The Brighter Side of Education: Research, Innovation & Resources
Dr. Lisa Hassler 91 episodes Nov 5, 2026
Hosted by Dr. Lisa Hassler, The Brighter Side of Education is a Continuing Professional Development accredited podcast that explores practical solutions to common educational challenges. It combines research, expert insights, and resources for teachers and parents on topics such as classroom management and learning differences. Each episode aims to turn everyday education difficulties into opportunities for growth. Listeners get actionable strategies they can use right away to support teaching and learning.
Episodes
Following the Unexpected: The Magic of a Conference
Send us Fan MailA single sheet of paper can unlock a year’s worth of student writing. I’m sharing a conference moment that surprised me, stuck with me, and still shapes how I think about literacy instruction and creativity in the classroom: hearing author and illustrator Nick Bruel talk about craft, humor, and the real decisions behind children’s books. I take you back to the 2012 Illinois Reading
How Adaptive Learning Changes Teaching Without Replacing It
Send us Fan MailIf a student can get a perfectly tailored lesson from AI in seconds, what exactly is the teacher’s job, and what does school become? That question sits underneath every new adaptive platform, every AI policy debate, and every parent’s uneasy feeling that “personalized” might also mean “alone.”We talk with Tom Woelper, Head of School at Cheshire Academy, about what’s genuinely promi
How to Identify and Treat Math Anxiety in Learners| Dr. Aditya Nagrath
Send us Fan MailWe talk with mathematician and computer scientist, Dr. Aditya Nagrath, about why students avoid math even when they are capable and how confusion can harden into anxiety over time. We focus on treating math anxiety by rebuilding understanding, reshaping beliefs, and using practical strategies that teachers and parents can apply right away.• math anxiety as a cycle of stress, self-d
History as the Human Story: Teaching Students to Think, Question, and Live Wisely
Send us Fan MailHistory is the human story, a way of seeing the world and our place in it.In this episode of The Brighter Side of Education, Dr. Lisa Hassler welcomes back historian and Associate Professor Dr. Christopher Berg for a thoughtful conversation about the purpose of history education, how it has changed over time, and why it remains essential in today’s classrooms.Drawing from his work
Why Kids Miss School: A Human-Centered Approach to Absenteeism | Dr. Ivory Toldson
Send us Fan MailChronic absenteeism keeps getting described as a kid problem, but the evidence tells a different story. When we label students as “disengaged,” we miss what is often right in front of us: unreliable transportation, health crises, caregiving demands, and school policies that punish families for not having options.I’m joined by Dr. Ivory Toldson, Chief of Research for Concentric Educ
When Schools Can’t Find the Right Teacher: Expanding Access to Learning
Send us Fan MailA student’s future should not depend on whether their school can find a qualified chemistry teacher this year—but that’s often how geography-bound education works.When the PISA 2022 report revealed declines in performance and widening gaps across countries, it’s easy to point to motivation or effort. This conversation takes a different angle: what if the real constraint is the stru
More Than Play: What Toybuilding Teaches Students | Rick Hartman
Send us Fan MailIn many classrooms, toys are something we put away when it’s time to get serious. But what if toys are actually one of the most effective ways to teach?In this episode of The Brighter Side of Education, Dr. Lisa Hassler explores toybuilding as a powerful instructional approach with educational toymaker Rick Hartman, founder of School of Toy. With over 25 years of experience and mor
Not Your Granny’s Grammar: Bringing Joy Back to Writing and Grammar | Patty McGee
Send us Fan MailEver feel like grammar turns a lively class silent? We dig into a brighter way forward with literacy consultant and author Patty McGee, exploring how short, focused routines transform grammar from rote correction into a set of powerful choices that make writing clearer, bolder, and more authentic. Instead of chasing perfection on worksheets, we show how to build sentence craft in t
Rebuilding Student Focus: Neuroscience-Informed Cognitive Training | Dominick Fedele
Send us Fan MailEducators across grade levels are observing a consistent pattern: students are increasingly distracted, mentally fatigued, and less able to sustain focus during academic tasks. These challenges affect reading comprehension, problem-solving, written expression, and overall learning stamina. This episode examines the cognitive and neurological foundations behind these trends and expl
Competency-Based Learning & Human-Centered Design: A Future-Ready Shift | Camp
