Best Brian J Stephens Podcasts (2025)

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Inverting the Future: What Could Destroy Public Schools 36:16

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8d ago36:16

36:16

Most conversations about public education focus on how to improve it. In this episode, we flip the question through a process called inverting: instead of asking what schools must do to succeed, we ask what could destroy them. From financial fragility and political weaponization to media attacks, teacher demoralization, and the erosion of community…

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Navigating the Competition: How Public Schools in Newark Stay Ahead 42:59

22d ago42:59

42:59

With school choice here to stay, public school districts must evolve to embrace the reality of competition. Rochanda Jackson, Executive Director of the Office of Policy, Planning, Evaluation, and Testing at the Newark Board of Education, joins to discuss how her district has remained at the forefront. From leveraging the accountability of standardi…

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Addressing Comments on Caissa K12's New York Times Feature 30:49

1M ago30:49

30:49

Following Caissa K12’s recent feature in The New York Times, Brian sits down to directly respond to some of the reactions and comments it sparked. Joined by producer Caroline Christian, he addresses common misconceptions about public school districts, highlights the double standards they often face, and discusses the challenges of operating on an u…

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A Future Without Public Education 20:14

1M ago20:14

20:14

What happens when a society turns its back on public education? In this episode, we look at education’s past and present to uncover the devastating consequences cultures face when public education systems are dismantled or neglected. The loss of education doesn’t just slow progress and economic growth; it threatens the very foundation of a function…

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The History That’s Shaping Tomorrow’s Schools 28:49

2M ago28:49

28:49

What can the history of public education teach us about its future? Across centuries and civilizations, public education has always played a central role in shaping societies and developing productive citizens. Learn how this global evolution defined the system we have today, and why understanding the importance of public education is vital in navi…

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Public Schools Must Choose To Compete 20:06

2M ago20:06

20:06

The future of public education depends on our willingness to face reality: traditional public schools are in a competition, whether they want to be or not. In this episode, explore why districts must choose to compete, and how their communities must rise to the challenge and support them. The decline of access to free, high-quality public education…

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What School Choice Means in Florida: Lessons for District Leaders Nationwide 44:32

2M ago44:32

44:32

School choice legislation aims to create competition, but how can it be fair when public schools play by different rules? Scott Howat, the Chief Communications Officer of Orange County Public Schools, joins to discuss the financial impact of universal vouchers, the importance of accountability with taxpayer dollars, and why school choice isn’t the …

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Navigating The Intersection of AI & Education 15:37

2M ago15:37

15:37

AI’s relevancy has increased drastically in recent years, but is it education’s cornerstone or its crutch? This episode explores the benefits and consequences of AI in the classroom, as well as the long term repercussions on students of a growing digital divide. Listen in to gain insights related to mitigating these challenges.…

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How Public Schools Took On The Statehouse 42:01

2M ago42:01

42:01

Public education supporters across the nation have watched one community’s battle against unfair state legislation, a battle led by Indianapolis Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Aleesia Johnson. In this episode, featuring guest host Paige Walkup, Dr. Johnson shares how she fought a bill that aimed to dismantle the state’s public school districts. …

1
Why Public School Districts Are Suing Social Media Companies 28:08

2M ago28:08

28:08

Across the country, public school districts are taking tech giants like Meta and TikTok to court, blaming them for a mental health crisis unfolding in America's classrooms. This episode dives into the details behind local school district’s lawsuits against today’s largest social media platforms, citing their addictive properties as the cause of dec…

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Should Public School Districts Outsource? 25:43

3M ago25:43

25:43

As more public schools face budget shortfalls, many districts are considering outsourcing school services to cut costs, but is it the right move? This episode clarifies the conversation around outsourcing in public school districts, covering common reasons for outsourcing, when it can be effective, and when it may be risky. Through real-world examp…

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What Every Public School Leader Needs to Know About DEI 24:13

