The Educator Experience Podcast with Salli Carter

What’s the Pickle? Rethinking Service & Leadership in Education | Robin Landals-Hill

Salli Carter — Tue, 27 Oct 2026 20:50:07 GMT

What if one of the best ways to improve education is to simply ask: “What’s your pickle?”

Yes, we’re talking about pickles—but we’re also talking about something much bigger: service, belonging, leadership, and the small things we do that can completely change someone’s educational experience.

In this episode of The Educator Experience Podcast, Salli Carter sits down with Robin Landals-Hill, Educational Leader, speaker, and Faculty Department Head, for a lively conversation about what happens when we put people at the centre of education.

Robin is passionate about adult learning, leadership, and creating meaningful educational experiences. She is also the creator of the Immersive Interest framework—TIME, which explores engagement, motivation, and personal growth in education and leadership.

Together, Salli and Robin tackle a question we don’t talk about nearly enough in higher education: What does great customer service look like in education?

For Robin, service isn’t about treating students like traditional customers. It’s about asking what we can do to make it easier for someone to succeed.

Sometimes that means helping a student navigate a system they don’t understand. Sometimes it means walking someone to the department that can help instead of simply pointing them in the right direction. Sometimes it’s recognizing that fair doesn’t always mean equal.

And sometimes…it means giving them the pickle.

Inspired by Bob Farrell’s Give ’Em the Pickle, Robin shares the idea of looking for opportunities to “surprise and delight”—those small, often simple things we can do to make someone’s experience just a little bit better.

The conversation expands into leadership, collaboration, belonging, student support, and an important idea: they’re all our students. What changes when we stop thinking in terms of “my students” or “your students” and start seeing student success as something we all share responsibility for?

In this episode:

What customer service really means in education
The story behind “What’s your pickle?”
Finding opportunities to “surprise and delight”
Why small actions can have a big impact
Why fair doesn’t always mean equal
Creating belonging and helping people feel seen
Removing barriers to student success
Why “they’re all our students”
Collaboration across departments
Leading, adapting, and learning as you go

This episode is a reminder that making education better doesn’t always require a massive initiative.

Sometimes it starts with noticing the person in front of you, asking what they need, and doing one small thing that makes their experience better.

So…what’s your pickle?

Connect with Robin Landals-Hill:
https://www.roundrobinlearning.ca/

Connect with The Educator Experience:
www.theeducatorexperience.ca

Subscribe to The Educator Experience Podcast for conversations about teaching, learning, leadership, and professional growth.

Leading Through Uncertainty: Fundraising, Failure & Hope in Higher Education | Dr. Bill Shiell

Salli Carter — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 03:09:48 GMT

What if some of the most important moments in leadership are the ones you could never have planned for?

Higher ed is navigating enormous change—financial pressures, shifting enrolment, evolving expectations, and uncertainty about what comes next. So what does it actually look like to lead when there is no perfect roadmap?

In this episode of The Educator Experience Podcast, Salli Carter sits down with Dr. Bill Shiell, former President of Northern Seminary and Senior Strategist with BrightDot Fundraising Advisors, for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, fundraising, failure, hope, and responding to the unexpected.

Bill brings more than 25 years of experience helping organizations and institutions navigate challenge and change. During his time as College President, he reinvented the institution’s educational model, sold its 28-acre campus, launched an on-demand training platform, increased enrolment during the COVID-19 pandemic, and helped raise more than $21 million for operations and new initiatives.

But some of Bill’s most powerful leadership lessons came from the moments that weren’t part of the plan.

In this conversation, Bill shares what happened when, just 60 days into his presidency, the institution ran out of liquidity to pay its bills—and why experiences like this changed the way he thinks about strategic planning, failure, and leadership.

Salli and Bill explore what it means to leave room for the unexpected, why leaders need strong values to ground them during uncertainty, and Bill’s concept of “losership”—embracing failure, loss, humility, experimentation, and getting back up as part of the leadership experience.

They also explore a side of higher education that doesn’t always get much attention: fundraising.

What makes someone want to invest in an institution? What problems are donors actually trying to help solve? And why might hope be one of the most powerful stories an institution can tell?

The conversation also challenges the traditional idea of a career ladder and considers what happens when we think of our careers instead as a growing portfolio of experiences, skills, relationships, successes—and setbacks.

In this episode:

Leading when circumstances don’t follow the strategic plan
Fundraising and donor relationships in higher education
Why donors respond to hope
Failure, experimentation and “intelligent failure”
Bill’s concept of losership
Creating room for the unexpected in institutional planning
Leading from a grounding set of values
Why careers may look more like portfolios than ladders
Finding opportunity in difficult and unexpected moments

Earlier this year, Salli also sat down with Bill’s colleague at BrightDot, Bill Crouch, for another conversation exploring fundraising, leadership, and higher education.

🎧 Watch/listen to the conversation with Bill Crouch:
Reflections of a College President

Together, these conversations offer two perspectives for anyone navigating the realities of leadership in higher ed at a time of significant change.

Connect with Dr. Bill Shiell: www.thebrightdot.com

Connect with The Educator Experience: www.theeducatorexperience.ca

Subscribe to The Educator Experience Podcast for conversations about teaching, learning, leadership, and professional growth.

Rethinking Education: Why Curiosity Matters More Than Correct Answers with David Bryan

Salli Carter — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:37:00 GMT

What happens when a podcast host who’s spent years asking thoughtful questions becomes the one answering them?In this episode, we sit down with David Bryan, educator, founder of New Roads School, and host of the Curiosity Invited Podcast to explore a lifetime spent rethinking education.With over 50 years of experience, David challenges one of the most common assumptions in schools today: that students need to get the “right answer” the first time. Instead, he argues that real learning comes from curiosity, uncertainty, and the willingness to take intellectual risks.From his early days as a substitute teacher to founding one of the most innovative schools in the U.S., New Roads School in Santa Monica, California and his professor at the University of California, Santa Cruz. David shares how meaningful learning begins when students feel safe to ask questions rather than having all the answers.We also flip the script: what can we learn from someone who’s interviewed hundreds of lifelong learners?In this conversation, David reflects on:- The inspiration behind building a school from the ground up- What to look for when hiring great educators- Why curiosity should be at the center of every classroom- The philosophy behind his podcast and lifelong learning approach- His belief in being a “yes person” and embracing new perspectivesFrom mentoring students like Amanda Gorman and Dakota Johnson, to building a global audience of engaged learners, this episode is a reminder that education isn’t about perfection, it’s about possibility.Time Stamps: 00:00 Intro02:49 Flipping the Script: From Podcast Host to Guest12:00 Inspiration to Create a New School20:45 What to Look for When Hiring Great Educators21:00 Teaching Kids What to Do When They Don’t Know What to Do22:12 The Curiosity Invited Podcast31:00 David’s Advice: Find a “Yes” as Teachers35:00 Possible Future Guests: New Roads Students Amanda Gorman and Dakota Johnson#newroads #Schools #CuriosityInvited #Teaching #EducationPodcast #PodcastHost #teachingcommunity #HigherEd #SubstituteTeaching

The International Educator Experience: Mentorship & Multilingual Teaching | Dr. Maria Guzman Antelo

Salli Carter — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:02:00 GMT

In this episode, Salli Carter sits down with Dr. Maria (Mery) Guzman Antelo, Assistant Professor in TESOL/Bilingual Education at Rhode Island College, to explore the powerful impact of international teaching experiences, multilingual educators, and mentorship in teacher development.

Originally from Argentina and a former Fulbright Fellow, Dr. Guzman Antelo brings over two decades of experience teaching multilingual learners across K–12 and adult education settings both internationally and in the United States. Her work centers on the critical role ESOL mentor teachers play in preparing the next generation of educators and how collaborative mentorship can challenge 'deficit' narratives and support more equitable practices for multilingual learners and their families.

Throughout the conversation, Mery reflects on her journey from teaching in Argentina to working in U.S. higher education, sharing how international educators bring invaluable cultural and linguistic perspectives to classrooms. She discusses why the pre-service teaching period is a once-in-a-lifetime moment in a teacher’s development, the importance of authentic relationships between mentors and mentees, and how creating space for genuine human connection enriches the work of teaching.

Together, Salli and Mery explore the power of self-reflection, the importance of diverse perspectives in education, and how educators can build learning environments that are truly inclusive and “humanly rich.”

This episode is essential listening for teacher mentors, teacher educators, TESOL practitioners, and anyone interested in international education, multilingual learners, and the future of teacher preparation.

Time Stamps

00:00 Intro

02:20 From Argentina to Rhode Island - Maria’s Journey

04:50 The Value of Seeking Multiple Perspectives

08:40 ‘The Mentor Teacher’

14:13 Why Are Teachers More Authentic With Students Today?

16:30 Why Classrooms Need Multilingual Teachers 24:30 Advice For New Educators - Create Human Connection

27:30 Teachers with 'Accents' and What International Educators Bring to the Classrooms

31:40 Who Are “Difficult” Conversations in Education Really Difficult For?

#educationpodcast #teaching #podcast #tesol #ESL #eslteacher #Mentorship #Argentina #highered #teachingstrategies #educationpodcast #professor #highered #teachingmethods #migration #stories

Best of Season 4: Educator Insight on Learning, Leadership and Change

Salli Carter — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 00:36:10 GMT

Congratulations, educators! You've made it to the end of another year! As you reflect on how far you’ve come and what this year has taught you, we’re doing the same.

In this Season 4 Best Of episode of The Educator Experience, we look back on a truly special season which brought together a powerful and diverse group of voices: higher education faculty, grade school educators, adult ESL instructors, and even a chef who shared insights on leadership and team-building. Together, these conversations explored what it really means to teach, learn, and lead in today’s classrooms.

This episode features standout moments from:

Dr. Melissa Hills, on building flexibility into syllabi while protecting both student learning outcomes and educator wellbeing.

Reetika Khanna, on presence, reflection, and letting go of ego in the classroom.

Franck Desplechin on supporting diverse learning styles and continuing to learn through failure.

Sylvia Fraser, on relationship-building, community, and truly knowing your students.

Wang Yip, on reframing conversations around change and AI in higher education.

Barb Carter, on learner breakthroughs, purpose, and the impact of teaching in Canada.