Send us Fan MailAs automation and artificial intelligence reshape the future of work, educators face a critical question: Are we preparing students for a world defined by automation and innovation?In this episode of The Brighter Side of Education, Dr. Lisa Hassler speaks with Camp, Head of Teaching and Learning at New England Innovation Academy, about how competency-based learning and human-center
Innovation in STEM Education: Preparing Students for an Ever- Changing World | Dr. Jennifer Berry
Send us Fan MailHow can STEM education keep pace with a rapidly changing world? In this episode of The Brighter Side of Education, host Dr. Lisa Hassler explores innovative approaches to STEM learning with Dr. Jennifer Berry, CEO of SmartLab.This conversation examines how authentic, project-based STEM experiences help students build STEM identity, develop problem-solving skills, and see real conne
Intentional Kindness in Schools | Bucket Filling with Carol McCloud
Send us Fan MailWhat if a few words and a simple image could reshape how students treat each other—and how they feel about themselves? We dive into bucket filling, a plain-language framework that sparked a global kindness movement. Grounded in the CASEL competencies and early brain research, this approach replaces vague advice with three clear rules: be a bucket filler, try not to dip, and use you
Tinsel, Turkeys & Trying New Things: Holiday Special with the Hasslers
Send us Fan MailWe hit “Go Live” to close our longest season yet and lean into a simple truth: growth beats perfect. Holiday crunch time made the choice easy—pivot, try the new thing, and share what’s working for educators and parents who want less noise and more clarity. We review the milestone that mattered most this year—CPD credits for listeners—so your professional learning can count toward r
How to Prepare Students for a Changing World | Barry Garapedian on Value Creation, Mindset, and Success
Send us Fan MailAre we preparing young people to follow instructions or to solve real problems? We explore a better path with Barry Garapedian—financial advisor, mentor, and author of Winning the Game of Life—who makes a compelling case for teaching value creation as the antidote to uncertainty, inflation, and the AI upheaval. Together, we unpack the hidden curriculum, why compliance still shadows
Grading What Matters: Rethinking Student Learning and Assessment | Marc Aronson
Send us Fan MailImagine a school where grades reward collaboration, character, and genuine mastery—not just memorization and speed. In this episode, Dean of Academics Marc Aronson shares how his school, Cheshire Academy, rethought assessment through Grading What Matters, a framework focused on authentic learning, student agency, and mission-aligned outcomes.We explore Final Demonstrations of Lear
From Players to Creators: How Student Game-Making Builds AI-Era Skills | Matt Dalio
Send us Fan MailPlay isn’t just fun—it’s a blueprint for learning. In this episode, Dr. Lisa Hassler and Matt Dalio (Endless Studios/Foundation) explore how student game-making builds creativity, collaboration, and resilience while scaffolding real tools—from no-code building to Unity and Blender.We unpack the research on learning by making, connect Jane McGonigal’s mechanics of motivation to clas
Supporting Students with ADHD: Executive Function Strategies for Teachers and Parents | Ann Dolin
Send us Fan MailNearly 1 in 10 children are diagnosed with ADHD, yet most educators receive no formal training in supporting executive function deficits. This gap creates challenges for teachers, frustration for parents, and academic struggles for students who are often mislabeled as unmotivated or lazy.In this episode, Dr. Lisa Hassler speaks with Ann Dolin M.Ed., founder of Educational Connectio
AI Education for Kids: Expert Guide for Teachers & Parents | Mike Todasco
Send us Fan MailThe digital revolution in education is happening right now, and AI literacy has surged to become the #1 skill employers demand. With 70% of job skills projected to change by 2030, our conversation with Mike Todasco couldn't be more timely or crucial for parents and educators navigating this shifting landscape.Mike brings a rare dual perspective as both a visiting fellow at San
Handwriting Instruction: How it Boosts Literacy & Brain Development| Holly Britton
Send us Fan MailDiscover why handwriting instruction is disappearing from classrooms and how this impacts your child's literacy development. In this research-backed episode, handwriting specialist Holly Britton reveals the neuroscience behind why forming letters by hand activates crucial brain pathways that typing cannot replicate.What You'll Learn:Why explicit handwriting instruction is
A Gen Z Guide to Success: After College Insights| Annat Shrabstein