3M ago24:13

24:13

The Department of Education's decision to eliminate DEI initiatives will have lasting effects on public school districts. This episode dives into the legal landscape surrounding public education and DEI by breaking down what is currently permitted, which practices face increasing restrictions, and the potential consequences for districts that do no…

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The Impact of Immigration Policies on Student Attendance 23:51

3M ago23:51

23:51

This episode examines how immigration enforcement and recent ICE raids are impacting public school attendance and dismantling safe spaces for students. It explores the decline in attendance among undocumented students, widespread walkouts, and the real-world consequences of these policy changes. Listen to learn what some schools are doing to protec…

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MSCS Board Member Tamarques Porter on District Success 43:47

3M ago43:47

43:47

This episode features a candid conversation with Memphis-Shelby County Schools board member Tamarques Porter, who shares his perspective on the district’s success and potential challenges. The discussion covers the heated debate around school closures and building innovation, the dismissal of the former superintendent, and the potential for a state…

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Can Public Schools Display The Ten Commandments? 7:49

3M ago7:49

7:49

This episode dives into the legal and legislative battle over religious displays in U.S. public school classrooms. We unpack why the Ten Commandments were originally banned, explore the efforts to reverse that decision in prominent Supreme Court cases like Stone v. Graham, and examine what’s at stake for public school districts nationwide. You’ll a…

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Dana Rubin: 'Throughout history, women have been changing the world with their voices', curator and author of Speaking While Female 1:03:03

3M ago1:03:03

1:03:03

In March, I chatted to speech collector Dana Rubin for Women's History Month (there have been delays releasing the episode - my apologies, Dana). It's a great chat with a kindred spirit. Dana has created the Speaking While Female speech bank that showcases speeches by women across history and around the world. She also edited the book Speaking Whil…

1
Is Texas Trying To Destroy Public Schools? 19:24

3M ago19:24

19:24

Learn who benefits and who gets left behind in the education budget recently passed by the Texas Legislature. From promised teacher raises for only 50% of staff to missed opportunities for traditional public schools, the universal voucher program in Texas raises questions about its impact and the future. With an increasing number of traditional pub…

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Are Vouchers Designed To Destroy Public Schools? 17:47

3M ago17:47

17:47

School choice is gaining momentum across the country, with initiatives like vouchers, education savings accounts, and charter school expansions moving quickly through state and federal legislatures. Supporters say these programs empower parents and promote healthy competition, but the real impact on public schools is more complicated. In this episo…

1
Supreme Court Ruling On The ADA & The Impact On Public Schools 11:01

4M ago11:01

11:01

A recent Supreme Court decision has reshaped how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 is applied— and public school districts across the country will feel the impact. In this episode, we break down what the ruling means, why it matters, and how it raises the legal standards schools must meet in serving students with disabilities. Throu…

1
'The bells of St Stephen's, tolling for Mum' — eulogy for Margaret Wilson by Tony Wilson, Melbourne, 2025 23:37

4M ago23:37

23:37

My mother, Margaret Joan Wilson died on the 20th of April 2025 while I was away in Budapest. It was a big shock and a terrible day. We had a private family ceremony on 7th May and a more public celebration of life on the 8th. This speech was delivered at the second event. The text and video of the eulogy is up at Speakola newsletter and in the Spea…

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PART 2: Impact of the Department of Education on Public Schools 28:41

5M ago28:41

28:41

We are continuing the conversation about the impact and future of the Department of Education. This is the second part to Public Education Unfiltered’s episode on the potential ED shutdown. Discover the misplaced blame that often gets cast on the wrong groups and how critics are focusing on the wrong issues. Hear why we need to be rewarding results…

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PART 1: Impact of the Department of Education on Public Schools 33:51

5M ago33:51

33:51

What actually is the department of education? A question many are asking recently, so learn what the department of education does and does not do, along with what the impacts of its “shutdown” will be. In the face of speculation and fear, find out what all of this means for public school districts across the country and what the future may look lik…