This compilation is a celebration of educators, a reflection on growth, and a reminder of why this work matters. Whether you’re finishing your academic year or simply taking a moment to pause, this episode invites you to reflect, recharge, and carry these lessons forward.

- Congratulations, educators! You've made it to the end of another year! As you reflect on how far you’ve come and what this year has taught you, we’re doing the same.In this Season 4 Best Of episode of The Educator Experience, we look back on a truly special season which brought together a powerful and diverse group of voices: higher education faculty, grade school educators, adult ESL instructors, and even a chef who shared insights on leadership and team-building. Together, these conversations explored what it really means to teach, learn, and lead in today’s classrooms.This episode features standout moments from:- Dr. Melissa Hills, on building flexibility into syllabi while protecting both student learning outcomes and educator wellbeing.- Reetika Khanna, on presence, reflection, and letting go of ego in the classroom.- Franck Desplechin on supporting diverse learning styles and continuing to learn through failure.- Sylvia Fraser, on relationship-building, community, and truly knowing your students.- Wang Yip, on reframing conversations around change and AI in higher education.Barb Carter, on learner breakthroughs, purpose, and the impact of teaching in Canada.This compilation is a celebration of educators, a reflection on growth, and a reminder of why this work matters. Whether you’re finishing your academic year or simply taking a moment to pause, this episode invites you to reflect, recharge, and carry these lessons forward.Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 4:55 Dr. Melissa Skills on Building a Syllabus8:18 Reetika Khanna on Being in the Classroom 12:42 Wang Yip on What Isn't Changing in Education 17:22 Franck Desplechin on Adjusting Your Approach to Different Learners 22:26 Sylvia Fraser on Getting to Know Your Students 25:41 Barbara Carter on Adult ESL Classrooms

Reconciliation Practices in Education with Jo Ann Buffalo

Salli Carter — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMT

In the season finale of The Educator Experience, Joanne Buffalo shares a powerful Indigenous perspective on truth and reconciliation in education. Through personal stories and her work in the Kamloops area, Joanne speaks about the importance of reconnecting Indigenous learners with cultural knowledge once hidden by residential schools.

With honesty and deep care, Joanne challenges us to make education a space that actively supports reconciliation—starting with listening, learning, and building connections that honor Indigenous voices. She discusses creating culturally grounded programs, the role of elders and cultural workers, and how educators can foster meaningful dialogue through circle talks.

Overcoming Teacher Burnout by Releasing Perfectionism with Dr. Erin Sponaugle

Salli Carter — Mon, 04 May 2026 23:14:59 GMT

What happens when the passion that once drove you to teach starts to burn you out?

In this powerful and deeply honest episode, we sit down with Dr. Erin Sponaugle, a grade school teacher for 23 years, 2014 West Virginia Teacher of the Year, TEDx speaker, and author, to discuss one of the most pressing issues in education today: teacher burnout.

Erin shares her personal journey of recognizing the unsustainable expectations placed on teachers, and ultimately learning how to set boundaries, prioritize her well-being, and rediscover her love for teaching.

Together, we explore:

The reality of teacher burnout and the pressure to be “perfect”.
What it means to be a “teachaholic” and how to manage competing demands.
The importance of learning to say no.
The mental load teachers carry both inside and outside the classroom
Why self-care is not optional, but essential.

Erin’s story is a powerful reminder that “kids need healthy, happy teachers”, and that taking care of yourself is one of the most impactful things you can do as an educator.

This episode is especially valuable for K–5 educators, but resonates with any educator navigating burnout, overwhelm, or the pressure to do it all.

🔗 Connect with Erin🌐 Website: https://www.erinsponaugle.com/

🎤 TED Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kc7xHSF8gt0

📚 Erin’s Books Can be found on her website:

Teachaholic: The Seven-Day Mindset Shift to Conquer Burnout, Build Life-Changing Boundaries, and Reignite Your Love for Teaching

Adventures of Berkeley the Bear series🎙️

Host of The Next Chapter for Teachers Podcast ⁨@erinsponaugle⁩

⏱️ Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

03:00 Erin’s Experience Teaching Primary School

07:40 Teacher Burnout and Learning to Say “No”

15:00 Being a “Teachaholic” and Managing Competing Demands

24:00 The Mental Load of Teachers

30:00 Erin’s TED Talk Experience

35:00 What Progress Looks Like Through Burnout

41:20 Advice for New Educators: Put Down the Phone, Focus on You

#Burnout #TeacherBurnout #TeacherPodcast #EducationPodcast #TeachingStrategies #TeacherMentalHealth #GradeSchool #teacherpodcast #TheEducatorExperience

How One Mindset Shift Can Transform Your Classroom with Mitch Weisburgh

Salli Carter — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 22:28:35 GMT

How can one mindset shift transform the way you show up in the classroom?

In this engaging and dynamic conversation, we sit down with Mitch Weisburgh to explore the power of mindset, resilience, and emotional regulation in today’s education landscape.

Mitch’s journey into education wasn’t traditional. He found his way into teaching almost by accident, beginning with early computer training and eventually building learning systems that supported students at scale. What stands out most is his ability to continuously adapt and evolve alongside technology, turning change into opportunity. Over time, this adaptability became something deeper: a passion for helping others build the same resilience and resourcefulness in their own lives.

Throughout the episode, Salli and Mitch dive into the realities educators are facing today, from increasing classroom demands to the growing influence of AI, and how these challenges require more than just content knowledge. Together, they explore how emotional regulation, mindset, and self-awareness are becoming essential skills for both teachers and students.

At the heart of this conversation is a shared belief: when educators feel supported, empowered, and able to show up at their best, the impact on students is immeasurable. Teaching isn’t just about delivering information, it’s about shaping how students think, respond, and navigate the world around them.

Mitch has offered our listeners a valuable free resource: a structured, 60-minute conversation guide designed for educator teams to explore how to respond, rather than react, in challenging situations. It’s a powerful tool to foster honest dialogue and build a shared language that can be applied immediately in the classroom. You can learn more about the download here: https://mindshiftingwithmitch.org/conversationcircles/react/download

You can also stay connected with Mitch and his work through his weekly newsletter, linked here: https://mindshiftingwithmitch.blog/newsletter/

A huge thank you to Mitch for his passion, generosity, and commitment to supporting educator wellbeing and excellence.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Intro

03:10 Mitch’s Weekend at the Montreal Grand Prix

06:00 Unique Entry to Education - VisiCalc and The Apple 2 Plus Computer

12:30 What Matters Most in Classrooms - Teaching Resilience

18:00 Mitch’s Mission

25:09 Why Are Teachers Overwhelmed Right Now? AI and Other Issues

33:00 Next Steps for The Educator Experience

43:00 A Piece of Advice for Educators - The Importance of Fun

#Education #VisiCalc #edtechtools #educationpodcast #teachingmethods #resilience #TeachingResilience #Explore #theeducatorexperience #mindsetmatters #mindsetmastery #mindsetshift #teaching

Learning Through Gamification with Steve Newton

Salli Carter — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 08:00:00 GMT

Not all educators work in traditional classrooms, and Steve Newton proves that innovation in adult learning can save lives. In this episode, 'Newt' shares how he's transforming emergency management training using VR, gamification, and 3D learning environments. From firefighters using VR goggles to simulate hazardous spills, to interactive digital platforms that replace static PDFs, 'Newt' is reimagining how adults learn critical skills.

What does gamification really mean in 2025—and why is it so powerful? Tune in to find out.

'Not Your Granny's Grammar': Patty McGee on Teaching Writing, Mentorship and Play

Salli Carter — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 20:47:10 GMT

We are joined by Patty McGee, nationally recognized literacy consultant, travelling teacher, speaker, and author of 'Not Your Granny’s Grammar'.

Patty brings decades of experience working alongside educators in K–12 classrooms, helping teachers make #writing instruction more meaningful, engaging, and human. Rather than treating grammar as a set of rigid rules, Patty reframes it as a personal and powerful tool for authentic communication.

Together, Patty and Salli explore why conversation is essential to #learning, how #mentorship shapes educators at every stage of their career, and why teaching writing requires letting go of perfection. They reflect on difficult moments in teaching, the importance of support among colleagues, and how embracing discomfort can lead to deeper growth in the classroom.

The episode also dives into the #writingprocess itself, referencing Ann Lamott’s “Shitty First Drafts” (https://eng10165511.wordpress.com/readings/on-writing/lamott-shitty-first-drafts, the importance of falling in love with the process, and why allowing yourself to play with instructional practices can transform both teaching and learning.

Whether you are a new #educator, a #literacy leader, or someone looking to bring more humanity into your classroom, this conversation offers practical wisdom, encouragement, and inspiration.

Featured book: Not Your Granny’s Grammar: An Innovative Approach to Meaningful and Engaging Grammar Instruction by Patty McGee

Learn more about Patty’s work at www.pattymcgee.org

Read Ann Lamott's article 'Shitty First Drafts" - https://eng10165511.wordpress.com/readings/on-writing/lamott-shitty-first-drafts/

Time Stamps

00:00 Introduction

02:55 Patty McGee’s journey as a 'Traveling Teacher'

06:05 How to Make Teachers' Jobs Easier

08:25 Why Conversation Are Essential to Learning and Literacy

11:50 Teaching, Mentorship, and the Power of this Work

19:00 Teachers Supporting Teachers

21:20 'Not Your Granny’s Grammar'

27:40 Anne Lamott’s “Shitty First Drafts” and the writing process

32:31 Patty’s advice for Educators: Allow yourself to Play

#teacher #education #literacy #literature #elementaryteacher #teachingpodcast #teachingcommunity #highered #teachingcommunity #PattyMcGee #Grammar #TheEducatorExperience

Best of Season 2: Education Tips for Higher Ed

Salli Carter — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Season 2 has already given us so many conversations that made us laugh, think, and rethink how we show up as educators.

In this “best of” collection, we’re pulling some of the most insightful moments from our incredible guests!

Domenic Scuglia reminds us that teaching is an evolving journey. He shares how we rewrite new versions of ourselves each year, create conditions for real critical thinking, and design classrooms where every student truly feels welcome.

Dr. Darryn DiFrancesco reframes student pushback, showing us how challenges are often about their growth, not ours. She talks about embracing humility, letting students seek out answers, and building trust through honesty.

