Shows
Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEp. 57- The Power of an Informed Parent: Jessica’s StorySend us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Jessica Campos — a Houston mom who took on HISD, filed a TEA complaint, won, and is now teaching other parents how to advocate for their kids without fear.Jessica’s daughter wasn’t getting the services promised in her IEP, and after being ignored and pushed around, she did what most parents are scared to do: she held the district accountable. Today, she’s sharing her story, the barriers she faced, and the truth about the special education system that schools don’t always want paren...
2025-11-1658 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastLet’s Talk About Those TEA Investigation LettersSend us a textIn this mini episode, I’m breaking down the TEA investigation letters that so many Texas teachers have been receiving lately — the ones claiming you “may have engaged in conduct detrimental to the welfare of children” or “participated in a testing scheme.” I know how terrifying and confusing those words can sound when they show up in your inbox, so I want to help you understand exactly what this letter really means, what it doesn’t mean, and what your rights are.We’re going to slow things down and talk through what’s a...
2025-10-2724 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 55: The Teacher They Can't Silence- Ms. Michelle Williams vs. HISDSend us a textIn this episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast, Michelle Williams returns to give us an update on her ongoing fight with Houston ISD after the board voted to terminate her contract at the October 9th board meeting. She explains what's next in her fight to clear her name and breaks down what the Chapter 21 process really looks like for Texas teachers facing nonrenewal or termination — and why so many educators don’t realize they have rights worth fighting for.Michelle also opens up about the realities of teaching emerging bilingual students under HISD...
2025-10-1359 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 54: When the Strong Ones Break — Mental Health & Black Women in LeadershipSend us a textDISCLAIMER: BECAUSE OF HOW IMPORTANT THIS TOPIC IS, WE ARE CROSS POSTING THIS EPISODE FROM TEACHERS AFTER DARK TO R4F THE PODCAST--BEWARE OF SOME OF THE LANGUAGE!!!This week’s episode hits different. It’s just me and Nikki, and we’re digging into something heavy but necessary : the mental health struggles and systemic pressures faced by Black women in educational leadership.We’re talking about Ms. Stephanie Williams, a principal at Harrison-Morton Middle School in Allentown, whose private mental health crisis went viral after she experien...
2025-10-0744 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 53: Retaliation 101- Michelle Williams vs Mike Miles & HISDSend us a textOn this episode, I sit down with Michelle Williams, an educator and advocate who has no problem saying what everybody else is too scared to say about Houston ISD. Michelle lays it all out—how the district has slapped her with administrative leave more times than she can count just because she refuses to play nice with corruption. She talks about what it’s like to fight for kids in a system that protects adults, buries the truth, and punishes teachers who don’t fall in line.We tear apart the NES mo...
2025-09-081h 12Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 52: HR IS NOT YOUR FRIEND-The Real Back-to-School Training You Won't GetSend us a textForget the team-building games, icebreakers, and endless PD slides — this is the real back-to-school training every teacher needs but no one handed you.In this episode, we’re joined by Jay from The Human Resource — an HR Practitioner who has seen exactly how districts build cases, protect bad leadership, and push teachers out without saying a word. Together, we’re breaking down how to survive the school year with your sanity, certification, and receipts intact.We’re talking:What HR won’t tell you (but you need to know...
2025-08-031h 02Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 51: Pearland’s Trilingual Plug- Shanedria WagnerSend us a textBlack, fluent, and handling business — that’s Shanedria. She’s the founder of Spanish Etc. of Pearland, a tutoring center helping students succeed in dual language programs, especially when schools can’t deliver.In this episode, we talk about the teacher shortage crisis, what happens when kids are left in classrooms without certified language instructors, and how one Black woman is building a bridge for families through Spanish, culture, and confidence.We also dig into how being trilingual has opened doors for her, what parents can do if their...
2025-07-2835 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 50- The Real Before the Reels ft. Eddie BSend us a textI finally got to chop it up with the legend himself, Eddie B. You know, the teacher-turned-comedian who had every tired educator in the country crying laughing on their lunch break with his "What Teachers Really Wanna Say" videos on Facebook. Eddie walks us through how he accidentally ended up teaching after working at a car wash, how his first school had him feeling more like a probation officer than a teacher, and how them “I’m just here for a year” plans turned into 10+ in the trenches of Houston...
