The Counter Narrative: Changing the Way We Talk (and think) About Education

Episode Description:

Join host Charles Williams on this enlightening episode of The Counter Narrative Podcast as he sits down with the insightful Erin Glenn to tackle a topic close to the heart of every educator: treating education as a respected profession amidst its often challenging portrayal in the media. Erin, with her wealth of experience and passion for education, delves into the critical issues of teacher recruitment and retention, offering a fresh perspective on how we can not only prepare teachers for the challenges of the classroom but also ensure they remain engaged, current, and have ample opportunities for growth beyond their teaching roles.

Throughout the conversation, Erin sheds light on the systemic changes needed to elevate the teaching profession, drawing on examples of successful strategies and personal anecdotes to illustrate her points. She emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment that values continuous learning and professional development, ensuring that educators feel valued, respected, and motivated to excel in their careers.

Whether you're an educator, administrator, policy maker, or simply someone who cares about the future of education, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the ways in which we can collectively work towards a future where education is not only respected but revered, and where teachers are recognized as the pillars of society they truly are. Don't miss this compelling conversation on The Counter Narrative Podcast.

Guest Biography:

Episode Summary In this engaging conversation, Charles Williams and George Couros explore the themes of innovation in education, the importance of critical thinking, and the role of technology in the classroom. They discuss the challenges educators face in seeking quick fixes and the necessity of fostering a culture of inquiry and reflection. Couros emphasizes the need for meaningful professional development and the importance of teaching students to navigate technology responsibly. The discussion culminates in a reflection on leadership's role in driving educational change and the value of depth over breadth in learning.

• Innovation in education should not solely rely on technology.
• Educators must reflect on their practices and adapt to better serve students.
• Critical thinking should be encouraged in both students and educators.
• Professional development should be meaningful and tailored to educators' needs.
• Teaching responsible technology use is crucial for student success.
• Depth of knowledge in a few areas is more beneficial than superficial knowledge in many.
• Leadership plays a vital role in fostering an innovative educational environment.
• Educators should focus on creating engaging learning experiences for students.
• The importance of collaboration and sharing ideas among educators cannot be overstated.
• Educators should model the behaviors they wish to see in their students.

In this heartfelt episode, Charles shares a personal reflection from a week spent in isolation due to COVID-19. Initially viewing the unexpected downtime as an opportunity to get ahead on work, he is quickly reminded of the body's need for rest and the pitfalls of hustle culture, especially within the realm of education. Through his experience, this episode explores the delicate balance between productivity and well-being, the pressures of educational leadership, and the importance of modeling self-care and resilience. Join me for a candid discussion on reevaluating our priorities in the face of ongoing challenges and redefining what success looks like in education and beyond.

In this compelling episode of "The Counter Narrative Podcast," I dive deep into the heart-wrenching realities laid bare by the podcast "Unreformed: The Story of the Alabama Industrial School for Negro Children," and extend the conversation to the broader issue of the criminalization of young people of color within our education systems. This episode sheds light on the immediate and long-lasting impacts of systemic injustices that disproportionately affect young men of color, echoing the stories and themes presented in "Unreformed."

In this episode of the Counter Narrative Podcast, Charles Williams reflects on his personal journey of celebrating his birthday after a decade of avoidance. He explores the themes of survivor guilt related to the loss of loved ones, particularly his grandparents, and the impact of codependency on self-worth and celebration. Through his reflections, he emphasizes the importance of embracing joy and self-love as a means to honor those we've lost and to break free from cycles of guilt and self-neglect. Charles encourages listeners to recognize their own worthiness of happiness and to celebrate themselves.