Category Archives: entrepreneur

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WEP 250: Designing a Life of Purpose, an Interview with Mark Trumbo

The Dream Factory, An interview with Mark Trumbo and Kelly Croy

This is the Wired Educator Podcast episode 250, my interview with Mark Trumbo, author of The Dream Factory: Designing a Life of Purpose. Mark and I talk about how he wrote an entertaining fable to teach memorable lessons on leadership and living an awesome life. My conversation with Mark hit so many levels of awesomeness, this is an amazing interview with amazing takeaways for everyone.

Listen to my interview with Mark.

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Mark Trumbo is the author of The Dream Factory: Designing a Life of Purpose, a nationally recognized leader, speaker, and creator of The Purpose Design, a framework dedicated to helping people discover, define, and live out their true purpose. A devoted child of God, husband to Kristy, and proud father of Avery Grace, Grant Hampton, and Payton Joy, Mark’s greatest joy comes from his faith and family.

Mark’s journey to discovering his “why” began in January 2017, shortly after the birth of his son, during a season of professional demands and personal reflection. Confronted with questions about his goals, identity, and impact, he embarked on a mission to develop his most valuable asset–his purpose. Inspired by Simon Sinek’s belief that “People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it,” Mark created The Purpose Design not only to clarify his own direction but to empower others to live with intentionality and meaning.

Since then, he has shared The Purpose Design with thousands of students, coaches, professionals, and organizations, guiding them to align their actions with their deepest values. Through his work, Mark challenges audiences to reflect on one powerful question: What does your Purpose Design say about you?

Mentioned in this Episode: 

Kelly Croy on The Interview Chair Podcast with Jimmy Casas

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Purchase a copy of Mark’s awesome book, The Dream Factory: Designing a Life of Purpose

Mark Trumbo’s website: https://www.connectedd.org/marktrumbo

Follow Mark Trumbo on social media: www.x.com/MarkHTrumbo

Thank you for taking time from your busy week to listen to the show, level up, and make a difference in the lives of students, and remember, it’s always a great week to be a Wired Educator!

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

I love opening day keynotes to school districts and conferences, workshops with leaders and any opportunity to help educators reignite their passion, build stronger connections with students and colleagues, improve instruction, and level up as leaders. I hope YOU will reach out to ME!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelly_croy
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 

 

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 24 Amazon Prime Day Must-Have Purchases for Teachers

My Personal Recommendations of Awesomeness

  25 Amazon Prime Day Must-Have Purchases for Educators

By Kelly Croy, Wired Educator

My stuff!

Hey educators, creatives, and leaders! Prime Day is more than a sale—it’s your opportunity to upgrade the tools you use every single day. These are the actual items I use (and one I just REALLY want #25) and love in my work as a teacher, speaker, artist, dad, husband and leader. They’re tested. They’re trusted. They’re ready for your classroom, home, life and beyond.

Affiliate Disclosure: I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through these links. Thanks for supporting Wired Educator and everything I do to help educators lead well and live fully.

(Of course, I would love for you to add my books Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed to your cart too, but they did not make the list.) 

 

0. Audible Account to listen to books

I kid you not, this is the unfair advantage over everyone else. To consume awesome b

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ooks while mowing, running, working out, laundry, dishes, walking dogs etc. I love Audible.  Get it for yourself and give it as a gift. One of the best decisions I ever made.

Free Trial and Subscription Here

1. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)

Noise-canceling brilliance—perfect for quiet, calls, or creative work. Amazing price on these discount days. I use these every single day and I even purchased Apple’s over-the-ear AirPod Max for around the house and Wowzers!

 Buy on Amazon

2. Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus

Looks sharp. Works hard. Carries everything I need. This bag is NOT cheap, but it is the greatest bag I have ever owned. I love it and when I consider that it goes everywhere I go… it is a bargain. All the great and expensive things I own, deserve a great place to live. I also have Air Tags hidden in it.

 Buy on Amazon

3. Apple AirTags (4-Pack)

Never lose your keys, tech, or peace of mind again. I put these in and on about everything including my bike, keys, wallet, bag, and dogs.

 Buy on Amazon

4. Minimalist AirTag Wallet

Sleek. Slim. Trackable. I carry mine every day. I can ping it from my phone and track. Has prevented a couple of heart attacks and… if I were to set it down and walk away, it alerts me that “Wallet has been left behind.” Boom. No brainer. Super-cheap.

