National Charter Schools Institute

Bold By Choice Podcast

Education EN ↓ 54 episodes

The Bold By Choice Podcast tells the untold stories of the charter school movement—its origins, innovations, and ongoing evolution. Hosted by Vashaunta Harris and Jim Goenner of the National Charter Schools Institute, each episode brings together bold thinkers, doers, and trailblazers who are shaping the future of public education. Whether you’re an authorizer, board member, school leader, teacher, or education advocate, Bold by Choice offers deep conversations, practical insights, and real-life stories from the frontlines of chartering. From navigating policy and governance to centering stude...

Author

National Charter Schools Institute

Episodes

S1 E3 The Charter Application: Co-Creating a Vision for a Great School 16.07.2025 36:17

In this dynamic episode of Bold By Choice, hosts Vashaunta Harris and Jim Goenner sit down with special guest Heather Wendling , Vice President of Professional Services at the National Charter Schools Institute , to unpack the critical importance of the charter application process. Heather draws from her extensive background in education, authorizing, and coaching to illustrate how the charter app...

S1 E2 What Is a Charter School Life Cycle and Why Does It Matter? 09.07.2025 40:08

In this insightful episode of Bold By Choice, hosts Vashaunta Harris and Jim Goenner welcome special guest Mary Bradley , Chief Operating Officer at the National Charter Schools Institute , to explore the essential concept of the charter school life cycle. Mary brings deep experience from her journey as an educator and leader in authorizer work across Michigan and Chicago, sharing personal stories...

S1 E1 Welcome to the Show – Who We Are & Why We're Here 13.06.2025 19:52

Welcome to the Bold By Choice podcast — real talk about charter schools, from the boardroom to the classroom. In this inaugural episode, co-hosts Vashaunta Harris and Dr. Jim Goenner invite you into the heart of their mission: transforming student outcomes through connection, courage, and community. Vashaunta and Jim share personal stories that reveal their “why” — from Southern roots and sweet te...

Bold Choice Podcast S1 trailer 01.05.2025 1:24

What does it really take to lead in today’s charter school movement? In this season trailer, co-hosts Vashaunta Harris and Jim Goenner set the stage for Bold by Choice—a podcast that brings together the voices of school leaders, board members, authorizers, and changemakers from across the nation. From accountability and innovation to community voice and renewal, Season 1 explores the life cycle of...