Get Inspired with Dr. Barb

I argue that education should draw more on educational neuroscience and other learning sciences to better understand how students learn, especially neurodivergent students. I explore how brain research might help personalize teaching, support executive functioning, and explain the roles of motivation, emotion, and engagement, while calling for experts to join the conversation. Key topics-I draw on...

I speak with Michael McLeod, founder of GrowNOW ADHD and a specialist in ADHD and executive-function coaching, about supporting neurodivergent children and building independence. We discuss parent coaching, school practices, screen use, and McLeod’s recommendations for making education more supportive and evidence-informed. Key topics ​Michael McLeod explains his GrowNOW Internal Skills Model: sel...

In this episode, Dr. Thomas Mackey discusses the concept of metaliteracy, its importance in navigating AI-mediated environments, and practical strategies for educators and learners to develop critical, ethical, and creative skills with digital tools. Key topics: Metaliteracy framework and its four dimensions (metacognitive, effective, cognitive, behavioral) The role of AI in education and the impo...

In this episode, I interview neurodiversity expert Fialkora Myndru about the intersection of trauma, neurodiversity, and education. We explore how systems can better support neurodivergent individuals and the importance of collaboration and understanding. Key topics The intersection of trauma and neurodiversity in education Challenges faced by neurodivergent children and teens The role of systems...

In this episode, Debby Klein, school principal shares her journey from classroom teacher to principal, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, play, and passion in education. Discover how innovative teaching methods and a growth mindset can transform learning experiences for children and educators alike. Key topics The role of curiosity and play in learning Debbie Klein's journey to becoming...

In this episode, Nancy Gillette shares her insights on supporting neurodivergent children and their families, emphasizing the importance of systemic change, relationship development intervention, and fostering independence and belonging in educational settings. Key topics The importance of perspectives beyond the school system Relationship development intervention (RDI) and its role in supporting...

In this episode, James Kellerhouse from Vanderbilt University - New York City discusses the evolving role of AI in education, the importance of liberal arts, and how universities can foster inclusive communities for neurodivergent students. The conversation highlights innovative approaches to higher education and the future of learning in a tech-driven world. Key topics AI's impact on educatio...

Please subscribe to my newsletter at ⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠ and see my latest book Unshakable ⁠https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FWB72V93⁠ ! In this episode, I explore innovative perspectives in education, emphasizing the importance of adapting to unpredictability and neurodivergent needs through new frameworks like Presilience. I discuss how innovation can move faster in other sectors and why edu...

Please subscribe to my newsletter at https://barbaravokatis.com and see my latest book Unshakable https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FWB72V93 ! In this episode, I explore innovative approaches to education by integrating the concept of Presilience, an organizational leadership principle, emphasizing proactive strategies like animal-assisted education to prevent issues before they arise. Take aways: Using...

In this episode, Nir Zavaro, a business storyteller and author, shares insights on how storytelling and pitching skills can transform education and youth development. Discover practical ways students and teachers can leverage storytelling to enhance communication, self-identity, and engagement. Key topics The definition and importance of pitching in communication Storytelling as a superpower for s...

In this episode, I interview Karina Stephens, a talented singer, songwriter, and performer, about her journey in music, the importance of arts education, and how young people can pursue their dreams despite challenges. We explore the role of exposure, perseverance, and innovative resources in nurturing future artists. Key topics: -Music education and opportunities in schools -The importance of exp...

In this episode, Dr. Courtney Beck, a former elite gymnast, discusses the importance of physical activity in education, and how sports can foster resilience, discipline, and emotional regulation. Takeaways: -Movement improves mental health. -Resilience is learned by doing. -Failure builds growth. -Movement should be part of school. -Routine builds discipline. -Play beats screen time. Connect with...