2025-07-2035 min
Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEp. 49: GET YO TEACH ON: WHO GETS TO BE THE FACE OF EDUCATION? w/SirKingBSend us a textWhat happens when professional development starts looking more like a Pinterest board than a platform for real change?In this episode, we sit down with the unapologetic and always insightful Sir King B to unpack the controversy surrounding the Get Your Teach On (GYTO) conference. From its curated aesthetic and corporate sponsors to the lack of diversity on its stages, King B calls out what many have been whispering: some of these PD spaces feel more like MLMs, church camp, and influencer retreats than actual learning.We...
2025-07-1842 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 48: Before You Resign: What Every Texas Teacher Needs to Know About Fighting TerminationSend us a textANOTHER TEACHERS AFTER DARK EXCLUSIVE/CROSSOVER EPISODE!!!!Subscribe to the Teachers After Dark Podcast here for access to ALL of our exclusive content!! If you're a Texas teacher facing the threat of termination, this is your reminder: you have rights — and you don’t have to fold under pressure. In this episode, we’re breaking down what actually happens when a district moves to terminate your contract, why you should never feel bullied into resigning without a full understanding of your options, and how standing your gr...
2025-05-0520 min
The Boonie Breakdown266 - Teachers Are People Too! with SmittyIn this episode, I sit down with my podcasting cousin, Smitty—an English teacher, mom of three, and host of the Patreon-exclusive podcast Teachers After Dark. We dive into her life as an educator, the wild dynamics of parent-teacher conferences, and how she balances being a public figure with her own very real, very human experiences. Smitty gets real about the often-unspoken realities of working in education and the challenges teachers face outside of the classroom—from social media scrutiny to the spicy politics of staff relationships. As someone who doesn't have kids, I was floored (and freq...
2025-04-211h 08Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 47: IT'S A CROSSOVER!!! Brain Surgery & Teacher Benefits F***ing You HARD!!!Send us a textWe are crossposting an episode of TEACHERS AFTER DARK here on the OG Pod because this is a topic that needs to be shared and discussed!!! Hey y'all! On this episode, it's me and the one and only Nikki. She's been MIA for a bit, but trust, she's got quite the story. Imagine juggling life and then your kid has a medical emergency that requires BRAIN SURGERY. You now have to balance a hospital stay with them, care for your other kiddos at home, and dealing with the insanity of our s...
2025-04-0628 min
Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 46: When Two Teacher Influencers Link ft. Tiffiney LeeSend us a textThis week we are joined by the "Church Announcement" queen herself, Ms. Tiffiney Lee. Tiffiney and I sit down and have a long awaited for convo about the ups, downs, and pure chaos of being educators. From dealing with school politics to navigating life outside the classroom, we are giving y'all honesty and laughs in equal measure.The episode starts with some real talk about self-care. Tiffiney shares her thoughts on cutting off forced family bonds, while I explain how fishing and mental health days keep me sane. We both agree...
2025-01-1258 min
Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 45: The 2024 Wrap-Up Episode!!!Send us a textIn this special "off-studio" episode, the Teachers After Dark crew wraps up 2024 in style—over a breakfast I was bullied into cooking! Teachers LOVE bullet points, so let's get into:The best (and worst) holiday gifts we got from students this year.That insane pre-break checkout list, complete with accommodations logs and the wildest parent/student requests we’ve ever seen.The resurfaced debate about school shootings: Should teachers really be expected to sacrifice themselves for their students? Plus, we share our thoughts on safety plans and why kids just don’t take t...
2025-01-0148 min
Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 44: In Loving Memory of Malaysia: A Mother’s Fight Against Teen Dating ViolenceSend us a textContinuing our discussion on Teen Dating Violence...In this heart-wrenching yet vital episode, I sit down with Quin Levy, a courageous mother who shares the story of her teenage daughter’s life, love, and tragic death at the hands of her boyfriend. While honoring the boundaries of an ongoing legal case, we discuss the devastating impact of teen dating violence and the subtle warning signs that many parents may overlook.This mother’s story sheds light on the emotional and psychological challenges teens face in abusive relationships, the societal pressures that norm...
2024-12-021h 15Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 43: When Love Turns Toxic-Understanding Teen Dating ViolenceSend us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Shannon, Licensed Professional Counselor of Hurt Speaks Wellness Center, to discuss the urgent issue of teen dating violence (TDV). We discuss what defines TDV and how it differs from adult domestic violence. We’ll explore the most common forms of abuse in teen relationships—emotional, physical, verbal, and digital—and unpack why so many teens stay in unhealthy or abusive situations.We’ll also tackle the romanticization of toxic relationships among teens: why controlling and abusive behaviors are often mistaken for love, and how societal...
