Best Danelle Almaraz Podcasts (2025)

1
Transforming School Culture: Leadership, Collaboration, and Real-World Learning 49:32

4h ago49:32

49:32

In this episode of The Learning Equation, host Danelle Alvarez welcomes Marc Baiocco from the Clarkstown Central School District for a deep dive into the district’s innovative approach to preparing “future ready learners.” Marc unpacks the meaning behind their mission statement, explaining how the district moved from abstract ideals to tangible act…

1
Breaking Barriers: Preparing Students for a Future Powered by AI and Inclusion 1:01:36

7d ago1:01:36

1:01:36

In this episode of The Learning Equation, host Danelle Almaraz sits down with the dynamic and deeply passionate Dr. Zandra Jo Galván, Superintendent of the Salinas Union High School District. From her early days as a fifth-grade volunteer in her sister’s kindergarten class to becoming a nationally recognized educational leader, Dr. Galván shares a …

1
Community, Equity, and Innovation: Dr. Mullen’s Blueprint for Transformative School Leadership 1:00:12

14d ago1:00:12

1:00:12

In this episode of The Learning Equation, host Danelle sits down with Dr. Barbara Mullen, Superintendent of the Rush-Henrietta Central School District and a dynamic, future-focused education leader. With her signature blend of compassion and clarity, Dr. Mullen shares her remarkable journey from journalism to educational leadership, how she’s defyi…

1
Embracing AI: Flint Community Schools' Innovative Approach to Education 20:03

21d ago20:03

20:03

In this episode of The Learning Equation, Superintendent Kevelin Jones offers a candid, heartfelt look at how Flint Community Schools is navigating real challenges with bold leadership and a deep commitment to students. A homegrown leader with a clear vision, Jones shares how the district is using both quantitative and qualitative data to drive cha…

1
The Future of Math Education: AI, Personalization, and Mindset Shifts 12:43

1M ago12:43

12:43

In this episode of The Learning Equation, host Danelle Almaraz chats with John J Ramos, an innovative principal from Connecticut, about transforming math education. John reveals how his school employs data-driven strategies using tools like NWEA to enhance student performance and target support effectively. The discussion dives into how social-emot…

1
Enhancing Educational Success through Data Driven Decisions in Schools 13:38

1M ago13:38

13:38

In this episode of The Learning Equation, Superintendent Josha Talison offers a candid and compelling look into the strategic changes reshaping his district—from data culture to curriculum design. With a clear-eyed approach to leadership, Talison explains how building a “data-rich community” is less about accountability and more about trust, transp…

1
Empowering Teachers with AI: Bridging the Digital Divide in Education 19:27

2M ago19:27

19:27

In this heartfelt and forward-thinking episode, Superintendent Dan W. Cox joins The Learning Equation to explore the powerful intersections of AI, data, innovation, and human connection in education. With over two decades of leadership experience, Dan brings a grounded and deeply human perspective on what it means to support teachers and students i…

1
Introducing: The Learning Equation Podcast 1:26

2M ago1:26

1:26

Welcome to The Learning Equation — where innovation meets education. Hosted by Danelle Almaraz, The Learning Equation (TLE) is a podcast that explores how innovation, leadership, and impact intersect to shape the future of education — with a special focus on Math Personalized Learning. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or education advocate,…

1
Should Students Be FORCED to Apologize? 6:06

4M ago6:06

6:06

When students have committed offenses against other students, staff members, or property, should an apology be optional? Here are my thoughts.Read the blog post here: https://teachersonfire.net/2025/01/26/im-sorry-why-im-in-favor-of-forced-apologies/

1
CYBERBULLYING in Our Schools: Supporting Our Students with EVA HARVELL 44:48

5M ago44:48

44:48

🔥 What’s the state of cyberbullying in our schools today? 🔥 What are the silent impacts on our children, and what can we do to protect them? 🔥 When used effectively, can devices actually increase collaboration and communication in the classroom? Join me in conversation with Eva Harvell as we dig into these and other critical questions. About This G…

1
SAVING Our TEACHERS with ERIN TASHIAN and MICHELLE PAPA 44:24

6M ago44:24

44:24

🔥 What can teachers do to protect their fire for teaching? 🔥 What can we do to attract and keep great people in our profession? 🔥 What happens in a school community when the principal is not okay? Join me in conversation with MICHELLE PAPA and ERIN TASHIAN as we dig into these critical questions. About These Guests Michelle Papa is the principal of…