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'Bob, you're dead. Do you want a state funeral?' — John Safran's eulogy for Father Bob Maguire, May 2023, Melbourne, Australia 1:13:48

5M ago1:13:48

1:13:48

Author & documentary maker John Safran talks in this episode about his eulogy for 'the People's Priest', Father Bob Maguire at St Patrick's Cathedral Melbourne in May 2023. He also discusses his latest book 'Squat' about his week squatting at Kaye West's LA Mansion and his creative life as Australia's best known 'valid troll' (to use John's own exp…

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Decide and Defend: The Strategy Behind Making the Call 20:18

6M ago20:18

20:18

Ever feel stuck between options or overwhelmed by competing priorities? You’re not alone. This episode will give you a toolkit for making decisions. Dive into the mindsets that help leaders make tough calls. Unpack what it means to make the right choice, own it with conviction and have the courage to make adjustments when necessary.…

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How To Fund The Future Of Public Schools 42:27

6M ago42:27

42:27

Want strategies for budgeting and competing in a changing landscape? In this episode, learn more about how public school districts face mounting financial pressures and fierce competition from alternative schooling models. Inspired by the key themes in A Level Playing Field: Strategies To Ensure Public Schools' Success, discover actionable insights…

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'Elon Musk will become the self appointed CEO of Mars' — Sammy J in Melbourne International Comedy Festival Great Debate, 2018 1:04:11

6M ago1:04:11

1:04:11

Comedian Sammy J is a Melbourne International Comedy Festival Great Debate regular. He is the interviewee for this first episode of 2025 and the feature speech is his opening argument for the negative team in 2018, 'That we must go to Mars'. Sammy J's currently touring show is 'The Kangaroo Effect' which is on in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Per…

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209. Is your heart where it needs to be?- Kindling Fire Podcast- Troy Mangum 36:25

6M ago36:25

36:25

First Episode of 2025: “Tell of all His wondrous works.” — Psalm 105:2In this special episode, I’m sharing personal testimonies of God’s faithfulness to encourage and strengthen your walk with Him.Here’s what I’ll be talking about:* The Miracle of Caleb Would Go — Three Years In: A reflection on God’s hand in this ongoing journey.* Marriage and Mis…

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Webinar: National Immigration Policy Impacts Student Attendance 36:57

6M ago36:57

36:57

This national poll gauges parents' attitudes on attendance and immigration policy changes, giving public school district leaders the tools they need to make the best decisions for their communities. Brian Stephens breaks down the top-line findings from the poll, and offers expert opinion on next steps for public schools. Watch the full recording he…

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Public Schools Can’t Reach Their Goals 37:59

7M ago37:59

37:59

Discover effective goal-setting strategies designed to drive success. Hear real-world examples of how public school districts can apply SMART goals to achieve meaningful results in both short- and long-term initiatives. While districts need the freedom to define their own success, rigid funding models and standardized expectations often create barr…

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Student Recruitment: Higher Education VS. K-12 School Districts 35:04

7M ago35:04

35:04

How Can K-12 Schools Improve Student Recruitment? Insights from Orange County Public Schools' James Gregory. In this episode, James Gregory from Orange County Public Schools, FL, shares expert insights on student recruitment strategies, alongside host Brian Stephens. Break down the key similarities and differences between recruiting for higher educ…

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Round Rock ISD's Dianne Foletto discusses their different tactics to bring more students. 31:56

7M ago31:56

31:56

Meet Dianne Foletto, Associate Director of Marketing and Strategic Communications with Round Rock ISD! She talks about what they're doing in their district to fight back against competition and train their staff to view families as customers.By Brian J. Stephens

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Interview with CCO, Scott Howat, on how they passed a ballot initiative to help fund the district! 31:30

7M ago31:30

31:30

Orange County Public School's Chief Communicators Officer explains how they won a one-mill ad valorem property tax ballot initiative that helped fund the district. With this funding, they've been able to increase their graduation rate and have an art teacher in each school.By Brian J. Stephens