2024-11-251h 13Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 42:Inside the HISD Drama with Ms. Michelle WilliamsSend us a textThis week, we are discussing one of the most embattled school districts in the country—HISD. Joining us is the bold and unapologetic Ms. Michelle Williams, president of the Houston Education Association (HEA), who’s been at the center of HISD’s whirlwind headlines. If you’ve been following the drama, you know this isn’t just a story about schools—it’s about power, politics, and the fight for teachers' rights.We’re starting with Ms. Williams’s personal story. If you have tuned in to some previous episodes, you will...
2024-11-171h 05Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 41: Reclaiming Our Power as Black Women EducatorsSend us a textIn this unapologetic episode, we tackle three major issues facing education today: the Texas voucher push, the unique challenges for Black women educators, and the presidential election that could reshape American education entirely. First, we examine Donald Trump’s presidential re-election bid and his promise to dismantle the Department of Education—a move that could have monumental consequences for teachers, students, and public education nationwide. What would this mean for equity, federal protections, and the very future of education?Next, we break down Texas’ proposed voucher system, driven by Governor Abbott, which...
2024-11-1139 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 40: WELCOME BACK!!!!!!!Send us a textAs promised, WE ARE BACK! Welcome to Season 3 of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast! Catch up with the OG teacher crew as we get into all things the 24-25 school year! It has indeed, been whipping us all! We talk about what has been the most challenging things for us so far this year, how we are coping with parents/students/admin, who's already been written up/called to the office and much more! Support the showThanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and F...
2024-10-2129 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastSeason 3...NOW LOADING!!!Send us a textWhere Have I Been? Ridgemont4'sFinest Is Back!After a whirlwind few months of working on Teachers After Dark and Divorce Diaries, and surviving the chaos of back-to-school season with helicopter parents and extra-needy students, I'm finally back! In this quick teaser, I catch you up on all the behind-the-scenes action and let you know what's coming next. New teacher content is on the way—get ready for an exciting Season 3!
2024-10-1303 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 39: HISD Union Leader Under Fire For Social Media PostsSend us a textIn case you missed the YouTube LIVE with HISD Union leader Michelle Williams, here's the audio for you. In this episode of Ridgemont4'sfinest-The Podcast, we are discussing the controversial case of Michelle Williams, a dedicated teacher and union leader within the Houston Independent School District (HISD). Just days after being removed from her teaching position, Williams finds herself at the center of a storm, facing termination and alleging retaliation from district authorities.We unravel all of the craziness with Ms. Williams and her story. From her impassioned critique of HISD's d...
2024-03-251h 14Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 38: All Money Ain't Good Money: The Human Cost of Educational Policy in HISD PT2Send us a textWelcome back to another episode of the podcast! We are continuing our conversation with some dynamic educators of HISD. In this episode, , Mrs. Muhammed and Mrs. Ebony, bravely share their experiences within Houston's education system post-state takeover.Mrs. Ebony pull back the curtain on the challenges teachers are facing at her NES-A campus. We discuss the struggles of navigating a compliance-driven environment, where scripted curricula fail to resonate with students and school libraries are repurposed as disciplinary spaces. Her accounts paint a vivid picture of a school culture that mirrors a pr...
2024-03-171h 10Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 37: All Money Ain't Good Money: The Human Cost of Educational Policy in HISD PT1Send us a textWelcome back to another episode of the podcast! We are continuing our conversation with some dynamic educators of HISD. In this episode, , Mrs. Muhammed and Mrs. Ebony, bravely share their experiences within Houston's education system post-state takeover.Mrs. Ebony pull back the curtain on the challenges teachers are facing at her NES-A campus. We discuss the struggles of navigating a compliance-driven environment, where scripted curricula fail to resonate with students and school libraries are repurposed as disciplinary spaces. Her accounts paint a vivid picture of a school culture that mirrors a pr...
2024-03-1259 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 36:Silenced No More: Termination Hearing Verdict (pt.2Send us a textIn this latest episode, we sit down with Mrs. Muhammed, a resilient educator who has just emerged from a termination hearing within the Houston Independent School District (HISD). With the results now in, we discuss the aftermath of the hearing, the ongoing uncertainty she faces, and what lies ahead for her and her students.Join us as we explore the critical issue of instructional gaps her students have endured during her absence, exacerbated by the challenges of teacher "jail" and administrative bullying. With state testing looming and graduation requirements hanging in t...
