Take Notes with Jen Rafferty Jen Rafferty

Have you ever wondered who you are when no one's watching, or who you could be if you never doubted yourself for even a second?


In today's episode, I’m shedding light on how to overcome obstacles that might seem too big to handle and how small, daily choices lead us toward a fulfilling life.


I’m diving deep into the topics of personal growth, overcoming self-doubt, and how believing in yourself can truly change everything.


For all my educator friends out there, we're also talking about the importance of self-care and how it isn't just good for you but it sets a powerful example for the next generation. It's about making a change, not just in our classrooms but in our lives, showing our kids how to live fully and face challenges head-on.


Tune in to discover how you can start your journey of self-improvement and become an empowered educator, making a real difference in your life and the lives of those you teach. 



Stay empowered,
Jen
Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room

As educators, we've all seen the fear in our students when they're afraid to make a mistake, the anxiety that bubbles up at the thought of failing. We can recognize it in ourselves too.


It's a common experience..


So how do we help our students understand that failure isn't just a part of learning, but a crucial step toward growth? 


Join me and my guest, Theresa MacPhail, as we explore the power of embracing failure in education. Theresa, a medical anthropologist and seasoned educator, shares her journey from witnessing the effects of fear of failure on students to creating a class specifically designed to normalize failure and foster resilience.


Tune in and discover actionable advice for educators on how to create a classroom culture where failure is not feared but celebrated as a learning opportunity. 


You’ll walk away with practical classroom management strategies that can help students shift their mindset about failure through journaling exercises, gratitude practices, and encouraging meaningful connections and conversations.


If you've ever struggled with how to encourage your students to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them, this episode is for you. Discover how to empower your students to see failure not as a setback, but as a necessary and valuable part of their educational journey. 


Stay empowered,
Jen
Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room


About Theresa:
I’m a medical anthropologist and writer, usually of nonfiction, mostly about topics in public health and medicine. I’m also an Associate Professor of Science & Technology Studies at Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ. 


My first book for Random House is out now (2023). It’s called Allergic: Our Irritated Bodies In a Changing World and it tells the story of the global rise in allergies over the last 200 years. 


My next book, that I’m currently researching, is on aging. It dives into what happens to our bodies and minds as we age and why acceptance of aging (and our eventual deaths) is the key to “aging well.” Think of it like a “user’s manual” to your aging body (with a lot of troubleshooting sections). But, more importantly, it also traces out the long history of our fascination with aging and how and why aging transformed from a natural, normal, and healthy life experience into a medical problem or disease that needs to be “solved.” And what that approach to aging is doing to us collectively. (Spoiler: it’s not terrific.)


To book me for a speaking engagement, please contact the Random House Speakers Bureau.


Connect with Theresa:
Website: https://theresamacphail.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/drtheresamacphail/

How can we continue to keep students engaged and motivated? 


If we’re being honest, the traditional education system falls short in meeting everyone's needs. 


In today’s episode, join me and the brilliant Chantel Prat, a professor with a vast background in psychology, neuroscience, and linguistics as we explore why it's crucial for teachers like you to understand the brain's workings to connect better with students and create a classroom that brings out the best in every student. 


Discover how to foster meaningful connections and effective learning environments. Chantel breaks down the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and tailoring educational strategies to suit individual needs.


We'll talk about how stress is a major factor, affecting learning more than you realize, and what you can do about it. Learn why taking care of yourself is key to being a great educator. 


Choice can be a powerful thing in the classroom, and we'll discuss how giving your students more of it can transform their learning experience.


Tune in and join the conversation to make a positive change in our education.


Stay empowered,
Jen
Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room

About Chantel:
Chantel Prat is a Professor at the University of Washington with appointments in the Departments of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Linguistics, and at the Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences, the Center for Neurotechnology, and the Institute for Neuroengineering. A cognitive neuroscientist by training, her interdisciplinary research investigates the biological basis of individual differences in cognition, with an emphasis on understanding the shared neural mechanisms underpinning language and higher-level executive functions. She is a recipient of the Tom Trabasso Young Investigator Award from the Society of Text and Discourse and a Pathway to Independence Award from the National Institute of Health. Her work has been supported by the National Institute of Health, the Office of Naval Research, and the Keck Foundation. Prat speaks internationally at events like The World Science Festival. She is featured in the documentary, I Am Human. Her studies have been profiled in media ranging from Scientific American, Psychology Today, and Science Daily to Rolling Stone, Popular Mechanics, Pacific Standard, Travel + Leisure, and National Public Radio. 



Connect with Chantel:
Website: https://www.chantelprat.com/
IG: @chantelpratphd
X: @ChantelPratPhD
LinkedIn: Chantel Prat

Are you eager to be a leader who truly connects with your team but not sure how to get there?


Many leaders find themselves overwhelmed by the demands of their positions, struggling to connect with their teams and make a positive impact. It's easy to fall into the trap of leading with authority and ego, but this approach often leads to dissatisfaction and disconnection from those we aim to inspire.


In this enlightening episode, we dive into the heart of what truly makes a great leader. Joined by Dr. Walter Polka and Dr. John McKenna seasoned leadership experts from Niagara University, we explore the transformative power of leading with empathy, kindness, and genuine care for others. 


Discover why effective leadership is all about building strong relationships, understanding the needs of your team, and being open to feedback. You’ll learn actionable strategies to become more self-aware and reflective, enabling you to embrace vulnerability and foster a culture of teamwork and mutual respect. 