Send us Fan MailThe transition from college to adulthood has dramatically transformed over recent decades, with financial independence, full-time employment, and independent living occurring much later for today's graduates than their 1980s counterparts. Yet despite these shifting timelines, Sallie Mae's latest research reveals that higher education continues to deliver tremendous value
Who’s Behind the Curriculum? Missing Voices in Academic Publishing|Dr. Cassidy Sugimoto
Send us Fan MailCurriculum doesn’t start in the classroom—it starts in the knowledge system: the people, institutions, and practices that produce and disseminate research. Dr. Cassidy Sugimoto, a Tom and Marie Patton Professor and School Chair from the School of Public Policy at Georgia Tech, explains how publishing and citation practices flow into standards and textbooks.Dr. Sugimoto highlights t
Quality Child Care Creates the Foundation for Lifelong Learning
Send us Fan MailQuality childcare creates the foundation for lifelong learning and development, but finding the right program often leaves parents confused, frustrated, and uncertain. What should you actually look for beyond a clean facility and friendly staff? How do you know if a program will nurture your child's development in ways that matter?In this illuminating conversation, Dr. Lisa Ha
Second Chances: How Prison Education Programs Are Reducing Violence and Rebuilding Lives
Send us Fan MailBehind the concrete walls and steel bars of America's prisons, something remarkable is happening. Education—once considered an afterthought in correctional settings—is proving to be one of the most powerful tools for transformation, not just for individuals but for entire institutions.Our conversation with Joshua Gilliam, who brings a unique dual perspective as both a former c
Jazzing Up Your Music Program: Reignite Teen Engagement With Unison-Based Content
Send us Fan MailSecondary music classrooms are increasingly challenged by student disengagement—especially when traditional models fail to resonate with today’s learners. In this compelling episode, professional bassist and music educator Richard Frank introduces his Unison-Based Content (UBC) approach, a student-centered framework designed to revitalize music programs and re-engage learners of al
The Healing Power of Wild Mustangs: Biophilia & Equine Therapy with Erin Cain
Send us Fan MailDiscover the power of equine therapy through the eyes of specialist Erin Cain, founder of Grace Reins Equine Therapy in Colorado. When words fall short in traditional therapy settings, horses step in as powerful healers for children struggling with anxiety, trauma, and emotional regulation.The science behind this approach is fascinating. Horses, with heart rates half that of humans
Why Outdoor Play Is Essential for Kids' Growth | Susie Spikol on Nature, Learning & Imagination
Send us Fan MailWhat if the solution to many childhood developmental challenges was literally right outside our windows? Naturalist and author Susie Spiegel reveals how unstructured nature play creates the perfect environment for children to develop crucial life skills that structured indoor activities simply can't replicate.Drawing from her book "Forest Magic for Kids: How to Find Fairi
Peer Mentorship in Action: How a 9-Year-Old Podcaster Is Opening Doors to Literacy and Science
Send us Fan Mail"Books are the key to unlocking your soul's true potential." These aren't the words of a veteran educator or bestselling author – they come from nine-year-old Ishara, host of Ishara's Reading Podcast, literacy advocate, and aspiring astronaut who dreams of leading a mission to Mars.In this inspiring episode, Ishara is at her skating rink (YouTube video of t
Speech & Language Help for Kids: Expert SLP Tips for Parents and Teachers
Send us Fan MailDinalynn Rosenbush, certified speech-language pathologist and host of the Language of Play podcast, shares research-backed approaches for supporting children's communication skills through play when speech therapy services are delayed or unavailable.• Nearly 8% of children ages 3-17 have communication disorders with speech problems being most common• Children need to hear a wo
Gen Z College & Career Readiness | Helping Students Plan Their Future with Loper
Send us Fan MailPost-secondary planning doesn't need to be overwhelming for students, parents, or educators. Sam Bernstein shares how his app Loper is transforming this crucial process into a personalized, engaging experience that meets Gen Z where they are.• Only 74% of Gen Z teens plan to attend college, down from previous generations• Students increasingly interested in staying at home or
Screen-Free Learning That Works: Why Teachers & Parents Love the "Who Smarted" Podcast
Send us Fan MailWorried about too much screen time for your kids or students? Discover how the Who Smarted podcast is helping parents and teachers bring back curiosity, focus, and fun — without a screen in sight.In this episode, Jerry Kolber, co-founder of Atomic Entertainment and creator of Who Smarted, shares how his wildly popular educational podcast (with over 3 million downloads!) is changing
