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PODCAST

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators

Jeff Utecht & Tricia Friedman

Shifting Schools is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the latest trends, strategies, and tools in K-12 education. Hosted by educators Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman, the podcast provides a platform for teachers, administrators, and education thought leaders to share their experiences and insights on how to improve teaching and learning. From innovative approaches in classroom management to leveraging technology for personalized learning, Shifting Schools tackles the most pressing issues

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All Episodes

15:32

Billy Ray on Writing Hope in Dark Times, and Building...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/03/22

What does it take to write a story that faces darkness without surrendering to it? In this episode, Tricia speaks with acclaimed screenwriter Billy Ray about his move into YA fiction with Burn the Water, a future-set story shaped by Shakespeare, political urgency, and a deep belief in young people's capacity to lead us forward. Their conversation explores community, imagination, hope, and the discipline of creating when the world feels bleak. Billy also offers a sharp look at his writing process,

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19:41

Why Kids Need Stories About Belonging and Friendship...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/03/16

What can a cheetah and a rescue dog teach us about trust, friendship, and belonging? In this episode, Tricia Friedman sits down with bestselling author Jasmine Warga to talk about her newest book and the powerful themes at its heart: vulnerability, unlikely friendships, and the courage it takes to let someone truly see you. Inspired by a real program in zoos where rescue dogs are paired with anxious cheetahs, Warga's story explores how connection can help both animals—and humans—feel less alone

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24:20

Tui T. Sutherland on Creativity, World-Building,...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/03/09

In this episode, we sit down with Tui T. Sutherland, bestselling author of the Wings of Fire series, for a rich conversation about creativity, writing, world-building, empathy, and storytelling for young readers. Tui shares how play, curiosity, and even dogs can support focus and imagination, why world-building starts with better questions, and how writers can balance community feedback with their own creative vision. She also reflects on the role of empathy, diversity, and self-exploration in

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10:23

Dream Big, Start Small: A Conversation with Peter H....

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/03/03

In this episode, we sit down with beloved children's book author and illustrator Peter H. Reynolds to explore how educators can ignite creativity and self-discovery in young learners. Peter shares why a single question can transform how we teach, and why imagination and dreaming big aren't luxuries but essentials. What We Cover: How teachers activate creativity through authentic, feeling-driven questions Encouraging kids to explore many interests instead of choosing just one path The vital role

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26:05

Character First Writing: Practical Mini Lessons from...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/03/02

Deborah Goodrich Royce, author of literary psychological thrillers and a former actor, unpacks how she builds tension without forcing the outline. You will hear how sensory observation from her New York Botanical Garden work feeds scene-level detail, why she prefers a "reveal" that feels earned over a twist that feels gimmicky, and how an actor's training translates into characters with layered motives and believable self-deception. What you will learn How to pace a psychological thriller so the

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15:15

How to Turn Real History into Fiction: Lessons from...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/02/23

In this conversation, author Steve Berry discusses his deep-rooted love for history, the intricate process of crafting thrillers that intertwine historical facts with modern narratives, and the importance of research in his writing. He also shares insights into his philanthropic efforts through the History Matters initiative, which focuses on preserving local history, and hints at future adventures for his protagonist, Cotton Malone, in unexplored regions of the world. Takeaways Steve Berry's love

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14:33

Building connection one board book at a time

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/02/15

In this conversation, Sandra Magsamen discusses her approach to creating children's literature that emphasizes connection, love, and emotional intelligence. She shares insights into her creative process, the importance of feedback from readers, and how her work aims to foster self-love and connection between caregivers and children. Magsamen also reflects on her artistic journey, the role of perseverance, and the significance of storytelling in shaping lives. Takeaways Connection is at the heart of

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10:35

Empowering the Next Generation Through Storytelling...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/02/09

In this conversation, we explore the new collaborative picture book 'Rise Girl Rise', which explores themes of empowerment, friendship, and the importance of storytelling across cultures. They emphasize the book's role in inspiring the next generation and fostering a sense of shared humanity. Gloria Steinem is a political activist, feminist organizer, and the author of many acclaimed books, including the national bestseller Revolution from Within: A Book of Self-Esteem. She is a contributor to the

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11:03

Will AI change the future of the Super Bowl?

