Best Differentiated Instruction Podcasts (2025)

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188. How to support ELLs through differentiated instruction without feeling overwhelmed. 16:09

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8d ago16:09

16:09

Has differentiation always felt like the most overwhelming part of your lesson plan? host Beth Vaucher dives deep into one of the most pressing challenges educators face: how to differentiate instruction for English Language Learners (ELLs) without feeling overwhelmed. This episode unpacks a practical, three-step framework that empowers teachers to…

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93. Real-Life Reinforcement: Using What Works at Home and in the Classroom 13:05

10m ago13:05

13:05

In this episode of Teach, Task Box, Inspire, host Lisa Hollady breaks down the difference between positive reinforcement and bribery—and why that difference matters more than you think. With real-life examples from her own summer adventures (think grocery store trips, beach day prep, and chore battles), Lisa brings this strategy to life in a relata…

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Episode 241: Alabama Teacher of the Year 57:08

5h ago57:08

57:08

TR is joined by Katie Collins, MCP educator and Alabama Teacher of the Year, to talk about how she uses the model to build community in her classroom and develop a growth mindset with her 1st graders Show Notes Alabama Teacher of the Year Cottage Gardens The Anxious Generation, by John Haidt Let Grow Lil' John's meditation videos Connect with Katie…

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189. From Theory to Practice: Kelly Reider on Making Language Visible in Every Classroom 43:19

14h ago43:19

43:19

In this episode of the Equipping ELLs Podcast, host Beth Vaucher is joined by renowned educator and language planning expert Kelly Reider for a deep dive into the world of functional language planning—a critical but often misunderstood approach to supporting multilingual learners in today’s classrooms. With over 30 years of experience in education,…

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92. How to Train Your Paras Before the First Day of School 12:25

3d ago12:25

12:25

In this essential episode of Teach. Task Box. Inspire., Lisa Hollady dives into one of the most impactful—and often overlooked—steps in setting up your special education classroom: training your paraprofessionals. Lisa shares exactly what to teach your paras before school starts, from daily expectations to behavior supports, and how to build a stro…

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Shortcast 4: Building Authentic Relationships with Students 11:59

6d ago11:59

11:59

You can hear the full episode here Zach is joined by special guests Michael Carr and Toni Rose Deanon to talk about social emotional learning and how the Modern Classrooms Model helps us cultivate authentic relationships with students, in person and virtually. Show Notes Modern Classrooms resources for building relationships (Includes “Five by Five…

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Student-Centric Learning with Dana Younes 56:58

5d ago56:58

56:58

In this episode, Nancy Jenkins, a trust-based observation trainer, interviews Dana Younes, a first-year special education teacher at Bahrain Bayan School. Dana passionately discusses her teaching philosophy, emphasizing student autonomy, engagement, and personalized learning. She shares her comprehensive approach to understanding each student's nee…

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FEED DROP: The Exit Interview 50:04

8d ago50:04

50:04

For this feed drop, here's an episode of The Exit Interview, with Dr. Asia Lyons. We hope you enjoy! You can learn more about The Exit Interview and subscribe hereBy The Modern Classrooms Project

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91. Inclusion Isn’t Just a Place- How to Help Gen Ed Teachers Support Your Students 11:48

9d ago11:48

11:48

In this heartfelt and practical episode of Teach. Task Box. Inspire., host Lisa Hollady shares what true inclusion looks like—not as a classroom placement, but as a mindset and daily practice. Speaking as both a special education teacher and the proud mom of her son Jacob, who has Down syndrome, Lisa explores how to equip general education teachers…

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Shortcast 53: Unit Zero and a Day in the Life of a Modern Classroom 15:37

11d ago15:37

15:37

Listen to the full episode here Toni Rose is joined by Emily Dia to talk about using a Unit Zero to introduce the model, and they go on to describe a day in the life of a Modern Classroom once students have internalized the routines. Show Notes Toni Rose's Unit 0 Calendar Keeping up with the Modern Classrooms: Episode #1: Unit 0 Marissa’s Classroom…

