Each show invites a guest to take a seat at the virtual table to have a conversation about their area of expertise. It also grants viewers and listeners an opportunity to have a seat at the table where they would not normally be able to sit to learn and grow. The show themes center around education, technology & entrepreneurship.

Welcome to "A Seat at the Table" Podcast - Episode 007, where host Wiley Brazier, V invites educational leader and founder of EduGladiators, Marlena Gross-Taylor, to the table. Join them as they delve into the world of educational leadership, discussing the critical need for leaders to prioritize instructional leadership, engage with parents, and find balance in their roles and responsibilities.

In this episode, Marlena Gross-Taylor shares her wealth of experience as a district leader in schools, emphasizing the importance of knowing one's strengths and investing in professional development for instructional tools. She stresses the need for schools to understand the generational differences in parent engagement, offering strategies such as the use of digital newsletters, social media platforms, and video content to effectively engage parents and students. The discussion also touches upon the universal nature of children's needs in different school settings and how educators can create a meaningful environment for children.

As the conversation unfolds, Marlena shares her insights on finding balance in educational leadership roles, advocating for the empowerment of assistant principals, teachers, and staff to handle certain tasks. She offers strategies for creating white space in the calendar for self-development and visioning, highlighting the importance of avoiding the unrealistic expectation for principals to be everything to everyone.

The episode also delves into personal preferences, with discussions about a perfect day and desired abilities or qualities. Marlena shares her personal story, providing a glimpse into her passion for education and her vision for EduGladiators, a platform focused on advocacy for the profession, branding in schools, and the power of leveraging social media to share positive stories of achievements in education.

Throughout the episode, Marlena Gross-Taylor and Wiley Brazier, V engage in a dynamic and informative exchange, touching on topics such as the Association of Middle Level Educators (AMLE), the importance of networking and sharing experiences, and the impact of becoming a connected leader to influence personal, professional, and school growth.

This episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and anyone passionate about the field of education. Join Wiley Brazier, V and their guest Marlena Gross-Taylor for a thought-provoking and insightful discussion on "A Seat at the Table" Podcast, Episode 007.

Welcome to A Seat at the Table Podcast, where meaningful conversations about education and digital citizenship take center stage. In Episode 006, titled "The Dynamic Duo w/ Marialice & Curran," hosts Wiley Brazier and V invite guests Marialice and Curran to the table for a thought-provoking discussion.

The episode kicks off with Marialice highlighting the importance of teaching young people the rules of the road, both in physical and digital contexts. The hosts and guests all agree that a community effort is necessary to guide children and protect against things like bullying and cyberbullying. This leads to a deep dive into the iCitizen project, which Marialice describes as an initiative born out of cyberbullying and suicide cases at her university. The project aims to empower students to act as responsible digital citizens, and the hosts express interest in making the syllabus and related content accessible to a wider audience.

As the conversation turns personal, Wiley asks Curran about a quality or ability he would like to have, to which Curran responds with a desire to cure the world water crisis. Throughout the episode, Marialice emphasizes the need for using technology for good and making a positive impact both inside and outside the classroom. The hosts, especially Wiley, are keen on advice about using technology and digital citizenship.

Marialice stresses that teaching digital citizenship is everyone's responsibility and emphasizes the importance of connected learning and global collaboration. The guests mention resources such as Empatico, Skype in the classroom, and Flipgrid for connecting with others globally. Additionally, they discuss upcoming digital citizenship courses and personalized professional development for districts.

The importance of involving parents in digital citizenship efforts is highlighted, and Marialice and her son Curran emphasize the need for an online 'neighborhood watch.' They also discuss their joint Twitter account as an example of modeling safe and responsible online behavior.

The episode delves into the positive and proactive approach towards teaching digital citizenship, focusing on what students should do rather than what they shouldn't do in terms of tech policies. The concept of a digital footprint is discussed, highlighting the idea of online actions being permanently recorded.

Marialice and Curran share inspiring stories of students using technology to solve local and global problems, ranging from fundraising for toilets for the homeless to advocating against plastic bag use in Houston. They discuss their involvement in various initiatives related to digital citizenship, including a summit, a certification program, and working with kids. The episode wraps up with a heartwarming story about connecting with kids in Nigeria through a global read-aloud program and sharing books and educational resources with them.

With fascinating insights and actionable advice, this episode of A Seat at the Table Podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of digital citizenship and its impact on students and communities. Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of the power of technology for good and the importance of nurturing responsible digital citizens.

To learn more about the meaningful work of Marialice and Curran, and to stay updated on digital citizenship resources and initiatives, don't miss this enlightening episode of A Seat at the Table Podcast.

Keep up with the hosts and guests on social media and tune in for more impactful discussions in the world of education and digital citizenship

In this episode of "A Seat at the Table" podcast, titled "Code Equity with Tara Linney," host Wiley Brazier, V engages in an insightful conversation with award-winning educational technology coach and author, Tara Linney. As they delve into the pressing issue of gender equity in coding and STEM education, they also explore the significance of coding in the modern world and its impact on future employment opportunities.

