Best Stephanie Edd Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 42: Dr. Alice Fox Thompson 58:33

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12d ago58:33

58:33

In this episode of The Ripple Effect, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with Dr. Alice Fox Thompson, co-founder of Visible Hands Collaborative and a psychiatry resident at the University of Texas, Austin. Drawing from her background in political science, community organizing, and medical training, Dr. Thompson shares how an unexpected detour during th…

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Episode 81: Not Just Cute Book Study - Best Moments and Big Ideas 1:03:26

4h ago1:03:26

1:03:26

Is play the missing piece in today’s educational puzzle? That’s the question we wrestled with during a three-part book study I hosted this summer with early educators from across North America. Together, we unpacked key themes from my new book, Not Just Cute: How Powerful Play Drives Development in Early Childhood—and now I’ve pulled the highlights…

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Fall 2025 Series: What all Humans Should Know about the Reading Brain 1:00:12

3h ago1:00:12

1:00:12

The Windward Institute invites all new and returning READ listeners for a five-part Fall 2025 series, What We all Can Learn about Reading, Together. This series brings together 20 guests including researchers and educators. We’ll dive into reading research, practice, and lived experience. This series is for everyone, whether you’re just starting to…

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Episode 80: Actions of Play (with Heather Jackson) 54:22

22d ago54:22

54:22

Unlock the secrets to transforming early childhood education by focusing on the actions — not just the topics — that captivate young minds. Join me as I sit down with Heather Jackson, author of "Actions of Play," to explore how play schemas can revolutionize the way we approach learning. Discover how understanding the verbs that inspire children ca…

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Fall 2025 Series Preview: What we all can learn about reading, together 5:01

21d ago5:01

5:01

The Windward Institute invites all new and returning READ listeners for a five-part Fall 2025 series, What we all can learn about reading, together. This series brings together 20 guests including researchers and educators. We’ll dive into reading research, practice, and experience. This series is for everyone, whether you’re just starting to learn…

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Episode 41: Kathy Flynn-Somerville 52:37

29d ago52:37

52:37

In this latest episode of The Ripple Effect, Stephanie Romero sits down with longtime friend and educator Kathy Flynn-Somerville for a heartfelt conversation about purpose, resilience, and mindfulness. Kathy shares how a formative experience as a child led her to a lifelong career in special education and why creating an “equal playing field” for a…

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Episode 40: Christine Tapu 47:33

2M ago47:33

47:33

What happens when two lifelong friends and educators sit down to reflect on decades of shared experiences, growth, and purpose? In this heart-opening conversation, Dr. Stephanie Romero and Christine Tapu explore the power of education, resilience, and relationships that stand the test of time. Christine shares stories from her 30+ year career as a …

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Episode 39: Annamarie Fernyak 40:41

2M ago40:41

40:41

In this deeply personal and enlightening episode, host Stephanie Romero welcomes Annamarie Fernyak, a lifelong spiritual seeker, author, and mindfulness teacher, for a powerful conversation about the transformative path of awareness. Annamarie shares how her Catholic upbringing and early exposure to diverse world religions sparked a lifelong journe…

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Episode 38: Donald Brucker 1:03:37

3M ago1:03:37

1:03:37

In this heartfelt episode of The Ripple Effect, Stephanie Romero welcomes Don Brucker, a lifelong public servant whose path to becoming a fire marshal was deeply influenced by family legacy and meaningful community connections. Don shares how early memories with his grandfather and a desire to understand the "why" behind fire scenes sparked a lifel…

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Episode 37: Lovie Jackson Foster 45:20

3M ago45:20

45:20

In this deeply moving episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Stephanie Romero sits down with Dr. Lovie Jackson Foster—researcher, educator, and advocate—for an intimate conversation about trauma, healing, and the powerful role mindfulness can play in breaking intergenerational cycles of harm. Dr. Foster shares her personal and professional jour…

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Episode 36: Helen Stickney 44:20

4M ago44:20

44:20

In this moving episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero sits down with Helen Stickney—an experienced meditation guide, grief companion, and end-of-life doula—to explore the intersections of mindfulness, mortality, and healing. With over 40 years of meditation practice and a background in both hospice administration and green burial, H…

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Understanding Comprehension from Oral Language to Critical Thinking with Kate Cain, PhD 57:18

4M ago57:18

57:18

Kate Cain, PhD, joins the READ Podcast to explain the latest research on reading comprehension and shares practical, daily ways that teachers can promote critical literacy skills. Dr. Cain reflects on her research journey and expertise, exploring the multidimensional nature of reading comprehension and the role of oral language development in liter…

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Episode 35: Shawn Meredith 34:44

