Unpacking the Backpack

Eric Sheninger
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  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join us on Unpacking the Backpack, where we delve deep into the ever-changing world of K-12 education. In each episode, we'll unpack the complexities of teaching, learning, and leadership with a practical lens. Listen in as we: ◾️Discuss real-world challenges ◾️Explore innovative approaches that are evidence and research-based ◾️Learn from educators and leaders on the frontlines ◾️Gain actionable insights and strategies to navigate the ever-evolving landscape This is your one-stop shop for practical guidance and a deeper understanding of the incredible world of K-12.

  1. FEB 1

    The Future of High-Agency Learning

    This episode explores the Personalized Learning Empowerment Framework to move students from passive reception to active and self-directed growth. We dive into how High-Quality First Instruction utilizes data as a flashlight to enhance the learner journey rather than as a driver for compliance. Listeners will discover practical ways to implement station rotation, choice boards, and playlists to create flexible pathways for every student. The discussion directly connects these instructional shifts to the core principles found in my co-authored book titled Personalize: Meeting the Needs of All Learners. Join us as we unpack the tools needed to cultivate student agency and ensure that every backpack is filled with meaningful and purposeful learning opportunities.

    15 min

  2. JAN 18

    AI-Assisted Pedagogical Leadership: Elevating the Human Element

    In this episode, we explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can serve as a powerful force multiplier for school leaders. We dive into my Framework for Pedagogical Leadership to show how technology enhances the human elements of the role. You will learn how AI helps you reclaim time for building relationships while providing better research and resources to your staff. We also discuss streamlining feedback loops and analyzing evidence to ensure your strategies are actually moving the needle. Join me as we unpack the intersection of cutting-edge technology and timeless leadership principles to transform your school.

    20 min

  3. JAN 4

    Leading Through the Noise: The Non-Negotiables for the New Year

    This episode challenges the exhausted "New Year, New Initiatives" mindset that often leads to burnout, urging educational leaders to focus on deep transformation rather than novelty. The discussion analyzes why Adaptive Intelligence (AQ) has emerged as a critical trait for navigating the unscripted educational landscape of 2026. Key insights are provided on the necessary shift toward "Pedagogical AI Fluency," distinguishing between passive consumption and active partnership with new technologies in the classroom. Listeners will discover actionable strategies for "Digital Emotional Intelligence," ensuring that high-tech schools remain high-touch environments for staff and students alike. The segment concludes with a guide on moving school culture from compliance to contribution using five non-negotiable leadership pillars for the year ahead.

    20 min

  4. 12/14/2025

    Igniting the Spark in the Unmotivated Learner

    Dive into one of the most persistent challenges in education: the unmotivated learner. Challenging the myth of laziness, this episode reveals how disengagement is often a symptom of fear or a lack of agency rather than a character flaw. Listeners will unpack five tactical strategies, including the "20% Pivot" and "Productive Struggle Agreements," designed to shift students from passive compliance to active contribution. Discover how to use real-world relevance and creative technology to break the cycle of learned helplessness and reignite a passion for learning. Whether battling apathy or burnout, this deep dive provides the actionable tools needed to turn the checked-out student into a classroom leader.

    18 min

  5. 11/30/2025

    3 Pillars of Fearless School Leadership

    Are you paralyzed by the pressure to be the "superhero" leader who has every answer? In this episode, we deconstruct the biology of leadership fear and reveal why the daily uncertainties of school administration trigger your brain’s survival instincts. We break down three actionable pillars, including Radical Vulnerability and the 70% Rule, to help you move from analysis paralysis to decisive, fearless action. Tune in to learn how to build a culture of psychological safety where your teachers and staff feel protected, empowered, and ready to innovate.

    16 min

  6. 11/16/2025

    The Power of the Bookends: Opening and Closing Lessons with Research-Based Pedagogy

    Discover the research-backed pedagogical approach that maximizes learning by focusing on the start and end of every lesson: Bookend Pedagogy. We delve into the cognitive science of the Primacy and Recency Effects, explaining why the first and last five minutes are your most valuable instructional time. Learn powerful opening strategies like "The Provocation" to activate prior knowledge, and high-leverage closing techniques like the "3-2-1 Summary" and retrieval practice to ensure consolidation and long-term memory transfer. Tune in to transform your lesson structure (or meetings and PD) from a simple lecture into a cohesive, highly memorable learning journey.

    17 min

  7. 11/02/2025

    The Human Core in an Algorithmic World: Leading Education with AI

    The integration of Artificial Intelligence presents educational leaders with a pivotal moment that demands thoughtful, proactive strategy. This episode explores the three core challenges—Efficiency, Equity, and Ethics—showing leaders how to leverage AI tools for administrative relief and predictive insights, freeing them to focus on instructional leadership. We dissect the critical ethical risks, particularly algorithmic bias and student data privacy, providing actionable steps for policy development and vendor accountability. Crucially, the script details the shift in leadership focus, emphasizing the need to build staff AI literacy and redesign curriculum to prioritize uniquely human skills like creativity and critical thinking. Ultimately, this is a guide for human-centered leadership, demonstrating how to use AI as a powerful co-pilot without compromising the integrity of the learning environment.

    20 min

  8. 10/19/2025

    Beyond Remediation: Giving Students What They Need (WIN)

    "What I Need (WIN) Time" is revolutionizing how schools approach student support and enrichment. This episode breaks down the flexible, dedicated block of time designed to provide personalized instruction exactly when and where a student needs it. We explore the strategic implementation of WIN Time, focusing on how it promotes mastery learning, fosters student agency, and effectively closes achievement gaps. Discover why this scheduling shift is the key to creating a more equitable and effective learning environment for all students.

    19 min
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About

Join us on Unpacking the Backpack, where we delve deep into the ever-changing world of K-12 education. In each episode, we'll unpack the complexities of teaching, learning, and leadership with a practical lens. Listen in as we: ◾️Discuss real-world challenges ◾️Explore innovative approaches that are evidence and research-based ◾️Learn from educators and leaders on the frontlines ◾️Gain actionable insights and strategies to navigate the ever-evolving landscape This is your one-stop shop for practical guidance and a deeper understanding of the incredible world of K-12.

Information

  • Creator
    Eric Sheninger
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    39
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Eric Sheninger
  • Show Website
    Unpacking the Backpack