festive frenzy of December without losing their minds? Join me and my husband, Dr. Gregg Hassler Jr., as we unlock the secrets to maintaining sanity and maximizing learning during one of the busiest times of the year. We promise you'll walk away with practical strategies like planning detailed calendars to juggle school events and holiday activities seamlessly. Discover how aligning lesson plans with holiday themes can transform classroom experiences into memorable family keepsakes, all while keeping the joy of the season alive....2024-12-0521 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesThe Golden Age of Nonfiction: Gateway to Literacy with Imagination Soup's Melissa TaylorSend us a textOpen the gates to the golden age of nonfiction literature with Dr. Lisa Hassler and Melissa Taylor, founder of Imagination Soup, as they unravel the often-overlooked power of nonfiction books in education. Did you know that 84% of first graders show a preference for nonfiction, yet these books are not as prevalent as they should be in children's literature? Join us as we discuss the crucial role nonfiction plays in nurturing literacy skills in our information-laden world. Melissa shares her journey from teaching to becoming a curator of children's books, emphasizing the need for...2024-11-2128 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesStories as Tools for Anxiety Management with Former Sesame Street Director, Dr. Anna Housley-JusterSend us a textWhat if the key to managing childhood anxiety lies in the stories we tell? Discover how storytelling can transform anxiety from a daunting monster into a friendly guide, as Dr. Anna Housley-Juster, a licensed mental health clinician and author of "How to Train Your Amygdala," joins us. With a blend of empathy and humor, Anna shares her insights on how understanding the brain's alarm system can empower children to see anxiety as a protective mechanism rather than a foe. She reveals her unique strategies for using storytelling to foster emotional resilience, making complex...2024-11-0732 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesMusic Education & Mental Well-Being: Making Better Humans with Music Workshop's Dr. Giuliana ContiSend us a textUnlock the powerful role of music in transforming education with insights from Dr. Lisa Hassler and guest, Dr. Giuliana Conti, Director of Education and Equity at Music Workshop. Prepare to discover how music education can boost adolescents' mental well-being, with research backing its impact on neural connectivity and emotional health. Giuliana shares her personal journey from classical viola performance to advocating for accessible music programs, highlighting the influence of music in her life and career.Explore their groundbreaking Soundwaves program from Music Workshop, bringing concert-like experiences right into the classroom and...2024-10-2428 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & Resources*Special Episode* When Disaster Strikes: How Schools Build Resilience and Community Strength with Educators Mary Guarino and Beth DonofrioSend us a textWhat if schools could transform chaos into community strength during a natural distaster? Join me, Dr. Lisa Hassler, as we promise a deep dive into the critical topic of hurricane preparedness in American schools. In this episode, seasoned educators Mary Guarino and Beth Donofrio, share their poignant experiences in preparing and dealing with the aftermath of hurricanes. We promise you'll gain valuable insights into the physical, educational, and emotional challenges faced by school systems and the remarkable resilience needed to overcome them. Mary reveals her innovative approach to maintaining educational continuity in unconventional...2024-10-0827 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesGoing Beyond Numbers to Create a Math Symphony with MoMath's Cindy LawrenceSend us a textWhat if mathematics could be as captivating and enjoyable as a symphony concert? In our latest episode, we promise you'll discover innovative ways to make math not only accessible but genuinely fun for everyone. Join me, Dr. Lisa Hassler, alongside Cindy Lawrence, the inspiring Executive Director and CEO of the National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath), as we explore the vital role of mathematics in our modern world and tackle the concerning decline in math performance among US students.Cindy shares her personal journey from CPA to leading MoMath, revealing how a...2024-09-2638 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesEquity-Centered Teaching: A Path to Educational Justice with Director Dr. Emily AffolterSend us a textWhat if we could transform education to truly empower every student, regardless of their background? Join me, Dr. Lisa Hassler, and our inspiring guest, Dr. Emily Affolter, as we uncover the potential of building just and inclusive educational environments. Drawing from Paulo Freire's "Pedagogy of the Oppressed" and Jean Anyon's "Social Class in the Hidden Curriculum of Work," we explore how education can challenge social inequalities and become a tool for liberation.In this episode, Dr. Affolter shares her journey from activism in Seattle to her pivotal role as the director...2024-09-1232 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesDual Language Programs: Cultural Identity and Equity with Ensemble Learning's Katherine HamiltonSend us a textDual language programs are growing as the value of linguistic diversity is seen as a strength to be leveraged, not a challenge to be overcome. Peek into the inner workings of the dual language program with Katherine Hamilton, the Senior Vice President of Programs at Ensemble Learning. Discover how these programs not only boost academic performance but also nurture bilingualism, biliteracy, and a strong sense of cultural identity. We'll explore key instructional practices, such as strategic language separation and the promotion of oracy, that help students excel both academically and socially....2024-08-2930 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesChildhood Trauma: Need to Know Strategies with Clinical Psychologist Dr. Robyn KoslowitzSend us a text"Our traumas can either be our greatest problem or our greatest superpower," (Dr. Robyn Koslowitz). Which do you believe it is? Reflect on childhood trauma with Dr. Koslowitz, a nationally recognized clinical psychologist, who dives deep into her personal journey and professional insights to help us understand how trauma can be hidden beneath a child's seemingly calm exterior. Dr. Koslowitz emphasizes the necessity for creating supportive environments for children who have faced significant hardships. This episode offers valuable strategies to help traumatized students maintain a productive learning zone without crossing the...2024-08-1539 min
The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & ResourcesSocial-Emotional Learning: Promoting Student Well-being with Scholar Dr. Maggie BroderickSend us a textHow can understanding and integrating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) impact the way we educate and nurture young minds? Join us as we explore SEL with Dr. Maggie Broderick, Associate Professor in the Teacher Education Department of National University’s Sanford College of Education, where she serves as a Dissertation Chair and Faculty Lead for the Curriculum and Instruction Specialization and the Social Emotional Learning Emphasis. Learn how SEL (Casel 5 framework) can help children manage their emotions, set and achieve goals, empathize with others, build positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. Dr. Broderick also gives us...2024-08-0127 min