 Buy on Amazon

5. Owala FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle (24 oz)

My go-to hydration sidekick. Cold all day, zero spills. We all need to be intentional about better hydration. I hate straws. This solved that problem and more. I wrote about this in a newsletter and received a few thank-yous. The uglier the bottle, the better in my opinion. I love it.

 Buy on Amazon

6. Pilot G2 Gel Pens (07 & 10)

Teachers’ best friend—smooth, reliable, satisfying. My go-to is purple ink, but I have a case and I use both the 07 and the 10 width. My go-to colors are: purple, black, blue, and an occasional red. These are for my journal and everything! The 10 might smear, so I let it dry when creating beautiful journal templates. The 07 is my standard for the whole day.

 Buy on Amazon

7. iDream365 Pen & Pencil Case

Keep your tools together and tidy. I keep other things in here too. This pencil case goes in my backpack. I like mini cases and bags inside my pack. You are going to love this. I don’t loan my pens… well… if I do, I keep my eye on them. LOL.

 Buy on Amazon

8. Apple iPad Pro (M4 chip)

There is nothing quite like it. The most expensive item on this list and the powerful creative and teaching device I own. I have written and illustrated a book on it. I give presentations with it. It is, outside my watch, my most-used device. I’m an artist, writer and designer. I love GoodNotes, Procreate, Keynote and Pages. I make things. I love the size and I have a nice case for it that holds my Apple Pencil.

 Buy on Amazon

9. Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro

Transforms your iPad into a full workstation. I love typing on this. Not a must, but… glad I have it. Highly recommend. Not cheap

 Buy on Amazon

10. Apple Pencil (2nd Gen)

Annotate, illustrate, and create—all from your armchair.

 Buy on Amazon

11. Moleskine Journal. 

If I could only have ONE item on the list, believe it or not, this would be it. Not kidding. This is my journal. The perfect balance of style, function, and reflection. All my dreams and ideas go here. I love it.

 Buy on Amazon

12. Microfiber Screen Cleaning Cloths

Clean screens make a difference. I keep one in my bag, one in my desk, one in my car and one at each work station. I clean my glasses, phone, Mac, iPad, etc.

 Buy on Amazon

13. Anker Slim Power Bank (Portable Charger)

It might be the best deal on this list. I keep it in my bag. I don’t tell my girls I have it. Lightweight. Lifesaving. I never leave home without it. Gives me about 5 phone charges. I have an adapter to charge my watch, etc. Great for flights. Breezes through TSA.

 Buy on Amazon

14. Anker Multi-Device Power Bank

This is the big daddy. Think of a brick, Recharge everything. Great for travel, conferences, or emergencies. My whole family plugs into this when we need to in the van and elsewhere.

 Buy on Amazon

15. Extra Charging Cords 

Put them everywhere—car, classroom, bag, drawer.

 Buy on Amazon

16. Biofreeze Roll-On

Maybe it is my age. I love this stuff. My go-to after long days on my feet or sore muscles. I hit my neck, wrist and knees a lot with this. So helpful. Goes in the bag.

 Buy on Amazon

17. Logitech Wireless USB-Chargeable Presentation Remote. It’s the best.

People ask me all the time what remote I use. This is it! Works across huge rooms. No batteries needed. A speaking essential. Easy advance and backtrack. It just plain works. Every. Single. Time.

 Buy on Amazon

18. Rechargeable Flashlight with Laser & UV Light

Laser pointer, flashlight, UV scanner—all in one. I use it constantly. I love that it is rechargeable. No batteries. It has settings. Goes in the bag. Way better than iPhone light. When you need to find something or point something out… Boom! Every Jedi carries a lightsaber. This is mine.

 Buy on Amazon

19. Bowflex Kettleball for working out. 

Strength training for any age and any space. This kettlebell is compact and powerful. I love my Bowflex Dumbbells and I love a good kettleball workout. Build muscle. This is an inexpensive home gym right here.

 Buy on Amazon

20. The Best Screen Protector (Tempered Glass) for your iPhone

This is it! Easy on. Perfect fit. Protection. Every should be protected. This is the one.

 Buy on Amazon

21. Apple Watch (GPS + Cellular)

I track my steps, get alerts when I leave my phone behind, and stay connected. Silent taps for emergencies are a huge plus. I can put all devices on Do Not Disturb. I can leave my phone and still take or make a call or text. Offers tons of info instantly. Best watch I have ever owned. Mine has lasted for years. Love it.

