The MCIU Learns podcast is where education leaders, innovators, and experts share insights and best practices to elevate learning and empower schools. Each episode features thought-provoking conversations with thought leaders, presenters, and program directors from Montgomery County Intermediate Unit (MCIU) and beyond. Whether we’re discussing cutting-edge programs, professional development strategies, or the latest trends in education, our goal is to inspire and build capacity in educators, ...
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Podcast dedicated to the entrepreneurial journey; interviews that provide innovative business and life strategy to do the impossible! Find me on YouTube or Facebook where I teach everything online business! BRAND NEW INSTA 2 weeks old @aimeemontgomeryonline (focused on mindset)
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Welcome to the Desire on Fire podcast! (Formerly With Pleasure) We're Aimee Batuski and Ellie Montgomerie, intimacy experts and two best friends on a mission to help YOU put pleasure first and own your feminine power. If you are ready to become a powerful agent of change, who allows your desires to lead the way as you step into a whole new world of freedom, manifestation, and ease, then you're in the right place! On this podcast we interview friends, lovers, experts, and thought leaders to r ...
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Melissa Kahn and Shannon LeLievre aim to inspire you to run towards your best life! Our guests will motivate you and remind you that ordinary people can do extraordinary things. You don't need to a runner to tune in because aren't we all running for our lives?
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Join Kojo and resident analyst Tom Sherwood on Fridays at noon for our weekly review of the politics, policies and personalities in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. Each week Kojo and Tom help make sense of legislation, hold elected officials accountable and provide in-depth analysis of local issues and elections. The Politics Hour is also a vital forum for Washingtonians to engage directly with their local leaders.
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The Politics Hour: How local leaders hope to navigate tough economic times ahead
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50:27As Metro wrestles with a murky financial future, local leaders making up the DMV Moves task force are debating what a dedicated, predictable funding model might look like for the region's public transportation. Options on the table include a regional sales tax, higher vehicle registration fees, and increasing income taxes. Maryland State Delegate M…
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The Politics Hour: Remembering Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly, and D.C. prepares for a military parade
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50:29Long-time Virginia Congressman Gerry Connolly passed away unexpectedly this week. He was a fierce advocate for federal workers, a former chair of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, and a frequent guest on The Politics Hour. Former U.S. Representative Tom Davis - and the man who held the 11th congressional district seat before Connolly was ele…
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Beyond the Schedule: The Hidden Magic of Classroom Organization with Wendy Moran and Aimee Siravo
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24:02In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Moran, Director of Consultative Services, and Aimee Siravo, Assistant Director of Consultative Services at The Timothy School, to explore Structured Teaching for supporting students with autism. Wendy and Aimee break down what Structured Teaching is, how it aligns with the characteristics of autism, and why e…
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The Politics Hour: The politics of data centers and funding schools without raising taxes
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49:14
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49:14Virginia's primary races are heating up, most notably the lieutenant governor's race. While the Republicans have a presumptive nominee, six Democratic candidates are vying for the post. WAMU's Northern Virginia Reporter Margaret Barthel broke down the lieutenant governor's race, as well as the Democratic candidates for attorney general. She also sh…
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The Politics Hour: What’s next for Prince George’s County if the Washington Commanders leave?