Danielle Tighe highlights the power of knowing your campus. From student awards to support services, she shares why new instructors especially need to understand institutional resources to avoid misguiding students.

Dr. Joey Brown brings a candid conversation about AI, cheating, and “knowledge debt.” He reminds us that learning requires failure, and not every assignment needs a grade for growth to happen.

Paul Tedesco closes us out with energy! Chatting about improv, public speaking, and the vulnerable, very real nerves we all feel walking into the classroom. His message: adults can have fun and learn too.

If you missed any of these full episodes, now’s the time to catch up—they’re packed with practical tips and big reminders about why our work matters.👉 Subscribe for more educator insights and future “best of” highlights!#Education #Teaching #Tips #TeachingTips #HigherEd #Prof #PhD #University #Student #Podcast #Interview

When Educators Engage, Students Transform! with Dr. Peter Gallant

Salli Carter — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Happy 2026 educators!

As you return to your classrooms, syllabi in hand and big questions in mind, this episode invites you to pause and reflect on what teaching is really about.

In this conversation, Salli sits down with Dr. Peter Gallant (Queen’s University) to explore transformative learning! Together, they unpack what it actually takes for learning to be transformative: deep engagement, intellectual struggle, honest effort, and the acceptance that real growth doesn’t always show up as top grades.

Peter shares why effective teaching is inherently bidirectional, why real learning isn’t always comfortable, and how different approaches are required in first-year versus upper-year courses. They also dive into productivity and how Peter reframes it as the management of commitments rather than time, and what that means for sustainable teaching and meaningful work.

At the start of the episode, Salli introduces the Educator Reflection Journal, a guided, research-informed tool designed to help educators reflect throughout the term, clarify their teaching philosophy, and build authentic evidence for teaching dossiers and portfolios.

The journal is built on transformative learning theory and experiential learning cycles, supporting educators in moving from survival mode to a more grounded, intentional practice.

👉 Check it out here! https://theeducatorexperience.ca/store/ols/products/the-educator-reflection-journal

This episode is for anyone who believes teaching can and should change people, including the educator.⏱

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – Intro

01:13 – The Educator Reflection Journal

05:31 – Peter, why are you always wearing Hawaiian shirts?!

08:26 – University as a Search for Depth

12:58 – Teaching Should Facilitate Bidirectional Learning

15:09 – Why Transformative Learning Can Be Uncomfortable

26:50 – First-Year vs Upper-Year Classes// Peter’s Robot Challenge

37:45 – What Is Productivity, Really?

49:00 – 4000 Weeks: How Many Do You Have Left?

53:00 – Peter’s Advice for Educators: Engage

1:05:00 – What Season of Teaching Are You In?

#TransformativeLearning #HigherEd #TeachingInHigherEd#EducatorReflection #TeachingPhilosophy #FacultyLife#ProfessionalLearning #ReflectivePractice #Pedagogy#AcademicLife #TeachingPodcast

Empowering Dyslexic Learners: How Hillary Summerbell Is Transforming Reading

Salli Carter — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:33:38 GMT

What if the way in which reading is designed is holding millions of people back?

In this deeply moving and inspiring episode, Salli Carter sits down with Hillary Summerbell, founder of Summerbell, to explore her lifelong journey with dyslexia and how it led her to design a revolutionary reading tool that is transforming literacy for children and adults around the world.

Growing up dyslexic, Hillary struggled to read in traditional ways, often feeling frustrated, discouraged, and misunderstood. Instead of accepting these limitations, she leaned into how her brain worked. Writing in arcs rather than straight lines, which eventually inspired the creation of Summerbell, a technology that transforms linear text into a gentle arc that helps eyes track, brains focus, and words finally click.

Following the development of Summerbell, Johns Hopkins University conducted and published research demonstrating the powerful impact of arc-based reading for individuals with dyslexia. (Read the study: https://www.summerbell.com/study). The results highlight how thoughtful design, rooted in lived experience, can dramatically improve reading fluency, focus, and confidence.

Together, Salli and Hillary unpack:

What it’s like growing up dyslexic in a system not designed for different learners
How innovation in educational technology can unlock human potential
Why nearly 50% of adults in North America struggle with reading proficiency
How 15–20% of people with dyslexia deserve better tools, not lower expectations
The emotional and life-changing power of finally being able to read with ease

This episode is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the profound impact of designing education around real human needs. Hillary’s story reminds us that when we build from empathy, we can change lives.

🌐 Learn more about Summerbell: https://www.summerbell.com/

Time Stamps:

00:00 Intro

04:05 Hillary’s Journey with Linear Reading

06:17 Understanding Visual Dyslexia

09:54 Summerbell and Why Arc’d Reading Works

15:11 Common Misconceptions with Dyslexic Learners

19:45 Elevating Kids Through Common Access to Texts

22:54 How to Download and Use Summerbell At Any Age

29:00 This Changed Her Life

32:05 A Piece of Advice for Innovators in Education

36:02 Hillary’s ‘Pink Bubble’

Teaching as Service: Helping Others Rediscover Their Creativity with Ndzaba Mngomezulu

Salli Carter — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 00:59:46 GMT

Hey Educators!

In this episode, we sit down with artist, educator, and founder Ndzaba Mngomezulu, whose journey into teaching reveals how sharing your passion can become a powerful way to serve others.

Originally from Eswatini and now based in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Ndzaba shares how stepping away from drawing for nearly a decade to then rebuilding his skills within a year led him to an unexpected realization: his passion for art became even more meaningful when it was shared.

Throughout the conversation, Ndzaba reflects on teaching as an act of service. He describes it as a way of being “a better servant” to others through using your own passions and experiences to create meaningful change in someone else’s life. This perspective reframes education as something deeply human: not just the transfer of knowledge, but the act of guiding, supporting, and believing in others.

Through this process, he discovered that teaching wasn’t just about helping others learn to draw but about helping people reconnect with a part of themselves they had often left behind. Many of his students come in believing they “aren’t creative,” and through his guidance, they begin to rebuild not just skill, but confidence and self-belief.

As the founder of Art Creators Academy, Ndzaba has created a space where adults and beginners can return to creativity without pressure. His approach is rooted in fundamentals and consistency, but what sets his teaching apart is his belief that education is ultimately about impact.

At the heart of this episode is a powerful idea: Teaching is one of the most meaningful ways to turn your passion into impact.

We also explore the broader implications for educators: how creative practices like drawing can support reflection, innovation, and well-being, even outside of artistic disciplines. Ndzaba’s story serves as a reminder that when educators create space for exploration and curiosity, they empower others to rediscover what’s possible.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Intro

04:00 Returning To Your Passion: Ndzaba’s Story 09:30 The Impact of Teaching - Sharing What You Love

14:00 The Power of Art - Arts Creators Academy 21:00 Starting is the First Step

24:00 Draw Again, Dream Again

You can find out more about Ndzaba's work through the links below! Book a call with me: connect@artcreatorsacademy.comJoin the Drawing Comeback Challenge: https://www.artcreatorsacademy.com/drawingcomebackchallenge

Get 'Draw Again, Dream Again: How to Rediscover Your Artistic Passion and Keep the Fire Burning': https://www.amazon.com/dp/6501945003 @NdzabaMngomezulu

How to Support Every Learner: Inclusive Teaching That Makes a Difference with Melissa Choquette

Salli Carter — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 22:09:30 GMT

What does it really mean to create a learning environment where every learner has the opportunity to thrive?

In this episode of The Educator Experience Podcast, Salli Carter sits down with Melissa Choquette, founder of Visually Speaking Inc., to explore inclusive teaching, neurodivergence, visual communication, and the practical choices educators can make to better support the diverse learners in their classrooms.

A neurodivergent educator and parent with nearly two decades of experience in Ontario’s public education system, Melissa shares both her professional expertise and her personal journey. We talk about how receiving her diagnoses later in life changed the way she understood herself, her experiences, and ultimately the work she does today.

Melissa also shares the story behind Visually Speaking Inc. and her approach to creating practical visual tools and resources that make communication, learning, and growth more visible.

Throughout our conversation, we explore what happens when educators move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach and begin thinking differently about how learners process information, communicate, participate, and demonstrate their learning.

In this episode, we explore:

Melissa’s journey as a neurodivergent educator and parent
How understanding neurodivergence can change the way we see learners
Why visual communication can be such a powerful teaching and learning tool
What inclusive teaching can look like in practice
Moving beyond one-size-fits-all approaches to learning
The story and philosophy behind Visually Speaking Inc.
Why supporting learners also means supporting the people who support them
Small changes educators can make that can have a meaningful impact

Whether you teach in higher education, K–12, adult education, workplace learning, or another learning environment, this conversation will encourage you to think differently about inclusion—and about what it really means to see and support the learner in front of you.

Because supporting every learner doesn’t mean treating every learner exactly the same. It means creating the conditions for more learners to thrive.

⏱️ EPISODE TIMESTAMPS

0:00 – Welcome to Year 2 of The Educator Experience5:10 – Meet Melissa Choquette9:10 – Creating Classrooms Where Every Learner Belongs21:50 – Inclusive Teaching: Giving Learners What They Need24:01 – Melissa’s Neurodivergence & Diagnosis Journey30:27 – From Educator to Founder of Visually Speaking39:08 – Supporting the People Who Support Learners43:56 – Practical Ways to Better Support Every Learner

🌐 CONNECT WITH MELISSA

https://visuallyspeakinginc.com/

🎙️ ABOUT THE EDUCATOR EXPERIENCE

The Educator Experience brings together conversations, professional learning, resources, and practical tools for the people who support learners.

📓 THE EDUCATOR REFLECTION JOURNAL

Going for promotion or tenure? Preparing for an interview? Building your teaching portfolio—or simply wanting to become a more intentional educator?

The Educator Reflection Journal helps you capture the experiences, decisions, challenges, successes, and small moments that shape your teaching practice.

https://theeducatorexperience.learnworlds.com/course/the-reflective-journal-for-educators-capture-your-teaching-story

Writing and Storytelling in Education with 'The Adventures of Jelly Bean' Author Amy Pollack

Salli Carter — Mon, 25 May 2026 19:59:31 GMT

What happens when a child is encouraged to share their creativity in the classroom? For Amy Meislin Pollack, it became the beginning of a storytelling journey that would last more than sixty years.