 Buy on Amazon

22. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir (Book)

Every teacher needs to read and hear this story! Andy Weir is an incredible author; he wrote The Martian. Ray Porter delivers one of the best audio performances ever. Funny. Adventurous. Read the book and listen to the audio. You will thank me. And… they are making a movie of it too. Wow! Just found out. I love it all. An unforgettable sci-fi story of teamwork, grit, and leadership. Every teacher should read this book—and yes, the movie’s on the way.

 Buy on Amazon

23. Just Click Retractable Dry-Erase Marker

No cap. No mess. Just one click to write. Dry Erase. This is the best dry erase marker I’ve ever used. Period.

 Buy on Amazon

24. Productive Undarted Weekly Desk Planner

It’s hard to explain how helpful this is. This allows me to focus, get things done, and reflect back on what was done when. I love digital, but this paper planner sits on my desk and it is where I begin each week and day and where I end it. This is the way! This is the planner I keep on my desk every week. It helps me set my focus, map out goals, and get clear on priorities. A must for intentional educators and leaders/

Buy on Amazon

25. DJI MIni 3 Drone Pro

What is the one thing I would buy on Amazon if I could? Something, I really want? It’s a DJI Mini 3 Drone Pro. It’s so cool. I know… I don’t need it, but… so cool. I do NOT own this, but it looks so darn cool. I had a DJI Phantom years ago in my classroom. Did cool things with it. 

 Buy on Amazon

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BONUS: Tultex 202 Heather Gray T-Shirt

The perfect tee. I’ve tried them all—this is the one I wear. If you’ve ever watched one of my Tik Toks, or stopped over at my house, you have probably seen me wearing this awesome t-shirt. Feels great.

 Buy on Amazon

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Final Word from Kelly

This isn’t just a shopping list. It’s a toolkit for educators and leaders who want to lead with energy, purpose, and strength both in and out of the classroom. Every item here earns its place. If you’re looking for something meaningful to grab on Prime Day, I hope this helps you pick something that actually makes a difference.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?
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WEP 244: Empowering Educators: How MagicSchool Al Helps Teachers! An Interview with Adeel Khan, Founder of Magic School Al

An Interview with Adeel Khan, Founder of Magic School Al

In this episode of the Wired Educator Podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Adeel Khan, the visionary founder of MagicSchool AI. Adeel, a former teacher and principal, has created what I believe to be the most powerful tool currently available to help educators and educational leaders. Adeel’s team has shared with me what an amazing leader he is as well. If you’re an educator looking to save time, reduce stress, and focus more on what matters most—your students—this episode is a must-listen.

About MagicSchool AI

MagicSchool AI’s mission is simple yet profound: to lighten the load for teachers so they can dedicate their energy to building relationships and delivering impactful instruction. Here are some highlights of what makes MagicSchool AI a game-changer for educators:

  • Time-Saving Efficiency: MagicSchool AI can save teachers up to 10 hours per week by streamlining tedious tasks.
  • Teacher-Centric Design: The platform is intuitive, customizable, and designed to address the realities of teaching. Teachers can start using it immediately without extensive training.
  • Empowering Educators: MagicSchool AI focuses on freeing up teachers’ time to enhance their direct interactions with students and families, emphasizing that great teaching is irreplaceable.

Since its launch, MagicSchool AI has seen remarkable success, with over 4 million educators signing up in just 18 months. This rapid growth underscores the platform’s effectiveness and the demand for innovative tools in education.

Insights from My Conversation with Adeel Khan

During our discussion, Adeel shared the inspiring story behind MagicSchool AI, its mission, and its incredible growth. Here are some key takeaways:

  • The Vision: Adeel’s passion for education and his understanding of the challenges teachers face inspired him to create a platform tailored to their needs.
  • Practical Applications: MagicSchool AI helps educators with everyday tasks, from lesson planning to administrative duties, giving them more time to focus on teaching and student engagement.
  • Looking Ahead: Adeel shares exciting plans for MagicSchool AI in 2025, including new features and updates designed to further empower educators and enhance student outcomes.
  •  The Book Adeel’s read 10-20 times! We also learn the most influential book in Adeel’s life, and he’s read it more than ten times! essentialism and he is currently using the essentialism planner, both by Greg McKeown. I am adding both to my cart and reading and using this year! Wow! And of course you could listen to it on Audible.

