The Employee Experience in Education Podcast

Eric Bransteter

Let’s be honest…it’s bad out there. Did you know teachers are twice as likely to experience stress as the general population? Or that 90% of teachers have experienced burnout symptoms in the last year? In this podcast, we’ll speak with educational leaders, former educators, and industry experts to better understand the employee experience in education. We’ll dig deep into causes of teacher burnout and transitions into other professions, and we’ll discuss strategies school leaders can implement to increase teacher retention. Our goal is to equip school leaders with realistic and actionable strategies to keep more teachers in the classrooms. Subscribe today, and start creating a better employee experience right away!

  1. 20/02/2024

    Empowering Educators: Data-Drive Decision-Making for Positive School Change with Matthew Courtney

    "One of the rules that I have when I work with folks - I call it the ‘research says’ rule. I'll put a little bell on the table, and sometimes we pass it around. And anytime someone says research says, we ring the bell and we stop. We say ‘whose research says that? In what context do do that research say that?’ And we hold ourselves accountable to being as specific and transparent as possible. But how can school leaders effectively empower educators to make evidence-based decisions? On this episode, we’ll speak with Matthew Courtney, a specialist in evidence-based decision making in school improvement settings. Today, Matthew shares his unique insights on the crucial role of knowledge brokering in helping educators apply research to solve deep-rooted problems. Matthew also discusses: The importance of deep root cause analysis using local dataThe essential steps for creating a sustainable system for evidence-based decision-makingAnd the secrets to empowering educators through transparent communication Guest Bio - Dr. Matthew B. Courtney is a passionate advocate for education and a specialist in evidence-informed school improvement. He began his career as a music educator before moving on to leadership roles within the nonprofit, higher education, and state government sectors. Dr. Courtney is a published researcher whose work focuses on school improvement. As the founder of Courtney Consulting LLC, he’s advised schools on leveraging evidence-based decision-making to accelerate student achievement. His impact extends beyond students and schools, influencing state-wide educational policies. Dr. Courtney's expertise and dedication continue to bridge gaps in education, fostering progress and development in diverse communities. Links to additional resources: https://www.matthewbcourtney.com/https://twitter.com/mbcourtneyeddhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mbcourtneyedd/https://www.youtube.com/@mbcourtneyeddhttps://www.facebook.com/mbcourtneyeddhttps://www.instagram.com/mbcourtneyedd/

    35 min

  2. 04/02/2024

    Addressing Challenges in AI Implementation and PD with Nneka McGee

    “AI can support personalized learning for teachers by providing resources tailored to their learning styles and goals.” But how can educators access the necessary professional development to utilize AI effectively in the classroom? On this episode, we'll speak with Nneka McGee about AI in education and personalized professional development. Nneka shares her insights on the challenges and opportunities of implementing AItailoring professional development to teachers' needsand the impact of AI on the overall teacher experience. Guest Bio - Nneka McGee has served in public schools for over 15 years. She taught middle school mathematics for six years and was recognized as a district finalist for teacher of the year. Nneka has also served as District Gifted and Talented Coordinator, Director of GT and Advanced Academics, Executive Director for Learning and Innovation, and currently, as Chief Academic Officer for San Benito Consolidated Independent School District. As part of her doctoral studies, Nneka completed research on the impact of artificial intelligence in K-12 learning environments. She serves on the Board of Directors of HAKing Innovation, a non-profit organization providing students STEM access and opportunities. Episode links: Nneka's Linkedin profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nnekamcgee/https://day29.ai

    48 min

  3. 10/12/2023

    An EdTech Investor’s Perspective on Education Innovation with Graham Forman

    "The idea of earning and learning at the same time, which is what the apprenticeship program can provide. That might open up more opportunities for people with more diverse backgrounds.” In a rapidly changing educational landscape, how can schools effectively prioritize essential tools for student and adult success amidst the influx of possibilities? On this episode, we speak with Graham Forman, an experienced EdTech investor with a passion for the impact of technology in education. Today, Graham shares his unique insights on the challenges and opportunities in education today, including: The 4 areas in education that need continued innovation and investmentWhy student personalization is essential in the learning experienceAnd the ever-evolving landscape of education technology Guest Bio - Graham is founder and managing director of Edovate Capital. He’s spent his career in education, entrepreneurship, and investing. He spent 15 years leading sales, marketing, business development, and customer success in startup SaaS education companies. In his last operating role, he led sales and business development for Netchemia where he grew the company to serve more than 2,400 districts and 20,000 schools. Netchemia was acquired by Vista Equity Partners in 2015. With Edovate, Graham backs impact-focused K12 companies with investment and advisory support, including companies like Pear Deck (acquired by GoGuardian), LearnPlatform (acquired by Instructure), ClassWallet, Paper, and more. Episode links: Email Graham - graham@edovatecapital.comGraham's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahamforman/Follow Graham on Medium - https://grahamforman.medium.com/

    50 min

  4. 05/11/2023

    Understanding Teacher Motivation and Job Satisfaction with Nicole Endsley

    “Teachers value relationships and agency as important factors in their job satisfaction.” We talk all the time about the need to increase teacher retention, yet despite our efforts teachers continue to leave the classroom at alarming rates.  But how can district leaders ensure teachers have high job satisfaction while feeling empowered in their roles? On this episode, we’ll speak with doctoral candidate and former educator Nicole Endsley. Today, Nicole shares her unique insights and research on how school and district leaders can improve teacher satisfaction and combat teacher turnover. Nicole also discusses: How Frederick Herzberg’s two-Factor Theory of Motivation applies to education The impact of relationships and teacher agency on the employee experience and a surprising truth about what truly motivates teachers to stay in the profession Guest Bio - Nicole Endsley is a doctoral candidate at the University of West Florida. Her research interests include national teacher turnover trends and teacher turnover trends in the wake of COVID-19. Nicole has over 10 years of classroom experience and 5 years of experience working in state government. Nicole is passionate about furthering her research on teacher turnover and bringing reform to the profession. Links: Nicole\'s LinkedIn page