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A Principal's Perspective on Trust-Based Observations with Carrie Davis 34:29

14d ago34:29

34:29

In this episode, the focus shifts from teachers to a principal's perspective on implementing trust-based observations (TBO). Host Craig interviews Carrie Davis, principal of Robertson Elementary in Yakima, Washington. Carrie discusses her journey from initial skepticism to a strong advocate of TBO, detailing how it transformed her relationships wit…

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187. If I wanted to go from now to confidently supporting ELLs within the first month, here are the exact steps I would take. 31:05

13d ago31:05

31:05

Do you feel lost on how to support your English learners in the first month of school without a clear plan? In this episode of Equipping ELLs, host Beth Vaucher delivers an empowering and actionable roadmap for teachers stepping into the school year with multilingual learners. Whether you're a brand new ESL teacher, juggling a multi-building caselo…

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90. IEPs-What to Read, Highlight, and ACT On Before Day One 12:45

17d ago12:45

12:45

In this episode of Teach. Task Box. Inspire., Lisa Hollady breaks down exactly how to tackle student IEPs before the school year starts—without the overwhelm. Learn which parts of the IEP to focus on, what to highlight for planning, and what actions to take before Day One. Plus, Lisa shares how to create a powerful IEP-at-a-glance sheet that will s…

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Shortcast 42: The Student Experience in a Modern Classroom 15:24

19d ago15:24

15:24

This week, Kareem is joined by one of his former students, Jayme Mims, to talk about the Modern Classrooms model from the student's perspective, how it facilitates learning and responsibility in school, and how it prepares students for success in college and beyond Show Notes Edutopia Video Progress Trackers The Warm Demander Follow us online and l…

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Fostering Growth through Trust with Rose Picard 16:15

19d ago16:15

16:15

In this bonus episode, Craig Randall engages in a post-podcast discussion with Rose Picard. They delve into the impact of different types of principal support and the value of trust-based observations in fostering professional growth among teachers. Rose shares personal experiences with different principals and how trust-based observations have sha…

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186. The secret ingredient to making your ELLs feel seen, valued, & confident from day one 17:19

20d ago17:19

17:19

In this heart-centered episode of the Equipping ELLs podcast, Beth Vaucher dives into one of the most overlooked yet powerful strategies for supporting English Language Learners (ELLs): intentional connection. As the new school year begins, Beth emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where students feel seen, valued, and confident fro…

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FEED DROP: Under the Hat, with Steve Martinez 49:10

22d ago49:10

49:10

For our fourth feed drop episode, we're happy to share this episode of Steve Martinez' Under the Hat podcast. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did! You can find more info on Under the Hat and subscribe hereBy The Modern Classrooms Project

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89. The First 10 Days of School – Inclusion vs. Self-Contained 13:14

24d ago13:14

13:14

In this episode, Lisa Hollady breaks down exactly what to teach, practice, and model during the critical first 10 days of school—whether you’re in an inclusion setting or a self-contained classroom. From building routines to setting expectations, Lisa shares how to intentionally structure the start of the year to promote independence, reduce behavi…

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Shortcast 207: How MCP Impacts the College Experience 14:59

25d ago14:59

14:59

Listen to the full episode here Guest host Avery Balasbas is joined by a panel of his previous students who are now in college to discuss their MCP experience and how it prepared them for learning beyond high school Read a summary of this episode on the Modern Classrooms Project blog. Show Notes Avery's previous MCP Podcast episodes: Episode 139: T…

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The Power of Positive Reinforcement with Xavier Juarez 33:55

26d ago33:55

33:55

In this episode, Craig Randall interviews Xavier Juarez, a dedicated fifth-grade teacher from Robertson Elementary. Xavier shares his journey into teaching, highlights the importance of creating a positive classroom environment, and discusses strategies for behavior management and student engagement. This episode also explores the implementation of…