1
TEACHER FITNESS: How to Protect Your Fire with ERIC NELSON 25:26

6M ago25:26

25:26

🔥 How can today’s teachers eat well and care for their bodies? 🔥 How can we fit movement and fitness into our hours at school? 🔥 What are some simple strategies we can follow to improve our nutrition? Join me for this conversation with Florida PE teacher Eric Nelson as he responds. About This Guest: Eric is a K-5 physical education teacher and the …

1
Dr. JOE SANFELIPPO: Lead from Where You ARE 33:51

6M ago33:51

33:51

🔥 Can you describe the vision of your school? 🔥 How can teacher-leaders raise up the people around them? 🔥 How can schools and districts better communicate with their communities? Join me for this conversation with national superintendent of the year, Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, as he shares his insights on these and other critical questions. About This Gu…

1
How to ENGAGE and EMPOWER STUDENTS in a World of Digital Distractions with Dr. MARC ISSEKS 37:03

7M ago37:03

37:03

🔥 How can media creation activities support student learning? 🔥 How should we think about student phones in today’s classrooms? 🔥 How can we captivate, engage, and empower our students in a world of digital distractions? Join me for this conversation with New York assistant principal, author, and podcaster Dr. MARC ISSEKS as he shares his insights …

1
Bring the FREE Medal of Honor Character Development Program to Your School! 40:38

7M ago40:38

40:38

🔥 How can we promote values like courage, commitment, and sacrifice in our learning communities? 🔥 What is the Medal of Honor Character Development Program, and how can it impact your school? Join me for this conversation with California middle school teacher and trainer MARILYNN ALFORD-WALSH as she shares her insights on these and other critical q…

1
HOPE for NEW TEACHERS: A Conversation with New Brunswick Resource Teacher LUCAS CLARKE 52:23

7M ago52:23

52:23

🔥 How has the teaching profession changed over the last five years? 🔥 What would you say to a rookie teacher struggling with imposter syndrome? 🔥 As federal elections approach, what is the role of the Social Studies teacher? Join me for this conversation with New Brunswick resource teacher and podcaster LUCAS CLARKE as he shares his insights on the…

1
The Impact of MENTORSHIP with LAUREN KAUFMAN 42:31

7M ago42:31

42:31

🔥 What does a coaching mindset look like in professional observations? 🔥 How important is mentorship when it comes to the growth of school leaders? 🔥 How can we better support the learning of our youngest readers and writers? Join me for this conversation with author and Director of Literacy LAUREN KAUFMAN as she shares her insights on these and ot…

1
STUDENT MAKERSPACE IDEAS: A Conversation with JESUS HUERTA 52:18

8M ago52:18

52:18

🔥 What does your school’s dream makerspace look like? 🔥 Will AR and VR tools ever impact K-12 education in a significant way? 🔥 How are students using 3D printing, laser cutting, and sublimation to create? Join me for this conversation with education technology coach JESUS HUERTA as he shares his insights on these and other critical questions. Abou…

1
GRADE LESS and GROW BEYOND GRADES with ARTHUR CHIARAVALLI 50:40

8M ago50:40

50:40

🔥 What does it mean to grow beyond grades? 🔥 What works about standards-based grading, and where does it fall short? 🔥 How can we deemphasize grades and shift the focus to growth in our practice? Join me for this conversation with assessment leader ARTHUR CHIARAVALLI as he shares his insights on these and other critical questions. About This Guest:…

1
TEACHING OUTDOORS with LAUREN MACLEAN 31:12

8M ago31:12

31:12

🔥 How can I take my students and their learning outdoors? 🔥 How do students win when learning occurs outside the school building? 🔥 How do curriculum, feedback, and assessment appear in outdoor environments? Join me for this conversation with LAUREN MACLEAN as she shares her insights on these and other critical questions. About This Guest: Lauren i…

1
DESIGN THINKING in the English Classroom with ADRIAN NEIBAUER 38:17

9M ago38:17

38:17

🔥 What does it mean to create a classroom of abundance? 🔥 How can we make multiple iterations of work an integral part of our learning culture? 🔥 How can we build strong relationships with our students at the start of the school year? Join me for this conversation with ADRIAN NEIBAUER as he shares his insights on these and other critical leadership…