2024-03-041h 09Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 35:--Silenced No More: Termination Hearing Pending (pt.1)Send us a textIn this episode, we bring you the firsthand account of a teacher who is courageously confronting the systemic challenges within the Houston Independent School District (HISD). Despite facing termination for her advocacy, she refuses to be silenced as she shares her story of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.Join us as we discuss the obstacles she has encountered, from standing up against a hostile principal to grappling with hidden testing data that undermines student learning. Through her honest and transparent accounts, we gain insight into the harsh realities o...
2024-02-291h 22Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 34: "Houston, We Have A Problem: Unmasking Educational Inequity in HISD"Send us a textJoin us for a candid conversation with Mrs. Jackie Anderson, President of the Houston Federation of Teacher (HFT), as we discuss the pressing issues facing the Houston Independent School District (HISD) and the broader implications for education in Texas.At the heart of our discussion is the controversial figure Superintendent Mike Miles and his implementation of the NES system, which has stirred significant animosity within the community. Mrs. Anderson sheds light on the reasons behind the widespread discontent, particularly highlighting the detrimental impact of the NES system on educators and students...
2024-02-191h 54Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 32: The Madison High School Student ProtestSend us a textIn this episode of our podcast, we dive into the recent student walkout and protest at Madison High School, where students are pushing back against a new cell phone policy imposed by their school district, HISD, the district that has recently been taken over by the state's education authority (TEA). Our guest, TB, a student at Madison High School, offers a firsthand account of what life has been like since the TEA took over their school district, implementing policy changes that disproportionately affect schools in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, particularly those with predominantly students...
2024-02-1638 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 33 (Part 2)- The Madison High School Student ProtestSend us a textIn this episode of our podcast, we continue our conversation with about the recent student walkout and protest at Madison High School, where students are pushing back against a new cell phone policy imposed by their school district, HISD, the district that has recently been taken over by the state's education authority (TEA). Our guest, TB, a student at Madison High School, offers a firsthand account of what life has been like since the TEA took over their school district, implementing policy changes that disproportionately affect schools in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, particularly those...
2024-02-1640 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 31: A Chat with Dr. Qiana O'Leary, the Social Justice EducatorSend us a textIn this episode, we discuss the concept of radical education with the inspiring Dr. Qiana O'Leary, a seasoned educator turned principal, and now the founder of an education consulting firm. Dr. O'Leary shares her transformative journey, leveraging her knowledge and skillset to champion the cause of students of color.Our conversation covers various aspects of Dr. O'Leary's impactful career, from reducing high school dropout rates to creating systemic resolutions that improve school culture and organizational structures. Learn about her innovative approach to professional development through the progressive learning model and the...
2024-01-281h 13Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 30:CPS Stories:The Realities of the Child Welfare SystemSend us a textContinuing our conversation with B. Drake, a seasoned professional in the field of child welfare with years of experience. He goes deeper into the stories about kids finding their way through state custody and foster homes. In this segment he discusses the privatization of foster care, which ironically sounds like the privatization of prison...Which then leads us to acknowledge that just like the school to prison pipeline exists, so does the CPS to prison pipeline! We discuss residential treatment facilities who want the kids with the highest needs/level of care because...
2024-01-2238 min
Everythang CultureThe Makings of Ridgemont4sFinestHello beautiful people! We are back with another Makings of You! This conversation we welcome the one and only Ridgemont4sFinest. She hails from the great state of Texas and is definitely a Southside representative! Ridgement4 is a mother, daughter, sister, friend, and an absolute advocate for children in need.We learn about her supportive upbringing as a middle child, her journey as an educated who stands on business, and her love as she finds joy in being a mother.If you are looking for R4F you can find her below:
2024-01-171h 03Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 29: CPS Stories:The Realities of the Child Welfare SystemSend us a textIn this episode of our podcast, we sit down with B. Drake, a seasoned professional in the field of child welfare with years of experience. We team up to really get into the nitty-gritty of the child welfare system, swapping heartfelt stories about kids finding their way through state custody and foster homes.We dive deep into the challenging realities of the child welfare system, shining a light on the serious issues it faces. We're not shying away from talking about the troubling presence of corruption, often linked to financial...