Making Teaching Sustainable in a Blended, Self-Paced Learning Environment: The Modern Classrooms Project
Send us Fan MailRobert Barnett, co-founder of the Modern Classrooms Project, explains how their innovative teaching model helps teachers effectively reach students with diverse learning needs through blended, self-paced, mastery-based learning. Traditional teaching methods struggling with different learning paces, gaps in knowledge, and absent students can be transformed with this approach that em
406,000 Teacher Vacancies: The Solution Schools Are Using to Keep Classrooms Staffed
Send us Fan MailThe education landscape is in turmoil as schools cope with a teacher shortage that leaves over 400,000 positions unfilled. This episode tackles the pressing issue head-on, exploring how innovative education leaders are transforming staffing challenges into pathways for continuity and excellence in learning. We welcome Nicola Soares, the president of Kelly Education, to share her in
Empowering Young Women Through Financial Literacy with Her Wealth Founder James Comblo
Send us Fan MailAre you aware of the gender gap in financial literacy? In this episode, James Comblo shares the impact of programs like Her Wealth, designed to empower girls aged 16-28 with the tools for financial independence. Through candid discussions, relatable anecdotes, and actionable strategies, we explore how parents and educators can foster environments that prioritize vital financial con
School-Based Mental Health Initiatives with Counseling in Schools' Kevin DaHill-Fuchel
Send us Fan MailCan better mental health support in schools transform student success? Join us as we explore this critical question with Kevin DaHill-Fuchel, Executive Director of Counseling in Schools (CIS). With him, we uncover the profound impact of integrating mental health professionals into school environments, a strategy that has notably boosted attendance and graduation rates in New York C
Data Driven Solutions for Chronic Absenteeism with Innovator Chris Hull
Send us Fan MailWhat if a simple tool could improve the way we address chronic absenteeism in schools? Join me, Dr. Lisa Hassler, as I explore this provocative question with Chris Hull, the visionary founder of Otus. In this episode, we uncover how integrating various data points into a single platform can empower educators to swiftly identify at-risk students and create tailored interventions. Di
Students Overcome Math Anxiety with Mathematician Dr. Aditya Nagrath
Send us Fan MailThe episode explores the science and psychology of math anxiety and features innovative educational approaches aimed at transforming math teaching. With a PhD in Mathematics & Computer Sciences, Dr. Aditya Nagrath shares insights on early intervention, preventive strategies to improve students' confidence, and the importance of viewing math as a language. As the creator an
Joyful Learning: Practical Strategies for Navigating Holiday Havoc with Drs Hassler
Send us Fan MailEver wonder how teachers and parents can navigate the festive frenzy of December without losing their minds? Join me and my husband, Dr. Gregg Hassler Jr., as we unlock the secrets to maintaining sanity and maximizing learning during one of the busiest times of the year. We promise you'll walk away with practical strategies like planning detailed calendars to juggle school eve
The Golden Age of Nonfiction: Gateway to Literacy with Imagination Soup's Melissa Taylor
Send us Fan MailOpen the gates to the golden age of nonfiction literature with Dr. Lisa Hassler and Melissa Taylor, founder of Imagination Soup, as they unravel the often-overlooked power of nonfiction books in education. Did you know that 84% of first graders show a preference for nonfiction, yet these books are not as prevalent as they should be in children's literature? Join us as we discu
Stories as Tools for Anxiety Management with Former Sesame Street Director, Dr. Anna Housley-Juster
Send us Fan MailWhat if the key to managing childhood anxiety lies in the stories we tell? Discover how storytelling can transform anxiety from a daunting monster into a friendly guide, as Dr. Anna Housley-Juster, a licensed mental health clinician and author of "How to Train Your Amygdala," joins us. With a blend of empathy and humor, Anna shares her insights on how understanding the br
Music Education & Mental Well-Being: Making Better Humans with Music Workshop's Dr. Giuliana Conti
Send us Fan MailUnlock the powerful role of music in transforming education with insights from Dr. Lisa Hassler and guest, Dr. Giuliana Conti, Director of Education and Equity at Music Workshop. Prepare to discover how music education can boost adolescents' mental well-being, with research backing its impact on neural connectivity and emotional health. Giuliana shares her personal journey fro