4M ago34:44

34:44

In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Dr. Stephanie Romero speaks with special guest Shawn Meredith about the transformative power of vulnerability, healing, and leadership shaped by lived experience. Shawn shares his powerful journey through childhood trauma, addiction, and incarceration, revealing how these painful experiences ultimately …

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Being Self-Determined with Steve Ober 23:17

5M ago23:17

23:17

In this episode of 'Advancing the Conversation,' Dr. Christi Carnahan and Dr. Kate Doyle from the University of Cincinnati's Special Education Department sit down with along with guest Steve and his parents Karen and Patrick. The discussion focuses on the role of self-determination in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental dis…

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Episode 34: Dinnie Goldring 53:42

4M ago53:42

53:42

In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero sits down with Dinnie Goldring—psychotherapist, mindfulness teacher, and former midwife—for a profound conversation about healing, presence, and transformation. They explore the power of embodied awareness, the wisdom gained through life transitions, and how spiritual and emotional grow…

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Understanding Self-Determination and Micro-Teaching with Dr. Steve Kroeger 27:54

5M ago27:54

27:54

The podcast episode from the University of Cincinnati's Special Education Department, hosted by Dr. Christi Carnahan and Dr. Kate Doyle with guest Dr. Steve Kroger discussing the concept of self-determination and its impact on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The discussion delves into practical examples and personal st…

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Preparing Generations of Teachers in the Science of Reading with Amy Murdoch, PhD 53:30

5M ago53:30

53:30

This LEAD on READ episode features Dr. Amy Murdoch, Assistant Dean of Reading Science at Mount St. Joseph University. Starting her career as a school psychologist, Dr. Murdoch has been a leader in reading education, driving systemic change and empowering teachers through the science of reading. In this episode, Dr. Murdoch discusses adopting a syst…

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Episode 33: Sheba Gittens 49:00

5M ago49:00

49:00

Join host Stephanie Romero in a heartfelt conversation with artist and activist Sheba Gittens as they explore collective healing, emergent strategy, and the power of dreaming new futures into being. Together, they reflect on community-building, radical imagination, and how vulnerability shapes the movements we long to see. Tune in for an inspiring …

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Using Communication to Unlock Self-Determination with Stephanie Bare 28:59

5M ago28:59

28:59

In this episode of 'Advancing the Conversation,' Dr. Christi Carnahan and Dr. Kate Doyle speak with speech-language pathologist Stephanie from the University of Cincinnati's Special Education Department to discuss the pivotal role of self-determination for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The conversation pivots around …

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Episode 32: Annie To 39:49

6M ago39:49

39:49

In this powerful episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with actress and educator Annie To, known for her role on HBO’s The Pitt. Annie shares her journey navigating identity, healing generational trauma, and finding strength in storytelling. Together, they explore how representation in media can shift cultural na…

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Goal Setting to Empower Self-Determination with Dr. Song Ju 18:12

6M ago18:12

18:12

In this episode of 'Advancing the Conversation,' Dr. Christi Carnahan and Dr. Kate Doyle explore the profound impact of self-determination in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The discussion includes Dr. Song Ju, a University of Cincinnati faculty member, who shares her journey and research focusing on self-…

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Interventions for Reading and Social Emotional Learning with Stephanie Al Otaiba, PhD 56:15

6M ago56:15

56:15

Dr. Stephanie Al Otaiba joins READ to share her expertise in literacy interventions, the impact of social-emotional development on learning, and the future of reading education research. A leading researcher and professor at Southern Methodist University, Dr. Al Otaiba has led and collaborated on key studies on literacy and learning disabilities. I…

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Episode 31: Dr. Danella Hafeman 42:02

6M ago42:02

42:02

In this warm and insightful episode of The Ripple Effect, Dr. Stephanie Romero hosts Dr. Danella Hafeman for a reflective conversation on mindfulness, mental health, and the intersection of personal practice with professional impact. The two reconnect over their shared roots in mindfulness training and discuss the evolution of Dr. Hafeman’s journey…

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Advancing Self-Determination with Sara Bitter, JD 27:05

6M ago27:05

27:05

In this episode of 'Advancing the Conversation,' Dr. Christi Carnahan and Dr. Kate Doyle speak with Sarah Bitter, a mother and disability rights advocate. The discussion focuses on the role of self-determination in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Sarah shares her personal journey, experiences with her chil…

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Episode 30: David Wible 42:33

7M ago42:33

42:33

In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Stephanie Romero sits down with David Wible for a conversation about career evolution, connection, and purpose. David shares his unconventional journey from heavy industrial manufacturing to e-commerce and digital media, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his path. They explore the power …

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Cultivating Self-Determination with Patrick Ober 36:19