    50 min

  5. 22/10/2023

    Closing the Behavior Gap: From Classroom Management to Classroom Leadership with Larry Davis

    “Classroom management is a term I really don’t like to use. Because I really want my teachers to be classroom leaders.” Many teachers struggle with classroom management. And most administrators struggle to fully support their teachers with strategies that work in the classroom. On this episode, we speak with author, founder, and speaker Larry Davis. Larry shares his unique insights on the need to transition from classroom management to classroom leadership. Larry also shares: The connection between data and culture Ways to address the well-being of teachers And the analysis you need to conduct in your organization today Guest Bio - Davis’s passion for education and social betterment is fourth only to his love of God, his blessed children, and family. Davis spent 12 years in corporate America, and 24 years in education. Davis has published seven books and received his Associate degree from Weatherford College, his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, and his master’s degree from Texas Woman’s University. Education Needs A Champion and Our Children Deserve One! Episode links: remedyteam.org Email Larry Larry’s LinkedIn Profile

    56 min

  6. 28/08/2023

    The Role of AI in Education: Opportunities, Challenges, and Paradigm Shifts with Eric Nentrup

    \"We are fundamentally focused on making sure that while we move forward with innovation, we\'re doing so in a safe and ethical way” AI is everywhere, and there is no going back. But how do we strategically think about and plan for the ethical and responsible use of AI in the classroom for both students and educators? On this episode, we’ll speak with Eric Nentrup, writer, filmmaker, and strategic education consultant. Today, Eric shares the role of AI in education, including the opportunities and challenges it presents. Eric also shares: Paradigm shifts that are already underway The need for guidelines and guardrails to ensure ethical use of AI and how AI can fundamentally change the way educators do their jobs. Guest Bio - Eric Nentrup is an avid writer, filmmaker, and strategic education consultant. With experience in working across media, edtech, marketing, and having served as a classroom teacher and administrator, he shares a unique cross-section of interests and understanding of the factors empowering the an equitable evolution of teaching and learning. Links: Eric\'s LinkedIn Page

    53 min

  7. 15/08/2023

    Everyone Owns Retention with Cathy Hardin

    “We have taken the approach at Gwinnett to really lean into providing career opportunities internally for our teachers to provide the opportunity for promotion without having to leave the classroom.” About a year ago, Cathy Hardin left a successful HR career in healthcare to become the CHRO at the nation’s 13th largest school district, Gwinnett County Public Schools. While the two industries are very different, there are remarkable similarities - including the need to create a space that’s safe and where people feel respected and valued. But how can an organization of 11,000 teachers and 177,000 students stay nimble and agile to best support everybody throughout the organization? On this episode, we’ll speak with Cathy Hardin, Chief Human Resource Officer at Gwinnett County Public Schools. Today, Cathy shares impactful strategies employed by Gwinnett to attract and retain top talent, such as: the importance of promoting creativity in education their focus on creating career opportunities for teachers within the classroom how they are building and managing a top-tier recruiting strategy Guest Bio - Cathy Hardin is the CHRO of Gwinnett County Public Schools, the nation’s 13th largest school district. Cathy brings nearly 30 years experience leading and building HR teams in Healthcare, Higher Ed and now K-12 education. Specializing in supporting high functioning teams and leading strategies that result in great business outcomes, Cathy brings an intentional balance of work and personal life to the educators at GCPS. Links: linkedin.com/in/cathyhardin

    43 min

  8. 17/07/2023

    Creating a Financially Supportive Culture in Schools with Peter Dunn (Pete the Planner®)

    “The impact that makes is insane. The average amount of student loan debt forgiven through the program is north of 90,000 American dollars...” Peter Dunn (Pete the Planner®) is a financial expert, USA TODAY columnist, the author of ten books, the host of the popular radio show and podcast The Pete the Planner Show, and has appeared regularly on CNN Headline News, Fox News, Fox Business as well as numerous nationally syndicated radio programs. But why is he on an education-focused podcast? On this episode, Peter shares what you can do to create a financially supportive culture in your school/district. Peter also shares: The impact of finances on educator stress and retention Why the hardest years of a person’s financial life are ages 47-53 And what you can do to help remove the burden of student loans from your staff Guest Bio - Peter Dunn a.k.a. Pete the Planner® is a USA TODAY columnist and the author of ten books, six of which were featured in a nationwide launch at Barnes & Nobles stores in January of 2015. He is the host of the popular radio show and podcast The Pete the Planner Show. Pete has appeared regularly on CNN Headline News, Fox News, Fox Business as well as numerous nationally syndicated radio programs. In addition to his work educating the public, Pete is also the CEO and Founder of Your Money Line, which is a corporate financial wellness solution connecting employees to confidential, unbiased financial guidance. Pete lives in Carmel, Indiana with his wife and two young children. Episode Links Your Money Line

    51 min
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Let’s be honest…it’s bad out there. Did you know teachers are twice as likely to experience stress as the general population? Or that 90% of teachers have experienced burnout symptoms in the last year? In this podcast, we’ll speak with educational leaders, former educators, and industry experts to better understand the employee experience in education. We’ll dig deep into causes of teacher burnout and transitions into other professions, and we’ll discuss strategies school leaders can implement to increase teacher retention. Our goal is to equip school leaders with realistic and actionable strategies to keep more teachers in the classrooms. Subscribe today, and start creating a better employee experience right away!

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