*Special Episode* When Disaster Strikes: How Schools Build Resilience and Community Strength with Educators Mary Guarino and Beth Donofrio
Send us Fan MailWhat if schools could transform chaos into community strength during a natural distaster? Join me, Dr. Lisa Hassler, as we promise a deep dive into the critical topic of hurricane preparedness in American schools. In this episode, seasoned educators Mary Guarino and Beth Donofrio, share their poignant experiences in preparing and dealing with the aftermath of hurricanes. We promise
Going Beyond Numbers to Create a Math Symphony with MoMath's Cindy Lawrence
Send us Fan MailWhat if mathematics could be as captivating and enjoyable as a symphony concert? In our latest episode, we promise you'll discover innovative ways to make math not only accessible but genuinely fun for everyone. Join me, Dr. Lisa Hassler, alongside Cindy Lawrence, the inspiring Executive Director and CEO of the National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath), as we explore the vital r
Equity-Centered Teaching: A Path to Educational Justice with Director Dr. Emily Affolter
Send us Fan MailWhat if we could transform education to truly empower every student, regardless of their background? Join me, Dr. Lisa Hassler, and our inspiring guest, Dr. Emily Affolter, as we uncover the potential of building just and inclusive educational environments. Drawing from Paulo Freire's "Pedagogy of the Oppressed" and Jean Anyon's "Social Class in the Hidden
Dual Language Programs: Cultural Identity and Equity with Ensemble Learning's Katherine Hamilton
Send us Fan MailDual language programs are growing as the value of linguistic diversity is seen as a strength to be leveraged, not a challenge to be overcome. Peek into the inner workings of the dual language program with Katherine Hamilton, the Senior Vice President of Programs at Ensemble Learning. Discover how these programs not only boost academic performance but also nurture bilingualism, bil
Childhood Trauma: Need to Know Strategies with Clinical Psychologist Dr. Robyn Koslowitz
Send us Fan Mail"Our traumas can either be our greatest problem or our greatest superpower," (Dr. Robyn Koslowitz). Which do you believe it is? Reflect on childhood trauma with Dr. Koslowitz, a nationally recognized clinical psychologist, who dives deep into her personal journey and professional insights to help us understand how trauma can be hidden beneath a child's seemingly calm
Social-Emotional Learning: Promoting Student Well-being with Scholar Dr. Maggie Broderick
Send us Fan MailHow can understanding and integrating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) impact the way we educate and nurture young minds? Join us as we explore SEL with Dr. Maggie Broderick, Associate Professor in the Teacher Education Department of National University’s Sanford College of Education, where she serves as a Dissertation Chair and Faculty Lead for the Curriculum and Instruction Specia
Teacher Crisis: Addressing Commodification and Mental Health with Leadership Consultant Dr. Roger Gerard
Send us Fan MailEver wondered how the commodification of education affects our teachers' mental health and the quality of education? Join us as we explore this pressing issue with renowned healthcare executive and leadership consultant, Dr. Roger Gerard. Together, we unpack the alarming rise in teacher burnout and anxiety, exacerbated by the pandemic, and delve into the structural issues that
Agile Classrooms: Student-Centered Learning with The Agile Mind's Jessica Cavallaro
Send us Fan MailWant to change your approach to teaching? Join us with Jessica Cavallaro, co-founder of The Agile Mind, as she uncovers the transformative power of Agile methodologies in the classroom. Discover how Jessica embraced Agile principles, reshaping her educational environment into a vibrant space of collaboration and student-driven problem-solving. This episode promises to equip educato
Social Learning: Peer Instruction and Assessment Insights with Harvard's Dr. Eric Mazur
Send us Fan MailCan questioning transform teaching more effectively than lecturing? Join us on The Brighter Side of Education as we welcome Dr. Eric Mazur, the Balkanski Professor of Physics and Applied Physics at Harvard University, to discuss social learning and assessment. Dr. Mazur is the innovator of Peer Instruction and Perusall. His motivational lectures on interactive teaching, educationa
ChatGPT: A Guide for Teachers with AI Consultant Jessica Lyons
Send us Fan MailDiscover how AI can transform your classroom with insights from EdTech AI consultant Jessica Lyons. Learn how ChatGPT can simplify lesson planning and administrative tasks, drastically cutting down the time educators spend on preparation. Jessica shares her compelling journey from teacher to AI advocate, revealing how ChatGPT’s conversational prowess and advanced features can boost