2024-01-151h 03Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 28: No Role Modelz, That is Your Job!Send us a textWelcome to another episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast. We are prepping to return to work after the much needed winter break and I have some of my teacher besties with me to get the conversation started. We joke around about our holiday shenanigans and I try to pry about their holiday hook-ups, lol!We then get into the real discussion: Are teachers always supposed to be professional, selfless, sacrificial moral authorities with limited personal lives? How do societal expectations shape the way teachers are perceived, especially when it comes t...
2024-01-0942 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 27: A Chat with Dr. Byron McClure, the Black Unicorn School PsychSend us a textWelcome to another episode of R4F- the Podcast and today we sit down with THE INCREDIBLE Dr. Byron McClure, a rare gem in the field of school psychology—part of the less-than-1% club of Black male school psychologists. We’re jumping right into his journey, starting with how he got into the world of school psych.We’re not skirting around the issues. Dr. McClure discusses the culture of low expectations that often shackles Black students, the hesitation to set high standards, and the unfortunate trend of overassessing and placing Black s...
2023-12-181h 14Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 26: (pt2): Loyalties Tested: Teacher-Parents and the Family First DilemmaSend us a textWe left y'all with a cliffhanger on that last episode, so let's finish it off!!!! Welcome back to another episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast. On this episode, I am joined by some teacher-moms as we discuss the chaos of being a loyal employee of a school/district where your own children attend. How do you manage this juggling act without feeling like you're dropping the ball in either role? We discuss the complexities of navigating advocacy challenges when it comes to our own children. Have you ever found yourself in...
2023-12-111h 07Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 25: Loyalties Tested: Teacher-Parents and the Family First DilemmaSend us a textWelcome back to another episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast. On this episode, I am joined by some teacher-moms as we discuss the chaos of being a loyal employee of a school/district where your own children attend. How do you manage this juggling act without feeling like you're dropping the ball in either role? We discuss the complexities of navigating advocacy challenges when it comes to our own children. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you desperately wanted to advocate for your child but felt your hands were ti...
2023-12-041h 02Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 24- The Rhyme & Reason of Education Reform: Attorney Staci ChildsSend us a textIn this long awaited episode, we get into the diverse and dynamic journey of Attorney Staci Childs, a remarkable woman who transitioned from the classroom to the courtroom. Staci, a former teacher turned attorney (and dope rapper), shares her insights and experiences serving on the Texas State Board of Educators, where she actively shapes policies that impact school districts across the state.As an outspoken advocate for education reform, Staci discusses with me the controversies surrounding curriculum decisions, notably her views on the Prager U curriculum and the challenges posed by g...
2023-11-271h 18Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 23: "Sisters" in Leadership: Rising Above the Mean Girl MythSend us a textWelcome to another episode of Ridgemont4'sfinest-The Podcast. In this episode we are discussing the stories of black women teachers who have faced profound trauma under the guidance of black women principals. We will be taking some of my most recent a TikTok videos and turning them into a raw hour-plus conversation that will leave you inspired and enlightened.Our guests, experienced educators who have been in the field for years, openly share their experiences, and the emotional and mental toll of navigating the rocky relationships with their educational leaders. We del...
2023-11-121h 17Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 22 (part2) : Grading Standards and College Readiness-The Literacy Gap DilemmaSend us a textWe are continuing this episode with our college professors discussing the literacy gap and was they see from their POV.Our educators share their insights, experiences, and concerns regarding students' preparedness as they transition from high school to college. Are academic standards slipping? Is the 'Literacy Gap' real, and what's the impact? We'll discuss the controversial changes in academic standards and how they impact students. Our expert guests share their experiences and insights into the very real challenges high school graduates face as they enter college, often struggling with basic reading a...
2023-10-221h 10Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 21: Grading Standards and College Readiness-The Literacy Gap DilemmaSend us a textIn this episode, we bring you an extraordinary panel of educators. Not only are they high school teachers and college professors, but one of them, a local comedian, achieved viral fame after being recorded by her students.Our educators share their insights, experiences, and concerns regarding students' preparedness as they transition from high school to college. Are academic standards slipping? Is the 'Literacy Gap' real, and what's the impact? We'll discuss the controversial changes in academic standards and how they impact students. Our expert guests share their experiences and insights into th...
2023-10-1600 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 20: Building Black Girls' Mental Health--PT2Send us a textWelcome back to another episode of Ridgemont4'sfinest-The Podcast, where we continue our important conversation about black girls and their mental health in the educational landscape. In this episode, we revisit and deepen the dialogue with a panel of accomplished black female mental health professionals. Together, we explore the multifaceted journey of black girls as they navigate the challenges and opportunities within our school systems.Our guests bring their expertise and unique perspectives continue discussing crucial topics affecting the well-being of black girls. From the impact of stereotypes and biases to...