Try MagicSchool AI

If you’re intrigued by the possibilities MagicSchool AI offers, I encourage you to explore it for yourself. Visit MagicSchool.ai to learn more and sign up for a free trial. Experience firsthand how this transformative tool can revolutionize your teaching practice.

Final Thoughts

This episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical advice for educators. Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or educational leader, MagicSchool AI is a tool you need to know about.

Thank you, Adeel, for sharing your journey and the magic behind MagicSchool AI. Teachers and administrators, now is the time to discover why this platform is reshaping education.

As always, thank you for listening to the Wired Educator Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a colleague, leave a review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Let’s make 2025 a transformative year for education.

For more episodes, resources, and tools, visit WiredEducator.com.

Looking for a dynamic speaker to inspire your school or organization? Visit KellyCroy.com and let’s make it happen.

Thanks for taking time out of your busy week to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker

Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast  Twitter: @kellycroy and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

 

 

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WEP 242: Teaching and Learning with the Magic of Artificial Intelligence An Interview with Jeni Long

This is Wired Educator Podcast Episode 242:

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Teaching and Learning with the Magic of Artificial Intelligence, my interview with Jeni Long who has been at the forefront of educational innovation as an EdTech speaker, consultant, and author helping educators. Jeni has a new role as Senior Community Strategist at MagicSchool AI is helping educators in fascinating new ways by leveraging artificial intelligence. Dive in. You’re going to love this episode. 

Click here to listen to my interview with Jeni Long.

Jeni is a seasoned educator with over 25 years of experience in the field. She is a respected EdTech speaker, consultant, and author dedicated to providing unwavering support for teachers both in and out of the classroom. Jeni empathizes with the daily challenges educators encounter and strives to offer guidance, resources, and encouragement to all educators. In her role as the Senior Community Strategist at MagicSchool AI, Jeni’s primary goal is to ensure that every teacher on the platform feels supported, motivated, and empowered to positively impact their students’ lives. She strongly believes in the strength of community and understands that collective collaboration among teachers can foster magic within classrooms. Jeni is actively engaged in organizing events, delivering professional development sessions, fostering community growth, and establishing partnerships with school districts in collaboration with MagicSchool. 

Mentioned in this Episode: 

StreamYard: Our sponsor for this episode. This is the app I use to record interviews with my guests. It’s the best way to record audio and video. Go to www.StreamYard.com and turn your browser into an awesome recording studio.

Magic School AI: This is where Jeni works and it is an amazing tool for using Artificial Intelligence as an educator. More to come on this, but I must say… I am so impressed by Magic School. Check it out.

Wired Wednesday Chat and Live Stream: Follow @wirededucator @kellycroy #wiredwednesday and the entire squad for a unique video live stream and Twitter chat on Wednesday at 9PM.

Here’s the link to ALL of Jeni Long’s social media, website and information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAEbRxl2tN4/AFSz0bNzL9PrPIOVJNod9Q/view

Thanks for taking time out of your busy week to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

 

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WEP 241: Inspiring Students to Have Fun, Read and Become Financially Literate an Interview with Ty Allan Jackson

Ty Allan Jackson: Author, Speaker, Advocate and My Favorite Follow on Instagram.

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Wired Educator Podcast, where we’re dedicated to helping educators make a real difference. I’m your host, Kelly Croy, and today we have a very special episode that promises to inspire and energize.

Our guest is the dynamic Ty Allan Jackson, an author, speaker, and fierce advocate for children’s literacy and diversity in children’s books. Ty’s enthusiasm is absolutely infectious, and his commitment to teaching kids about financial literacy through his popular books like “Danny Dollar Millionaire” and “Make Your Own Money” is truly motivating.

Click here to listen to my interview with Ty.

In our conversation, Ty shares the joys and challenges of his journey as an author and speaker. He opens up about the impact his work has on young minds, emphasizing the importance of having diverse characters that kids can look up to. His positivity shines through everything he does, making him a joy to follow on Instagram and a favorite among his followers.

So, tune in, get inspired, and discover why this interview with Ty Allan Jackson is an absolute must-listen for anyone passionate about education and making a difference in the lives of young learners.