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The Speakola podcast returns & Tony's film hits cinemas (March 13-17th) 7:15

7M ago7:15

7:15

A brief update confirming that the podcast will resume in March 2025. Episodes have already been recorded with Sammy J (on comedy debates), John Safran (eulogy for Father Bob Maguire) and Dana Rubin (speech collector, Speaking While Female). I'm also announcing the release of our documentary 'Ange & The Boss - Puskas in Australia'. After selling ou…

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Shaping the Future: Dr. Roderick Richmond on Leading MSCS Forward 44:35

7M ago44:35

44:35

Brian Stephens sits down with Superintendent Dr. Roderick Richmond for an in-depth conversation about the future of Memphis-Shelby County Schools. Dr. Richmond shares his vision for driving success across the district, tackling key issues like school choice, voucher programs, student enrollment, and attendance. With MSCS at a pivotal moment, this d…

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208. Repost-Overcome Dad Guilt- Troy Mangum- Kindling Fire Podcast 14:42

9M ago14:42

14:42

I believe “Dad Guilt” is one of the main reasons for men’s disengagement & passivity in the family as well as sidestepping any type of spiritual leadership at home. Learn how you can overcome it and re-engage in your family.On this podcast, you’ll learn- What 1Cor. 11:4 meant when it warned Men not to pray with their head covered- How King David’s …

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'The greatest man I ever knew' — Andrew Moran's eulogy for father Lawrence Moran, Melbourne 2023 54:38

1+ y ago54:38

54:38

Since 2006, Andrew Moran has been a baritone with Opera Australia in Sydney. When he visited Melbourne as part of a touring production of Puccini's Tosca, Tony spoke to him about a lovely eulogy he delivered for his father, Lawrie Moran, the man who inspired him to sing, in Surrey Hills, Melbourne, on 9 November 2023. You can read and listen to the…

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507: Unlocking Business Succession: The Power of ESOPs with Keith Butcher 24:48

1+ y ago24:48

24:48

In an interview with Jason Hartman, Keith Butcher, founder of Butcher Joseph, discusses business succession and Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). With many business owners approaching retirement, ESOPs offer a tax-efficient way to transition ownership to employees. This model enhances employee retention and loyalty, providing long-term retire…

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207. My Father's Funeral- Troy Mangum- Kindling Fire Podcast 42:41

1+ y ago42:41

42:41

On this podcast, I share excerpts from my father’s funeral to honor him as a Man of God he was.His testimony was - ‘through faith….(his) weakness was turned to strength’ Heb 11:32,34-I share the four life lessons I learned from my Dad-His pastor shares how my Dad was a servant leader-A friend and someone he mentored shares how as Christians, we're …

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206. Carefree in the Care of God- Troy Mangum- Kindling Fire Podcast 42:06

1+ y ago42:06

42:06

Learn how to be Carefree in the Care of GodOn this podcast, I go over lessons learned from George Mueler, Reese Howell, and Hudson Taylor about walking by faith and being carefree.Learn >1-The difference between following God from your Heart vs your Mind2-How not to be weighed down by the anxieties of life3- How to grow your Faith- based on George …

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Year 9s can smell fear — Declan Fay's tips and stories about speaking in schools, Eltham High Valedictory, 2023 1:40:22

1+ y ago1:40:22

1:40:22

Comedy writer Declan Fay is Tony's Speakola guest. Declan was the co-writer of Ronny Chieng International Student and the hilarious Crossbread podcast, about a Christian rap duo who hit the big time, but don't happen to be Christians (stars Megan Washington and Chris Ryan). Declan was head writer for this year's AACTA Awards, and has been part of w…

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New Episode: Latest Poll Results! 21:12

1+ y ago21:12

21:12

In our latest episode, Brian shares our latest poll results. We compared responses to previous polls and focus in some key issues our community is facing such as: How people feel about the Mid South The perception of the MPD People's views on recalling a judge Learn more at Greater901.comBy Brian J. Stephens & Chance Carlisle

