The Crisis in Education Podcast

Send us a textEpisode Description:In this episode of The Crisis in Education Podcast, Dr. Paulie sits down with behavior analyst and education expert Steve Ward to discuss practical strategies for supporting teachers and students—especially those with special needs—while highlighting lessons that apply to all classrooms.They dive into the critical role of assent and assent withdrawal, exploring how these concepts can be observed, measured, and taught to both teachers and parents. Steve emphasizes the importance of respecting a learner's right to say "no" and, more importantly, how to reintroduce expectations in ways that build trust, confidence, and engagement.The conversation also challenges traditional approaches to learning by making a compelling case for expanding fun—particularly social fun—as a primary goal. By prioritizing enjoyment and meaningful interactions, educators can create positive ripple effects that go far beyond preparing students to complete tasks.Tune in to learn actionable strategies, from fluency-building formats to incorporating games and routines, that help turn novelty and unpredictability into opportunities for growth. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or school leader, this episode offers insights you can apply right away to make learning more effective and enjoyable for all students.More on SteveWebsiteFacebookArticleshttps://www.archivesofpsychology.org/index.php/aop/article/view/82https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5352626/https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF03393050Webinarshttps://www.eventbrite.com/o/cabs-autism-and-behavior-specialists-34162179949PodcastsTrauma-Informed Care, Assent, and Compassion - A Call for Nuance in ABATrauma Informed Care: Some ThingsYou Should KnowPunishment on Trial in Behavior AnalysisAssent and Compliance: When to Use WhichHow to Help Individuals with Anxiety: Session 187 with Steve WardThe Case for Humor in Behavioral Interventions: Session 111 with Steve WardTeaching Kids with Autism Games and Leisure Activities: Interview with Steve WardBook linksTeaching Good Learner RepertoiresWhat You Need to Know about Motivation and Teaching Games: An in

Send us a textIn this eye-opening episode of Crisis in Education, Dr. Paulie sits down with Dr. Greg Rockhold to explore a bold and urgent topic: the growing teacher turnover crisis and its potential implications for national security. Drawing from decades of experience in education and leadership, Dr. Rockhold offers a compelling analysis of how the exodus of teachers from the profession threatens not only the quality of education but also the stability of communities and the nation's future workforce.The conversation lifts up the hood on the systemic challenges driving teacher burnout, the lack of preparation and support for educators, and how these issues ripple out to impact society on a broader scale. Together, they discuss actionable solutions grounded in behavioral science, leadership principles, and policy reform to address this alarming trend.Tune in for a powerful discussion that reframes the teacher turnover crisis as more than just an educational issue—it's a national security concern that demands immediate attention.About Dr. RockholdDr. Greg Rockhold, in his 28th. year as an educational leader, served on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). He has served in a variety of roles, including:NASSP No Child Left Behind National Task Force,Testified in US Senate Sub-Committee Hearings on Education and New Mexico Legislature many times on behalf of public education, Presenter at NASSP Convention regarding NCLB in San Francisco and Reno,President - New Mexico Coalition of School Administrators (NMCSA),Executive Director - New Mexico Association of Secondary School Principals (NMASSP),Secretary - New Mexico Association for Supervision & Curriculum Development (NMASCD),Colorado Rural Caucus Steering Committee, NCATE - Educational Leadership Constituent Council Reviewer,Considered for a White House Appointment, McDonald’s/NASSP New Mexico Assistant Principal of the Year, Adjunct Professor with Trinity Southwest University, and USMC veteran and Eagle Scout.Greg is a professionally skilled problem solver and highly organized team builder who leads a focus on increasing student performance via targeted professional development for all staff using student data to make informed decisions.Greg is a highly effective change agent and consummate student of transformational leadership, organizational management, organizational efficiency, organizational effectiveness, organizational health, and organizational motivation.As a change agent, Greg presents a clear vision that enables communication to be a give-and-take arena; he is patient yet persistent as people are moving forward; asking the tough questions; character and credibility as Greg is knowledgeable in what he is speaking about as he builds strong relationships on a foundation of trust. He is highly approachable and reliable. While a change agent, Greg creates conditions for sustainable change that permeates the organization.People rejecting indifference – demanding excellence – PRIDE. - Greg Rockhold