Ty is an award-winning children’s book author, literacy advocate, captivating motivational speaker, and honorary Doctorate recipient. In 2011 he founded Big Head Books, LLC (now Ty Allan Jackson, LLC,) a literacy organization that aims to introduce children to the joys of reading. Ty travels around the country (or, nowadays, does virtual visits via Zoom from the comfort of his couch) inspiring children and educating adults about the impacts of illiteracy.  A three-time TedX presenter, Ty believes that literacy is the foundation for a successful life and promotes it with humor and enthusiasm.

In 2021, Ty received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts for his work as an author and community leader. Ty’s work as an author and literacy advocate also earned him the Massachusetts inaugural Martin Luther King Jr. Content of Character Award, as well as citations from the Massachusetts Governor, Senator, and the House of Representatives.

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Ty’s books have been featured on Good Morning America, Disney+, CNN, NBC Nightly News, The Steve Harvey Show, PBS. In 2012, Ty’s books were gifted to former First Lady Michelle Obama by his hometown mayor.

Projects
Ty is the co-founder of READ OR ELSE™, a literacy movement that was created to shine a light on the impacts of illiteracy.

In collaboration with Northern Kentucky University, Ty also co-founded Danny Dollar Academy, a revolutionary financial literacy program created for elementary school students to learn the basics of Finance, Entrepreneurship, and Economics.

Mentioned in this episode: 

www.TyAllanJackson.com

Follow Ty on • Facebook • Instagram • Twitter• LinkedIn

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Ty’s Books: 

• Danny Dollar Millionaire Extraordinaire: The Lemonade Escapade
• The Supadupa Kid
• The Supadupa Kid 2: MOVE
• When I Close My Eyes
• You Are Amazing/I Am Amazing
• Make Your Own Money: How Kids Can Earn It, Save It, Spent It, and Dream Big, with Danny Dollar, the King of Cha-Ching

Thanks for taking time out of your busy week to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast.

You are awesome!

Kelly

I would like to speak at your event!

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

 

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WEP 238: Storytelling with Purpose an Interview with Michael Hernandez

Digital Projects to Ignite Student Curiosity

This is the Wired Educator Podcast Episode 238 my interview with Michael Hernandez, Apple Distinguished Educator, and author of the new education bestseller Storytelling with Purpose: Digital Projects to Ignite Student Curiosity.

Click here to listen to my interview with Michael.

Acclaimed documentary film director Ken Burns says this about Michael’s book, “Teaching is the most important profession in any democracy. Michael Hernandez has written a wonderful book that anchors storytelling in the classroom and provides a highly readable and hugely helpful guide for teachers, who each day are taking students on an intellectual journey that is critical to the well-being of our country.”

Wow! Now, that’s a book endorsement! In this episode, Michael and I will talk about how storytelling is perfect for your classroom despite what grade you teach and what content you teach. Storytelling is for all classrooms! You’re going to love this episode!

Michael Hernandez is an international speaker, author, curriculum designer, and award-winning educator who helps individuals and organizations discover and share authentic stories that matter. I’ve been featured in Forbes, Edutopia, PBS, NPR, and #SXSWEDU.

As a trusted consultant and community manager, he helps tech startups, non-profits, and corporations develop their brand and engage their stakeholders. Clients include Apple, Adobe, Google, and National Geographic. His monthly newsletter, Change The Narrative, shares resources and inspiration around innovation, tech, education, and leadership.

Michael is an Apple Distinguished Educator, Adobe Education Leader, PBS Digital Innovator, and Lindblad/National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow.

We talk about how his book helps with: 

  • Uncheatable Assessments
  • How to use storytelling projects for assessment
  • How digital story projects support literacy, civics
  • How non-fiction storytelling projects are like science and design thinking.
  • How story projects leverage student passion and curiosity to increase engagement

Award-winning educator and speaker Michael Hernandez brings together over 20 years of in-the-classroom experience to help solve some of our most existential challenges in education today: artificial intelligence, steep declines in student engagement, and the need for authentic learning experiences. The solution: digital storytelling as a framework for learning.

Rather than viewing storytelling as a nice-to-have reward for students after their ‘real work’ has been completed, this book shows educators how to use story projects–from data visualizations to social media posts, to podcasts and video documentaries– as the scaffold upon which we can position our curricular skills and knowledge. The process helps students make interdisciplinary connections, activates higher level thinking and critical analysis skills, and provides multimodal learning opportunities for all students.