If you're ready to transform your leadership style and create a more connected, effective team, tune in to this episode. Let's get started!


Stay empowered,
Jen
Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room


About Dr. Walter Polka:

Dr. Walter Polka has held numerous professional positions throughout his 45 years as an educator. His positions include: high school social studies teacher and advisor for various clubs and organizations as well as an interscholastic coach at Lewiston-Porter High School; Williamsville Central School District social studies/science curriculum coordinator K-12; assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction and superintendent of schools of the Lewiston-Porter School District.
Since 1970, Dr. Polka has also served as an adjunct professor at various institutions of higher education including Brockport State College, Buffalo State College, Medaille College, Niagara County Community College, Niagara University, SUNY Buffalo and Loyola University in Maryland. Dr. Polka’s full-time university professional responsibilities also included associate professor of educational leadership; doctoral dissertation chair; and doctoral program coordinator in educational leadership at Georgia Southern University. He is currently the leadership and policy doctoral program coordinator and full tenured professor in the professional programs department at Niagara University.

wpolka@niagara.edu



About Dr. John McKenna:

Dr. John McKenna joined Niagara University in 2023 as an Assistant Professor in the Leadership Studies Department after a long and distinguished career in public administration. Before coming to Niagara University, Dr. McKenna served as a public school administrator and educator for over 35 years.
Dr. McKenna has been recognized for his achievements and contributions to the profession with the SAANYS New York State Outstanding Educator of the Year Award, the NYSPTA Advocate in Action Award, a New York State Senate Proclamation for Outstanding Leadership, and a New York State Senate Resolution for Dedication and Service. Additionally, he was recognized with the SUNY at Buffalo Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award as well as UB’s Graduate School of Education Distinguished Alumni Award


mckennaleadership.com
JohnMcKenna@McKennaLeadership.com

Have you ever been frustrated by the feeling you're not being heard? 


It's a common feeling, especially in schools and at work, and even more so when power plays a role in the relationship dynamic. 


But don't worry, we've got a solution for you!


In this episode, I am joined by the incredible Dr. Teresa Peterson from Sarah Noll Wilson Inc. With her deep roots in education, conflict resolution, and leadership coaching, she sheds light on the invisible forces that keep us from using our voices and offers actionable advice for effective communication.


We delve into the importance of building safe spaces and fostering inclusivity, where every individual feels valued and empowered to speak up. 


She also discusses the relationship between leadership roles and organizational culture, highlighting how leaders can break communication barriers to cultivate an environment that encourages open dialogue and respects diverse perspectives.


Tune in to this fantastic conversation and discover how we can all start listening better and speaking out with confidence! 



Stay empowered,
Jen
Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room


About Dr. Teresa:
Dr. Teresa  Peterson is the Director of Learning and Development for Sarah Noll Wilson, Inc. Teresa is passionate about applying best practices for learning to make development experiences meaningful, engaging, and accessible for all types of learners. In her role, Teresa co-creates powerful learning content and guides deep research. Teresa holds a Doctorate in Education from the University of Northern Iowa and brings over twenty years of experience teaching, facilitating, and leading. She holds a Conflict Resolution Certificate from Cornell University; she also is trained in Immunity to Change Coaching and Certified in Appreciative Inquiry.  Clients love Teresa’s grounded energy, depth of thought, and ability to listen deeply.


Connect with Dr. Teresa:
Website: https://www.sarahnollwilson.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresa-peterson-edd

Ever wondered how much impact your words have on those listening?


It can be easy to forget the big role that language plays in education. Language affects the students’ behavior, self-confidence, and overall engagement.


To state it directly: words can make or break a student.


In today's episode, I am joined by Shauna King to tackle this very issue. Shauna, once known as the "yelling teacher," has transformed her approach and now uses the power of words to uplift and motivate her students. 


Together, we'll dive into the importance of intentional communication, revealing how the right words can set the tone for a hopeful and fair classroom. We'll share classroom management techniques and how educators can lead by example, promoting positive behavior that resonates with them to improve student engagement.


You’ll learn practical strategies to improve teacher-parent communication and create a better support system for the students.


Tune in to learn how to transform your teaching through positive language and join us in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future in education.


Stay empowered,
Jen

Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me at:
Jen Rafferty | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Linktree
Instagram: @jenrafferty_
Facebook: Empowered Educator Faculty Room


About Shauna:
Shauna F. King has a talent and passion for connecting with adults who have chosen to serve children. Her energy and experience have led to opportunities to present to national and international audiences. As an education specialist, she has facilitated hundreds of presentations and workshops for schools, churches, and conferences. A self-proclaimed "Yelling Teacher In Recovery," Shauna shares practical and research-based strategies to improve teacher, parent, and student engagement. Her professional experience includes roles as a school climate coach for the University of Maryland Positive Schools Center, school principal, student services specialist, and classroom teacher. Her areas of expertise and passion are fostering student engagement, creating equitable learning environments, and promoting positive student behavior. She has partnered with over 150 schools to improve school climate, student behavior, and student engagement. Through high-impact training and coaching, Shauna assists schools in creating "Classrooms of HOPE," where students are given the will, skill and opportunity to make a difference in the world. 


Shauna F. King is the author of Children are Listening: What We Say Matters which offers practical strategies and advice for educators and parents. Her articles, What We Say Matters: The Power of Positive Talk and Transitions with the Brain in Mind, are featured in the Association for Middle-Level Education magazine.


Connect with Shauna:
Website: https://shaunafking.com/
IG: @shaunafking