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'Laughter is the closest distance' — Jules Schiller's tips for the Best Man speech, Tony and Kate's wedding, 2003 1:03:08

1+ y ago1:03:08

1:03:08

The cohost of ABC breakfast radio in Adelaide, Jules Schiller delivered a beautiful best man speech for his old comedy partner Tony Moclair when he married Kate in 2003. It's a Speakola favourite, and in this episode, Jules comes on in the aftermatch of a Married at First Sight best man speech abomination to talk about what makes a great best man s…

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Sen. Brent Taylor Talks with The Greater 901 Initiative: Episode 8 1:07:07

1+ y ago1:07:07

1:07:07

In our most recent podcast episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with State Senator Brent Taylor to delve into his latest endeavors aimed at improving public safety. During our conversation with Senator Taylor, we explored several significant bills he has proposed. Learn more at Greater901.com…

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Best Speeches of 2023 — Tony presents 'The Speakolies' with Dylan Bird on The Grapevine, 3RRR 38:24

2y ago38:24

38:24

For the sixth year running, Tony awards his speeches of the year on Triple R's 'The Grapevine' with Dylan Bird. This year, no Kulya who has moved on from the show after 13 years. Congrats Kulya. Thank you to Triple R for the audio. Dylan will be back in 2024 with a new show called Future Perfect. Join Speakola's mailing list and Substack Join Tony'…

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506: Navigating the Storm: A CEO's Tale of Business Triumph in Turbulent Times 20:45

2y ago20:45

20:45

Jason interviews Johnny Serpilla, former President of Camping World, about his book, "Life is Hard, but I'll be Okay", and his experiences in leadership and business. Johnny emphasizes the importance of approaching life with one heart and mind, the role of gratitude in leadership, and the impact of personal problems on work. Johnny also discusses t…

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The art of the MC — Julia Zemiro and Brian Nankervis talk about hosting and MCing 1:09:49

2y ago1:09:49

1:09:49

For 15 seasons and 181 episodes, Julia Zemiro and Brian Nankervis have been the dual hosts of 'Rockwiz', bringing their wit, charm and performance energy to Australia's legendary music quiz show. In this episode Tony chats to them about what makes a good MC, and they share tips and yarns from several decades of hosting big events. In the second hal…

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What's next: Operation Blue Guardian Episode 7 1:02:12

2y ago1:02:12

1:02:12

At The Greater 901 Initiative, we've been diligently working behind the scenes to shape the future and tackle the challenges our community faces. In our latest podcast, we delve into key topics that are shaping our city's landscape. View our Blue Guardian plan on our website here: https://greater901.com/get-educated#blue-gaurdian View Judge Carter’…

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205. Priesthood of all believers- lessons from the Quakers- Kindling Fire -Troy Mangum 33:57

2y ago33:57

33:57

On this podcast, I share the following lessons from the Quakers1- Everybody can contribute more than you think2- Self awareness & valuing the group obove your selfish ambitions is critical 3- Belief that God want ls to be in the driver seat re: community growth & teaching4- Inserting yourself into every growth process will limit the growth of the g…

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September Surprise on the Mayors Race Episode 4 42:32

2y ago42:32

42:32

Watch our next episode and last update on our Mayoral Tracking Poll! NEXT WEEK: we will be taking questions on the City of Memphis elections. Email us your questions at [email protected] or send us a message on facebook. https://www.facebook.com/greater901initiative www.greater901.com Learn more at Greater901.com…

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Early Voting Has Started, How are the votes looking? Episode 5 37:00

2y ago37:00

37:00

Here what Brian J. Stephens and Chance Carlisle have to say about the current state of elections in Memphis. Email us your questions at [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/greater901initiative www.greater901.com Learn more at Greater901.comBy Brian J. Stephens & Chance Carlisle