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/02/02

How is artificial intelligence being used in the NFL today? In this solo episode of Shifting Schools, Tricia Friedman explores how AI is already shaping professional football, with a special focus on Super Bowl Sunday. Rather than speculation, this episode looks at concrete, current examples of how AI is influencing advertising, predictions, player safety, and fan experience. This episode is designed as a conversation resource for educators, families, and anyone gathering around the Super Bowl,

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15:44

How Puzzles Build Confidence, Community, and Curiosity

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/01/27

What do puzzles teach us about being human. In this episode, Tricia talks with Allison Kane, Head of Puzzle Innovation at Highlights, about why puzzling matters far beyond entertainment. From Hidden Pictures and Wordle to classroom design and family learning, this conversation explores how puzzles build confidence, perseverance, and joyful learning across ages. Learn more: https://parents.highlights.com/printable-puzzles-and-mazes-puzzle-day-challenge Allison shares her origin story as a lifelong

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31:10

What to Do When Teachers Are at Very Different Places...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/01/25

How do you move forward with AI in schools when staff confidence is all over the place? Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman address one of the most persistent leadership challenges in AI literacy implementation. Within the same faculty, some educators are experimenting confidently with tools and workflows while others feel intimidated, skeptical, or frustrated by rapid change. Jeff and Tricia frame the issue through a mindset-first lens and introduce practical leadership moves grounded in BAKE: balance,

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33:35

What Skills Matter Most for AI Literacy?

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/01/18

AI literacy in the classroom looks like students practicing judgment, sense-making, and self-awareness while working alongside AI, not replacing thinking with tools. It emphasizes mindset before mechanics. In this episode of Shifting Schools, Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman frame AI literacy through the BAKE Mindset: Balance – Knowing when AI helps and when it doesn't Adaptability – Updating learning practices as tools change Knowledge Sharing – Making thinking visible and collective Empathy

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33:10

The Mindset Shift You Need for AI Literacy in 2026

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/01/11

In this episode of Shifting Schools, hosts Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman discuss their personal experiences over the holidays, leading into a broader conversation about the importance of mindset in education, particularly in relation to AI literacy. They introduce the 'BAKE Framework' as a tool for educators to navigate AI discussions, emphasizing the need for adaptability, empathy, and open communication. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in educational

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22:03

How do we help students be more critical of health...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2026/01/05

In this episode, host Tricia Friedman sits down with Dr. Michael Greger, bestselling author and founder of NutritionFacts.org, to explore why non-commercial, evidence-based health guidance matters more than ever. They discuss lifestyle medicine, plant-based nutrition, scientific integrity, cannabis research, and how small, testable behavior changes can dramatically improve long-term health. What This Conversation Is Really About Health advice is everywhere — but trustworthy guidance is not. This

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32:09

Why Millions of Students Are Creating Together:...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2025/12/29

What does it look like when creativity becomes a global learning movement—not an add-on, but a connector across every subject? In this episode of Shifting Schools, Tricia Friedman is joined by Cheri Sterman to explore Crayola Creativity Week, a free, cross-curricular program designed to help educators spark collaboration, confidence, and creative thinking in classrooms around the world. Together, they unpack how Creativity Week connects creativity to every subject and career, why celebrity

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28:58

Holiday Gifting for Teachers: Tools for Wellness,...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2025/12/22

This special Shifting Schools holiday episode isn't about trendy gadgets or generic gift lists. Instead, Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman share seven thoughtfully chosen gifts for educators—each matched to a specific kind of person and a specific kind of need. Some gifts are playful. Some are reflective. Some are deeply practical. All of them offer a meaningful boost during a season when educators are often running on empty. This episode asks a practical question: "What might actually support someone

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24:55

What Makes a Family? Scott & Mark Hoying on...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2025/12/15

You know Pentatonix – the multi-platinum selling acapella group is the number one most listened to musical acct of the holiday season. Co-founder and Grammy winner Scott Hoying is currently starring in Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars. Scott Hoying and his husband Mark are now also authors of an innovative picture book which features text that doubles as lyrics to a new, original Christmas song. FA LA LA FAMILY celebrates the spirit of Christmas with a look at nontraditional families. The

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21:23

Why Interdisciplinary Learning Fuels Creativity: A...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2025/12/08

In this episode of Shifting Schools, bestselling author Alan Gratz joins Tricia Friedman to explore the craft of storytelling, the role of creativity in education, and why curiosity is the engine behind both great writing and great learning. Gratz shares how baseball has quietly shaped the structure of many of his novels, how he approaches character development with authenticity, and why understanding a character's background is essential for emotional truth. The conversation also digs into the need

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19:36

Inside the Mind of a 4.1 Million-Follower Creator:...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2025/11/30

In this episode of Shifting Schools, Jeff Utecht reconnects with Marcus DiPaola, a successful content creator and documentary filmmaker. They discuss Marcus's journey from working in news to becoming a prominent influencer on platforms like TikTok, where he has amassed over 4 million followers. The conversation delves into the challenges of content creation, the importance of writing skills, and the role of AI in enhancing creative processes. Marcus shares insights on his documentary work, including

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24:45

The Rise of Micro schools: How Educators Are...

Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators ·

2025/11/24

Are micro schools the future of personalized learning? In this high-impact episode of Shifting Schools, Jeff Utecht sits down with David K. Richards, CEO of ChangeMaker Education, to break down one of the fastest-growing movements in the education ecosystem: microschools. With over 125,000 micro schools and 1.5 million students already learning in small, relationship-centered environments across the U.S., this episode delivers a deeply practical and future-focused look at why educators, parents, and

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