SMILE Factor

Becky has supported public education around the world for the past 25 years as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, program specialist, workshop facilitator, author, consultant, and keynote speaker. With a special focus on AI in education, she launched the AI Optimism movement to build practical, powerful strategies and AI implementation strategies through the AI Optimism Framework.

NYSCATE Preview Episode with Carl Hooker SMILEFactor welcomes Carl Hooker for a conversation that’s part preview, part pep-talk, and all heart. Carl dives into why events like NYSCATE fuel connection, curiosity, and community and how a single spark of joy can shift an entire school’s culture. Expect stories, laughter, and a behind-the-scenes look at the sessions he is excited to share.

NYSCATE Preview Episode! In this episode, we dive into all things NYSCATE! Laurie and Matt share details about their upcoming sessions, book signing opportunities, and the overall excitement building for this year’s event. Whether you’re attending in person or tuning in from afar, you’ll feel the energy, inspiration, and community that make NYSCATE such a powerful gathering for educators.

This week, we dive into the importance of thoughtful planning when designing and implementing professional development days in a district. Great PD doesn’t happen by accident—it’s the result of intentional structure, collaboration, and clear goals. From aligning sessions with district priorities to building meaningful follow-up opportunities, we discuss what it takes to move beyond “one and done”...

In this week’s episode of SMILEFactor, we dive into the difference between active and passive screen time and why it matters for today’s learners. From creative projects and collaboration to mindless scrolling and endless watching, not all screen time is created equal.

In this episode of SMILEFactor, we explore the power of inspiration and the people who help us rise higher. Those around us have the ability to spark ideas, renew our passion, and remind us why we do what we do. Join us as we share stories of connection, encouragement, and the moments that reignite our drive to make a difference.

On this week’s episode of SMILEFactor, we dive into the power of perseverance—overcoming obstacles, pushing through challenges, and finding the grit to move forward when things get tough. Join us as we share real stories, practical strategies, and a reminder that growth often happens in the hardest moments. ⁠Show Notes⁠

The start of the school year often feels like a whirlwind—new initiatives, shifting priorities, and endless to-do lists that keep growing by the hour. In this episode, we talk about the weight educators carry as the year kicks off and share practical strategies to bring balance, focus, and calm to the chaos. From time-management tips to mindset shifts, we explore how to stay grounded, prioritize w...

Students Owning Their Learning In this episode of SMILEFactor, we spotlight Jerri Kemble and her inspiring new book Badass Firefly. Together, we dive into the power of women in EdTech, the importance of lifting others as we rise, and how courage, collaboration, and creativity light the path forward. Listeners will hear stories of resilience, leadership, and the impact of empowering voices that too...

In this episode of  SMILEFactor , we dive into the power of student agency—how giving students ownership of their learning builds confidence, engagement, and lifelong skills. We share strategies, real examples, and practical takeaways for creating classrooms where students take the lead, explore their passions, and drive their own success.

In this  Back to School  episode of  SMILEFactor , we dive into the energy, ideas, and inspiration that set the tone for a successful new school year. From fresh strategies to strengthen school culture, to innovative ways educators can spark engagement from day one, this conversation is all about starting strong. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, building leader, or district administrator, you’l...

Welcome back to SMILEFactor! Season 3 is here, and I couldn’t be more excited. Over the past two seasons, we’ve shared stories, strategies, and sparks of inspiration that remind us why joy and connection matter in education and leadership. This season, we’re taking it up a notch, bringing in fresh voices, powerful conversations, and real-world lessons that will leave you smiling, thinking, and rea...

In this heartwarming episode, Matt and Laurie sit down with Christine Devane, a former second grade teacher who spent 13 joyful years inspiring young readers. Christine shares how reading aloud became a cornerstone of her classroom culture, creating magical moments with her students through stories. We dive into her passion for children’s literature and talk about her own book,  Elephant Beach —a...

In this episode of the  SMILEFactor  podcast, Laurie and Matt sit down to unpack their biggest takeaways from ISTE. From hallway conversations that sparked fresh ideas to sessions that reignited their passion for teaching and leading, they reflect on the moments that mattered most. Hear about the inspiring voices they connected with, the tech tools that stood out, and the power of community that m...

In this episode of the SMILEFactor Podcast, Matt and Laurie welcome the always insightful and entertaining Carl Hooker to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping both adult and student learning. From real-world classroom examples to big-picture shifts in professional development, we discuss the practical ways AI is making an impact right now. Tune in for laughs, lightbulb moments, and a f...

SMILEFactor Podcast – AI in Action: Real Talk, Real Impact In this episode of  SMILEFactor , Matt and Laurie dive into the evolving world of Artificial Intelligence in education—not just the buzzwords, but the real, practical ways AI is showing up in classrooms and leadership spaces. From creating AI guidelines that support responsible use to piloting tools that enhance learning, they share how th...

In this episode, Matt and Laurie are gearing up for ISTE 2025! Tune in as they share their excitement, reveal their session topics, and give you the inside scoop on where and when to find them throughout the conference. From innovative leadership to creative classroom tech, they’re ready to bring the energy, insights, and maybe a few surprises. Whether you're attending ISTE or following along...

In this episode of  SMILEFactor , Laurie and Matt dive into something we all need but often avoid: unplugging. With devices buzzing, notifications pinging, and calendars packed, it can feel impossible to hit pause. But what if disconnecting is actually the secret to reconnecting with ourselves, our purpose, and the people around us? Tune in as we explore the power of logging off to recharge. We’ll...

Laurie and Matt are thrilled to dive into the new book from X-Factor EDU   Impact Standards: Designing District Systems That Power K–12 Learning , a transformative new book by veteran educator and digital learning expert Jeffrey D. Bradbury.

In this episode of  SMILEFactor , we step outside the traditional classroom and into a world of experiential learning. Join us as we explore how nature, community spaces, and even simple low-tech and high-tech tools can transform education. From outdoor science explorations and mindfulness walks to using mobile devices for digital storytelling and leveraging simple tools like journals and sketch p...

Join Laurie and Matt as they sit down with the inspiring Dr. Marialice B.F.X. Curran for a powerful conversation on digital wellness and the critical importance of mental health awareness in today’s connected world. In this episode, we also reflect on the incredible people who have supported us along our personal and professional journeys, including @JenWomble, @JaimeDonally, @ElliePrimary1, @Same...

In this episode, Laurie and Matt dive into the importance of digital wellness for students and Matt introduces his new children’s book,  Digital Explorers . Join us as we discuss how young learners can build healthy tech habits, navigate the digital world with confidence, and become thoughtful digital citizens. Packed with insights for educators, parents, and tech-loving kids alike, this conversat...

In this episode of  SMILE Learning , we dive into what it truly means to build future-focused teams in today's ever-evolving educational and professional landscapes. It’s not just about chasing trends — it’s about designing cultures that anticipate change, embrace innovation, and empower every member to lead forward. Join us as we explore practical strategies to create teams that are adaptable...

In this episode, we dive into the growing need for clear and thoughtful AI guidelines in K–12 education. Join us as we explore how districts can approach AI with purpose, ensuring innovation aligns with instructional goals, equity, and student safety. Whether you're just beginning or refining your policy, this conversation offers practical insights and steps to move your district forward with...

In this episode of  SMILEFactor , Clement Townsend joins us to share how  Video Pro Learning  is revolutionizing classroom engagement. Discover how teachers can turn traditional assignments into student-created video projects that boost motivation, creativity, and retention—all without changing their curriculum. With built-in support and minimal tech skills required, this tool helps students devel...