This book is perfect for learning coaches, classroom teachers, and education leaders seeking practical ways to elevate teaching and learning in every grade level and subject area. The book focuses on student-centered, project-based learning experiences that use digital tools to:

  • Create uncheatable, authentic assessments
  • Leverage curiosity as the engine for learning
  • Provide purpose for the skills and knowledge central to our curriculum
  • Develop a mindset of collaboration, mental agility and resilience
  • Cultivate digital literacy skills and ethical mindsets
  • Bring purpose and joy back to learning

With practical advice, case studies, and examples of how to plan, create, publish and assess student stories, this book offers a fresh approach to digital storytelling. And it includes guidance on how to provide students with the tools and structure they need to develop a mindset of curiosity, agency and purpose.

More than a practical edtech guide, this book explores the why behind digital storytelling as much as the how. Educators will learn how to help students explore cultural and historical context, develop social emotional resiliency, and develop the skills they need to become engaged global citizens.

Originally determined to become a filmmaker, Michael quickly realized the power that narrative has to change minds, and the potential it has to make a positive impact on the world. Right out of film school, he took a job teaching journalism and film production, making it his five year plan before he returned to a ‘real job’ in filmmaking. He quickly fell in love with teaching, and embraced the noble work of helping young people find their voice to tell stories that make a difference.

Since taking the leap into education, Michael has become an award-winning teacher, international speaker, author, and curriculum designer who helps individuals and organizations discover and share authentic stories that matter. He has been featured in Forbes, Edutopia, PBS, NPR, and SXSW EDU. Some of his most memorable teaching experiences include moderating conversations with Ken Burns, Dolores Huerta, and teaching his daughter Maya, who was one of his high school journalism students.

As a trusted expert, he has worked with schools, tech startups, non-profits, and corporations to develop their brand and engage their stakeholders. Clients include Apple, Adobe, Google, and National Geographic. His podcast and monthly newsletter, Change The Narrative, has a global audience of thousands.

Michael is an Apple Distinguished Educator, PBS Digital Innovator, and National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow. Follow him on these social platforms:

Mentioned in this Episode:

Kelly’s two books:

Michael’s book: Storytelling with Purpose: Digital Projects to Ignite Student Curiosity

Follow Michael on: 

Instagram: @Changing.The.Narrative

Change The Narrative Newsletter

www.michael-hernandez.net

Twitter: @cinehead 

Linked In: https://bit.ly/MichaelHernandezLinkedIn

Thank you for taking time out of your busy day and week to listen to the Wired Educator podcast to level up and make a difference in the lives of others.

Always forward,

Kelly

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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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WEP 237: Teach Like a Pirate, Again! My interview with Dave Burgess

Dave Burgess is the author of the New York Times Best Seller, Teach Like a Pirate and President of Dave Burgess Consulting

This is the Wired Educator Podcast Episode 237, Teach Like a Pirate Revisited, my interview with Dave Burgess.

I had the good fortune of interviewing Dave on episode 10, 227 episodes ago! Dave is the author of Teach Like a Pirate and the president and found of DBC with over 200 EDU speakers and authors. Amazing!  I worked for Dave for 4 years doing website design, maintenance, marketing, narration of a couple books, designing author pages and more. So cool to have Dave back and talk about how relevant and important his Teach Like a Pirate book still is, the impact he has had on education and more! Beautiful episode, with a beautiful human. Love Dave’s positive influence on all things EDU and how he keeps the narrative on EDU super positive and awesome. You’re going to love our interview. 

Click here to listen to my interview with Dave or from anywhere quality podcasts are available.

I am excited to share “The” Dave Burgess‘s journey with you! We are going to talk about deeply about how some of the core components of his book, Teach Like a Pirate, are not only still relevant in classrooms today, but how they are saving teacher’s careers from exhaustion, burnout and engagement. Dave is one of the most wonderful humans and educators I have had the pleasure to meet. He came into my life at such a great time and really helped me and my family! I’m excited to reconnect with him and share his important work with you today, Teach Like a Pirate!

Thank you for all you do in education. I am so proud of you. Thank you for taking time out of your busy week, your busy day to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast. You’re awesome. 

Dave Burgess is the New York Times Best-Selling author of Teach Like a PIRATE, co-author of P is for PIRATE, and the president of Dave Burgess Consulting, Inc. which delivers powerful, inspirational, and innovative books, keynotes, and professional development.