1
How to LEAD Your SCHOOL to AWESOME Outcomes with Dr. DARRIN PEPPARD 52:18

9M ago52:18

52:18

🔥 What are the core ingredients of successful school leadership teams? 🔥 How important is mindset when it comes to the effectiveness of a school leader? 🔥 What is one piece of advice that new principals, APs, and teacher-leaders should consider as they head into this school year? Join me for this conversation with Dr. DARRIN PEPPARD as he shares hi…

1
KYLE WAGNER and STUDENT-CENTERED LEARNING 35:40

9M ago35:40

35:40

🔥 What is one mindset shift I need to make as a teacher in 2024? 🔥 Why do student-centered approaches matter now more than ever? 🔥 How can generative AI support project-based learning in the classroom? Join me for this conversation with Hong Kong educator KYLE WAGNER as he shares his insights on these and other questions. About This Guest: Kyle is …

1
A BLUEPRINT for BELONGING in Your School Community with MORGANE MICHAEL 40:34

9M ago40:34

40:34

🔥 How can we create a sense of belonging for every learner? 🔥 How can we make the physical spaces of our schools more welcoming? 🔥 What are 1-2 tangible daily practices that we can use to promote cultures of positivity in our schools? Join me for this conversation with BC educator MORGANE MICHAEL as she shares her insights on these and other questi…

1
PLAY, COLLABORATION, and CORE COMPETENCIES with ASHLEY BODNAR 27:41

10M ago27:41

27:41

🔥 How can play-based learning change mindsets in Math class? 🔥 How can teachers develop core competencies in their students? 🔥 What can a collaborative learning model look like in your classroom? Join me for this conversation with BC educator ASHLEY BODNAR as she shares her insights on these and other questions. About This Guest: Ashley is a teache…

1
SMARTPHONES and the PSYCHOLOGY of LEARNING: A Conversation with LISA GREEN 50:15

10M ago50:15

50:15

🔥 Have generative AI tools killed the essay? 🔥 In a world of screens, why are paper books more important than ever? 🔥 How are smartphones changing the ways that students learn, and how should educators respond? Join me for this conversation with BC educator LISA GREEN as she shares her insights on these and other questions. About This Guest: Lisa i…

1
JAKE MILLER is BACK: Duct Tape, Technology, and Personalized Learning 40:39

10M ago40:39

40:39

🔥 What is next for Jake Miller? 🔥 What does duct tape teach us about education technology? 🔥 How should teachers be thinking about AI tools as they return to school? Join me for this conversation with JAKE MILLER as he shares his insights on these and other questions. About This Guest: Jake is an accomplished educator, speaker, presenter, podcaster…

1
DEFINE Your MISSION As An EDUCATION LEADER wth TYLER COMEAU 34:11

10M ago34:11

34:11

🔥 What are some educational leadership norms worth challenging? 🔥 How are AI tools changing learning and instruction in rural school settings? 🔥 How can I define my personal mission and guiding principles as an educator? Join me for this conversation with TYLER COMEAU as he shares his insights on these and other questions. About This Guest: Tyler i…

1
DANELLE ALMARAZ: Building Schools of CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT 27:27

11M ago27:27

27:27

🔥 What does it mean to lead from the middle? 🔥 How can we empower students and build student agency in 2024? 🔥 How can we build systems of continuous improvement in our schools? Join me for this conversation with education leader DANELLE ALMARAZ as she shares her insights on these and other questions. About This Guest: With a focus on continuous im…

1
ALLYSON APSEY: What Makes a GREAT PRINCIPAL? 26:36

11M ago26:36

26:36

🔥 What does a school culture of leadership look like? 🔥 What are the five pillars of effective school leadership? 🔥 What do teachers want more from their principals: presents or their presence? Join me for this conversation with education leader ALLYSON APSEY as she shares insights on these and other questions. About This Guest: Allyson has been an…

1
FOOD, FRIENDSHIP, and FORMATION: A Conversation with Gabriel Carrillo from EdTech Bites 40:37

11M ago40:37

40:37

🔥 What was one takeaway from ISTE 2024? 🔥 What does it take to write and publish a book for the first time? 🔥 What role does food play in the context of education and learning? Join me for this conversation with Texas educator GABRIEL CARRILLO as he shares insights on these and other questions. About This Guest: Gabriel Carrillo is an educational t…