2023-10-021h 09Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 19: A Bold Story Never Ends-Honoring the Memory of KameronSend us a textIn this deeply moving episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast, we are honored to share the remarkable story of a family that turned their unimaginable grief into a powerful force for change. Join us as we get into the inspiring journey of a family who transformed their pain into purpose by establishing the A Bold Story Never Ends foundation in loving memory of their son, Kameron.Through candid conversations with Kameron's mom and aunt- 2 mental health therapists, we explore the deeply personal and heart-wrenching experience of losing a child to suicide. Their r...
2023-09-241h 08Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 18: Silent Struggles- The Rise in Student SuicidesSend us a textIn this episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast , we confront a deeply troubling issue that is shaking communities across the globe: the alarming rise in suicides among school-aged children, teenagers, and young adults. Join us as we shed light on this heart-wrenching topic, its underlying causes, and the urgent need for action.We start by examining the staggering statistics, providing a stark reality check on the extent of the problem. With suicide now among the leading causes of death in this age group, it's a crisis that demands our attention.O...
2023-09-2458 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 17: Black Girls and the Mental Health MirrorSend us a textIn this soul-stirring episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast, we discuss the often uncharted territory of Black girls' mental health. Join us as we explore the multifaceted aspects of their experiences, challenges, and triumphs, shedding light on issues that have remained in the shadows for far too long.We start by diving into the heart of the matter: undiagnosed mental health issues. Our panel of experts, including a dedicated teacher and mental health advocate, an experienced mental health therapist, a compassionate social worker and therapist, and a gifted school counselor, opens up a...
2023-09-181h 06Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 16- Down For a Quickie?? A Quickie PD! (ADHD Teacher Edition)Send us a textGet ready to get into some crazy conversations with a burst of energy and laughter in this episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast!Join us for a whirlwind of wisdom as a bunch of seasoned teachers spill the beans on their quirky, unconventional, and downright brilliant tips for newbie teachers. We call it "Quickie Professional Development," but trust us, we've got a knack for letting our ADHD lead us down the rabbit hole of epic conversations! ADHD aside, we're getting into the must-know secrets of the classroom. First up, we're laying it a...
2023-09-111h 09Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastDown For A Quickie?? A Quickie PD (ADHD Teacher Edition) Get ready to get into some crazy conversations with a burst of energy and laughter in this episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast!Join us for a whirlwind of wisdom as a bunch of seasoned teachers spill the beans on their quirky, unconventional, and downright brilliant tips for newbie teachers. We call it "Quickie Professional Development," but trust us, we've got a knack for letting our ADHD lead us down the rabbit hole of epic conversations! ADHD aside, we're getting into the must-know secrets of the classroom. First up, we're laying it all out on the ta...
2023-09-111h 09Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 15: WELCOME BACK!!!!!Send us a textIn this highly anticipated season 2 premiere of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast, I am joined by some of my teacher besties as we celebrate the start of a new school year over brunch and beverages. Shout out to Extraordinary Creations, Steel Kitchen for the delicious meal!!We get into the importance of self-awareness and community involvement in the success of our schools. We discuss the privilege some parents/communities have in being able to focus on the schooling/education of their kids, while others struggle to meet basic necessities. We touch o...
2023-09-041h 12Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastSeason One Wrap-Up: From 0 to 11,000 Downloads - A Quick Thank You!Send us a textWelcome to the season finale of Ridgemont4sFinest - The Podcast! In this "Quickie" episode, I am back to thank my incredible audience for their support, as we prepare to kick off the school year in just a few weeks. With over 11,000 downloads, the support, sponsorships, and donations have made this season possible. As the school year approaches, I want to wish everyone a great back-to-school preparation and to continue following me on social media for some "alternative" Professional Development sessions instead of sitting through boring ones, lol! As w...
2023-07-3103 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 14: Untouched Issues- Addressing Mental Health in Black boys-Pt.2Send us a textPart 2 of the conversation with these amazing men and we tackle the vital topic of mental health and disparities in punishments faced by black children. Our dynamic guest speakers, The Counseling Coach, Mr. Egbo, and The Good Doc, share their valuable insights and personal experiences.In this episode, we explore alternative approaches to disciplining children, emphasizing the importance of advocating for their rights and well-being. Disagreeing with a viral video's suggestion, we encourage parents to utilize the special education system to benefit their children, utilizing the resources made available to...