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49:04D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser proposed repealing Initiative 82 earlier this week, reigniting the fight over D.C.'s tipped minimum wage law. But given that voters passed the measure twice, the mayor could have trouble getting support from the D.C. Council. Chairman Phil Mendelson got behind the mic to give his thoughts. He said overturning Initiative 82 …
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"I've Got Your Back": How Pottsgrove Students are Leading Mental Health Conversations
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21:08
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21:08Discover how Aevidum, meaning “I’ve got your back,” empowers students to lead the charge against mental health stigma. At Pottsgrove High School, this peer-driven movement has grown into the school’s largest student club by equipping teens with the tools to support one another without feeling overwhelmed. Hear how Aevidum’s student-led model, signa…
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The Politics Hour: D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser on the RFK stadium deal
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49:33On Monday, the District announced the city had struck a nearly $4 billion deal with the Washington Commanders to build a new football stadium and a massive mixed-use development at the old RFK site. The city is chipping in about $1 billion in infrastructure improvements to the site, including two parking facilities. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser joined …
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The Politics Hour: D.C. Councilmember Charles Allen on the $3 billion deal for a new D.C. football stadium
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50:30D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Washington Commanders are reportedly close to striking a $3 billion deal to build a new football stadium anchoring a massive mixed-use development at the old RFK site. It's believed to include at least $850 million from the District for parking and preparing the site, with the team paying to build the stadium itself…
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The Politics Hour: Metro General Manager Randy Clarke lays out Metro’s future
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49:16
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49:16D.C. and the Washington Commanders are reportedly closing in on a $3 billion deal to build a new stadium on the old RFK stadium site, which would bring the NFL franchise back to the District. While numbers reportedly are not finalized yet, the framework has the team paying a majority of the costs associated with building the new stadium. NBC 4's Ma…
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Beyond Behavior: The CLM Journey to Classroom Transformation
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19:22The Competent Learner Model (CLM) is revolutionizing autistic support classrooms by integrating behavioral analysis throughout the day instead of requiring separate intervention times. In this episode, teachers and behavior analysts from Pennsbury School District share their three-year implementation journey with MCIU Project Consultants Kari Kessl…
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The Politics Hour: Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins talks Old Town tourism and Washington Post's Marc Fisher on Ovechkin
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50:28Alexandria is dealing with the impacts of a shrinking federal workforce on its economy, tax base, and ability to fund even some basic services. Mayor Alyia Gaskins sat down with Kojo and Tom to discuss the local challenges that come with cutting thousands of federal positions. Plus, Mayor Gaskins explained why Alexandria is not a sanctuary city. Wa…
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The Politics Hour: Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich on federal health agency firings
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49:26The Trump administration laid off thousands of employees working at federal health agencies this week, including many at the National Institutes of Health in Montgomery County. The firings are expected to have far-ranging effects on the local workforce, county revenue, and public health. County Executive Marc Elrich joined Kojo and Tom to discuss w…
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Transforming Lives Through Essential for Living: A Conversation with Liz and Steve Maher
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20:43Essential for Living (EFL) provides function-based assessment and curriculum for learners with autism and developmental disabilities, tracking small increments of progress while continuing to develop communication skills. Steve and Liz Maher share their journey from creating the VB-MAP app to developing the EFL app, explaining how their technology …
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The Politics Hour: Trump's new executive order aimed at D.C. and Maryland Governor Wes Moore on new taxes
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49:16
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49:16President Trump signed an executive order Thursday night aimed at reducing crime and increasing immigration enforcement in the District. Kojo and Tom talked about what it means for D.C. and what might happen next. Maryland is on the verge of approving its state budget, but it came with contentious debate over tax increases, cuts, and changes to its…
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Dreaming Forward: Students Empowering Their Futures with Kate Yeager
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25:42In a world where the voices of youth are often unheard, this episode sheds light on how students in Montgomery County are stepping into leadership roles through the Dreaming Forward program. Join us as we engage with educational leaders and music artist Kate Yeager, who share their insights on the impact of storytelling and personal narratives in s…
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Transforming Math Education: Integrating Data Science with Dr. Tanya LaMar