1
STUDENT PRIVACY in the Age of ChatGPT with FONZ MENDOZA 1:12:11

12M ago1:12:11

1:12:11

🔥 What does it take to become an education content creator? 🔥 What do education leaders need to know about privacy issues in AI? 🔥 What roles will AR and VR technologies play in the future of learning? Join me for this conversation with Texas educator FONZ MENDOZA as he shares his insights. About This Guest: Fonz is a Professional Learning Speciali…

1
AI ISSUES in K-12 EDUCATION Today: A Conversation with TIM BELMONT 45:07

12M ago45:07

45:07

🔥 What are the biggest wins for teachers that generative AI can provide? 🔥 How can we help students avoid plagiarism while supporting the creative process? 🔥 Is it possible for ChatGPT to know too much about us? Join me for this conversation with New Jersey educator TIM BELMONT as he shares his insights. ABOUT THIS GUEST: Tim Belmont is a high scho…

1
LEAD an ASSESSMENT REVOLUTION: A Conversation with NATALIE VARDABASSO 35:07

1y ago35:07

35:07

🔥 What’s the purpose of assessment? 🔥 How can we rehumanize assessment through story? 🔥 What does it take to lead an assessment revolution in our schools? Join me for this conversation with NATALIE VARDABASSO as she shares her insights. ABOUT THIS GUEST: Natalie has served as a high school and middle school teacher, instructional coach, and an asse…

1
What Are LEARNING PROGRESSIONS? A Conversation with JENNIFER MOROZ 48:36

1y ago48:36

48:36

🔥 What do we need to know about Depth of Knowledge? 🔥 How can schools build inclusive cultures and improve student behavior? 🔥 What are learning progressions, and how can they support student learning? Join me for this conversation with JENNIFER MOROZ as she shares her insights. ABOUT THIS GUEST: Jen is a BC educator who is proud to teach, collabor…

1
ASSESSMENT in MATH and SCIENCE: A Conversation with MELISSA DEAN 49:17

1y ago49:17

49:17

🔥 Are we about tasks or learning? 🔥 How do our beliefs about assessment shape absolutely everything we do? 🔥 How has it become acceptable to do nothing in a classroom, and what can we do about it? Join me for this conversation with MELISSA DEAN as she shares her insights. ABOUT THIS GUEST: Melissa is a high school math, science and ELA teacher who …

1
How to BUILD a LEGACY of IMPACT: A Conversation with CHIP BAKER 28:20

1y ago28:20

28:20

🔥Is our influence making an impact? 🔥How can we live, work, and serve others in alignment with our assignment? 🔥How can we clear away the clutter of our lives and move our personal mission toward success? Join me for this conversation with CHIP BAKER as he shares his insights. ABOUT THIS GUEST: Chip is a fourth generation educator who has now serve…

1
TYLER RABLIN: How do our assessment practices impact student motivation? 41:42

1y ago41:42

41:42

🔥 How can we reach bored students in the classroom? 🔥 How can our gradebooks better support individual student growth? 🔥 How should teachers be thinking about AI and evidence of learning? Join me for this conversation with TYLER RABLIN as he shares his insights. ABOUT THIS GUEST: Tyler is an award-winning instructional coach and former ELA teacher …

1
STEPHANIE HOWELL: Learn, Create, and Support 40:13

1y ago40:13

40:13

🔥 How can I control the chaos of my classroom? 🔥 What is Kami, and how can it support student learning? 🔥 What does it take to build an education YouTube channel? Join me for this conversation with STEPHANIE HOWELL as she shares her insights. ABOUT THIS GUEST: In education since 2014, Stephanie has been widely recognized as an education technology …

1
SEL for TEACHERS: A Conversation with WENDY TURNER 23:30

1y ago23:30

23:30

🔥 How can we assess our own social-emotional health, and what are some easy steps that we can take to strengthen it? Join me for this conversation with former Teacher of the Year WENDY TURNER as we dig into these and other critical questions. Wendy is a gifted communicator and brings incredible value that you won't want to miss. ABOUT THIS GUEST: W…