Send us a textIn this episode, Christopher Hull sits down with Dr. Paulie to share his journey from the classroom to becoming a leader in educational innovation. As a former teacher, Christopher understands the challenges educators face every day and uses that experience to drive meaningful change in K-12 education. Together, he and Dr. Paulie dive into what it takes to empower teachers, improve student outcomes, and turn data into tools that truly support learning.Christopher opens up about his mission to create a better educational experience for everyone involved—students, teachers, and administrators alike. He discusses how his firsthand experiences shaped his vision and commitment to making a difference where it counts most: in the lives of students and the educators who support them. Tune in for an insightful conversation on rethinking education through passion, purpose, and practical solutions.Click here to learn more about OTUS

Send us a textIn this episode of the Crisis in Education podcast, Dr. Paulie sits down with Dr. Skip Wilhoit to dive into a critical yet often overlooked aspect of educational success—measuring and incorporating school climate into the overall school grade. Together, they explore why a supportive, positive climate is essential for both students and educators, the ways in which it impacts academic outcomes, and how school climate metrics can—and should—be integrated into accountability systems. With a blend of candid insights and data-driven discussion, Dr. Paulie and Dr. Wilhoit make the case for why shifting the focus beyond academic scores and towards climate measurement can transform schools into healthier, more effective learning environments. This episode is a must-listen for educators, policymakers, and anyone passionate about meaningful change in education. About Dr. WhilhoitDr. Skip Wilhoit is an experienced educator and administrator specializing in school safety, student intervention, and behavioral management. He has served as the Safe Schools, Dropout Prevention, and Student Intervention Specialist for the School District of Manatee County in Florida. His work in the district includes initiatives focused on bullying prevention and character education, aiming to foster a positive and safe learning environment for students. Dr. Wilhoit has also been involved in securing significant funding for educational programs. He was awarded a $2.7 million grant to benefit his K-12 school district, reflecting his commitment to enhancing educational outcomes and addressing behavioral issues within schools.

Send us a textIn this episode of Crisis in Education, we sit down with 25 year principal Martin Silverman, author of the upcoming book Sustaining Excellence: How Culture Drives Teacher Retention. Marty shares his perspective as a long-time school leader, discussing effective strategies to foster a positive school culture that encourages teacher retention. Dr. Pauile discusses the actionable approaches Marty applied as a leader and outlined in his book, ranging from building autonomy and addressing mental health to creating a "culture of yes" and nurturing a family-like atmosphere in schools. Marty emphasizes the importance of genuine connections within school communities and how these practices can reduce turnover while strengthening the bonds that keep teachers committed to their profession. If you're looking to understand how school culture can be a powerful tool for retaining great educators, this episode is for you.

Send us a textWhy are Black men so rarely seen in leadership roles in our schools? In this episode, Dr. Paulie teams up with Dr. Bruce Tinor, a trailblazing school principal and behavior analyst—perhaps the only Black man to hold both distinctions. In it, they dissect the complex layers of systemic barriers and historical patterns that contribute to this significant underrepresentation. More importantly, they explore the potential profound impact of having Black male leaders in educational settings, discussing how their presence can enhance student outcomes, school culture, and more. Armed with Dr. Tinor’s unique insights and my behavior analysis expertise, we offer actionable strategies to dismantle these barriers. Tune in for a candid, enlightening conversation that not only challenges the status quo but also champions a vision for diverse and dynamic educational leadership.

Send us a textAs students return to school, some carry the invisible burdens of trauma, which can manifest as anxiety, avoidance, and disruptive behavior in the classroom. Recognizing these challenges is critical but only the first step in a comprehensive support strategy.In this episode of the Crisis in Education Podcast, Dr. Paulie explores the application of systematic desensitization as a means of building resilience in traumatized students. Joined by Dr. Robyn Koslowitz, a respected clinical psychologist and trauma specialist, the conversation dives into how methodically and gently exposing students to feared situations within a supportive school environment can alleviate anxiety and help develop fortitude—the ultimate goal of trauma recovery. The episode also touches on the sensitive topic of suicide, offering insights into how educators can navigate these complex issues while supporting students' mental health. This discussion equips educators with practical strategies to help students overcome their fears and thrive in the school setting.