The episode kicks off with a playful series of questions, with Wiley and V asking Tara about her ideal day, her desired abilities, and her future goals. Tara shares her perfect day, which includes witnessing Eureka moments in her work and enjoying some peaceful moments at the beach, setting a serene and positive tone for the episode.

As the conversation continues, Tara reflects on her desire for a 36-hour day or improved multitasking abilities. She also shares her aspirations, including learning French, traveling to all 7 continents, and writing 2 more books. A particularly memorable moment arises when Tara discusses her humorous language learning experience using Duolingo, adding a touch of lightheartedness to the dialogue.

The crux of the episode emerges as Tara delves into the importance of gender equity in the educational realm, particularly in relation to coding and computer programming. She provides invaluable insights into the gender disparity within coding clubs and the urgent need to create equitable learning environments for students, especially girls. Furthermore, Tara emphasizes the role of coding in fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, crucial for preparing students for a digitized economy.

The conversation takes an international turn as Tara discusses the differences in innovation and technology between Singapore and the US, shedding light on the fascinating interplay of art, technology, and coding in Singapore. Additionally, she shares valuable resources for sparking girls' interest in coding, such as "Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls" and "Hello Ruby," providing educators and parents with tangible strategies to engage young learners.

Throughout the episode, Wiley Brazier, V exhibits a deep commitment to promoting diversity in coding and STEM fields, echoing the importance of Tara's work in achieving gender equity in teaching programming. Listeners are also informed about Tara's upcoming book, "Code Equity: Keying Girls into Coding," available for preorder on Amazon, further enriching the conversation with actionable resources for educators, administrators, and pre-service teachers.

Overall, "Code Equity with Tara Linney" provides an insightful and inspiring exploration of the evolving landscape of coding education, the imperative of gender equity, and the power of technology to shape the future. It serves as an essential listen for educators, parents, and anyone passionate about fostering inclusive and dynamic learning environments.

Stay tuned for an enriching and transformative episode of "A Seat at the Table" podcast, where diverse voices come together to enrich, empower, and educate.

In Episode 004 of "A Seat at the Table" podcast, the hosts Wiley Brazier V and special guest Desiree Alexander, PhD, delve into the riveting topic of personal branding in the worlds of education, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Desiree Alexander, an esteemed educator and CEO of Educator Alexander Consulting LLC, brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. As a multi-certified professional, including being a Google certified trainer, Google Innovator, Apple Teacher 2016, and Microsoft Innovative Educator Master Trainer, Desiree is uniquely positioned to provide valuable insights into the art of personal branding.

The episode kicks off with Wiley and Desiree discussing the crucial role of branding in marketing oneself or one's business. Desiree shares her personal journey in consulting and provides an insider's view on the process of developing her brand "Educator Alexander." She outlines the critical steps she took, including asking serious questions and establishing an LLC, to create a distinctive and effective brand, showcasing the importance of meticulous planning and strategic decision-making.

Throughout the episode, Desiree highlights various aspects of branding, from the significance of carrying traditional business cards to the importance of trademarking a brand name and logo for business purposes. She also emphasizes the necessity of protecting digital resources, offering practical advice on using tools like Adobe DC to password-protect PDFs and Google Drive to limit sharing and prevent copying.

In a candid and personal segment, Desiree shares her daily routine, her preferences, and even her thought-provoking hypothetical wishes. As the conversation unfolds, she stresses the importance of controlling one's message, worth, and public image while also delving into the significance of creating a logo and branding essence. She discusses how to approach the creation of a logo, recommending platforms such as Fiverr to engage professional services.

Wiley and Desiree also explore the significance of a professional online presence in the digital age, touching on the necessity of having a website and emphasizing the continued importance of traditional business cards. Desiree's valuable counsel on the topic includes recommendations for professional printing services and the importance of building and maintaining a compelling web presence.

In the latter part of the episode, Desiree shares her personal story of resilience in the face of challenges, echoing the themes of perseverance and determination that are also central to her branding expertise. She offers invaluable guidance on the process of branding oneself, emphasizing the need to invest time and effort and reach out to resources for support.

Listeners are not only treated to a wealth of practical advice and wisdom on branding but also gain valuable insights into the personal experiences and demeanor of the esteemed guest. Desiree's engaging presence and Wiley's insightful questions combine to make this episode an enriching and thought-provoking exploration of the world of personal branding.