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29:00Dr. Tanya Lamar joins us to discuss the transformative power of data science in mathematics education, emphasizing the need for students to see math as relevant and engaging. Join us as we learn how integrating data science into high school curricula can shift perceptions of math and empower students to embrace their mathematical capabilities while…
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099: Why You Can’t Do This Work Alone – The Power of Community in Feminine Reclamation
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58:38If you’ve ever felt like no matter how much self-work you do, you still end up in the same patterns—this episode is for you. Ellie and Aimee are back in the studio, fresh from their Sacred Union weekend, reflecting on one of the biggest revelations of their work: awareness alone is not enough. You can read all the books, listen to all the podcasts,…
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098: Embodying the Queen: The Shift from Control to Deep Feminine Power
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32:38What does it really mean to embody the Queen? In this episode, we’re diving into the Queen archetype—not as a title you achieve, but as a way of being. We explore the shift from immature feminine psychology to mature feminine embodiment, and why so many women unknowingly stay stuck in patterns of control, resentment, and unmet desires. If you’ve ev…
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A Conversation with ChangeEd's Patrice Semicek and Andrew Kuhn
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18:42
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18:42Join us as we feature the dynamic duo, Patrice Semicek and Andrew Kuhn, who are working with their colleague Tony Mirabito (CLIU) to creatively drive the messaging and way we approach STEELS standards, gifted education, and the latest trends like AI. Through this engaging episode, you'll understand how a podcast was born out of the desire to share …
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Transforming Math Education Through Innovative Intervention with Juliana Tapper
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26:42Explore the secrets to transforming math education as we promise to shift your perspective from deficit-based thinking to asset-based empowerment. MCIU's Brandon Langer and Kirpa Chohan speak with Juliana Tapper, a dynamic math intervention teacher and author. Together, they discuss how fostering a belief in students' potential can dramatically enh…
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097: Blindfolded Beginnings: How our Retreat Sparked Audrey & Hunter’s Love Story
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1:00:29Join us in this intimate conversation with Audrey and Hunter as they share their transformative love story, sparked by the practices and community of Desire on Fire. From Hunter’s experience in “The Forge" men’s session to the life-changing blindfold exercise at our February, 2024 retreat, this episode explores the power of truth-telling, the chall…
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Innovating Pathways to Teacher Certification with Martin Luther School
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29:16Join us for an insightful conversation with MCIU project consultant Jesse Gluckman and the Martin Luther School, as they share how their innovative Teacher Apprenticeship Program (TAP) is reshaping teacher preparation. Learn how Martin Luther School integrates hands-on classroom experience with formal education, offering a competency-based learning…
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096: The Cost of Being Fake Online - With Aimee, Ellie & Rob
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1:06:48This week we sat down with Ellie’s husband Rob, who candidly shared his perspective on the pitfalls of social media and marketing (this is NOT your typical conversation about these topics!). We discussed our responsibility as facilitators of transformational work and how we can share our work with integrity. Whether you’re in the coaching industry …
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Conquering Math Myths with Ron Martiello and Jenna Rufo
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33:01Unlock the potential of every student in your classroom with insights from Ron Martiello and Jenna Rufo, the dynamic duo behind "Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design." With their combined expertise in math coaching and special education, Ron and Jenna share strategies that redefine what it means to be a "math person," helping students develo…
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Passion Meets Purpose at MCIU: Empowering Education with Jared Rohlfing and John Kikrilis
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13:10Discover the journey of two remarkable professionals in education as we explore the dynamic services at the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit (MCIU). Jared Rohlfing, our Marketing Communications Coordinator, brings his unique blend of media expertise and educational passion from Temple University to his current role, while John Kikrilis, a dedica…
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095: Aimee and Ellie share vulnerable life updates
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52:48
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52:48Aimee and Ellie sit down to catch up and share the shifts they’re experiencing as they come out of their sabbatical/maternity leave! Aimee shares why she hit “pause” on her dating life, and Ellie shares her recent initiations as a new mom of two. Sign up to join us IN-PERSON for Sacred Union: our 3-day immersion for women & men, taking place Januar…
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The Transformative Power of Inclusive Technology with Mike Marotta
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22:40Prepare to be inspired by the transformative power of inclusive technology in education. Inclusive technology evangelist Mike Marotta joins us to share his incredible journey, from starting as an assistive technology specialist to becoming a passionate advocate for tools that benefit every learner. Together with co-host Julie Ortlieb, we explore pr…
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Revolutionizing Math Education: Embracing Integrated Mathematics in Montgomery County