Send us a textIn this episode of the "Crisis in Education" podcast, Dr. Paulie interviews Janine Driver, a New York Times Best-Selling Author and award-winning keynote speaker. Known as the “Lyin’ Tamer,” Janine is a body language expert and former federal law enforcement officer with over 16 years of experience at the Department of Justice. She’s the founder and CEO of the Body Language Institute, where she trains individuals and companies to enhance communication skills and detect deception.During our conversation, we dive into the world of communication and body language, exploring how teachers can use these skills to create more effective and engaging classrooms. Janine shares insights from her work with corporate giants like Coca-Cola, Salesforce, and Lockheed Martin, as well as her experience speaking on platforms like TEDx, where her talks have garnered millions of views.We also discuss the critical issue of reducing school shootings. Janine offers practical strategies for educators to improve school safety through enhanced communication and awareness. Her unique perspective, rooted in years of law enforcement and body language expertise, provides valuable tools for creating a safer and more connected school environment.Janine is also a regular contributor to NBC’s Today Show and has appeared on CNN, The Dr. Oz Show, and Anderson Cooper Live. She has trained thousands of law enforcement officers and business professionals, helping them decipher fact from fiction and build rapport with ease​.Whether you’re a teacher looking to improve your interactions with students or simply curious about understanding people better, Janine’s insights are sure to leave you with practical tips and new perspectives. Plus, she offers free talks to schools, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to bring her expertise to your educational setting.Tune in to hear more from Janine Driver and discover how to enhance your communication skills while making schools safer!

Send us a textIn this episode, Albert and Jessica explore how behavior analysts can connect with teachers by understanding and aligning with their core values through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This dynamic duo is passionate about integrating behavior analytic technologies—such as Relational Frame Theory (RFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles—into educational settings. Their goal is to alleviate human suffering and foster collaborative relationships among stakeholders, including parents, educators, paraprofessionals, RBTs, BCBAs, and students, to achieve optimal outcomes for all involved.Listen as Albert and Jessica discuss practical strategies for building strong partnerships between behavior analysts and educators by focusing on shared values and goals. By leveraging ACT, they demonstrate how to create an educational environment where everyone thrives, supporting both teachers' and students' needs.Are you interested in developing innovative solutions and contributing to this shared vision? Albert and Jessica invite you to connect and create meaningful change with them. Reach out via email at 90a.valenzuela@gmail.com and Jessica.matus@asu.edu. Together, let's make a difference in the world of education!

Send us a textJoin Dr. Paulie as he takes a solo deep dive into the nuanced world of 'hands-off' policies in educational and care settings. In this compelling episode, Dr. Paulie shares firsthand experiences from the front lines of a struggling elementary school, revealing the real-life impacts and challenges of implementing 'hands-off' strategies. With decades of expertise in behavior analysis and crisis management, Dr. Paulie explores the clash between theory and practice, examining how these policies affect safety, learning, and community dynamics. Unfiltered and packed with insights, this episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and anyone involved in shaping safe and effective learning environments. Tune in to "Beyond the Policy" as Dr. Paulie navigates the complex terrain of educational policies with candor and expertise.

Send us a textIn this episode, Dr. Paulie has an insightful conversation with David Jenyns, a serial entrepreneur, systems devotee, and the mastermind behind SYSTEMology. David has dedicated his career to helping business owners worldwide scale and streamline their operations with his proven seven-step process. During conversation, David and Paulie dive into the challenges schools face with inefficiencies and inconsistent processes. David explains how SYSTEMology’s principles can transform educational institutions by:Defining Critical SystemsAssigning RolesExtracting KnowledgeOrganizing SystemsIntegrating SystemsScaling OperationsOptimizing PerformanceThey also discuss the importance of shifting from reactive to proactive management in education, ensuring that staff can focus on teaching and supporting students effectively. David’s insights provide a fresh perspective on how schools can leverage business systems to create a more organized, efficient, and productive environment.