He specializes in teaching hard-to-reach, hard-to-motivate students with techniques that incorporate showmanship and creativity.  At a recent ceremony in Washington, D.C., he was awarded the BAMMY for Secondary School Teacher of the Year by the Academy of Education Arts and Sciences.

Dave delivers the ultimate professional development experience for your teachers that is perfect for all circumstances from truly inspirational opening keynotes to full-day hands-on workshops.  It is a high-energy, interactive, and entertaining experience that will leave your staff unbelievably inspired, motivated, and with the practical skills to dramatically increase student engagement.

His presentations are a unique blend of outrageously energetic performance art and magic, mixed with an inspirational message of how and why to become more passionate in the classroom. All techniques and methods are modeled and fully explained so as to leave no doubt about how to apply the methods in the real-world. Participants will leave with a tool-box full of dynamic presentational ideas that they can immediately use to improve their lessons.

As a teacher in San Diego, California, he was a 2001 and 2012 Golden Apple winner in the Grossmont Union High School District and the 2007-2008 Teacher of the Year at West Hills High School. He was voted a faculty standout for 17 consecutive years in categories such as Most Entertaining, Most Energetic, and Most Dramatic.

Mentioned in this Episode: 

Dave’s Book, Teach Like a Pirate! Grab your copy of Dave’s book here. (This is the book I have gifted in EDU more than any other book.)

Dave’s website: www.daveburgess.com

Dave’s other website: www.daveburgessconsulting.com

Dave’s Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dave-burgess-show/id1550396352

Follow Dave on Twitter: @burgessdave

Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness & Anxiety: Grab a copy of my children’s book, Unthink Before Bed: Click here to order!

Grow Your Own Leaders: Free Course: Join our FREE leadership class, Grow Your Own Leaders. Closing Wednesday, January 31 at noon. Small number of participant. Closing VERY soon. Click this link to join: wirededucator.com/growleaders

Grow Your Own Leaders: Free Course: Seriously, if you think at any point in your career you might want to be an educational leader at any level, director of something, principal, assistant, superintendent, whatever, hit paus on this podcast, pull over and go to wirededucator.com/growleaders and sign up. It’s 100% free. Six weeks. You have everything to gain. The door to this opportunity is closing.

Looking for someone who is expert in VR with Pico headset to help me find content for other content areas. Good in math and science. Reach out to me.

Storytelling with Purpose by Michael Hernandez. I recently interviewed Michael Hernandez and Apple Distinguished Educator and author of a brand new amazing book, titled Storytelling with Purpose. This is an amazing book that’s going to help educators in any grade level in any Contant area anywhere in the world tackle their biggest challenges in teaching. It’s a bold statement, but a big promise for me. I love this book. Stay tuned for this interview coming at you next week.

Lego Set Update! Wow! This is the Lego Set of Darth Vader’s Helmet I received as a gift from a listener. I will post progress in an upcoming newsletter. I will pay this forward. Tracy in Coppell, Texas… you are a legend. Two of my books are headed your way!  I am hoping Legos settle my active brain in a good way… and they’re fun. I am saving up for this beauty! Whoa! I never knew Lego kits like this existed. Seriously! Not sure how to explain this one to Lori when I make it. Ha! 

I shared this image on Instagram about how we talk about our year’s in education:

Thank you for taking time out of your busy day and week to listen to the Wired Educator podcast to level up and make a difference in the lives of others.

Always forward,

Kelly

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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

 

 

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WEP 236: Legacy of Learning, an Interview with Meghan Lawson

Learn About Meghan's New Book and Hear Joe Miller, Ohio TOY Finalist, Joins Me as Co-Host

The Wired Educator Podcast kicks off 2024 with an interview with Meghan Lawson, author of the new EDU best seller, Legacy of Learning: Teaching for Lasting Impact.

My colleague at Port Clinton City Schools, Joe Miller, an amazing high school English teacher and Ohio
Teacher of the Year Finalist, joins me on this episode as cohost.

We talk with Megan about her book, social, emotional learning, strategies for making a lasting impact, and creating awesome spaces to teach and learn. You’re going to love this episode.

Click here to listen to my interview with Meghan.