In this heartfelt episode, Salli sits down with Amy Pollack, educator, professor, and author of The Adventures of Jelly Bean series, to talk about the connection between teaching, storytelling, creativity, and the lasting impact educators can have on young people. Amy reflects on how her fourth-grade teacher encouraged her to stand in front of the class and tell her stories about a character named Jelly Bean, stories she continued sharing throughout her 40+ year teaching career before eventually publishing them decades later.

Throughout the conversation, Amy discusses the surprising parallels between teaching and writing, how feedback from students shaped her teaching and storytelling, and why listening, reflection, and persistence matter so much in both education and creativity. From teaching grade school and college students to raising children and becoming a published author later in life, Amy’s story is a powerful reminder that creative passions often grow from the encouragement we receive in classrooms.

Salli and Amy also explore how educators can inspire creativity in students, the importance of reading and rewriting, and why storytelling is deeply connected to human connection and learning.

Amy is the author of The Adventures of Jelly Bean series, praised by both Kirkus Reviews and US Review of Books for its heartfelt and engaging coming-of-age storytelling.

Learn more about Amy and her books here:
Amy Pollack Official Website

And you can check out her new book ‘The Still Further Adventures of Jelly Bean’ here!

https://pegasuspublishers.com/books/middle-grade-(10-12-years)/the-still-further-adventures-of-jelly-bean

Timestamps

00:00 Intro
04:40 Differences Between College & Grade School Teaching
10:20 The Importance of Student Feedback
15:20 How Teaching Influenced Amy’s Writing
20:00 The Power of Personal Stories as Inspiration
26:00 Amy’s Advice for New Writers

Accessibility Isn’t Optional: Building Inclusive Classrooms with Dr. Stefan Sunandan Honisch

Salli Carter — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 12:09:00 GMT

How do we move beyond trying to “fix” a system that was never fully accessible—and instead reimagine education to truly include everyone?

In this episode of The Educator Experience Podcast, Salli Carter speaks with Dr. Stefan Sunandan Honisch, a disabled researcher, musician, sessional instructor and scholar-In-Residence, St. John’s College, University of British Columbia in the Department of Theatre and Film. With a rich background in Critical Disability Studies, Music, and Pedagogy, Stefan frames the conversation around the urgent need to create inclusive and accessible classrooms that center humanity.

Stefan brings in references from Naomi Klein’s book Doppelganger and Daniel Heath Justice’s paper “Demanding Kinder Classrooms”, grounding the conversation in critical frameworks that may be new to many listeners but are transformative for teaching practice.

Together, they explore:
✨ Access friction—how accommodating one access need can unintentionally create barriers for others.
✨Online Spaces & Lessons from COVID-19
✨ Reimagining teaching and learning spaces
✨ The value of engaging deeply with disability studies as an educator

At its heart, this conversation asks educators to reflect on how we can change—not just our individual classrooms, but the culture of higher education itself—so that inclusivity isn’t an afterthought, but the foundation.

Check out Stefan's Youtube account with more of his work here: https://youtube.com/@stefanhonisch9682?si=a-mgy_nfcyji4bBKPDF

Read Daniel Heath Justice's Paper "Demanding Kinder Classrooms Doesn't Make You a Snowflake" https://scope.bccampus.ca/pluginfile.php/70505/mod_resource/content/1/Demanding%20Kinder%20Classrooms%20Daniel%20Heath%20Justice.pdf

Am I Creating Learned Helplessness in my Classroom? Season 2 Reflections with Salli Carter

Salli Carter — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 13:00:00 GMT

Join host Salli Carter as she reflects on season two of the Educator Experience, exploring themes of learned helplessness, academic integrity, and the power of community in education. Discover new resources for educators and get a sneak peek into season three, where connection and support take center stage. Tune in for insights that go beyond the classroom and into the heart of teaching.

Uncovering Unconscious Bias: Creating Connection in the Classroom with Chantale Hutchinson

Salli Carter — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 11:00:00 GMT

What happens when our unconscious bias gets in the way of truly seeing our students?

In this premiere episode of Educator Experiences, Chantale Hutchinson shares a powerful personal story from her 20 years in adult education, revealing how intentional reflection and empathy helped her grow as an educator in the online context.

Tune in to explore how honest conversations, flexible teaching, and human connection can transform the learning experience for everyone.

#Education #Teaching #UnconsciousBias

There's Learning in the Struggle with Dr. Rebecca VanMeter: Challenging Students, Teaching with Care and Using AI Thoughtfully.

Salli Carter — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 17:22:40 GMT

Teaching today is rewarding, challenging, and constantly evolving.

In this episode, Salli Carter is joined by Dr. Rebecca VanMeter, Associate Professor of Marketing at Ball State University.

This honest and energizing conversation explores what it means to teach with high standards, care deeply about students, and stay authentic in a constantly changing higher education landscape.

Rebecca reflects on:

- How growth comes from struggle,

- Why some students may resist you in the moment but thank you years later,

- How learning to trust your own teaching style is essential for longevity in this profession.

- How thoughtful integration of AI can help you be more efficient as an educator.

Together, they explore generational shifts in today’s students, flipped classrooms, using podcasts as learning tools, and the emotional pressure educators face to please everyone.

The conversation also dives into thoughtful AI use in education and how educators can integrate AI to support feedback, clarity, and efficiency without replacing the human element of teaching.

Chapters:

00:00 — Introduction

02:58 — Rebecca’s Journey Into Teaching

09:56 — Student Growth Moments That Fuel the Passion

11:12 — “This Profession Is a Mindf***”: Pressure, Criticism, and Reality

16:30 — Using Podcasts as a Teaching & Learning Tool

19:00 — AI in the Classroom: What’s Actually Effective

27:00 — Practical Use Cases for AI as an Educator

29:00 — Rebecca’s Advice: Be Softer (With Yourself & Your Students)

32:20 — Beneficence, Care, and the Passion Students Bring

39:00 — Helping Students Align Their Values With Their Work

The Educators’ Dasein: Knowing, Being and Becoming with Reetika Khanna

Salli Carter — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Reetika Khanna joins Salli for a powerful and deeply reflective conversation about what it truly means to be an educator. Reetika shares her journey from never wanting to teach to discovering the profound meaning behind education through philosophy, reflection, and connection.

Drawing on Martin Heidegger’s concept of Dasein, she explores the question, “Who am I when I teach?”, and how understanding ourselves as educators can transform how we connect with students.

Together, Reetika and Salli discuss what it means to show up authentically in the classroom, especially for international students navigating new and often isolating experiences. They speak candidly about the importance of admitting mistakes, finding humanity in teaching, and creating communities where meaningful conversations can unfold.

This episode also touches on the realities of being an educator today, including teacher layoffs, burnout, and the emotional labor of showing up fully for others. Reetika leaves us with powerful advice for new educators: embrace imperfection, stay reflective, and remember that being human is such a precious

thing.#education #academia #philosophy #dasein #highereducation #teaching #inspiration #adjunct

Authenticity in Action: Teaching with Heart with Sarita Parmar

Salli Carter — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this heartfelt premiere episode of The Educator Experience, Salli sits down with educator and facilitator Sarita Parmar to explore the transformative power of authenticity in the classroom. Together, they unpack how showing up fully—stories, struggles, resilience and all—can deepen connection and elevate learning far beyond the content. Sarita shares how weaving her personal journeys through love, health, and family creates powerful, safe spaces for growth. This episode is a beautiful reminder that our greatest teaching tool is our whole, authentic self.

Best of Season 3 Teaching Reflections

Salli Carter — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 15:35:00 GMT

Every episode featured in Season 3 brought heart, wisdom, and honesty to the realities of teaching in higher ed.

This week, we’re sharing some of our favourite moments that left us thinking long after we wrapped recording.

Featuring:

Roberta Sawatzky on navigating constant change, helping students build adaptability, and the power of bringing academic and industry worlds together.

Dr. Stefan Sunandan Honisch, who reminds us that classrooms aren’t gladiator arenas and that kindness, humanity, and understanding are essential parts of learning.

Justin Andrews on the real experience of being a TA — the fast thinking, the sudden responsibilities, and how professors can better prepare and support future educators.

Dr. Joseph Brown shares candidly about the stress at the front of the room and a hilariously brilliant PD activity that helps educators practice failing safely.

Dr. T.J. Hoogsteen reflects on outcomes that matter beyond grades and how connection in the classroom is one of the most transformative parts of education.

Matt Adolphe discusses how to support international students, cultural transitions, practical skill-building, and preparing students for the workforce, not just the classroom.

Whether you're listening on your lunch break or marking papers with headphones in, this episode is full of thoughtful, useful insight from educators who truly get it.

Time Stamps

0:00 Intro

4:20 Roberta Sawatzky on Change Management

9:06 Stefan Sunandan Honisch on Bringing Humanity to the Classroom

14:20 Justin Andrews on Preparing TAs for Success

19:30 Dr. Joseph Brown on Teacher Stage Fright

24:45 Dr. T.J. Hoogsteen on Valuing Grades Too Much

28:00 Matt Adolphe on Preparing International Students for the Canadian Workforce

Decolonizing Teaching: How Non-Indigenous Educators Can Begin the Work with Gillian Thomas-Martin

Salli Carter — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 20:18:56 GMT

What does it mean for non-Indigenous educators to work towards decolonizing their teaching?

In this thoughtful and deeply reflective episode, Salli Carter and Gillian Thomas-Martin explore the responsibility non-Indigenous educators hold in truth and reconciliation.

Together, they unpack the lasting impacts of colonialism within education systems, workplace learning environments, and institutional culture.

Gillian shares her personal journey of examining her identity, understanding her relationship to colonialism, and navigating the emotional complexities that often arise for non-Indigenous educators doing this work.

They also discuss how corporate learning and development differs from traditional classroom teaching, how productivity and compliance often overshadow humanity, and why educators play a critical role in disrupting colonial systems embedded in learning structures.

This conversation is honest, challenging, and essential listening for educators navigating their role in reconciliation. It invites educators to pause, reflect, and consider how they can engage more intentionally in decolonizing their teaching practices and contributing meaningfully to Truth and Reconciliation efforts.