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Paulie sits down with former principal and national consultant Dr. Kisha Bellande-Francis to dive into the essentials of good instruction and instructional leadership. Together, they explore the critical components necessary for fostering an effective educational environment. Key topics include the importance of involving stakeholders, linking performance to set goals, establishing clear metrics and feedback loops, and maintaining a daily focus on growth and reflection of our practices. They also discuss the pivotal role of formative assessments and the challenges posed by high-stakes testing. Tune in to gain valuable insights on creating a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in education. About Dr. Bellande-FrancisDr. Bellande-Francis believes in a customized approach to education. She works closely with teaching professionals to understand their unique needs and challenges, and then develop tailored solutions to help them achieve their goals and reach a high level of student achievement in their schools. She is dedicated to delivering high-quality results for individuals and teams alike.ExpertiseAs a national consultant, Dr. Bellande-Francis is proud to have developed and conducted professional development regarding best instructional practices in 25 districts across 15 states. With over 17 years of experience in an educational setting, her background includes extensive management of personnel, parents, students, business partners, and all aspects of a school environment. She is well-versed in the most effective coaching and leadership techniques to lead teams to deliver high-quality results. She has a passion for developing schools to implement rigorous instruction and supporting professionals to reach their fullest potential.For more on Dr. Bellande-Francis and her services, check out her website DOTT Consulting

Send us a textIn this episode of the Crisis in Education Podcast, Dr. Paulie sits down with behavior analyst and professor Dr. Guy Bruce, Ed. D, BCBA-D, from Appealing Solutions, LLC, to dig into the pressing issues facing educational institutions today. Dr. Bruce shares insights from his extensive experience in Organizational Performance Engineering, emphasizing pragmatic approaches to transforming educational environments to ensure every learner makes efficient progress.Tune in now and learn how to implement effective leadership and performance engineering in education!

Send us a textIn this enlightening podcast episode, Dr. Paulie and Clint Evans, known as the Behavior Chef, delve into effective strategies for promoting healthy eating habits among educators using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). This discussion is timely, given the higher obesity rates among early care and education (ECE) teachers compared to the general U.S. population, influenced by factors such as tenure and diet habits. Addressing this issue from a health perspective, the conversation emphasizes fostering healthier lifestyles without body shaming, focusing on combating associated risks like diabetes rather than appearance. Practical, behaviorally informed methods are explored to integrate healthy choices into educators' routines, ultimately benefiting their well-being and setting a positive example for students. Read more about the study.Check out the Behavior Chef website here!

Send us a textIn a recent enlightening discussion on the podcast, Dr. Paulie spoke with CEO of Futures Forge, Nat Green,  about the transformative shifts in education and workforce preparation. During their conversation, Nat compellingly argued that the traditional college path might not be necessary for many individuals. Instead, the key to success lies in acquiring the right knowledge and skills that align with actual market demands. The dialogue delved into how the future of hiring will focus less on degrees and formal credentials and more on a candidate’s abilities and practical achievements.The discussion also highlighted that a select set of skills and personal attributes significantly influence career success, yet these are not typically developed through conventional schooling. For more about Nat's program check out http://www.futuresforge.org.

Send us a textIn our recent podcast, Dr. Clarence Cooper, a doctoral-level certified behavior analyst, joined Dr. Paulie to delve into the complex world of behavior analysis consulting in classrooms. Dr. Cooper discussed the significant challenges behavior analysts face when working in educational settings. Key among these is the difficulty of applying ABA strategies within existing classroom management frameworks, often exacerbated by educators' varying levels of familiarity and comfort with ABA methods.Dr. Cooper emphasized the critical importance of involving all stakeholders—teachers, administrators, parents, and students—in the consulting process. Building strong relationships with these groups is essential for success, as it fosters a collaborative environment where ABA techniques can be more effectively integrated and accepted. This collaborative approach not only enhances the implementation of ABA strategies but also ensures that interventions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each classroom and student, ultimately leading to more positive outcomes.The conversation with Dr. Cooper highlighted that while the path to effective classroom consulting as a behavior analyst is fraught with challenges, the potential rewards—improved student behavior and learning outcomes—are well worth the effort. By focusing on stakeholder involvement and relationship building, behavior analysts can navigate these hurdles and make a meaningful impact in educational settings.Dr. Cooper's email:  cooperclarence@yahoo.com

Send us a textFeedback is universally recognized as a cornerstone of growth and development, yet its delivery often falls short, missing the mark on fostering the intended positive impact. But, by recalibrating our approach to providing feedback, we can transform it into a catalyst for genuine improvement.  In this episode, assistant executive director and principal of alternative schools Jillian Bucciero, explores the critical art and science of delivering feedback effectively. She reveals invaluable insights into crafting feedback that enhances performance and fortifies the culture and learning environment; moreover, she walks listeners through the essential conditions necessary for impactful feedback and shares strategies to ensure that feedback becomes a powerful tool for growth and improvement.Books Recommended by Jillian:Dare to Lead Let's Talk, Making Effective Feedback Your Superpower Positional Authority Ain't Leadership

