Many educators and leaders carry powerful ideas, but sharing those ideas clearly and meaningfully can be challenging.

In this episode, Dr. Marvin King, Associate Professor of Political Science & African American Studies at the University of Mississippi, and I talk about the book TED Talks: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking by Chris Anderson and what it reveals about communicating ideas in ways that resonate with audiences. We explore how clarity, storytelling, and thoughtful preparation help ideas come to life, whether in classrooms, presentations, or conversations.

We also reflect on what it means to honor the audience, shape a message thoughtfully, and share ideas with confidence and purpose.

If you’re working to communicate ideas more clearly, whether as a teacher, presenter, or leader, this conversation offers insight and practical encouragement.

Show notes for the episode can be found at https://amidonplanet.com/episode142/

How can mathematics connect meaningfully to the culture and communities students live in?

In this episode we are learning to teach better with Dr. Siddhi Soni and Alyssa Harbin as we discuss their article, Barn Quilts Ethnomodeling Task, found in Mathematics Teacher: Learning and Teaching PK-12. The task is a mathematics experience that connects geometric thinking with cultural traditions found in communities across the United States. Through this work, they show how mathematics can be rooted in local contexts, helping students see mathematical ideas as part of the world around them.

We explore how ethnomodeling supports culturally responsive teaching, what teachers can learn from community artifacts like barn quilts, and how authentic mathematical tasks can deepen student engagement and understanding.

If you’re looking for ways to make mathematics more meaningful and connected to students’ lived experiences, this conversation offers inspiration and practical ideas.

Plus, the Physical Media of the Epsisode, How to Be Perfect: The Correct Answer to Every Moral Question by Michael Schur.

Show notes can be found at https://amidonplanet.com/episode141/

It’s easy to feel like we have to manage everything - our students, our colleagues, our classrooms, our kids, and sometimes even how others think or respond. But what if some of that weight isn’t actually ours to carry?

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Gary Williams about The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins and the simple but powerful idea behind it: letting people be who they are, while focusing on what we can control. We explore what this looks like in teaching, leadership, and everyday relationships, and how this shift can reduce stress while increasing clarity and presence.

If you’ve been feeling stretched thin or over-responsible, this conversation offers a grounded perspective on boundaries, agency, and showing up with intention.

Show notes can be found at https://amidonplanet.com/episode140/