What the World Needs Now

In this season finale, hosts Josh Monroe and Tom Whisinnand reflect on their experiences connecting with educators worldwide, emphasizing the importance of human connection, systemic support, and embracing student strengths. They share insights from interviews, discuss the value of systems in education, and explore ways to humanize teaching for better student outcomes. Huge thanks to Harmony Acade...

*** This episode was recorded on February 14, 2021. *** Josh and Tom continue their adventure to find out "What the World Needs Now," by talking with Top 10 finalist in the Global Teacher Prize and North Dakota Teacher of the Year, Leah Juelke! Her ability to utilize community connections so that her refugee students are not just successful, but empowered is truly INSPIRATIONAL!! Huge th...

In this episode, Tom and Josh talk with Alissa Hinz, a passionate educator who shines as she discusses her unique approach in the classroom. With nearly 14 years of experience, she emphasizes the importance of inclusion and collaboration.  3Alissa believes that every child deserves to learn alongside their peers. She not only supports students with IEPs but enriches the learning experience for all...

In this previously recorded episode (2021), Josh and Tom talk with Beth Deacon, an award winning teacher from Iowa about how she inspires her students, no matter where they are. Beth also discusses her book, "7 Doors In".  Huge thanks to Harmony Academy, from National University, for empowering Tom and Josh to continue sharing the inspirational stories from educators all around the world...

In this inspiring interview, educator and social media influencer Jere Chang shares her journey from a challenging school experience to becoming a gifted education teacher and author. She discusses the importance of authenticity, supporting neurodivergent and gifted students, and advocating for kindness and inclusion in education. ***Due to Technical Issues- Josh Monroe was able to participate in...

This episode was previously released on January 10, 2021: In this episode, Tom and Josh speak with Jaime Casap, the former Chief Educational Evangelist of Google, about creating educational equality and what the Covid-19 Pandemic has meant for education in the future! Huge thanks to Harmony Academy, from National University, for empowering Tom and Josh to continue sharing the inspirational stories...

In this episode, Mai Xi Lee discusses the importance of social emotional learning (SEL) in education, emphasizing that it is foundational to equity and not just an add-on. She shares her journey in education, the significance of belonging for students, and how educators can create inclusive environments. The conversation explores reframing educational success, the impact teachers can have within t...

This episode was previously released on January 3, 2021: Eric Depue is now a full time therapist, who supports the emotional needs of students, outside of the school setting. This week, Josh and Tom chat with Eric Depue,  a school Social Worker about how he supports his entire school community and how he builds relationships with kids. We also discuss how he maintains the high level of inspiration...

In this episode of 'What the World Needs Now', Dr. Christina Cipriano shares her journey from being a first-generation high school graduate to becoming an Associate Professor at Yale. She emphasizes the importance of social emotional learning in education, advocating for a shift in how educators and parents communicate and collaborate. Dr. Cipriano discusses the need for systemic change...

In this episode of 'What the World Needs Now', hosts Tom Whisinnand and Josh Monroe engage with Dr. Catherine Zeisner, an educational leadership professor, discussing her extensive journey in education, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the role of kindness and support in teaching. Dr. Zeisner shares her experiences transitioning from teaching to administration, her embrace o...

In this episode of 'What the World Needs Now', Tom and Josh engage with Lindsey Wilson, Nebraska's Teacher of the Year. Lindsey shares her unconventional journey into education, emphasizing the importance of belonging, innovative teaching methods, and community partnerships. She discusses the significance of teaching like a rebel, challenging the status quo, and fostering curiosity...

In this episode of 'What the World Needs Now', Tom and Josh speak with Whitney Green (Rice), a passionate educator and school counselor. Whitney shares her journey into education, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of emotional vocabulary in empowering students. The conversation delves into the need for empathy in the classroom, the challenges educators...

 In the latest episode of "What the World Needs Now," we delve into the transformative journey of Val Alves, a passionate English teacher from São Paulo, Brazil. Val shares her insights on teaching, the challenges of English education in Brazil, and her experiences as a cancer survivor, offering a powerful narrative about perseverance and hope in the educational landscape.  If you like w...