Send us a textIn today's episode, we're diving deep into the heart of educational transformation with our esteemed guest,  Dr. Jim Van Allen, a renowned speaker who travels across the country to share his insights on creating a thriving school and classroom environment. Jim, alongside co-author Jon Gordon, has penned the game-changing book, "The Energy Bus for Schools: 7 Ways to Improve Your School Culture, Remove Negativity, Energize Your Teachers, and Empower Your Students," set to captivate audiences worldwide on March 6th.What You'll Learn:The Blueprint for Positive School Culture: Jim shares the foundational principles outlined in their latest book and how these strategies can revolutionize the educational experience.Strategies for Cultivating a Positive Mindset: Discover the transformative power of positivity in educational settings, and learn practical tips for fostering this among students and staff.Combatting Negativity: Explore effective methods to identify, address, and neutralize negative influences within the school environment.Enhancing Communication: Uncover the art of positive communication strategies that can strengthen the bond between educators, students, and the broader school community.Boosting Engagement: Gain insights into innovative approaches for engaging both staff and students, ensuring a vibrant, dynamic, and inclusive educational experience.Guest Spotlight:Jim's dynamic energy and expertise make him a sought-after speaker on the national stage. Known for his engaging and 'off the cuff' interview style, Jim brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our discussion. Today, he's here to share valuable insights and actionable strategies to help educators and administrators alike transform their schools into bastions of positivity, growth, and empowerment.Why You Should Listen:Whether you're an educator, administrator, or someone passionate about making a difference in the educational landscape, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and innovative strategies to uplift your school culture. Join us as Jim navigates the journey to a more positive, energized, and empowered educational environment.Bio:Dr. Jim Van Allan is President of The Energy Bus for Schools. He runs The Energy Bus for Schools program which gives schools the blueprint and framework to create a positive school culture. He coaches school leaders and superintendents on mindset, teamwork, communication, and culture-building. Additionally, Jim speaks to schools and districts across the country with keynotes, trainings, workshops, and student assemblies. He is the co-author of the book, The Energy Bus for Schools, with Jon Gordon.Jim is also a Professor of Communication Studies and Lead Speech Instructor with Keiser University, which is based in Florida. He teaches Public Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, and Business Communication.He also earned his Ph.D in Education Leadership from Keiser University. Much of his research centered around the impact of sustainable professional development for schools.He lives in Palm City, Florida, with his wife and three children, Brady, Brenden, and Brinley.Web site: EnergyBusForSchools.com

Send us a textIn this episode, seasoned Principal Anthony Chiles discusses the importance of focusing on the fundamentals for improving culture, climate, and ultimately, student achievement in schools. Principal Chiles is an authentic and servant leader who is making real change through practical approaches. If you are a district or school leader, you don't want to miss this episode! Website fore STAPLEs (Simple Techniques for Achieving A Positive Learning Environment): mvpspaces.com MVP Spaces is a guide to support an educator's practice in Mutual, Visual, and Physical learning spaces. Eight practices support each space called STAPLEs (Simple Techniques to Achieve a Positive Learning Environment) and are grounded in four principles: Relevance, Empathy, Action, and Lifelong Learning. Insight into these spaces provides an educator with a personalized framework to create a holistic learning environment for their students. MVP Spaces provides the blueprint for educators to engage in high-quality teaching and learning techniques, centralized in one location and simplified to implement with consistency and fidelity.  Digital copy or print version at mvpspaces.com/24staples

Send us a textIn this episode, Dr. Paulie explores the realm of improving PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) and Trauma-Informed Care, guided by the expertise of psychologist Mike Bonevento. Join us as we uncover practical strategies and expert insights grounded in the principles of OBM (Organizational Behavior Management) and ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis). These insights are set to enhance the well-being and success of individuals, schools, and communities. Don't miss this conversation as it offers real-world, valuable takeaways for educators, professionals, and advocates dedicated to fostering positive change. 5 Steps to Creating a Trauma Informed Culture