7M ago36:19

36:19

In this episode of Advancing the Conversation, Dr. Christi Carnahan and Dr. Kate Doyle engage with Dr. Patrick Ober from the University of Cincinnati's Special Education Department. Dr. Ober shares his extensive journey in the field of disability rights and education, from his academic background to his role as Director of Programs and Operations a…

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How Science Informs Policy and Practice on Reading with Ola Ozernov-Palchik, PhD 51:36

7M ago51:36

51:36

Ola Ozernov-Palchik, PhD, joins READ to discuss her work in dyslexia, neuroscience, and early literacy policy. She explores the paradox of dyslexia—why early identification is critical yet often delayed—and how neuroimaging research uncovers the brain's role in reading development and challenges. In this episode, you'll learn: What neuroscience stu…

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Episode 29: Tim Van Ness 50:47

7M ago50:47

50:47

In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, host Stephanie Romero welcomes special guest Tim Van Ness to explore the theme of "welcoming." Tim shares his lifelong journey with mindfulness and meditation, rooted in his upbringing as the son of a Presbyterian minister and a Christian educator. He discusses how his background in music, education, an…

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Self-Determination for High School Students with Dr. Cadi Dart 18:01

7M ago18:01

18:01

In this episode, Dr. Christi Carnahan and Dr. Kate Doyle discuss the role of self-determination in supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They explore the definition of self-determination and its evolution over time. They also highlight the importance of teaching self-determination skills to students and the impact it h…

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The ABCs of Knowledge-Promoting Teaching Practices 54:31

8M ago54:31

54:31

The Windward Institute team joins READ Podcast host Danielle Gomez for an in-depth exploration of knowledge and reading comprehension. Colleen McGlynn, associate director of language arts, and Alison Leveque, content and implementation director, discuss the research supporting comprehension, the role of knowledge in reading, and how these insights …

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Episode 28: Dr. Jay Huguley 42:13

7M ago42:13

42:13

In this episode of The Ripple Effect with Dr. Stephanie Romero, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with Dr. Jay Huguley to discuss their collaborative work and the broader impact of his research. They explore themes of social justice, systemic change, and the power of community-driven solutions. Dr. Huguley shares insights from his experience, offering…

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Exploring Self-Determination with Mary Helen Richer 32:08

8M ago32:08

32:08

In this episode of 'Advancing the Conversation,' Dr. Christi Carnahan and Dr. Kate Doyle speak with special guest Mary Helen Richer, CEO of the Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati. The discussion centers around the importance of self-determination in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Mary Helen shares insight…

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Recasting the Spotlight on Knowledge and Comprehension with Sonia Cabell, PhD 50:04

8M ago50:04

50:04

This month on READ, we’re revisiting one of our most popular episodes featuring Dr. Sonia Cabell to highlight the vital role of knowledge in reading comprehension. In this conversation from episode 50, Dr. Cabell and Danielle discuss the integrated nature of reading comprehension, knowledge and writing. You will learn about the reciprocal nature be…

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Episode 27: Matt Price 54:31

8M ago54:31

54:31

In this engaging episode, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with Matt Price for a thought-provoking conversation about transformation, adaptability, and the power of new beginnings. From rebranding a business to embracing change with confidence, this discussion offers valuable insights for anyone navigating personal or professional shifts. Don’t miss …

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Exploring Self-Determination and Executive Functioning with Dr. Amie Duncan 25:25

8M ago25:25

25:25

In this episode of 'Advancing the Conversation,' Dr. Christi Carnahan and Dr. Kate Doyle from the University of Cincinnati's Special Education Department are joined by Ashley Barlow to welcome Dr. Amie Duncan, a clinical psychologist from Society Children's Hospital Medical Center. The discussion centers around self-determination, especially in sup…

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Episode 26: Larissa Evans 29:51

8M ago29:51

29:51

In this episode of The Ripple Effect with Stephanie Romero Ed.D, Stephanie and guest Larissa Evans delve into Larissa's professional practice and its impact on her life. Larissa shares insights into her career journey, emphasizing the value of mindfulness, self-awareness, and dedication to personal growth. The conversation explores themes of resili…

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Episode 79: Building a Blended PreK Model (with Machelle Scogin) 52:21

8M ago52:21

52:21

This episode explores the transformative blended pre-K program at Prosper Independent School District in Texas, championed by Michelle Scogin, Director of Early Childhood and Learning Services. Discover how this program successfully merges special and general education along with joy, wonder, and compassion. Machelle and her amazing team are commit…

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Empowering Through Self-Determination: Insights on Special Education with Amy Szymanski 18:10