Whether you work in higher education, K–12, professional development, or corporate learning, this episode offers essential insights for educators committed to ethical, relational, and transformative teaching.

Gillian shares multiple resources throughout the episode that we encourage you to check out further.

• Office of the Provincial Health Officer's Unlearning and Undoing White Supremacy Project description and recorded webinar: Introduction to Unlearning & Undoing White Supremacy and Racism in the Office of the Provincial Health Officer - Province of British Columbia

Sharing Our Metaphors by Kate Jongbloed on Prezi

Textbook WAYI WAH! Indigenous Pedagogies by Jo Chrona: Wayi Wah! Indigenous Pedagogies | Portage & Main Press/HighWater Press

Gillian’s digital post-it note to herself:

Questions I have learned to ask myself before I approach an Indigenous friend or colleague:

Am I entitled to this information? If yes, why do I feel entitled to it?
Can I find the answer on my own by observing or researching?
Do I have the skills to assess resources for authentic Indigenous perspectives? Can I distinguish between the perspective of an individual Indigenous person or of a collective Peoples? So for example, is this an advocacy position I’m reading on social media from an activist, or because I live on the unceded territories of the Quw’utsun Nation, is this something Quw’utsun community and governments are advocating for?
What is my intention in asking an Indigenous colleague or friend for information?
What is my relationship like with that colleague or friend? (consider formal titles and past interactions)
How can I ask permission to ask my questions without triggering any trauma? Have I considered how I will respond if they say no?
How will I make sure I don’t create an expectation for my Indigenous colleagues and friends to help me process my emotional reaction to what I learn?
How can I build trust and reciprocity, and not just knowledge extraction?

Time Stamps

00:00 – Introduction
02:34 – Gillian’s Journey into Corporate Teaching & Learning
08:25 – Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act & Public Service Implications
10:25 – What Is My Relationship with Colonialism? Self-Reflection for Educators
16:25 – "The Copper Pot" & Allyship in Decolonizing Education
20:00 – "Wayi Wah! Indigenous Pedagogies" & Teaching Resources
26:40 – Unlearning, Self-Reflection & Growth for Educators
33:15 – Reconciliation Initiatives in Higher Education
40:15 – Truth and Reconciliation: Dismantling Colonial Systems in Education
43:00 – Advice for New Educators: Reflection, Responsibility & Growth

#educationpodcast #teachingpodcast #educatorlife #highered #teachingcommunity #edleadership #truthandreconciliation

How Poetry Helps Students Find Their Voice with Kevin Spenst

Salli Carter — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:34:51 GMT

In this beautifully reflective episode, we sit down with Kevin Spenst, an award-winning poet, writer and educator with over 30 years of experience teaching creative writing, poetry, and ESL.

Together, Salli and Kevin explore how poetry can open up new ways for students to express themselves, build confidence, and connect across cultures. Kevin shares how integrating what students care about into writing invites them to “open up a piece of themselves,” creating meaningful and lasting classroom experiences.

This conversation dives into the role of linguistic diversity in Canada and how language itself can become a tool for creativity, connection, and inclusion. As Kevin beautifully puts it, poetry offers a model for moving forward into a future of diversity rooted in synthesis, fusion, and shared understanding.

We also explore:- The “magic” of poetry in the classroom- Creative formats like sonnets and chapbooks- How educators can foster expression and belonging through writingKevin also shares insights into his upcoming book, Gathered Together in the Stanley Park Manor: a Collective History, out with Anvil Press in the fall of 2026, which is a collection of an assortment of his lyric essays, interviews with neighbours, and personal accounts.

📚 Works & Artists Referenced

Kinanâskomitin by Dallas Hunt

Alphabet, Alphabet by Sadiqa de Meijer

No More Watno Dur by Sadhu Binning

Assorted work by Paul Zits

Kevin is a Pushcart Poetry nominee, is the author of ⁠Ignite⁠, ⁠Jabbering with Bing Bong⁠, ⁠Hearts Amok: a Memoir in Verse⁠ and ⁠A Bouquet Brought Back from Space,⁠ and 16 chapbooks including ⁠Surrey Sonnets⁠ (JackPine Press), Upend (⁠Frog Hollow Press⁠) a holm with the ⁠Alfred Gustav Press⁠ and the collaboratively written ⁠Recto, Verso, Chez the Devil’s Printers⁠ with Joshua Pitre (Collusion Books).

⏱️ Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

03:15 Kevin’s Journey Into Education

09:00 Discovering a Love for Poetry

15:00 Inviting Students to Express Themselves

19:30 Poetry Forms: Sonnets, Chapbooks & More

24:00 Language, Culture, and Connection

33:00 Advice for Aspiring Writing Educators

36:00 Kevin’s Upcoming Book & Creative Work

#Poetry #Poetryteaching #TeachingWriting #creativewriting #Teaching #HigherEd #AdultLearning #Vancouver #Poet #ChapBook #Prose #BCWriter #EducationPodcast #TeachingPodcast #TeachingTechniques #ESLClassrooms #CanadianPoet

Thriving in Education: Building Resilience & Wellbeing for Educators with Dr. TJ Hoogsteen

Salli Carter — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Teaching isn’t just about lesson plans — it’s about sustaining your passion and wellbeing along the way.

In this week’s conversation, Salli Carter sits down with Dr. TJ Hoogsteen, a principal, adult educator, and researcher, to explore what it really means for educators to thrive.

Together, they unpack: wellbeing at work, challenges for new educators, and the work/life balancing act.

Together, they unpack:

- The myth of “doing it all” and why “one more thing” can lead to burnout.

- How educators can reframe supervision and feedback as a tool for growth instead of a source of fear.

- The Inventory of Thriving and why achievement alone doesn’t equal wellness

- The power of community and collective efficacy in supporting educators.

This episode is packed with strategies to build resilience, find balance, and protect your mental wellbeing — so you can keep making an impact in the classroom without sacrificing yourself.

Chapters:

0:00 Intro 3:30 Collective Efficacy in Schools 5:45 Educator Wellbeing 7:40 40% of Teachers Leave in their First 5 Years 13:06 Problems with “Reach out if you Need Support” 14:30 Peer Learning Communities17:20 Thriving at Work 21:30 Creating Connections in the Classroom#adulted #education #teaching #community #mentalhealth #worklifebalance #leadership

The Educator's Guide to Students Who Challenge with Dr. Darryn DiFrancesco

Salli Carter — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 06:00:00 GMT

From side-eye in the back row to full-on “Why are we even learning this?” moments, teaching isn’t always sunshine and perfect participation. In this lively conversation, Salli Carter and Dr. Darryn DiFrancesco tackle the realities of working with challenging students—and why those moments can be the most rewarding. They dive into meeting students where they’re at, balancing feedback with expertise, trying bold new assessment ideas (hello, graphic novels!), and building real rapport that transforms the classroom. Whether you’re in higher ed, teaching up north, or just looking for fresh engagement strategies, this episode is packed with relatable stories, practical tips, and a reminder that even the toughest class can be a teacher’s best teacher.

The Secret to Motivating Learners: Inspiration Over Instruction with Wolfgang Schifer

Salli Carter — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 19:14:43 GMT

What inspires people to learn, grow, and become the best version of themselves?

In this thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation, Salli sits down with educator, former Associate Dean, ESL instructor, mechanic, and lifelong learner Wolfgang Schifer to explore the deeper human side of education. Drawing on a career that has spanned trades, international teaching, leadership, and higher education, Wolfgang shares insights into what truly motivates learners and how educators can inspire lasting growth by connecting learning to purpose, passion, and personal meaning.

Together, Salli and Wolfgang discuss the importance of helping learners connect their education to what they genuinely care about, the power of inspiration over instruction, and how educators can create environments where students feel empowered to grow. They also explore the OODA Loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) as a framework for navigating change, learning, and decision-making in both education and life.

The conversation extends beyond the classroom into themes of work-life balance, family, self-awareness, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. Wolfgang reflects on the importance of actively seeking inspiration rather than waiting for it to arrive, and how our relationships, habits, and values shape the impact we have on others.

Whether you are an educator, leader, student, or lifelong learner, this episode offers practical wisdom and thoughtful reflection on how to cultivate purpose, connection, and human potential in a rapidly changing world.

Time Stamps

00:00 Introduction

03:20 Wolfgang's Journey and Love of Learning

13:30 Inspiring Learners Through Their Passions

19:00 The OODA Loop: Observe, Orient, Decide, Act

21:30 Work-Life Balance and What Truly Matters

41:30 Adding Value Through Inspiration and Learning

48:30 Salli's Silent Retreat and the Search for Clarity

#oodaloop #Inspiration #Running #HigherEducation #MotivatingLearners #TeachingPodcast #Medellin #eslteacher

Cultivating Belonging in the Classroom and Beyond with Domenic Scuglia

Salli Carter — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 23:07:24 GMT

This episode is a special one… Salli sits down with Domenic Scuglia—former teacher, principal, and superintendent of schools in both Ontario and Saskatchewan—to explore how a career spanning classrooms, gyms, and entire school divisions has been fueled by one central passion: creating a sense of belonging.

From ensuring every child feels welcome when they walk through the school doors to supporting teachers and principals in feeling valued within their divisions, Domenic shares how his diverse experiences have shaped his leadership and teaching philosophies. He reflects on a life-changing trip to Auschwitz that deepened his commitment to DEI, his work to improve Indigenous student graduation rates, and the initiatives that have built more inclusive school communities.

Rooted in a background in kinesiology and a lifelong love of rugby, Domenic’s leadership style is both team-focused and deeply human. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about making education more equitable, inclusive, and connected.

The Future of Work: How AI Is Changing Education Forever with Monica Marquez

Salli Carter — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:58:59 GMT

Are students truly prepared for an AI-driven workplace?

In this powerful and timely episode, we sit down with Monica Marquez, M. Ed. a leading expert in workplace AI, learning, and leadership, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming both higher education and the future of work.

With over 20 years of experience at companies like Google, EY, Bank of America, and Goldman Sachs, Monica brings a unique perspective on what employers are actually looking for and where the biggest gaps exist. In fact, 53% of employers say graduates are not AI-ready.

Together, Salli and Monica dive into what this means for educators, students, and professionals navigating this rapidly evolving landscape.