Sound-Based Teaching with Jazz Musician Hayes Greenfield
Send us Fan MailTap into the symphony of learning with us as we explore sound-based teaching techniques in the classroom. Author, Hayes Greenfield, brings over three decades of experience to the table as a jazz musician and film composer, sharing the magic of his Creative Sound Play learning system and offering a glimpse into his upcoming book, Creative Sound Play for Young Learners. Discover how
Guiding Children to Financial Fluency with Financial Advisor-Author Anthony Delauney
Send us Fan MailUnlock the secrets to teaching your children the priceless skill of financial literacy, as we welcome Anthony Delauney to share his expertise and heartwarming journey as a Family Financial Planner and author of Owning the Dash children's book series. This episode is packed with engaging stories and practical advice that will change the way you approach money management with yo
Empathy and Education: Hidden Barriers in Generational Poverty with Food Bank CEO Michael Coleman
Send us Fan MailDiscover the untold challenges of generational poverty and how it shapes the educational journey of countless children. I'm Dr. Lisa Hassler, and in a heartfelt conversation with Michael Coleman, CEO of Heart of Alabama Food Bank, we peel back the layers of societal norms and hidden barriers that dictate the success or failure of our youth in the classroom. This episode promis
The Essence of Montessori Classrooms with Educator Michaela Kucera
Send us Fan MailDiscover the transformative power of Montessori and project-based learning as we journey with Michaela Kucera, a veteran Montessori educator from the Roots Nature and Leadership Academy, through the captivating terrain of individualized education. Prepare to be inspired as we unravel the secrets behind sensory-rich classrooms and mixed-age learning environments that do more than ju
Crafting Bright Futures: Author Autumn McKay on Enriching Early Learning Experiences
Send us Fan MailRealize the full potential of your child's early education journey with guidance from Autumn McKay, a former teacher turned author whose passion for hands-on learning shines through every page of her work. Autumn details how parents can support their child's academic journey by creating intentional learning experiences at home. Even the simplest activities, from baking t
Nature's Classroom: Justine Wilson on the Wonders of Forest School Education
Send us Fan MailEmbark on an educational adventure where the whispers of the forest merge with the laughter of learning. Justine Wilson, the innovative mind behind Curious and Kind Education, welcomes us into a world where classrooms have no walls, and the sky's the limit for curiosity. She's not your average educator; her story of transitioning from traditional schooling to the untamed
AI and the Future of Personalized Education with Edupreneur Amanda Bickerstaff
Send us Fan MailExplore the educational revolution where AI becomes the teacher's ally, not the adversary. Unlock the promise of a tailored learning journey as we unpack the integration of artificial intelligence into the classroom setting. With insights from the Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Educator Confidence Report and the expert knowledge of Amanda Bickerstaff, a former high school biology t
Unlocking Literacy: Guiding Non-Readers to Success with Dr. Joseph Lockavitch
Send us Fan MailImagine a classroom where every child reads confidently, their eyes alight with understanding. Today literacy sage, Dr. Joseph Lockavitch, unveils the blueprint to literacy success for non-readers. We tackle the daunting educational crisis head-on, discussing Dr. Lockavitch's revolutionary Failure-Free Reading Program, dissecting the unique challenges non-readers face. From th
The Poet's Heart: Sarika Singh on the Power of Poetry in Education
Send us Fan MailHave you ever felt a poem tug at your heartstrings, or stumbled upon lines of verse that perfectly captured your emotions? Today's podcast is a treasure for anyone who’s ever been moved by the power of poetry. We’re joined by the poet Sarika Singh, whose insights into the transformative impact of poetry on education are nothing short of inspirational. Together, we explore the
Healing Classrooms: Embracing Trauma-Informed Yoga in Education with Yoga Guide Kim Louria
Send us Fan MailDiscover how the gentle art of trauma-informed yoga can impact our approach to mental health and education. Join me and my inspiring guest, Kim Louria, from Roots, Nature and Leadership Academy, as we unpack the profound effects this practice can have on alleviating the impact of trauma on learning. You'll hear heartfelt stories and gain expert insights into how incorporating
Creative Roots: Weaving Together Art, Nature, and Education with Researcher and Art Teacher Jenna Saulo