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33:37In this episode, we explore the integrated mathematics approach in school curricula. Join us alongside our distinguished guests, Dr. Jason Lilly from Lower Merion School District and Mr. Ed Merk from Colonial School District, as they share their pioneering efforts in blending algebra, geometry, and statistics into a seamless learning journey. Disco…
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Unraveling the Intersection of Speech Pathology and Behavior Analysis with Dr. Barbara Esch
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23:26Dr. Barbara Esch, a trailblazer in the fields of speech pathology and behavior analysis, joins us to unravel her unique journey to becoming a distinguished expert in her field. Our discussion delves into the synergy between speech pathology and behavior analysis, highlighting her contributions alongside pioneers like Dr. Richard Sheffelbush and ins…
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094: Gender Dynamics in Modern Relationships & on Netflix
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57:15On this week’s podcast episode, Ellie, Rob and Aimee dive into a conversation that invites us to take a deeper look into everyday relationship dynamics. From sharing hard-earned wisdom from our own journeys, to dissecting the patterns we see playing out in the popular show "Nobody Wants This," to questionable dynamics we’ve observed on social media…
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A Journey of Healing: Building Communities to Support Youth Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention
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30:50What does it take to build a supportive community that genuinely prioritizes mental wellness and suicide prevention among its youth? Join us as Todd and Nancy Solomon share the heartbreaking story of losing their son, Craig, to suicide and their mission to prevent other families from experiencing the same tragedy. Listen as we highlight how student…
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Mastering Math Retention and Comprehension with Dr. Paul Riccomini
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23:40Join the MCIU on October 30th, December 4th, and December 5th as we unlock the keys to effective math education and retention with insights from Dr. Paul Riccomini, a leading expert in high-intensive education techniques. Discover how understanding cognitive processes—specifically the front end and back end of learning—can revolutionize your teachi…
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It’s the end of an era. One year ago, we had no idea this was coming. And today, it seems like the most obvious thing in the world. The chapter of Desire on Fire is coming to an end. And with this death, comes an exciting and powerful re-birth. We have been going through such an intense metamorphosis over the last year, both personally and professi…
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Hey, beautiful souls! This week’s episode feels vulnerable, yet important, to share with all of you. I, Aimee, am letting you in on the intimate journey I’ve been on that’s led me to decide to have a cosmetic surgery procedure. I’m revealing my fears, feelings, and perspective-changes along the way, that led me to finally gifting myself something I…
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Partnering to Foster Belonging and Inclusivity Across Montgomery County Libraries
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18:47Discover how Montgomery County libraries and the MCIU are championing inclusivity, universal design, and a sense of belonging. Learn about innovative programs and partnerships that are transforming libraries into welcoming spaces for all community members.By MCIU Learns - The Office of Professional Learning
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091: Baby Blessing Ceremonies— Everything you Need to Know
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55:23Hi Desire on Fire fam! Ellie here. This week’s episode is all about celebrating new beginnings, because we're diving deep into something you may have seen us share online and wondered about: the beautiful world of baby blessing ceremonies. This episode is inspired by the baby blessing Aimee recently hosted for me, as I enter the 3rd trimester and m…
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The last 8 months have been a season of massive transformation for Ellie and her inner circle, and in this week’s solo episode, she dives deep into sharing the juicy revelations she’s been having since her second pregnancy began last fall. She shares some of the BTS of her pregnancy journey– including the wild details of the conception, and how thi…
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Literacy and Students with Complex Needs: The Dos and Don'ts
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12:11Fresh off her return from an amazing conference, we sit down with Julie Ortlieb to explore her learning around the essential strategies for addressing literacy among students with complex needs. Julie shares her expertise on what works and what doesn't in the complex needs classroom, offering practical tips for educators. Visit our MCIU Learning Ne…
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089: Aimee's Shamanic Training & Feminine Initiation
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44:32Hey Desire on Fire fam, Aimee here! In March I attended ISTA level 2 (a deep, shamanic, initiatory training) in Bali, and I’m finally ready to share with you about it. This training was intense, forcing me to face my protective mechanisms (especially with men), my fear of rejection, and my deep yearning to be loved, chosen, claimed and taken by a m…
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088: Beyond the Basics: Diving Deeper into Polarity (Part 2)
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22:10Picking up where we left off in our last episode on polarity, Aimee and Ellie are diving deep into the trenches of their own journeys. We'll be sharing the nitty-gritty struggles (and the unexpected breakthroughs!) that comes from embracing your feminine energy. Forget the outdated housewife stereotype – this is about trading in the gotta-do-it-all…
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