This conversation goes beyond tools and technology. It explores:

What “AI readiness” actually means in today’s workforce.- How educators can bridge the gap between AI exposure and real capability.
The growing importance of human skills like resilience, communication, and critical thinking.
How to balance AI use without over-reliance.
Why mastering your human soft skills matters more than ever.

One of the most powerful ideas from this episode is the concept of pairing authentic intelligence with artificial intelligence. Leveraging both to create more meaningful, impactful outcomes.

This is an essential listen for educators, university students, and professionals looking to stay ahead in an AI-enabled world.

🔗 Connect with Monica through the links below:

🌐 FlipWork: https://www.flipwork.ai/about

📬 Newsletter Sign Up (¡Ay Ay Ay, AI!): https://www.themonicamarquez.com/newsletters/ay-ay-ay-ai/subscribe

🌍 Website: https://www.themonicamarquez.com/

⏱️ Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

03:40 Monica’s Journey in Adult & Corporate Learning

12:50 Identifying Skills AI Cannot Replace

16:42 Are Graduates Prepared for AI in the Workplace?

22:14 Balancing AI Use Without Over-Reliance

33:45 The Importance of Resilience & Communication

40:20 Why Educators Must Understand AI

49:23 Integrating AI into Education

55:29 Teaching “Authentic Intelligence.”

1:03:01 Monica's Links

Building Trust in Vocational Classrooms with Sylvia Fraser

Salli Carter — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:03:00 GMT

In this episode, we sit down with Sylvia Fraser, an Applied Business Technology instructor at Northern Lights College, to explore what trust really looks like in vocational education. Sylvia shares how her unconventional path, from retail to the classroom, has shaped the way she connects with learners who are building practical skills for real-world careers.

She highlights the small, human moments that create the strongest impact like taking time to have lunch with students, showing genuine interest in their lives, and bringing her authentic self into the room. These simple gestures, she explains, are often what help students feel seen, supported, and capable.

While Sylvia touches on her own experiences with imposter syndrome, the heart of the conversation focuses on how authenticity, consistency, and everyday interactions build powerful trust in vocational classrooms. Her stories remind us that you don’t need a PhD to change a student’s trajectory. You just need to show up, be yourself, and believe that what you offer matters.

00:00 – Introduction

4:12 Sylvia’s Background

9:00 – The Applied Business Technology Classroom

13:00 – Authenticity in the Classroom

20:10 – Fighting Imposter Syndrome

27:30 – The Differences Between PHd and Vocational Instructors 30:00 - Advice for New Educators

From Russia to Canada: Lessons on Academic Freedom & Empathy in Teaching with Dr. Joseph Brown

Salli Carter — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT

This week, Salli Carter sits down with Dr. Joseph Brown for a fascinating conversation about what it really means to teach freely. With over 20 years in higher education and teaching experience in both Canada and Russia, Dr. Brown shares how his time abroad shaped his perspective on academic freedom, and why we can’t take it for granted.

Together, they unpack:

Why “Rate My Prof” shouldn’t define your teaching
How classroom setup impacts engagement
Their favorite classrooms to teach in
The growing industrialization of education — and how it affects students and teachers
Tips for public speaking and showing up confidently

This is an honest, thoughtful episode with a soft trigger warning for educators — reminding us of the power and privilege of speaking freely in our classrooms.

Making Science Accessible: Rethinking Biology Labs with Dr. Melissa Hills

Salli Carter — Sat, 25 Oct 2025 01:03:26 GMT

Dr. Melissa Hills from MacEwan University is a Molecular Biologist engaged in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, with a particular interest in working with students with disabilities as partners in research and inclusive curriculum design. She is also the Group Lead of MacEwan's Research Group on Inclusive Experiential Learning. Melissa is passionate about student-centred and inclusive pedagogies, including Universal Design for Learning.

In this conversation, Melissa and Salli explore the barriers that exist in traditional lab spaces and the importance of redesigning both curriculum and physical environments to allow every student to participate fully. They also unpack how educators can balance flexibility with structure to support students’ needs while protecting their own boundaries and course outcomes.

Together, they discuss the challenge many students face in self-advocating when they need support or deferrals, and share strategies for creating classroom cultures that make learning impactful, manageable, and accessible for everyone.

Bonus Episode! Meet Your Host: Salli Carter

Salli Carter — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMT

Join Salli Carter for her first solo episode to round off Season 1!

Salli opens up about her personal journey into higher education and what inspired her to create The Educator Experience. With a passion for supporting adult educators—especially those transitioning from industry into teaching—Salli shares why the onboarding experience matters, and how better support can lead to more confident, connected educators.

Whether you're new to the classroom or a seasoned faculty member, Salli's call to action will resonate: build bridges, spark conversations, and help create a culture where educators, old and new, feel seen and supported.

This episode is more than an introduction—it’s an invitation to be part of a growing community of educators who lift each other up.

Teaching Is a Journey, Not a Job Title with Keith McWhirter

Salli Carter — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 16:51:30 GMT

Some of the best educators didn’t take a straight path into teaching.And that might be exactly why they’re so good at it.

This episode is especially for educators who didn’t take a straight line into teaching.Keith McWhirter ( @NoFlyZoneNomads @CanadianCareerCoach on YouTube) and Salli Carter reflect on what it’s like to come into education from industry, return to school later in life, and step into the classroom carrying both deep professional experience and very real imposter syndrome.

Salli shares her experience going back to school at nearly 40, while Keith reflects on learning how to trust the value of what he brings into the classroom. Together, they talk about finding the balance between storytelling and edutainment, using lived experience without performing, and building meaningful connections with students while still honouring the work of teaching.

This conversation offers reassurance for new educators, sessionals, and industry professionals navigating unfamiliar academic spaces and learning to make a course their own.

If you’re figuring out how to teach in a way that feels authentic, grounded, and human, this episode will meet you where you are.Check out Keith's YouTube channels! ⁠ @CanadianCareerCoach ⁠ ⁠ @NoFlyZoneNomads ⁠

Time Stamps

00:00 Intro

04:26 Keith's Story

13:30 'The Golden Handcuffs' - Why Being Passionate at Work Matters

16:45 Edutainment in the Classroom

23:00 Making a Syllabus Your Own

30:35 Growing as an Educator

35:10 Keith's Advice for New Educators

#travel #education #teaching #interview #highered #adjunct #professor #professionaldevelopment #learninginnovation #teachingstrategies #podcast #teachingmethods

How to Incorporate Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Into Your Syllabi with Dr. Treena Orchard

Salli Carter — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode of The Educator Experience, we sit down with Dr. Treena Orchard—anthropologist, activist, and author of Sticky, Sexy, Sad—to explore why Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) must be more than a checkbox. A leader in creating transformative curricula at Western University’s School of Health Studies, Treena shares how educators can integrate EDI into their classrooms in meaningful, lasting ways.

From rethinking course content and resource lists to engaging students as co-creators in inclusive learning spaces, Treena challenges us to ask: What kind of scholar—and teacher—am I? Listen in for real talk around how we can create true culture change through integration of EDI at every level.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kbHByGamoQ4

Life Skills, Careers and Student Success: The Missing Course in Education with Rob Heller

Salli Carter — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 17:06:09 GMT

How do we prepare students not just for academic success, but for life beyond the classroom?

This week, Salli Carter sits down with Rob Heller, founder of Boost and author of The Missing Course for Today’s Youth, to explore how educators can thoughtfully integrate life and career skills into the classroom.

Together, they discuss how educators can create opportunities for students to engage with real-world skills, build self-awareness, and develop the tools needed to navigate an evolving workforce. Rob reinforces that these 'soft skills' are ones that no AI program can reproduce, giving individuals with these skills an even sharper edge in the job market.

This conversation highlights the value of experiential learning, the role of personality and authenticity in networking and professional growth, and how programs like Boost aim to support schools in bridging connections between education and life beyond it.

📘 Learn more about Rob’s book The Missing Course for Today’s Youth: https://www.amazon.in/Missing-Course-Todays-Youth-Matter-How-ebook/dp/B0GDJ41CQC
🚀 Explore Boost and their work supporting life skills education: https://boostkids.com/

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction
02:49 Rob Heller’s Journey into Education
05:04 Expanding Student Access to Real-World Learning Opportunities
07:25 Key Life Skills for Student Success
09:30 Why Soft Skills Matter in Today’s Workforce
14:01 Authentic Networking: Bringing Personality into Professional Spaces
18:40 AI and the Future of Work for Students
19:30 Advice for Innovators in Education

The Detective Work of Academic Integrity: Cheaters, Citation & Cultural Stigma with Dr. Joseph Brown

Salli Carter — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 10:00:00 GMT

This week, Salli Carter teams up with Dr. Joseph Brown to crack the case on one of higher ed’s trickiest topics: academic integrity. From suspiciously polished essays to citation slip-ups, they dive into the behind-the-scenes world of integrity committees, tech-fueled cheating, and why students sometimes ghost their profs instead of asking for help.

Expect hot takes on AI-generated essays, cultural stigmas around accommodations, and how instructors can be more like mentors than detectives. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about catching cheaters—it’s about creating classrooms where students don’t feel like they have to cheat in the first place.

Reflections of a College President with Bill Crouch: Leadership, Community and Fundraising

Salli Carter — Mon, 11 May 2026 22:54:22 GMT

What does it really look like to lead a college or university? In this thoughtful episode, Salli sits down with educator, former college president, fundraising expert, and CEO of BrightDot, Bill Crouch, to reflect on leadership, community, and the importance of helping people feel that they truly matter.

Drawing from decades of experience in higher education and nonprofit leadership, Bill shares his journey to becoming a college president, the lessons he learned through both successes and failures, and why the strongest institutions are built through gratitude, listening, and authentic human connection. From conversations about diversity and institutional challenges to staff motivation, student success, and the future of higher education leadership, this episode explores what it means to create communities where people feel seen, valued, and supported.

At the heart of this conversation is Bill’s belief that leadership is not about power but about people. Bill is also the author of the upcoming book Mattership, releasing this June, which continues his work around leadership, belonging, and meaningful human connection.

You can learn more about Bill's current work at BrightDot's website - https://thebrightdot.com/

BrightDot helps organizations reimagine fundraising by combining storytelling, human connection, and strategic insight into what Bill calls “The Art of Fundraising.”