Send us Fan MailUnlock the secrets of fostering a deep, enduring connection between children and the environment through the power of art and nature. Join me, Dr. Lisa Richardson-Hassler, as I talk with Jenna Saulo, researcher and art educator from Roots Nature and Leadership Academy. Together, we explore the integration of natural elements into art education, transforming urban classrooms into fe
In Step with Success: The Impact of Dance in Education with Professor of Dance Dr. Stephanie Milling
Send us Fan MailStep into the world of dance with professor of dance and head of dance education at the University of South Carolina, Dr. Stephanie Milling, and uncover the magnificent role it plays in education. Can you imagine how dance can lead to higher test scores, pro-social behavior, and increased school and community engagement? This episode reveals the cognitive, psychomotor, and psycholo
Transformative Tunes: Shaping Early Learning with Music Specialist Nicholaus Young
Send us Fan MailEver wonder about the magic that happens when little toes tap and small voices hum along to catchy tunes? We guarantee you'll begin to see pre-school music and movement in a transformative light in our chat with specialist Nick Young, who's been instrumental in music curriculum design for early childhood classrooms. He shares his inspiring journey and speaks to the multit
Drawing Thought: A Discussion on Art and Cognition with Artist Dr. Andrea Kantrowitz
Send us Fan MailEver thought about the profound role art plays in education? Get ready to be enlightened as we join Dr. Andrea Kantrowitz, an artist, researcher, and educator, in an enriching conversation on the impact of art on cognition. Taking us through her significant research findings, we delve into the surprising correlation between an integrated art curriculum and elevated mathematical ski
Stage and Classroom: The Interplay of Theater and Education with Actor Brad Wages
Send us Fan MailLooking to create a lasting impact on your students? Tune in as we turn the spotlight on the power of theater education. We're joined by Brad Wages, actor and seasoned theater education maestro from Venice Theater's Education and Community Engagement Department. We dive deep into a discussion about his journey in the world of theater and how he uses his expertise to trans
Charting the Course: Looking Ahead to a Brighter Season 2
Send us Fan MailSeason 1 of The Brighter Side of Education was a remarkable journey! Together, we laughed, we learned, and we sparked conversation on how to transform classrooms, one discussion at a time. We've heard about the challenges educators, parents, and students face, and the innovative solutions that various communities have implemented. It's been a fantastic ride, but it's
Education Illuminated: Reflecting on a Year of Bright Ideas and Emerging Trends with Drs Hassler
Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, we have a special guest joining me as co-host - my husband, Dr. Gregg Hassler, Jr. He's not only a dentist but also a former school board president and, as he always likes to say, my biggest advocate.We are thrilled to celebrate The Brighter Side of Education's one-year anniversary! A big thank you goes out to all our listeners and guests who have
Why Distance Education Needs Digital Communities with Visionary Katy Kappler
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I focus on digital communities with Katy Kappler. Why do we need them and how can it increase student completion rates in distance education?The potential of technology in education is so great that there is a steady increase in the number of online courses available in higher education every year. Distance education is an effective tool with the capability to enha
Timeless Echoes: Embracing the Power of History with Historian Dr. Christopher Berg
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I focus on history in education. Why study history?Joining me to discuss these intriguing facets of the study of history is historian of education, Dr. Christopher Berg. He is a history professor specializing in pre-modern World history with research and writing focused on creating a "usable" past that meets the needs of an educated public in the 21st cen
Unlocking the Power of Bilingual Education with Founder Eric Franzen
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I discuss the benefits of bilingual immersion programs. How can a dual language education impact student achievement? Joining me today to discuss bilingual education, is educator and administrator Eric Franzen (www.idealschool.education). He is the founder of Ideal School, a Cognia-accredited dual language international online school serving K-9 students from over
College Crunch: Navigating the New Frontier with College Admissions Advisor Julie Kelsheimer