In this episode of 'What the World Needs Now', Tom and Josh talk with Lynn Porter, a dedicated physical education teacher from Vermont. Lynn shares her journey into education, the challenges she has faced, and her innovative approaches to teaching, particularly in social and emotional well being. The conversation highlights the importance of humor, creativity, and kindness in education,...

 In this episode, Tom and Josh talk with Sarah Frayer, an award winning educator from the Washington DC area. Sarah shares the critical role of social and emotional learning in education. Sarah also talks about her journey in education, emphasizing the importance of building community and empathy within classrooms. They explore the concept of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support and how data-driven dec...

***This Interview was first recorded and published in 2021) ***  What the World Needs Now interviews, Sarah Frayer, an Interventionist and Success Coach at Friendship Public Charter School in Washington DC about how her school has gone and how she brings her HIGH ENERGY every single day!!! If you need an injection of energy to make it to the end of the year, Sarah is it!! Huge thanks to Harmony Ac...

In this episode, Tom and Josh explore the inspiring journey of Sharyn Kang, a dedicated educator with over 36 years of experience. She shares her passion for teaching, the importance of curiosity in education, and the challenges of supporting students with diverse needs. Sharyn emphasizes the significance of building relationships, creating memorable experiences, and the role of mentorship in fost...

In this episode, Tom Whisinnand and Josh Monroe reflect on their inspiring conversations with educators from the 2025 fall season. They discuss the importance of curiosity, technology's impact on learning, and the need for student ownership in education. Tom and Josh also emphasize the significance of building empathy in classrooms, supporting first-generation educators, and the necessity of...

In this episode, Tom Whisinnand and Josh Monroe talk with Dr. Melody Hawkins, who shares her journey as an educator and advocate for Black girls in education. She discusses the challenges faced by middle school students, particularly Black girls, and the impact of adultification bias on their experiences. Dr. Hawkins emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments, confronting biases...

In this episode...Recorded in 2022, Tom and Josh talk with multi-award winning teacher, Melody Hawkins (before she was a Dr.), about how she found her true calling in the field in the education.  Mrs. Hawkins shares what keeps her inspired and how her journey into the educational world continues to inspire those around her. Huge thanks to Harmony Academy, from National University, for empowering T...

In this episode, hosts Tom Whisinnand and Josh Monroe speak with Dr. Esther Deth. She shares her journey from teacher to school-wellness and college preparation coordinator in the Long Beach Unified School District. She also discusses the importance of reimagining wellness policies post-pandemic, the significance of relationships in education, and the integration of social emotional learning throu...

In this episode, Tom and Josh talk with Rebekah Poe (aka @lessons_and_lattes -  on Insta and TikTok), a special education teacher from Alabama. Ms. Poe shares the impact social media has had on being a student and how she validates student emotions so that she can teach coping skills. If you like "What the World Needs Now," please share it with your friends. Your support helps us get ins...

In this episode, hosts Tom Whisinnand and Josh Monroe speak with Stephanie Johnson, an educator with over 21 years of experience. They discuss Stephanie's journey from a first-generation college graduate to a passionate advocate for equity in education. Stephanie shares her insights on the importance of community connections, the role of empathy in teaching, and how educators can bridge the g...

In this episode, Tom and Josh talk with Dr. Jodi Miller, the creator of WellCheq, about how important student well being is in the learning process.   WellCheq is a web based app that allows students to tell adults how they are feeling and also allows them to ask a caring adult to check in with them. If you would like to learn more about Well Cheq, here is a link to their website:  https://wellche...

On this episode of What the World Needs Now, Deborah Goodman tells Tom and Josh about her extensive experience in education, emphasizing the importance of counseling and building relationships with students.  She also discusses the challenges educators face and offers valuable advice for new teachers.  Huge thanks to Harmony Academy, from National University, for empowering Tom and Josh to continu...