Timestamps

00:00 Intro

04:06 Bill’s Journey to Becoming a College President

12:07 Building Community & Creating Spaces of Belonging

17:30 The Fundraising Challenges Facing Higher Education

22:10 Staff Motivation During Times of Challenge

34:25 Celebrating Student Success

39:00 Bill’s Advice for University Presidents

44:00 How Conversations Create Community

#university #Leadership #HigherEducationLeadership #Fundraising #professor #EducationPodcast #SchoolLeadership #Principles #teachingcommunity #leadershipdevelopment

Understanding The Value of Sessional Instructors with Paul Tedesco

Salli Carter — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this Season 2 premiere of The Educator Experience, I sit down with industry professor and marketing powerhouse Paul Tedesco to talk about something close to both our hearts: the overlooked brilliance of sessional instructors.

With over 30 years in marketing and more than a decade teaching at McMaster’s DeGroote School of Business, Paul shares the winding journey from agency life to academia—along with the barriers, breakthroughs, and quiet contributions sessionals make every day. From navigating the lack of onboarding to pushing for official recognition as “industry professors,” Paul opens up about what it means to truly be seen—and how institutions can better engage this underutilized group.

We explore:

Why real-world experience in the classroom matters more than ever
How institutions can better support and collaborate with sessionals
The power of community, alumni engagement, and… improv?

Whether you're a sessional instructor yourself or someone who works alongside them, this conversation shines a light on the passion, resilience, and potential of the educators who often fly under the radar—but deserve a seat at the table.

Relentless Growth: Leadership in Action with Chef Franck Desplechin

Salli Carter — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 17:19:13 GMT

In this episode of The Educator Experience, Salli Carter sits down with Chef Franck Desplechin, author of Relentless Growth: Cultivating a Chef’s Mindset for Professional Fulfillment.

With experience in Michelin-rated kitchens and world-class hotels, Franck shares how resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence shape effective leadership and adult education.

His “hands-on” approach reminds us that teaching doesn’t only happen in classrooms — it happens every day in workplaces, kitchens, and communities where people learn by doing.

Together, Salli and Franck explore how leaders can model growth, foster healthy work cultures, and adapt to different learning styles. They discuss teaching by example, understanding emotional cues, and redefining failure as part of the learning process.

This is a real, grounded conversation about leadership, learning, and the impact we have on others — whether you’re leading a team, mentoring staff, or teaching in any capacity.

Franck's new book, "Relentless Growth: Cultivating a Chef’s Mindset for Professional Fulfillment," is available on October 14!

Books That Shape How We Teach and Who We Become with Wang Yip

Salli Carter — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 18:30:48 GMT

In this thoughtful and inspiring episode, Salli sits down with Wang Yip, educator, writer, and lifelong learner, to explore how reading shapes who we are both as teachers and as people.

They discuss the books that have transformed their perspectives, how re-reading can deepen understanding, and why curiosity and reflection are essential to staying relevant in education.

Wang opens up about his journey into teaching, the teachers who influenced him, and how communication and connection help bridge the gap between educators and students.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of stories, reflection, and lifelong learning, especially in a world where AI and technology are rapidly changing what it means to teach and learn.

You can check out Wang's Substack here: https://zurl.co/t2FG2

0:00 Intro

1:19 Wang’s Teaching Story

4:40 ‘Teaching is a Problem to be Solved’

11:50 Giving Students Extra Time 13:00 ‘The Power of Why’ and Other Book Recommendations

16:45 Nassim Taleb’s 'The Anti-Library’

21:00 Books Can Change You

26:25 Advice for New Educators

Books mentioned in this episode:

Sticky, Sexy, Sad by Treena Orchard

The Power of Why by Amanda Lang

Reply by Ken Greenwood

Start Up Different by Chris Sinkinson and David Sinkinson

“What If?” By Roberta Sawatzky

And many more!

Rubrics, Feedback and Fairness: a T.A.’s Guide to Smarter Grading with Justin Andrews

Salli Carter — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 12:28:00 GMT

Rubrics. Feedback. Online engagement. These can be touchy subjects for educators... and we are diving in.

This week on The Educator Experience Podcast, Salli Carter is joined by Justin Andrews: culinary educator, entrepreneur, and founder of FoodWeb, for a candid conversation about the TA experience and the art of grading.

From navigating rubrics to balancing fairness and creativity, Salli and Justin dive into what it means to support students while keeping your own sanity as an educator. They share how teaching assistants can make the most of their term, set boundaries, and approach grading with confidence and care.

Tune in for conversations on: How rubrics can unintentionally limit student creativity. The real challenges (and rewards) of being a TA. Strategies for Providing Fair, Clear, and Constructive Feedback. Why grading isn’t just marking — it’s teaching too.

Time Stamps

0:00 Intro

6:43 Marking Sucks!

8:20 How Rubrics Affect Student Work Quality

12:25 Accessing A Rubric for Fairness

16:40 The Difference Between First Years and Working Professional Classrooms

19:20 Preparing T.A. for a Successful Term

25:07 Advice for New Educators

#teaching #TeachingAdults #Academia #Podcast #TeachingAssistant #Marking #Grading #Work #Professional Development

Best of Season 1!

Salli Carter — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 16:00:00 GMT

In this special Best of Season 1 episode, we pull together standout moments from all five guests who offer powerful insights on teaching, practical strategies, and the evolving landscape of education.

You'll catch clips from:

Jo Ann Buffalo on the essential role of Indigenous cultural workers, why every child matters, and how educators can build meaningful relationships with Indigenous leaders to best support students and honour the land we teach on.

Dr. Treena Orchard on moving beyond “DEI as an add-on”. She speaks on how we can access what equity work can look like within our own faculty, our individual classrooms, and our everyday practices.

Chantale Hutchinson on uncovering unconscious biases in teaching through the lens of Stephen Brookfield’s work on critical reflection. She brings thoughtful insight on how asking ourselves the right questions can change one's approach to teaching, particularly in the online classroom.

Steve Newton on the transformative power of AI, VR, and gamification in adult learning. Steve highlights how engagement, play, and interactive learning can radically improve knowledge retention.

Sarita Parmar on authenticity in the classroom, why every student and person has something to teach you, and how genuine human connection builds trust and strengthens learning.

This episode is an incredible overview of Season 1! We invite you to check out each one of these guests full episodes as the 'best of' clip only captures a timbit of their knowledge and insight.

Time Stamps

0:00 Introduction

0:40 Welcome to our 'Best Of' Series!

3:57 Jo Ann Buffalo on Building Conditions for Indigenous Students to Thrive

8:46 Dr. Treena Orcahrd on Rethinking DEI in Higher Education

12:19 Chantale Hutchinson on Unconscious Bias in Online Classrooms

16:24 Steve Newston on AI, Gamification and the Future of Adult Learning

21:08 Sarita Parmar on Building Trust Through Authentic Teaching

Eat, Write, Teach - Teaching Lessons from a Life of Travel with Roberta Sawatzky

Salli Carter — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 13:00:00 GMT

What does backpacking across Europe have to do with teaching in higher ed? For Roberta Sawatzky, everything. Growing up in Ireland and later moving to Canada, Roberta’s travels gave her a unique perspective on how culture, language, and lived experience shape the classroom. In this episode, she joins Salli Carter to talk about the lessons travel can teach us as educators, why empathy is non-negotiable in teaching, and how flexible work environments can transform leadership. With nearly 20 years in post-secondary, experience in consulting, and a passion for storytelling, Roberta offers a fresh take on building connection, understanding diverse student backgrounds, and bridging the gap between industry and academia. Time Stamps: 0:00 Introduction and Roberta's Background 5:31 Impacts on Leadership and Remote Work 12:01 The Role of Travel in Education 20:00 Empathy and Connection in the Classroom 26:10 Advice for New Educators Find Roberta's books here: https://www.resawatzky.com/

How Embracing “Playful Failure” Can Change Your Teaching with Professional Clown Chase Jeffels

Salli Carter — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:18:09 GMT

Professional clown??! You heard that right. 🤡

Chase Jeffels is an actor, comedian, and teacher who brings a completely fresh perspective to how we think about learning, failure, and connection. Through his work in clown, improv, and what he calls “Goofing,” Chase teaches people, from educators to lawyers to healthcare professionals to actors, how to embrace playful failure and find what’s genuinely real and human in their work.

This conversation challenges the idea of perfection in teaching and asks: what happens when we stop trying to “get it right” and start being real instead?

And who knows… you might even be inspired to try clowning yourself.

🎭 Catch Chase performing with “$20 Sandwich” at Comedy Bar in Toronto, teaching at Sweet Action Theatre amongst others or on TV in a commercial, movie and show!

📱Chase's Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/chase.jeffels/⁠

🔗 Learn more: https://thegoofmethod.ca/

📩 Workshop Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/1abf0325f533/email-sign-up

Time Stamps

00:00 Intro

05:50 Cole’s Notes on Chase’s Life as a Clown

13:30 “Via Negativa”: Learning Through Honest Feedback

24:00 The Power of Clowning: Finding Freedom in Failure

28:00 Rejection as Self-Love: Taking Creative Risks

34:00 Why You Need to Have More “Bad Ideas”

40:00 What Clowning Teaches Us About Higher Education

44:00 Embracing Rejection: Putting Yourself Out There

Why Understanding Campus Life Improves Your Teaching with Danielle Tighe

Salli Carter — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 22:00:00 GMT

This week, Salli chats with Danielle Tighe, who made the leap from behind-the-scenes university admin to front-of-class sessional instructor. Danielle's insider knowledge of how colleges and universities really work gives her a unique edge in the classroom—and in this episode, she shares how that perspective helps her connect with students in meaningful ways.

They dive into what it means to have an entrepreneurial mindset as an educator, how to navigate policies without the headache, and the power of building community to help students actually get hired. It’s all about making education work smarter, not harder.

Equipping International Students for Canada’s Workplace Culture with Matt Adolphe

Salli Carter — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 12:11:00 GMT

What if one of the most important things you could teach your students isn’t in your syllabus?

In this episode of The Educator Experience Podcast, host Salli Carter sits down with Matt Adolphe—author of Canadian Workplace Culture: Mastering the Unspoken Rules, higher-ed educator, and workplace communication consultant—to talk about the powerful intersection of teaching, culture, and career readiness.