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185. Feeling Uncertain? How to Lead with Confidence in the Classroom 19:52

1M ago19:52

19:52

Welcome back to Equipping ELLs! In Episode 185, host Beth Vaucher delivers an empowering and practical message tailored to ESL and ELL educators navigating the often-overwhelming world of multilingual teaching. This episode, titled “How to Lead with Confidence in the Classroom,” tackles the ever-present feeling of imposter syndrome and the unrealis…

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88. Planning Your Year Backward – What to Prep This Summer to Stay Sane All Year 12:48

1M ago12:48

12:48

In this episode, Lisa Hollady shares how to flip your summer planning strategy and start with the end in mind. Instead of scrambling in September, learn what systems, visuals, routines, and materials you can prep now—even if you don’t have your student list yet. This episode is packed with practical tips that help you simplify, prioritize, and walk…

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Shortcast 183: Student Perspective (HS) 15:47

1M ago15:47

15:47

Listen to the full episode here Toni Rose is joined by Sarahya College, a high school sophomore, who offers incredible insight into the student experience of learning in a modern classroom as well as advice for teachers who are implementing the model Read a summary of this episode on the Modern Classrooms Project blog. Contact us, follow us online,…

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Innovative Techniques in Dyslexia Support with Rose Picard 28:14

1M ago28:14

28:14

In this episode, Craig Randall talks with Rose Picard, a dedicated reading literacy specialist at the Briarwood School in Houston, Texas, about trust-based observations, individualized education plans, and effective classroom management for students with learning disabilities.By Craig Randall

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87. Inside the Teach. Task Box. Inspire. Membership 10:28

1M ago10:28

10:28

In this behind-the-scenes episode, Lisa Hollady walks you through everything inside the Teach. Task Box. Inspire. Membership—and why it’s the go-to monthly resource for special education teachers looking for low-prep, high-impact support. Whether you're in a self-contained setting or pushing into gen ed classrooms, this episode unpacks how the memb…

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FEED DROP: The Balance with Catlin Tucker 52:39

1M ago52:39

52:39

For our third feed drop episode, we're happy to share this episode of Catlin Tucker's The Balance podcast. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did! You can find more info on The Balance podcast and subscribe hereBy The Modern Classrooms Project

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Shortcast 60 - Middle School Student Experience 15:53

1M ago15:53

15:53

Listen to the full episode here Toni Rose is joined by two of her former 6th grade students, Lila and Tyler (currently 8th graders) to talk about their experience in Modern Classrooms throughout middle school - in person, in remote learning, and in general Show Notes Edpuzzle (and MCP Tutorial) Kahoot Quizlet Follow us online and learn more: Modern…

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Trust, Play, and Learning with Krystal Merriel 28:39

1M ago28:39

28:39

In this episode, Craig Randall interviews Krystal Merriel, an inspiring pre-kindergarten teacher from Soap Lake, Washington. Krystal shares her journey from being a student in the same school district to becoming a teacher, discussing her passion for relationship-building, innovative teaching strategies, and classroom management techniques that mak…

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86 . Self-Care Isn’t a Bath Bomb: Real Talk on Boundaries and Burnout 13:10

2M ago13:10

13:10

In this real-talk episode, Lisa Hollady gets honest about what self-care actually means for special education teachers. And no—it’s not about spa days or fancy candles. It’s about setting boundaries, building routines, creating systems, and learning to say “no” without the guilt. If you’re feeling burned out or already running on empty, this episod…

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Shortcast 219 - Student Voice (EC) 16:27

2M ago16:27

16:27

Listen to the full episode here Zach is joined by Marlene Tapia Garcia and three of her first grade students, Olivia, Arya, and Ethan, to talk about their experience in a Modern Classroom. Read a summary of this episode on the Modern Classrooms Project blog. Show Notes MCP Podcast episode 138: La Revisión y las Pruebas de Dominio (Marlene's previou…

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Fostering Productive Struggle with Sonia Juaregui 31:36