Join Wiley Brazier V and Desiree Alexander, PhD, in this illuminating episode of "A Seat at the Table" as they unravel the intricacies of personal branding and empower listeners with the knowledge and inspiration necessary to forge their own distinctive brand in the ever-evolving landscape of education, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Welcome to "A Seat At The Table" podcast, where meaningful conversations take center stage. In this episode, titled "Be A Louisiana Teacher of the Year with Kimberly Eckert," our hosts Wiley Brazier and V are joined by Kimberly Eckert, the 2018 Louisiana Teacher of the Year. As a dedicated educator and advocate for the teaching profession, Kimberly shares her insights and experiences that shed light on the impactful work of educators.

During the episode, Kimberly discusses the "be a teacher" initiative, which aims to attract high school and college students to teaching as a career through social media, billboards, and media commercials. She advocates for the immense impact and dynamic nature of the teaching profession, encouraging aspiring educators to consider a career in Louisiana.

As the conversation unfolds, Kimberly provides valuable advice to new teachers, emphasizing the importance of patience, humor, and seeking support from fellow educators. She highlights the continuous learning and personal growth that comes with being an educator, fostering an environment of self-improvement and change.

The hosts delve into Kimberly's personal aspirations, learning about her desire to play the guitar and her adventurous spirit, as she expresses interest in traveling to Morocco and even climbing Mount Everest. Additionally, Kimberly shares her passion for inspiring others to pursue teaching while aiming to elevate the prestige of the profession.

Throughout the episode, Kimberly also provides insights into the perks and challenges of being the Louisiana Teacher of the Year, speaking about her advocacy work, and her experiences visiting Salman Khan's brick and mortar school. She also recounts an impactful story about connecting with a student through their shared interest in "Lord of the Rings."

This episode serves as an inspiring and eye-opening conversation that highlights the unyielding dedication of educators and the profound impact they have on the future generation.

Tune in to "A Seat At The Table" to gain an exclusive glimpse into the world of education and the remarkable contributions of Kimberly Eckert, Louisiana's Teacher of the Year.

Welcome to "A Seat at the Table Podcast." In this episode, titled "Get Your EduMatch On!" we are honored to have the highly accomplished Sarah Thomas, PhD., as our guest. Sarah Thomas is a regional Technology Coordinator with Prince George's County Public Schools, a Google certified innovator, Google education trainer, and the founder of the EduMatch project.

Host Wiley Brazier, V, dives into an engaging conversation with Sarah. The episode kicks off with Sarah sharing a gripping anecdote about her experience during the great earthquake that shook the DC/Maryland/Virginia area in 2011, setting the stage for the importance of connecting and storytelling.

Sarah speaks about her journey and the origins of EduMatch, a grassroots organization that connects educators based on common interests, reaching over 30,000 people globally. The project has published three collaborative books, where Sarah shares invaluable insights about the books available on the EduMatch website, emphasizing their impact in the education community.

The conversation delves into the various initiatives led by Sarah, including Edcamp Edgematch, a forward-looking approach to education events and the pioneering "Tweet and Talk" video panel and Twitter chat, offering a platform for educators to come together and discuss key topics. This engaging conversation showcases the projects Sarah has spearheaded, along with her exceptional work and impact in the education and technology realm.

In this episode, Wiley Brazier, V, and Sarah Thomas, PhD., explore the intricacies of managing multiple projects, social media presence, and Sarah's personal aspirations, leading to an insightful conversation on time management and personal development.

This episode captivates audiences with Sarah's fascinating personal journey, her impactful work in education, and her vision for the future. Listeners are treated to a wealth of wisdom and practical advice on integrating technology and education, personal growth, and the invaluable power of connecting with others in the profession.

Join us for this illuminating conversation, as Sarah Thomas, PhD., provides an insider's perspective on the EduMatch project and her remarkable journey in education and technology.

Join host Wiley Brazier, V as he welcomes the remarkable Abbey Futrell to the first episode of "A Seat at the Table" podcast. Abbey, a digital innovation coach at North Carolina State University's Friday Institute for Educational Innovation, shares her insights and experiences in the field of education and technology.

In this engaging episode, Abbey discusses the transformative work being done at the Friday Institute, the mission of Future Ready, and the importance of personalized learning in this digital age. With her warm and genuine storytelling, she also provides valuable advice to educators and administrators on integrating technology in the classroom.

Wiley and Abbey's conversation takes a personal turn as Abbey shares her roots from a small town in Northeastern North Carolina, giving listeners a glimpse into her journey and experiences as an educator.

As the episode progresses, Abbey delights the audience with a heartwarming and relatable story from her early years as a teacher, offering humor and insight into the close relationships between educators and students.

Listeners are treated to an honest and uplifting exchange, filled with wisdom, laughter, and meaningful moments that highlight the passion and dedication of educators like Abbey.

Tune in to this inaugural episode for a seat at the table with Wiley and Abbey, and immerse yourself in a compelling conversation that celebrates the power of education and the joy of learning.

Don't miss out on this engaging and inspiring episode, providing an intimate look into the world of education, technology, and the impact one remarkable individual can have on the lives of students and fellow educators.