Drawing from his experiences teaching in Korea, Macau, and Canada, Matt shares how cultural differences shape the learning process, and why interpersonal skills and relationship-building are some of the most valuable competencies students can develop.

Key takeaways include:
✨ Why Canadian employers consistently value communication and soft skills alongside technical expertise.
✨ How educators can embed real-world applications into their classrooms so students are ready to thrive in the workplace.
✨ The unique challenges (and opportunities) for international students as they adapt to Canadian workplace norms.
✨ Practical strategies for making classrooms more culturally inclusive while preparing students for global careers.

This is a must-listen for educators who want to go beyond content delivery and start preparing students with the unspoken skills that define career success.

The Educator Experience Podcast Trailer

Salli Carter — Fri, 30 May 2025 21:00:00 GMT

Teaching can be incredible… and also incredibly lonely. That’s why we created The Educator Experience Podcast—a space where real educators share the pivotal, hilarious, humbling, and heartwarming moments that have shaped their journeys.

Hosted by longtime post-secondary instructor and professional over-thinker Salli Carter (hi 👋), this podcast dives into the real, raw, and often unspoken experiences of educators—the kind of stories that don’t show up in textbooks or get shared during staff meetings.

Season 1 is out June 9th!

The Magic and Mayhem of Teaching Mixed-Level Classrooms with Barb Carter

Salli Carter — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Host Salli Carter sits down with her Aunt Barb, an ESL instructor with over 20 years of experience, to talk about the joys and challenges of teaching English to newcomers in Canada. From supply teaching horror stories to students finally having that “aha!” moment, this conversation is an honest look at what it means to teach with empathy, creativity, and fun.

Barb shares how Toastmasters helped her become a confident communicator, how she manages multiple learning levels in one classroom, and why “edutainment” might just be one of the best tools an educator can have.

Together, Salli and Barb remind us why teaching is equal parts patience, adaptability, and heart.This uplifting episode is perfect for ESL instructors, adult educators, and anyone who’s ever found joy in helping someone learn something new.

Neuroscience for Teaching: Engagement, Motivation & Resilience | Dr. Lisa Riegel

Salli Carter — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 17:57:00 GMT

What if understanding how the brain works could completely change the way we teach, lead, and engage students?

In this episode of The Educator Experience, Salli Carter sits down with Dr. Lisa Riegel, educational leader, neuroscientist, consultant, and author of NeuroWell and Aspirations to Operations, to explore how brain science can transform student engagement, motivation, leadership, and classroom culture.

With over 25 years of experience working across K–12 and higher education, Lisa brings powerful insight into how neuroscience, leadership habits, and practical strategies can move schools and organizations from compliance to true commitment. As the creator of the 7C Framework and 8C Commitment Framework, Lisa shares concrete tools educators and leaders can use to foster resilience, emotional regulation, and meaningful learning.

Together, they explore:

- How understanding the brain improves teaching and leadership

- Why student engagement looks different today

- The neuroscience behind motivation, stress, and learning

- Teaching students about their own brains

- Brain-based strategies for educator wellness and resilience

- What skills students need in a post-AI world

This episode is a must-listen for educators, school leaders, instructional designers, faculty developers, and anyone passionate about creating people-centred learning spaces.

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Lisa Riegel: Website: https://lisariegel.comBook: Aspirations to Operations: A Leader’s Guide to Making Transformative Change Stick

Organization: https://jakapa.com

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

02:32 Dr. Lisa Riegel’s Journey in Education and Leadership

06:40 Why Understanding the Brain Improves Engagement and Learning

10:00 Critical Thinking Skills Students Need in Today’s Classrooms

17:30 Educator Wellness, Stress, and Brain-Based Resilience Strategies

22:45 Understanding Your Stress Triggers to Become a Better Teacher

26:30 Teaching Students About Their Brain and Emotional Regulation

32:00 Advice for New Educators: Why Brain Science Matters

#educationpodcast #teacherpodcast #highered #k12education #teachingtips #facultydevelopment #instructionaldesign #educationleadership #teachingstrategies #professionaldevelopment #teachingcommunity #lifelonglearning #neuroscience #brainbasedlearning #studentengagement #learningscience #cognitivescience #motivation #resilience #teacherwellbeing #MentalHealthInEducation #EducatorWellness #neuroeducation #theeducatorexperience #teachingpodcast

How Continuing Education Programs Can Drive Transformational Learning with Michelle Aarons

Salli Carter — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 20:33:30 GMT

This week, Salli Carter sits down with Michelle Aarons, Executive Director of Programs & Partnerships at the School of Continuing Studies at York University, to explore how continuing education is shaping the future of higher education and why it deserves a central role in university strategy. Together, they unpack the unique power of adult learning, applied education, and transformational teaching, drawing from their own experiences as career-focused women who both recently completed their MMIE at Smith School of Business! Michelle shares how combining learning theory with hands-on application and collaborative learning environments creates lasting impact for adult learners.

The conversation also dives into the evolving role of artificial intelligence in education, examining how educators and institutions can integrate AI without losing the human, relational, and experiential aspects of learning that make education truly transformative. Michelle reflects on her TED Talk, List or Limits, ( watch here: https://youtu.be/zOiwEI1mdcI?si=b5_Qv8DlcTUHwq67) and her philosophy of “Brilliantly Boundless” thinking, offering powerful insights on leadership, curiosity, and building learning environments that unlock potential rather than constrain it.

This episode is essential listening for higher education leaders, continuing education professionals, instructional designers, and educators who want to rethink what learning can look like, and how to design programs that truly make it stick.

Time Stamps

00:00 Intro

02:00 Michelle's Journey in Continuing Education Leadership

05:30 The Impact of Continuing Education

10:15 What Working Professionals Bring to the Higher Ed Space

18:00 AI and Building Higher Ed Programs

24:00 Brillantly Boundless Thinking - Michelle's TedTalk

#continuingeducation #adultlearning #AdultEd #highereducation #highereducationjobs #professor #educationpodcast #education #teachingstrategies #teachingmethods #professionalgrowth #leadershipdevelopment #leadershiptips #tedtalk #yorkuniversity

One Year Later! 40 Guests & Countless Lessons: Reflections from The Educator Experience Podcast

Salli Carter — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 20:19:35 GMT

🎉 ONE YEAR OF THE EDUCATOR EXPERIENCE PODCAST! 🎉This week, we're celebrating a milestone that wouldn't have been possible without our incredible guests, listeners, and educator community around the world.Over the past year, we've had the privilege of hosting more than 40 guests representing over 35 institutions, while reaching listeners in 35 countries and counting! Through every conversation, one theme has remained constant: the generosity, vulnerability, and honesty of educators who are willing to share their experiences so that others can learn, grow, and feel less alone in their own journeys.To celebrate our first anniversary, Salli Carter takes the microphone solo to reflect on the lessons we've learned from one year of podcasting and what those conversations have taught us about teaching, learning, leadership, resilience, and growth.In this episode, Salli explores the importance of reflective practice and how taking time to look back on our experiences intentionally can be one of the most powerful forms of professional development. Whether you're wrapping up a semester, reviewing student evaluations, planning for the future, or simply taking stock of your growth as an educator, reflection helps us make meaning of our experiences and move forward with greater confidence and clarity.Time Stamps 01:04 : Reflections on One Year of Podcasting03:10 :AI for Educators Course Series: Coming Soon04:10 : Reflective Practice at the End of a Teaching Semester11:20 : Making Sense of Student Evaluations16:04 : Taking Pride in Your Growth, However SmallAs we celebrate this first year, we're also excited about what's ahead. This summer, we will be launching our AI for Educators Certification Series! This series is a collection of asynchronous professional learning courses designed to help educators navigate teaching and learning in an AI-enabled world. We've already begun sharing course previews and AI-focused content on our YouTube channel, with much more information coming soon.Most importantly, thank you.Thank you to every guest who shared their story. Thank you to every educator who listened, commented, supported, and engaged with our work. Thank you for helping us build a community centred around meaningful conversations about education.Here's to another year of learning, reflecting, and growing together.#theeducatorexperience #reflectivepractice #highereducation #teachingandlearning #professionaldevelopment #educatorcommunity #teachergrowth #facultydevelopment #aiforeducators #teachingpodcast

Conflict, Collaboration and Building Strong Teams in Higher Education with Kevin Sanders

Salli Carter — Tue, 19 May 2026 20:08:14 GMT

What does it actually take to lead in higher education today?

In this thoughtful and highly practical conversation, Salli sits down with Kevin Sanders to explore leadership, collaboration, conflict management, and the future of higher education.

After a career that began as a classically trained musician performing with orchestras across five continents, Kevin transitioned into higher education, where he spent decades serving as faculty, director, dean, and senior administrator at institutions including Baylor University and University of Memphis. Today, he is the founder of Cornerstone Leadership Group, where he works to support and develop leaders across higher education.

Throughout this episode, Kevin reflects on the realities of academic leadership and the challenge of helping departments, faculty, and institutions move beyond individual work toward collective collaboration and shared vision. Salli and Kevin discuss conflict management, strategic planning, AI in higher education, relationship-building, and what it means to become the kind of leader people genuinely want to follow.

Drawing from both his background in music and higher education leadership, Kevin shares why strong institutions function much like orchestras: individuals may have different strengths and expertise, but meaningful success happens when people learn to work together toward a common goal.

This episode is filled with thoughtful reflections for faculty, department chairs, administrators, and anyone interested in the future of leadership in higher education.

You can follow along to Kevin’s journey through his newsletter or check out Cornerstone Leadership Group at https://www.kevinsanders.me/You can also get Kevin's book: “The Academic Leader’s Playbook.” through the website link!

Timestamps

00:00 Intro

02:03 What It Means to Work Well Together in Higher Education

09:00 Kevin’s Journey from Musician to Higher Education Leadership

15:00 Managing Conflict Within the Workplace

20:30 AI in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education

26:30 The Future of Higher Education: Relationship Building Matters

32:30 Kevin’s Advice for New Educators — Build Your Village

#education #LeadershipDevelopment #conflictmanagement #theeducatorexperience #teaching #LearningDevelopment #TeachingAI