2M ago31:36

31:36

In this episode, Craig Randall speaks with veteran teacher Sonia Juaregui about her innovative teaching strategies, including the concept of 'The Pit' from visible learning, and the impact of Trust Based Observations on her growth and teaching practice. Sonia details her methods of fostering productive struggle and neuro-linguistic programming to s…

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184. From Exhausted to Energized: Movement Strategies for Busy Educators 17:28

2M ago17:28

17:28

In this inspiring episode of the Equipping ELLs podcast, host Beth Vaucher wraps up her empowering series on habits that support a healthy, balanced life... this time focusing on physical movement and fitness for educators. As a former athlete turned busy educator and parent, Beth shares a deeply personal yet practical approach to staying active, e…

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FEED DROP - Lifelong Learning Defined with Jorge Valenzuela: Season 3, Episode 19 - From Compton to the World: Building STEM Futures Through Project-Based Learning with Jose González 26:02

2M ago26:02

26:02

For our second feed drop of the summer off-season, we'd love to share an episode of Jorge Valenzuela's Lifelong Learning Defined podcast. This episode is called "From Compton to the World: Building STEM Futures Through Project-Based Learning with Jose González" You can find the Lifelong Learning Defined Podcast here…

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85. Why Sensory Comes First 12:00

2M ago12:00

12:00

Let’s talk sensory! In this episode, I’m breaking down how sensory processing impacts everything—behavior, learning, focus, you name it. It’s not something to save for last on your checklist—it should be the first thing we think about when a student is struggling. I walk you through the Sensory Pyramid (aka the Pyramid of Learning), explain the eig…

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Shortcast 213 - Do We Want Students To Be On Pace or Actually Learning? 15:44

2M ago15:44

15:44

Toni Rose is joined by Drea Siford to talk about her approach to teaching 4th grade using the MCP model Show Notes Listen to the full version of this episode here Zearn Eureka Math Angela Watson's Truth for Teachers podcast, and the episode with Kareem: 3 practices to give you more one-on-one time with students Email Drea at [email protected]…

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Learning by Doing in Special Education with Isaiah Glenn 29:13

2M ago29:13

29:13

In this episode, Craig Randall interviews Isaiah Glenn, a special needs educator at Tuttle School, part of Briarwood School in Houston, Texas. Isaiah shares his unconventional journey into teaching, the challenges and rewards of working with special needs children, and the importance of social skills training. They also discuss the impact of Trust-…

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183. Fuel Your Mind and Body: 10 Simple Healthy Eating Habits for Educators 21:14

2M ago21:14

21:14

In this special summer wellness series, host Beth Vaucher explores how to apply simple, intentional habits to transform your health, starting with what you eat. If you're an educator, parent, or busy professional who often finds nutrition falling to the bottom of your priority list, this episode is a must-listen. Beth shares her personal journey fr…

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84. Transitioning Students Without the Tears (Theirs and Yours) 13:12

2M ago13:12

13:12

Let’s be real—transitions are hard. And for our students with disabilities who rely on structure and routine, the end of the school year can feel extra tricky. In this episode, I’m sharing some of my favorite tips and tools that have helped make those big changes a little smoother—for both students and teachers! I’ll talk about things like visual c…

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Shortcast 204: Reflections from a Four-Year Implementer 15:17

2M ago15:17

15:17

Listen to the full episode here Toni Rose is joined by Sam Ortiz to talk about her experience implementing the model over four school years, addressing concerns from stakeholders, and engaging with the MCP community Show Notes Screencastify and Screencastify Submit Quizziz MCP Self-Paced Structures resources (including the tracker templates Sam men…

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The Hero's Journey & Teaching Life Lessons through Literature with Lauren Turley 31:03

2M ago31:03

31:03

In this episode of 20 Minutes of Teaching Brilliance on the Road with Trust Based Observations, Craig Randall interviews Lauren Turley, a ninth grade English teacher from Cardinal Mooney High School in Sarasota, Florida. They discuss Lauren's teaching journey, her approach to classroom management, the integration of higher order thinking skills in …