2023-07-231h 29Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 14: Untouched Issues- Addressing Mental Health in Black boys-Pt.1Send us a textLet's talk mental health in Black boys! Our guests, Mr. Egbo, The Counseling Coach, and The Good Doc, join us to discuss the challenges faced by Black boys and their parents when seeking therapy and support. One of the major issues highlighted is the lack of representation of Black male therapists, making it difficult for families to find someone who understands their unique experiences. Additionally, the high cost of therapy and the limited availability of therapists who accept insurance further hinder access to mental health services. We also explore the limitations o...
2023-07-161h 13Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 13: Empowering Educators: Recognizing Workplace Bullying, Harassment, and DiscriminationSend us a textOn this episode of Ridgemont4sFinest-The Podcast, we get into the topic of unlawful termination, workplace bulling, harassment, discrimination, and the challenges of fighting against them. With our guest, Tai WES from Workforce Equity Solutions, we discuss examples such as a paraprofessional who faced discrimination and harassment from their white female administrator. This administrator made derogatory comments and created a hostile work environment, retaliating against the paraprofessional for reporting the behavior. We raise the question of what options educators (and other employees) have when they experience retaliation for lodging a complaint against an...
2023-07-091h 16Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 12: Guilty Until Proven Innocent- Addressing False Accusations and Their Impact on EducatorsSend us a textJoin us in this much needed podcast episode as we uncover the tough reality faced by teachers who find themselves wrongly accused of inappropriate behavior with students. We discuss the damaging effects of media sensationalism, unfair investigation processes, and the profound impact on the lives of these dedicated educators and their families.Through real stories and expert insights, we shed light on the emotional toll experienced by teachers who become entangled in false allegations. From the fear and anxiety they endure to the damage caused to their personal and professional lives...
2023-07-0258 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 11: Checking Our Teacher PrivilegeSend us a textWelcome back to another episode of the podcast! Today we are checking our teacher privilege by getting into the glaring educational disparities that exist within our school systems. In this episode, we shed light on the challenges faced by teachers in schools with limited resources and explore how these disparities impact both educators and students.We the humor that only we can bring, we discuss the advantages that teachers in well-resourced schools may enjoy, such as access to technology, ample teaching materials, professional development opportunities, and smaller class sizes. At the...
2023-06-251h 08Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 10- (Father's Day Special Episode) Unicorns in Education: Celebrating Black Male EducatorsSend us a textLet’s celebrate Father’s Day and the resilience, strength, and authenticity of black male educators in our latest episode, "Unicorns in the Classroom: Celebrating Black Male Educators." Join us as we take you on a journey through their trials, triumphs, and the magic they bring to education.In this episode, I had the incredible opportunity to provide a brunch for and sit down with a panel of about 15 black men, who candidly shared their experiences, challenges, and victories as black male educators. From navigating stereotypes and micro-aggressions to b...
2023-06-182h 27Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 9: "Cocktails and Counselors: Mixing Advice, Laughter, and Education for High School Success!"Send us a textWelcome to Episode 9 of Ridgemont4sFinest-The Podcast!Get ready as we step into the captivating world of high school counseling, and unveil the untold stories, challenges, and triumphs of the profession like never before. Join us as we bring together the crème de la crème of high school counselors from the Houston area for a truly captivating episode.But hold on tight, because this episode comes with a little more. We've teamed up with a visionary teacherpreneur who will be crafting mouthwatering sig...
2023-06-111h 56Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 8- Corporate & EduKarens: Battling Entitlement, Unfairness, and Micro-aggressions in the WorkplaceSend us a textGet ready for a mind-blowing episode that tackles the phenomenon of Karens in the workplace head-on. In this discussion, we're not holding anything back as we explore the deep-rooted issues surrounding entitlement, unfair treatment, and micro-aggressions. But that's not all – we're also diving into the complex dynamics between white and black women, unveiling the fear, jealousy, and even hatred that can arise when black women challenge societal norms. Prepare for an eye-opening conversation as we debunk the myth of the "strong black woman" trope and dissect its impact on professional environments.Jo...