9M ago18:10

18:10

In this episode, Dr. Christi Carnahan and Dr. Kate Doyle from the University of Cincinnati's Special Education Department are joined by Ashley Barlow to discuss the role of self-determination in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The guest, Amy Szymanski, shares her extensive experience of over 30 years in sp…

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Episode 25: JC Carter 38:33

9M ago38:33

38:33

In this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Stephanie Romero engages in a heartfelt conversation with JC Carter about the transformative power of mindfulness and meditation throughout different stages of life. JC reflects on beginning meditation as a child, exploring abstract concepts like infinite time and space, and later connecting to prayer, …

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5 Years of READ: Reflections and Predictions in SoR and Education 48:06

9M ago48:06

48:06

The READ Podcast celebrates its 5th anniversary in research, education, and advocacy with distinguished professor and researcher in literacy, Devin Kearns, PhD. A longtime friend and advisory board member of The Windward Institute, Dr. Kearns and host, Dr. Danielle Gomez, reflect on the evolution of the Science of Reading (SoR) and its impact on ed…

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The Role of Self-Determination in Special Education 23:10

9M ago23:10

23:10

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "Advance The Conversation," hosted by Dr. Christi Carnahan and Dr. Kate Doyle from the University of Cincinnati's Special Education Department. Together, they delve into the concept of self-determination and its significance in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This discus…

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Episode 24: Gaby Isturiz 41:24

10M ago41:24

41:24

In this episode of The Ripple Effect, Stephanie Romero, Ed.D., sits down with Gaby Istruiz, an accomplished entrepreneur and co-founder of several successful ventures, including the SaaS platform Curu. Together, they explore the intersections of entrepreneurship, community impact, and personal growth. Gaby shares her journey of innovation, overcomi…

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LEAD on READ: A Case Study for Change Management of Literacy Outcomes 49:29

10M ago49:29

49:29

Join co-hosts Danielle Gomez and Jamie Williamson as they interview Kelly Carvajal Hagemen for an episode of LEAD on READ. Kelly Carvajal Hagemen shares the story of the Seaford School District as the district transformed its literacy outcomes from an underperforming "focus school" to one of the highest achieving districts in the state of Delaware.…

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Episode 23: Sara Urbanic 39:58

10M ago39:58

39:58

This episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast features a conversation between Stephanie Romero and Sarah Urbanic, focusing on their long-standing collaboration. They discuss Sarah's significant contributions as a volunteer supporting their online community through Mighty Networks and her involvement over the past four years. The dialogue explores the i…

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Episode 78: We Could All Use the Science of JOY 21:03

11M ago21:03

21:03

I had an experience a few months ago that began with a fantastic workshop with one of my favorite schools, and *seemed* to end with a broken down, broken into truck. But the real ending came full circle when I found that what I had been teaching that early childhood team the day before, was *exactly* what I needed to remember in that moment. File t…

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Episode 22: Brandon Phillips 47:30

11M ago47:30

47:30

In this insightful episode of Awaken Pittsburgh's podcast, Executive Director Stephanie Romero sits down with Brandon Phillips, a licensed professional counselor, school counselor, and community cultivator. Together, they explore the importance of mental health in schools, strategies for empowering parents through community-based initiatives, and t…

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Episode 21: Britt Dorazio 45:59

11M ago45:59

45:59

Dr. Stephanie Romero and Britt Dorazio engage in a heartfelt conversation on The Ripple Effect podcast, where they explore the profound impact of kindness, mindfulness, and meditation. Britt shares her transformative journey with mindfulness, emphasizing how it has been a life-saving practice and discussing the importance of integrating these princ…

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Episode 77: Why Play? (With Rae Pica) 41:59

11M ago41:59

41:59

Rae Pica has been a fierce advocate for children and childhood for over 40 years. And during that time she’s written a whole bookshelf full of books on the topic. Today, she’s sharing her latest addition to that bookshelf, it came out just last week, Why Play?: How to Make Play an Essential Part of Early Education. In this newest book, Rae dives in…

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Factoring Fluency into Reading with Jan Hasbrouck, PhD 51:00

12M ago51:00

51:00

Jan Hasbrouck, PhD, joins READ to discuss the complexities of fluency, including its components and misconceptions, and how it relates to word reading and comprehension. Dr. Hasbrouck emphasizes the importance of effective assessment, instruction, and intervention to support struggling readers at all grade levels. In this episode, you will learn ab…

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Episode 20: Alex Lisowski 35:03

12M ago35:03

35:03

In this episode of "The Ripple Effect Podcast," Stephanie and Alex Lisowski reflect on the role of appreciation and mindfulness in personal and professional growth. Alex shares his journey into mindfulness, which began after the loss of his mother, and how practices like yoga and meditation helped him process trauma and anxiety. The discussion high…