In this episode, I interview JayR McIntyre, a combat veteran, motivational speaker, and PhD candidate, about his journey from adversity to success, the importance of resilience, and inspiring youth and educators. Takeaways: ​Resilience is built through overcoming trauma and failure. ​Authenticity and self-care are crucial for effective leadership. ​Sharing personal struggles can inspire others to...

Grab my latest book ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Unshakable-Parenting-through-Courage-Purpose/dp/B0FWB72V93⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and connect with me through ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get access to latest podcast release ! In this extraordinary episode, we explore innovative approaches to inclusive education, focusing on supporting children with special needs and integrating best pra...

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Fayadh Alenezi discusses the importance of resilience, adaptability, and innovative thinking in education and leadership. He emphasizes shifting from reactive to proactive mindsets to navigate complex, uncertain environments effectively in education and beyond. This episode will highlight such important concepts as presilience and risk intelligence, perspective...

Grab my latest book ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Unshakable-Parenting-through-Courage-Purpose/dp/B0FWB72V93⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and connect with me through ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! In this episode, Dr. Gina Anderson, Founder and CEO of Luma Brighter Learning, shares her inspiring journey from education to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of legacy, innovation in learnin...

In this episode, V-LO The Maestro (Vernon Wiggins) shares his inspiring journey through music, film, and community service, emphasizing the importance of mindset, perseverance, and giving back. Discover practical advice for young artists and entrepreneurs, and learn how to turn passions into impactful careers. And if you know a this year high school graduate, please share this episode! Connect wit...

In this episode, I interview Shahar Matorin about innovative approaches to education, entrepreneurship, and community building for high school students worldwide. We explore how technology, startup culture, and community initiatives can transform learning and prepare youth for the future. Connect with Shahar, see the initiative in action, and start to communicate through Shahar's LinkedIn: https:/...

Grab my latest book ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Unshakable-Parenting-through-Courage-Purpose/dp/B0FWB72V93⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and connect with me through ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! In this inspiring interview, I speak with Patricia Miranda, a passionate STEM/STEAM teacher in the South Bronx, about innovative teaching methods, student engagement, and the importance of student-center...

In this episode, Dr. Minakshi Koch shares her inspiring journey advocating for autistic children and the systemic changes needed in education. We discuss the importance of understanding child needs, systemic challenges, and the value of parental and teacher advocacy. Her journey of helping her own autistic son shows strength, resilience and power of parents of neurodivergent children. Her advocacy...

In this engaging interview, Prof. Dr. Marc Oliver Opresnik shares his insights on innovative online education, purpose-driven management, and how technology is transforming mathematics education and learning more broadly. Discover practical strategies for accessible education, the future of AI in teaching, and inspiring advice for young graduates. Specifically, the 8-month online MBA pathway offer...

Grab my latest book ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Unshakable-Parenting-through-Courage-Purpose/dp/B0FWB72V93⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and connect with me through ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! In this insightful interview, Claire Zee shares her journey from high-pressure finance environments to becoming an advocate for neurodivergent individuals. She discusses the importance of rethinking labe...

Grab my latest book ⁠⁠⁠ https://www.amazon.com/Unshakable-Parenting-through-Courage-Purpose/dp/B0FWB72V93 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and connect with me through ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! In this insightful interview, I speak with Dr. Dianne Henderson about innovative AI-powered tools designed to improve reading skills among children, especially those with learning difficulties. We explore...

Most high-achievers started with a struggle—Gil Petersil shares how overcoming dyslexia, ADHD, and language barriers fueled his groundbreaking success in networking, business strategy, and education. Discover the unconventional mindset shifts and practical hacks that turned his perceived disadvantages into superpowers, transforming lives and building global communities. Every teen, parent, and edu...

Grab my latest book ⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Unshakable-Parenting-through-Courage-Purpose/dp/B0FWB72V93 ⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠ and connect with me through ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! In this engaging interview, Katie Baron shares her journey from corporate America to becoming a passionate advocate for animal-assisted education. Discover how therapy dogs like Archer are transforming cla...