2023-05-291h 15Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 7: The Party Continues--Cocktails, Chaos, and ControversiesSend us a textContinuing our liberating episode as we, a group of teacher friends, finish the much-needed conversation about the freedom to recharge and indulge in personal interests during our well-deserved time off. Join us as we challenge the notion of round-the-clock professionalism and explore the benefits of embracing our passions outside the classroom.In the continuation of our Happy Hour, we dismantle the traditional expectations placed on teachers and unravel the myth that we should be "teachers" every waking moment. We share personal anecdotes, hilarious escapades, and even some guilty pleasures that keep...
2023-05-271h 18Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 6: Sips, Slips, and Spirited Debates-Graduation Gate, Trophy Tumult, and Tipsy TeachersSend us a textGrab your favorite drink and join us for a lively and spirited happy hour episode of our podcast as we celebrate the last day of school with a bonus "Happy Hour" episode. In this episode, we dive into the hot topics that have emerged this last week of school. From a cancelled graduation to participation trophies, parent complaints, last-minute grade-fixing attempts, and the question of teachers monetizing their platforms using student/teacher trauma and content, we cover it all with drinks, flair, banter, and fun.First, we discuss the unfortunate situation...
2023-05-271h 03Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 5: Black, White, and the Gray Area of Trust in EducationSend us a textIn this thought-provoking podcast episode, join us as we dive deep into the complex dynamics between black students and white teachers in the education system. We will shed light on the journey of black students who navigate a system that may not always prioritize their best interests.In a candid and insightful conversation, we delve into the crucial concept of trust in the classroom and explore how trust is built and sometimes eroded, and its significant impact on the educational experience of black students. Drawing from personal experiences, we share stories t...
2023-05-211h 09Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 4 (Pt. 1)- Curriculum Karens: Inside the Battle Over Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion In Our SchoolsSend us a textIn this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of education and the increasing pushback against diversity, equity, and inclusion in schools. Our guests share their experiences with "Curriculum Karens," parents who bully and intimidate educators over curriculum choices that include diverse perspectives.We discuss how to create an equitable and inclusive classroom while still following curriculum guidelines and the importance of accurate resources that include diverse voices and perspectives. Our guests, two expert social studies teachers (along with our ELA teacher host...
2023-05-1546 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 4 (Pt. 2)- Curriculum Karens: Inside the Battle Over Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion In Our SchoolsSend us a textPART 2!!! We continue taking a deep dive into the world of education and the increasing pushback against diversity, equity, and inclusion in schools. Our guests share their experiences with "Curriculum Karens," parents who bully and intimidate educators over curriculum choices that include diverse perspectives.We discuss how to create an equitable and inclusive classroom while still following curriculum guidelines and the importance of accurate resources that include diverse voices and perspectives. Our guests, two expert social studies teachers (along with our ELA teacher host) offer un...
2023-05-1558 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 3: Brunching Bad: Raise a Glass to Coworkers Who Become FamilySend us a textWelcome to our latest episode of the Podcast! Today, I have a very special treat for my listeners as I invite some of my teacher friends over for a boozy brunch!In this episode, we dive deep into some of the most pressing issues that are affecting the education system today. We start off by discussing the controversial STAAR test and its impact on students, teachers, and the community. Our guests share their thoughts on the effectiveness of standardized testing and whether it truly reflects the student's learning progress....
2023-05-081h 03Ridgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 2: "A Seat At the Table: The Importance of Black Male Leadership in Schools"Send us a textJoin us for a quick and candid conversation as we tackle the tough topic of the recent assault on a beloved assistant principal, and explore why now it's more important than ever to prioritize black male leadership in our schools.Production Credit: Producer Extraordinaire D. Francis at the Legendary Lab Seven Studios IG:@labsevenstudios www.labsevenstudios.comSong Credit: This Life. We Lead. "Quality"TikTok: teacherstoriessIG: @tlwlmusicSupport the showThanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ri...
2023-04-3014 minRidgemont4sFinest's- The PodcastEpisode 1: Welcome To The Show!!!!Send us a textOMG!!!! After MONTHS of figuring this podcast thing out, it's finally GO time!! Come join me for a quick chat about the podcast and what to expect!I am forever grateful for the support and encouragement from all of you. You are why I am here and this episode is dedicated to y'all!!!Production Credit: Producer Extraordinaire D. Francis at the Legendary Lab Seven Studios IG:@labsevenstudios www.labsevenstudios.comSong Credit: This Life. We Lead. "Quality"TikTok: teacherstoriessIG: @tlwlmusicSu...
2023-04-3007 min