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182. 5 Daily Mindset Habits Every Teacher Should Start This Summer 20:01

2M ago20:01

20:01

In this powerful episode of the Equipping ELLs Podcast, host Beth Vaucher dives into the transformative role of mindset and how intentional daily habits can help educators feel more grounded, focused, and emotionally regulated—especially during the hectic school year. While it’s summer, Beth challenges listeners to leverage this calmer season to bu…

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FEED DROP: Boundaries and Balance: Practical Solutions for Teacher Burnout 1:09:07

2M ago1:09:07

1:09:07

For our first feed drop of the summer, we'd love to share this episode of Teachers Talkin' with you! Teachers Talkin’ is a discussion-based podcast hosted by Dustin Tatroe and Ghazali Abdul-Wahab, focused on elevating conversations in education. Each episode features honest, reflective dialogue with educators from around the world on topics ranging…

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83. Permission to Move On 11:28

2M ago11:28

11:28

In this honest and heartfelt episode, Lisa shares an important truth: if you no longer love your role as a special education teacher, it’s okay to make a change. Whether that means switching grade levels, moving to a new building, stepping into a different role, or even leaving special education entirely—your happiness, mental health, and sense of …

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Shortcast 201 - Increasing Student and Teacher Confidence 18:10

2M ago18:10

18:10

TR is joined by Megan Meachum to talk about how the MCP model benefited both herself and her students, and her plans for the coming school year. Read a summary of the original episode on the Modern Classrooms Project blog. Show Notes Listen to the full version of this episode here Remember, you can now listen to this episode (and all episodes) on Y…

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Encouraging Student Engagement with Marcee McLain 29:07

2M ago29:07

29:07

In this episode, Craig Randall interviews Marcee McLain, a fifth-grade teacher at Soap Lake Elementary. Marcee shares her journey into teaching, her methods for fostering creativity, and the importance of building strong relationships with students. The discussion also touches on the positive impact of Trust-Based Observations in her classroom.…

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181. Summer Habits That Stick: How Small Routines Lead to Big Changes 15:23

2M ago15:23

15:23

Are you heading into summer feeling burnt out and overwhelmed, wishing there was a way to reset before the next school year sneaks up on you? In this energizing kickoff to a new series on the Equipping ELLs Podcast, host Beth Vaucher dives into the transformational power of habits, routines, and rhythms—especially for educators navigating the uniqu…

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82. End-of-Year Sanity Tips for Special Educators 11:45

2M ago11:45

11:45

In this end-of-year episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, Lisa shares her top sanity-saving tips for surviving the chaos of May as a special education teacher. From last-minute IEP meetings and behavior spikes to packing up the classroom and navigating unpredictable schedules, May is no joke—but you don’t have to go it alone. Lisa offers practical str…

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Episode 240: Hacking Assessments 44:27

2M ago44:27

44:27

TR is joined by Starr Sackstein to talk about how teachers can authentically innovate and disrupt in the realm of assessment. Read a summary of this episode on the Modern Classrooms Project blog. Show Notes Starr Sackstein Starr's book, Hacking Assessment Starr and Alexandra Laing's new book, Solving School Challenges: The Everything Guide to Trans…

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Beliefs Drive Successful Writing Practices: A Digging Deeper Dialogue 37:56

2M ago37:56

37:56

In the final episode of our third season, we dive into the foundational beliefs that shape effective writing instruction. From emphasizing explicit teaching to fostering a community led by a teacher who writes to foundational skills like handwriting and spelling, we explore key elements that support student success. This episode will inspire educat…

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From Evaluation to Empowerment with Lizz Chappell 33:45

3M ago33:45

33:45

In this episode, Craig Randall discusses impactful teaching with Lizz Chappell. They delve into building student rapport, the importance of trust, encouraging student vulnerability, and the role of interest in learning.By Craig Randall