The Balance, by Dr. Catlin Tucker

In this mini-episode, Dr. Catlin Tucker explores the Immunity to Change model and its potential to transform education. Discover how this powerful framework can help educators and leaders identify hidden barriers, confront competing commitments, and unlock personal and professional growth. For more, you can read Dr. Tucker’s blog titled, "Why Teachers Struggle to Change—and How the Immunity to Cha...

In this mini-episode, Dr. Tucker reads the introduction of her newest book with Dr. Katie Novak, Elevating Educational Design with AI: Making Learning Accessible, Inclusive, and Equitable . Find out what inspired the book, who the book is for, how it is structured, and how Dr. Tucker and Dr. Novak hope it will help educators design learning experiences that meet the needs of all students.

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Michelle Ament, the co-founder of the Human Intelligence Movement . We discuss why it’s essential to move beyond content coverage and standardized testing to prioritize creativity, empathy, and critical thinking—skills that empower students to succeed in a rapidly advancing AI-driven world.

In this mini-episode, I provide a peak into my new book Elevating Educational Design with AI: Making Learning Accessible, Inclusive, and Equitable . If you’re a teacher feeling frustrated because your lessons aren’t meeting students’ diverse needs or leading to the engagement and progress you hope for, this book is for you. I’ll show you how to design learning experiences that are more effective,...

In this mini-episode, I explore the benefits of presenting Tier 1 instruction in small group, differentiated instructional sessions. Small groups are not just beneficial for targeted support and intervention; they can elevate Tier 1 instruction, reducing the need for Tier 2 and 3 interventions. When teachers provide instruction on a foundational concept or skill that may be complex or challenging,...

In our 100th episode of The Balance, I sit down with educator and bestselling author Matt Eicheldinger, whose heartwarming and relatable stories about small, everyday moments as a teacher have gone viral on Instagram and TikTok. Matt shares his journey from classroom teacher to published author, offering insights into how these seemingly simple experiences have resonated with a wide audience and s...

In this mini-episode, I explore the power of concept maps as a dynamic tool for helping students make meaning and deepen their understanding. I discuss the benefits of concept mapping, review various formats for organizing and visually representing new information, and a few steps teachers can take to maximize the impact of concept mapping. For more insights and free templates to use in your class...

In this episode, I chat with Sue Thotz, the Director of Outreach for Common Sense Education and co-founder of Equity in Action California. We discuss resources and strategies educators, parents, and families can lean on to help guide young people in navigating the complexities of living in an age of social media, artificial intelligence, and 24/7 connectivity in a healthy way that aligns with thei...

In this episode of Ask Catlin, I’m diving into your questions about AI in the classroom! From practical ways to use AI with students to strategies for fostering critical thinking and balancing AI use, I’ll cover it all. I also tackle the tricky issue of AI-generated student work and share how AI can support special needs students and English language learners. And as a bonus, I dish on my most—and...

In this mini-episode, I explore strategies for designing effective block periods. Transitioning from a traditional 6- or 7-period day to longer blocks can feel overwhelming, but with intentional planning and the use of content blocks, you can create dynamic, engaging lessons. Learn how to balance direct instruction with student-led activities, mix individual and collaborative tasks, and keep stude...

In this episode, I chat with Colton Monti, the principal at Selah High School, about his leadership journey. Colton shares how he has cultivated a school culture that encourages teachers to embrace lifelong learning and adapt to change. We discuss the strategies he uses to support educators in shifting their instructional practices, putting students to the center of the learning experience, and in...

In this episode, I’m answering all your questions about choice boards! Wondering how many options to offer or how to differentiate effectively? I’ve got you covered. Plus, I share a ridiculous Halloween memory involving me, a golf cart, and a wild chase—while dressed as the Wicked Witch of the West.

In this mini-episode, I share five tips teachers can use to design tasks and assignments that are AI-resistant. These tips seek to capitalize on some of the limitations of AI right now. Designing AI-resistant tasks isn’t about avoiding technology; rather, it’s about designing assignments that challenge students to think critically, collaborate meaningfully, and demonstrate their unique understandi...

In this special episode, I share my audio diaries, reflecting on daily experiences and insights from working with schools in Cairo and Ghana.

In this episode, I chat with Toni Rose Deanon about their journey as an educator and the transition from traditional, teacher-led lessons to a more student-driven, self-paced learning model with the Modern Classroom Project. We explore our shared work supporting teachers, the ways fear can stifle innovation, the limitations of conventional teaching methods, and how to design classrooms that foster...

In this mini-episode, I explore the questions: Why don’t we trust our students? What is it that we really fear? As someone who regularly works with teachers on topics like blended learning, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and student-led learning, one recurring theme I encounter is control. Educators have a lot of fears about releasing control and allowing students to take more ownership and...

In this episode, I chat with Jose Gonzolas, the Chief Technology Officer for the Los Angeles County Office of Education. He was recently named one of the top 100 influencers in education. We chat about data visualization, artificial intelligence, and supporting student and teacher success with technology. You can connect with Jose on X @JRGonzalezSELA

In this episode, Noelle and I discuss five strategies designed to maximize co-teaching using the Station Rotation Model. As schools focus on creating inclusive classrooms and least restrictive learning environments, co-teaching offers an exciting pathway to meet all learners' needs in the classroom. To read more about these strategies and see examples of each, check out this blog post.

In this mini-episode, I share my journey to the TEDx stage and provide a sneak peek into my talk. You can watch Education Reimagined: Student-led Learning on YouTube , download the free interactive workbook on my website , and dive into my self-paced course that extends on the ideas presented in my talk on Teachable !

In this mini-episode, I explain why I've never liked the term "classroom management" and prefer to focus on building a strong classroom culture and partnering with students to establish class agreements and a clear path of consequences.

In this episode, I chat with Avery Pan, an education enthusiast, former writing tutor, and cofounder of Class Companion – an AI platform, designed in partnership with teachers. Class Companion provides instant coaching and feedback for students in a way that teachers can control.

In this mini-episode, I delve into the reciprocal teaching strategy, highlighting its power to foster critical thinking and deep engagement with media among students. I walk you through the strategy step-by-step and offer practical tips on how to onboard your students effectively. Episode Resource Blog - Reciprocal Teaching with Multimedia Resource - Reciprocal Teaching Strategy Template with Role...

In this episode, I chat with Eric Sheninger and Nicki Slaugh about their new book Personalize: Meeting the Needs of All Learners . We clarify what personalized learning is and talk about how data, using technology strategically, and focusing on human connection and relationships are key. Eric and Nicki share their experiences and advice about how to build a culture that supports this shift. You ca...

In this mini-episode, Dr. Katie Novak tells us all about her new podcast, The Education Table . She shares her inspiration, describes the microformat, and discusses a few of the topics she has already covered!

In this mini-episode, I dispell some of the misconceptions about what blended learning is and is not. I highlight the benefits of this combination for positioning students to become active agents in the learning experience while freeing teachers to more effectively meet the diverse needs of students in their classes.