The Balance, by Dr. Catlin Tucker

In this mini-episode, I explore strategies like the station rotation model, playlists, choice boards, and inquiry cycles that help educators design self-directed, meaningful learning experiences while creating time to address Tier 2 needs. I’ll discuss how formative assessment and progress monitoring tools help educators identify students' needs and provide targeted support and enrichment. Additional Resources: MTSS: Instructional Strategies to Make Time for Tier 2 Support and Extension Formative Assessment is Key to Being Responsive

In this episode, I chat with Robert Barnett, co-founder of The Modern Classrooms Project and author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs: Redesigning Instruction So All Learners Can Succeed. We dive into the power of self-paced learning—even for young students—explore how digitizing direct instruction can free teachers to focus on deeper connections with learners, and address the common concern of maintaining the human element in tech-supported

In this episode, I explore the shift toward inclusive classrooms, where students with diverse needs, including IEPs and unique learning profiles, learn side-by-side with their peers. What does it take to create equitable and effective learning environments? I discuss the foundational role of differentiated Tier 1 instruction and the power of the MTSS framework in providing targeted support and meaningful extensions. Learn how strategies like station rotation, playlists, and choice boards can empower teachers to meet the needs of every student while fostering a true sense of belonging. Whether you’re a teacher or school leader, this episode offers actionable insights to reimagine inclusive instruction.

Dr. Catlin Tucker dives into the Immunity to Change model, revealing how it can overcome hidden barriers in education. She discusses why intentions alone fail to create lasting change and highlights the disparity between New Year resolutions and real-life outcomes. The podcast emphasizes the need for educators to transition from traditional teaching to a student-centered approach, especially in the age of AI. Through practical examples, the conversation showcases how to identify and test assumptions that obstruct growth.

In this mini-episode, Dr. Tucker reads the introduction of her newest book with Dr. Katie Novak, Elevating Educational Design with AI: Making Learning Accessible, Inclusive, and Equitable. Find out what inspired the book, who the book is for, how it is structured, and how Dr. Tucker and Dr. Novak hope it will help educators design learning experiences that meet the needs of all students.

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Michelle Ament, the co-founder of the Human Intelligence Movement. We discuss why it’s essential to move beyond content coverage and standardized testing to prioritize creativity, empathy, and critical thinking—skills that empower students to succeed in a rapidly advancing AI-driven world.

In this mini-episode, I provide a peak into my new book Elevating Educational Design with AI: Making Learning Accessible, Inclusive, and Equitable. If you’re a teacher feeling frustrated because your lessons aren’t meeting students’ diverse needs or leading to the engagement and progress you hope for, this book is for you. I’ll show you how to design learning experiences that are more effective, equitable, and student-centered—while also freeing up your valuable time to focus on the most rewarding parts of teaching. Tune in for a quick preview of how AI can be your partner, not your replacement, in reimagining learning design.

In this mini-episode, I explore the benefits of presenting Tier 1 instruction in small group, differentiated instructional sessions. Small groups are not just beneficial for targeted support and intervention; they can elevate Tier 1 instruction, reducing the need for Tier 2 and 3 interventions. When teachers provide instruction on a foundational concept or skill that may be complex or challenging, presenting it in small groups and adjusting the instruction creates a more equitable experience for students.

Matt Eicheldinger, an educator and bestselling author, shares his journey from a classroom teacher to a viral sensation with heartfelt stories that resonate across social media. He discusses the power of storytelling in education and how small moments can create significant impact. Matt reflects on his transition from architecture to teaching, detailing his perseverance through 200 rejection letters in his writing journey. With anecdotes from his books like 'Sticky Notes,' he highlights the emotional connections made between teachers and students, proving that even ordinary moments can be extraordinary.

In this mini-episode, I explore the power of concept maps as a dynamic tool for helping students make meaning and deepen their understanding. I discuss the benefits of concept mapping, review various formats for organizing and visually representing new information, and a few steps teachers can take to maximize the impact of concept mapping. For more insights and free templates to use in your classroom, and for more on concept maps (plus templates you can copy), check out my blog!