In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, host Vicki Davis explores the "real deal" of AI, education, and student learning. First, AI expert Robert "the AI Guy" Benjamin demystifies leading models like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini—and explains why critical thinking matters more than ever. Then, Zach Kinsler from Boodle Box shares insights on working in the AI industry and how young people can use AI responsibly.
Next, Courtney Walker, NASSP's 2024 National Assistant Principal of the Year, reveals how personalized learning pathways are transforming teacher development, while Misa Sato discusses Milwaukee's IB career-related program connecting high schoolers to real-world careers. Finally, Brian Page offers science-backed "homework hacks" that help students take ownership of their learning.
It's real AI, real change, and real progress—all in one inspiring show.

📄 Full show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/realdeal

In this final episode of our three-part math series, we explore how to transform math classrooms into engaging, curiosity-driven environments. Instead of rote memorization, top educators share play-based strategies, project-based learning ideas, and mastery-based instruction to help students develop a deep understanding of mathematics.

Whether you're a math teacher, school leader, or parent, this episode provides practical techniques and real-world applications to make math fun, meaningful, and relevant for students.

Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkmath

✔️ How play-based learning makes math fun (Dan Finkel)
✔️ Why productive struggle builds confidence in students (Dr. Lidia Gonzalez)
✔️ The power of Shark Tank-style design challenges in math (Dr. Erin Krupa)
✔️ Using Fortnite Creative for interactive math & physics (Andrew Vanden Heuvel)
✔️ How real-world projects improve math engagement (Tinashe Blanchet)
✔️ The role of differentiation and flexible grouping (Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson)
✔️ The math innovation challenge to bring new ideas into your classroom

• Dan Finkel – Math for Love – Play-based math learning
• Dr. Erin Krupa – NC State University – Math challenges that promote inquiry
• Dr. Lidia Gonzalez – Productive struggle in math
• Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson – Differentiation Central – Differentiating math instruction
• Tinashe Blanchet – iteachmath.org – Real-world math projects
• Andrew Vanden Heuvel – Fortnite Physics Education – Using Fortnite Creative for physics
• Joseph Manfre – Modern Classrooms – Mastery-based, self-paced learning
• Lauren Harris – Project-Based Learning for Math – How projects deepen math retention
• Dan Meyer – Desmos – Using interactive technology in math lessons
• Liesl McConchie – Brain-Based Learning – How to create a math-ready brain

How can we make math classrooms more engaging and effective? In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, I explore brain-based learning, real-world math engagement, differentiation, and mastery-based learning with top experts. Learn how to reduce math anxiety, foster curiosity, and create meaningful learning experiences that help every student succeed. Featuring insights from Liesl McConchie, Dan Meyer, Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson, and Joe Manfre, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to transform your math classroom!

Show notes and bios: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkmath

This is part of a 3 part series on math education.

We start with Dr. Erin Krupa who shares the research about what works in math and is turning math into SharkTank-style adventures. Dr. Lidia Gonzalez, author of Bad at Math, is dismantling the harmful beliefs that hold our students back.

Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkmath

This episode of my weekly radio/TV show Cool Cat Teacher Talk spotlights two important topics. First, I Have eight news stories that you'll want to hear about AI. Then, I have interviews with math educators Dr. Jennifer Bay-Williams and Dr. Gina Kling, co-authors of Math Fact Fluency: 60+ Games and Assessment Tools to Support Learning and Retention. We'll dive into how to help children learn math in a low-stress way and they'll give us their favorite math games. Then, at the end of the show, I'll unpack the parent lawsuit against ChatGPT and share the lessons we can learn (and how I'm talking about it to my students.)

• 5 Edtech Tools TEachers are Talking About (Snorkl, Diffit, TeachAid.ca, Book Creator, Google Notebook LM)
• 8 News stories educators are talking about
• Low-Stress Math Learning – Replace anxiety with confidence through games.
• The Research on Timed Tests – Why they fail and what to do instead.
• Parent Partnerships – Changing the "I'm not a math person" mindset.
• AI Literacy and Safety – Understanding the wrongful death case and AI companion dangers.
• Faith and Technology – Why we must teach discernment, not dependence.

Show notes and links: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/s4e1

When I sat down to record this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, I knew I wanted it to be practical, encouraging, and full of wisdom from some of the best people I know.

We start with Dr. Barbara Blackburn, one of my favorite experts on rigor. She reminds us that rigor isn't about piling on work — it's about raising expectations and giving students the support they need to succeed.

Then we'll hear from my friend Dr. Desiree Alexander, who always has such clear, actionable advice. She shares simple time-saving tips that really help teachers create a sustainable pace. She also gives advice for getting organized that is essential to new teachers.

Next up is principal and life coach Barb Flowers, who talks honestly about teacher burnout and offers three powerful ways we can stress less and find joy again in teaching.

And finally, you'll laugh with Mari Beasley, whose new book Teachers Have Bigger Fish to Fry is filled with hilarious true stories (like the snake that fell from the ceiling!) along with smart insights about AI productivity tips in the classroom.

Before all of that, I also share some important news updates for teachers — from AI hallucination rates to Google Notebook LM's new features.

This episode is packed with encouragement and tips you can use tomorrow.

https://www.coolcatteacher.com/everychild

In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, Vicki Davis brings together four powerful voices in education to explore what it really means to teach every child.

• Isabelle Hau shares research and insight on the power of early childhood education.

• Andrea Bitner gives practical questions every teacher should ask English language learners to build trust and connection.

• Robert Barnett, founder of the Modern Classrooms Project, explains blended, self-paced, mastery-based instruction and how it transforms learning for all students.

• Joshua Stamper, educator, speaker, and podcaster, highlights trauma-responsive strategies and relationship-based behavior management that works.

Whether you teach kindergartners, multilingual learners, or high schoolers, this episode is full of practical wisdom to help you support every student who walks into your classroom.

🔗 Show notes and guest bios: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/everychild

In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, host Vicki Davis brings together four powerful voices in education with smart ideas for today's classrooms.

• Jacob Kirksey shares urgent insights into the teacher certification crisis in Texas and why preparation matters for student success.

• Malia Hollowell introduces brain-friendly strategies for reading that help all students — including those with dyslexia — thrive.

• Nancy McCabe brings six practical ways to teach writing and reminds us of the joy and healing power of words.

• Jerry Kolber, creator of Who Smarted?, shows how screen-free podcasts can boost curiosity, listening, and learning for kids.

From policy to practice, literacy to engagement, this episode is packed with strategies you can use right now in your classroom.

👉 Full show notes and resources: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/smart2025