1
AI, Homework, and Advice for New Teachers: A Conversation with ALEX VALENCIC 38:49

1y ago38:49

38:49

🔥 What’s your take on AI’s impact on K-12 education? 🔥 How can student voice and choice change the homework conversation? 🔥 What's your best advice for new teachers? Join me in LIVE conversation with ALEX VALENCIC as we dig into these and other critical questions. ABOUT THIS GUEST: Alex is an educator, former small business owner, Boy Scout leader,…

1
Is It TIME to QUIT TEACHING? A Conversation with ASHLEY PHILIPPS 38:45

1y ago38:45

38:45

🔥 When is it time to leave the classroom? 🔥 Do teachers have any options outside of education? 🔥 What are the questions we must ask ourselves in order to determine whether or not we're where we should be Join me in conversation with Ashley Philipps as we discuss her journey, lessons learned, and the hopeful message that she shares with educators wh…

1
How to MAKE the MOST of Your SPRING BREAK: 3 Veteran Teachers Share Their Insights 15:03

1y ago15:03

15:03

🔥 How do you recharge your fire over spring break? 🔥 What advice would you share with new teachers? Join me and Lauren MacLean, Tim Stephenson, and Bryon Carpenter for this unique episode of the Teachers on Fire podcast. Tune in for my regular Teachers on Fire interviews, airing LIVE on YouTube every Saturday morning at 8:00 Pacific and 11:00 Easte…

1
How to BUILD STUDENT AGENCY: A Conversation with STARR SACKSTEIN 33:09

1y ago33:09

33:09

🔥 How can student-led conferences and portfolios transform learning and instruction? 🔥 What does meaningful feedback look like? 🔥 How can assessment practices empower our students? Join me in conversation with assessment author and speaker STARR SACKSTEIN as we dig into these and other important questions. ABOUT THIS GUEST: Starr Sackstein is a rec…

1
10 WAYS to SHOW YOUR STUDENTS YOU CARE: A Conversation with LAURA BOYD 23:33

1y ago23:33

23:33

🔥 How can you build better relationships with your students WITHOUT spending money or buying candy? 🔥 What are some quick and easy practices that will pay the biggest dividends in the life of your classroom? Join me in conversation with middle school teacher and technology advocate LAURA BOYD. ABOUT THIS GUEST: Laura is a middle school teacher who …

1
DRAMA Is for ALL LEARNERS: A Conversation with Sam Marsden 23:34

1y ago23:34

23:34

🔥 How can drama activities support learners of all ages? 🔥 What are some easy ways that we can bring drama into our classrooms? 🔥 Where should I go to get started with drama? Join me in LIVE conversation with drama teacher and author SAM MARSDEN as we dig into the power of drama for all learners. ABOUT THIS GUEST: Sam teaches drama, writes fiction,…

1
MATH, ASSESSMENT, and the SCIENCE of LEARNING: A Conversation with PHIL STRINGER 39:30

1+ y ago39:30

39:30

Join me and Phil Stringer in this conversation as we discuss Math, assessment, and the science of learning. PHIL STRINGER is the department head of mathematics at Crofton House School in Vancouver. With over 25 years in education, Phil has presented locally, nationally, and internationally on assessment and pedagogy. Outside of the classroom, he ca…

1
7 CREATIVE TOOLS That I'm Using with My ELEMENTARY DESIGN STUDENTS 10:39

1+ y ago10:39

10:39

It’s a thrill to get into creative design with elementary learners. Students at this age are fearless. They’re curious. They’re ready to create anything. And they’re ready to expand their creative powers. If you’re teaching in similar spaces, here is a list of tools, design challenges, and creative tasks that I’ve tried and recommend (I have no aff…

1
From CRIPPLING ANXIETY to HAPPINESS, WELL-BEING, and FULFILLMENT: A Conversation with KIM STROBEL 48:02

1+ y ago48:02

48:02

KIM STROBEL is a renowned motivational speaker, sought after by schools, businesses, and organizations worldwide. She specializes in empowering educators and professionals, equipping them with the necessary tools and strategies to shift their mindsets, reclaim their happiness, reignite their passion, and lead with purpose. Listen to her INCREDIBLE …

1
This ONE THING Will DESTROY Your CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT 5:21

1+ y ago5:21

5:21

I will never forget one of my high school science teachers. He was a good man. A decent person. His instructional practices weren’t exactly progressive, but he meant well. The biggest problem for him was that he had a very short fuse. Get under his skin, and things could really unravel. He would raise his voice. His skin would start changing colors…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Danelle Almaraz Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen