Best Differentiated Instruction Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 229 – Heather Fountain – Differentiated Instruction - Building Choice, Connection and Ownership 59:41

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5d ago59:41

59:41

Honoring learning styles and helping build strong connections is what Differentiated Instruction is all about. In this episode, the Creativity Department is joined by Dr. Heather Fountain, author of Differentiated Instruction in Art Education. Listen in and explore how art educators can effectively identify the diverse learning needs of students. D…

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96. "Eat That Frog" 10:42

1d ago10:42

10:42

Do you ever feel like your to-do list as a teacher is never-ending—and the hardest tasks keep hanging over your head? In this episode of Teach, Task Box, Inspire, Lisa Hollady shares how the productivity concept “Eat the Frog” can completely transform your teaching day. By tackling your most dreaded, time-consuming, or energy-draining task first, y…

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Episode 244: CTE Student 51:56

2d ago51:56

51:56

Zach is joined by Erin Luckhardt, Michele Deming, and their former student Eve Willoughby, to talk about CTE and using the MCP model to prepare students with real-world career experience Show Notes Kareem on the Cult of Pedagogy podcast: Everything You Need to Know About Building a Great Screencast Video How to Create a Self-Paced Classroom How to …

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95. Your First Paraprofessional Meeting of the Year-What to Cover and Why 12:44

8d ago12:44

12:44

Starting the year strong with your paraprofessionals can make or break your classroom flow. In this episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, Lisa walks you through exactly what to cover in your very first paraprofessional meeting of the school year. From setting clear roles and responsibilities to building rapport, reviewing systems, and creating a commu…

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Episode 243: Math and ELL 40:30

9d ago40:30

40:30

Zach is joined by Miguel Melchor to talk about his approach to working with multilingual learners and coaching teachers using the MCP model Show Notes Miguel's comprehensive resource "Personalized Learning for Multilingual Learners" Screenpal Screencastify Mote Universal Design for Learning Contact us, follow us online, and learn more: Email us que…

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192. Should You Translate Everything? Essential ELL Strategies for Teachers 24:37

9d ago24:37

24:37

Should you translate everything for your English Language Learners? Overusing translation can actually slow down language acquisition and create over-dependence on students' first language. In this episode, Beth breaks down when translation becomes a barrier and when it can be a powerful support. You'll hear real classroom examples that show the di…

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191. Prioritize Supporting Exceptional Learners with Beth Skelton and Tan Huynh 48:10

11d ago48:10

48:10

Are your multilingual learners fluent in conversation but still struggling with academic content? In this episode of the Equipping ELLs podcast, host Beth Vaucher speaks with Beth Skelton and Tan Huynh, authors of Long-Term Success for Experienced Multilinguals, to unpack why fluency isn’t the finish line—and how educators can better support multil…

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Episode 228 – Alicia Gray – Fostering Connection, Healing, and Community through Restorative Practice 45:16

12d ago45:16

45:16

In this episode, the Creativity Department is joined by Alicia Gray, Director of Art Education at Montserrat College of Art and contributor to the new book by Davis, Restorative Practice in Education through the Arts. As a former art teacher in a trauma informed school, Alicia brings a new perspective to the conversation about the importance of res…

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94. Teaching: The Most Difficult Profession in the World 15:04

16d ago15:04

15:04

Teaching is more than a career—it’s a calling. But let’s be honest: it’s also the hardest profession in the world. In this episode of Teach, Task Box, Inspire, Lisa Hollady dives into why teaching is so uniquely challenging—and why so many educators feel exhausted, underpaid, and undervalued. From wearing a dozen hats every day to spending our own …

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Episode 242: EduProtocols 48:00

17d ago48:00

48:00

Toni Rose is joined by Zena Brown to talk about the Eduprotocols frameworks and explore the ways Zena uses them in her Modern Classroom Show Notes Edutopia videos profiling MCP: High School Elementary School Eduprotocols Quizziz Eduprotocols Resources ChatGPT Follow Zena on social media @zlbrownschools Contact us, follow us online, and learn more: …

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190. Time-Wasters vs. What Actually Works: How to Plan ELL Lessons That Save You Time and Boost Student Success 24:18

19d ago24:18

24:18

Are you spending hours planning ELL lessons that your students don’t even seem to retain? Welcome back to the Equipping ELLs Podcast — the space where we take the overwhelm out of teaching English language learners and replace it with clarity, strategy, and confidence. In this episode, host Beth Vaucher dives deep into the common time wasters ELL t…

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Episode 227 – Ray Yang & Amanda Karhuse – Meet the Arts Education Alliance 31:44

19d ago31:44

31:44

In this episode, the Creativity Department is joined by Amanda Karhuse, Assistant Executive Director, Advocacy & Public Policy for The National Association for Music Education’s (NafME) and Ray Yang the National Art Education Association’s (NAEA) Director of Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion, and Special Initiatives. Listen in to learn about Arts Ed A…

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

23d 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

24d 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

26d 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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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188. How to support ELLs through differentiated instruction without feeling overwhelmed. 16:09

1M 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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FEED DROP: The Exit Interview 50:04

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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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Episode 225 – Rachel McLaughlin – Inspiring Creativity through Music & Technology 37:42

1M ago37:42

37:42

In this episode, the Creativity Department is joined by art educator Rachel McLaughlin of 10,000 Trees Music to talk about her passion for art, music, and how art educators can incorporate technology in their art rooms. Discover thoughtful insight into the evolving role of AI-generated sound and music in visual arts and how technology can enhance a…

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

1M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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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Episode 224 – Trevor Bryan – Connections Between Art & Literacy 47:25

2M ago47:25

47:25

In this episode, the Creativity Department is joined by author and art educator Trevor Bryan to talk about how art can be a powerful tool for teaching literacy. Trevor shares insights from his latest book Narrative Know-How, explores how story structure can build comprehension, and discusses how drawing and visual storytelling can help students wit…

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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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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Episode 223 – Veronica Hicks – The Ritual of Restorative Practice 44:33

2M ago44:33

44:33

In this episode, the Creativity Department is joined by Veronica Hicks, Professor of Art Education at Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts to discuss the power of restorative practices in the art classroom. Discover how these practices can become meaningful rituals that support artistic growth and emotional well-being. From restorati…

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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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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Episode 222 – Jorge Lucero – Creating Knowledge 47:11

2M ago47:11

47:11

In this episode, the Creativity Department is joined by returning guest Jorge Lucero to discuss the philosophy around creating knowledge. Listen in and learn how artmaking teaches students so much more than making art. It supports personal development and underpins life skills students need. From how to embrace failure while experimenting to the an…

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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

3M 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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Episode 221 – Amy Pfeiler-Wunder & Mary Kate Bergh – Multi-Modal Learning through the Power of Play 52:10

3M ago52:10

52:10

In this episode, the Creativity Department is joined by NAEA’s President-Elect Amy Pfeiler-Wunder and her colleague Mark Kate Bergh for a discussion about the importance of play and multi-modal learning! explore topics such as: how multi-modal learning takes shape in an art classroom; what role play takes in nurturing students creativity and engage…

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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

3M 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…