Send us Fan MailWhat are the current trends as well as the academic steps needed to help students reach their college goals? In this episode, we discuss the changing landscape for college admissions with College Admissions Advisor, Julie Keisheimer. Julie works with Great Minds Advising, which is the remotely-based college advising wing of the tutoring company Westchester Prep located just outsi
Working Memory and Memory Superpowers with Psychologist Dr. Tracy Packiam Alloway
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I explore the fascinating findings on working memory, its impact on academic attainment, and the promising avenues for intervention and support. How does working memory determine student success and how can it be improved? Over the years, studies conducted by Dr. Alloway (www.tracypackiam.com) have provided growing evidence of the significant connection between wo
Current School Building Trends and Safety Measures with Architect Mary Ruppenthal
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I focus on school facilities design. How does the design of school buildings and classrooms impact student learning?Mary Ruppenthal discusses future trends in school design. She is a registered architect and an Associate Principal at HED, one of the oldest and largest architecture and engineering firms in the country (www.hed.design).She has nearly 30 years of exp
Improve Teacher Retention by Boosting Morale and Creating Positive Work Environments with Chief People Development Officer Dr. Christie McMullen
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I focus on teacher attrition. What can administrators do to retain teachers?In 2021, The National Education Association (NEA) recommended districts make significant changes to reduce stress and improve morale in schools to avoid a "Great Resignation." It's 2023, and I don't think many school districts listened. Teacher burnout is being felt arou
Reading Crisis: Drs. Hassler Discuss Her Research and Book
Send us Fan MailIn this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Dr. Lisa Hassler—educator, researcher, and host of The Brighter Side of Education—shares the story behind her transformative book: America’s Embarrassing Reading Crisis: What We Learned from COVID. Co-hosted by her husband, Dr. Gregg Hassler Jr., this episode offers a candid look at her journey from a life-changing trip to Brazil to wr
Help for Middle and High School Readers with Adolescent-literacy Expert Matt Bardin
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I focus on struggling readers in middle and high school. Adolescent-literacy expert, Matt Bardin is with us today to discuss how to increase the reading levels of middle and high-school struggling students. He is an educator with 25 years of experience and founder of Zinc Learning Labs. He has written on adolescent literacy for the Hechinger Report and The 74. He a
Teens Rediscover the Joy of Reading with High School Teacher Beth Donofrio
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I focus on the reading habits of teenagers with high school English teacher, Beth Donofrio. Beth has her bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education for English and her master’s degree in Children and Adolescents at Risk from Harvard. She is a conference speaker, editor, and author of the book, Champions Way: Inspiring Stories from the Journeys of Hometown Champions.
Getting Personal With Your Host Dr. Lisa Hassler
Send us Fan MailIn this deeply personal and vulnerable episode, podcast host and educator Dr. Lisa Hassler steps away from her usual interview format to share her own educational journey—one filled with adversity, perseverance, and transformation.Lisa reflects on her early passion for teaching, sparked during a high school preschool partnership program, and how her plans shifted dramatically when
The Strengths of Using a Classical Curriculum with Headmaster Josh Longenecker
Send us Fan MailToday, I focus on a classical curriculum. Can using a classical curriculum approach to teaching students in pre-school through grade12 increase student reading and overall academic achievement? Reading and math rates across the nation are spiraling down with no end in sight. It begs the question; how did we get here as a nation and what can we do to fix it? In line with the knowled
Discover the Hidden Segregation in Inclusion Classrooms for Students with Intellectual Disabilities with Filmmaker Olivier Bernier
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I focus on inclusive classrooms for students with intellectual disabilities with filmmaker Olivier Bernier. How does inclusivity impact student success?There are an estimated 7.3 million children with disabilities, accounting for 14% of the students enrolled in our public school system. According to The Individuals with Disabilities Act, students with disabilities
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