Meghan is a thought leader who studies and implements the conditions and systems needed for transformational change. She is the author of Legacy of Learning: Teaching for Lasting Impact. A lover of learning who believes in the goodness of people, Meghan works to cultivate spaces that honor the humanity of all people. She promotes storytelling, the exchange of ideas, and risk-taking. She is passionate about disrupting the status quo and creating kinder, forward-thinking communities of action. Meghan is also intensely curious about how to enhance the customer experience in schools. Meghan began her career in the English Language Arts classroom. So, inevitably, her mantra is “Words matter”. She has worked in all levels of K–12 education as a teacher, school administrator, district administrator, and educational consultant.

Mentioned in this episode: 

Meghan Lawson’s website: https://meghanlawson.com/

Order a copy of Meghan’s book: Legacy of Learning: Teaching for Lasting Impact.

Joe Miller, finalist for Ohio Teacher of the Year. Read about Joe’s accomplishment here: https://hs.pccsd.net/apps/news/show_news.jsp?REC_ID=860338&id=0

Check out last week’s Wired Educator Episode 235: My Reflection and Review of My Personal and Professional Goals for 2023. This was my last episode where I hold myself accountable on how I did in 2023. Now, I will soon be publishing an episode on the goals I am setting for 2023. I hope you will check it out and set some goals of your own.

I was on George Couros’s Podcast: Watch it on YouTube. • Listen to it on Apple Podcasts. • Listen to it on Spotify. I made it on his highlights of 2023 episode too! Very cool. Thank you, George.

Find Your Joy! Thinking of asking my youngest, Jillyan to assemble a BIG Lego set like this one or a big car or something like it in 2024. Anyone know anything about Lego kits like this? Give me your expert opinion. Having some stick shock to be honest. I am trying to find a project with her that we can get lost in and have some fun.

Thank you for taking time out of your busy day and week to listen to the Wired Educator podcast to level up and make a difference in the lives of others.

Always forward,

Kelly

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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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WEP 235: My Reflection and Review of My Personal and Personal Goals for 2023

Not Bragging! Not Making Excuses! Promised I Would Keep Myself Accountable for the Goals I Set a Year Ago

Happy New Year!

This episode is not an interview with an educational leader. This episode is me reflecting on my year, the impact I made, the setbacks and success I experienced, and the lessons I learned.

One year ago I sat down with my Moleskine Journal and set a bunch of goals for 2023. One of the goals was to keep myself accountable by posting a podcast of me breaking down each goal on how I did. I set over 50 goals for 2023. Find out how I did. Perhaps you will be motivated to set some goals for yourself.

It is always difficult to hit the publish button on a blog, podcast, or post, but I always look at it from the perspective of an educator… to help others. If someone can benefit from my success or setbacks that is yet another benefit.

I do not post this podcast to brag or make excuses. I made it keep myself accountable. The process was actually quite humbling.

One of the goals of Wired Educator is to help people “level up to make a difference.” Perhaps this episode will do that for others.

I tried my best to make this episode fun.

I’m a gig goal setter. I love it. I must admit though, I learned I set way too many goals. I made a ton of progress, but the finish line escaped me for many.

I also tried to share some of the tools and systems I use to set goals. I will post on www.kellycroy.com on that in the next few days.

I do believe I am going to make this an annual event. It was hard to admit that I didn’t make the big three goals I set. That stung. Hopefully that will motivate me.

In this episode:

  • I review my major accomplishments.
  • I review each goal one by one. Setbacks.
  • Lots of unaccomplished goals.
  • Progress made.
  • I share lessons I learned.
  • Also, if you would I’m offering a Limited Coaching Opportunity: Want to start a podcast, speak on stage, publish a book, build a website, start a blog, become a better leader, complete the goal of your dreams? I have helped many educators publish books, start podcasts, and begin their service as keynote speakers and EDU consultants. I haven’t offered this in a while, and I am only going to keep this link open for a short time. I ONLY work with three people a year. If you are serious about moving forward complete the following form. Click here to learn about a paid coaching opportunity with Kelly: https://forms.gle/S3PK5194CyEGqT3o6
  • Tools I use: On my iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch I use the following apps to help me stay organized, each of these are awesome and sync with one another:
    • Day One Journal App
    • Good Notes 5
    • Things (to-do list)
    • Drafts

    Moleskine Journal: If it’s worth writing down, put it in your Moleskine. Don’t use napkins, sticky notes, or scraps of paper. Put it where you can find it. This is the exact notebook I use as my day to day journal.  I love absolutely everything about it.  This is where I record my ideas and anything of importance.  If you read my posts and hear me speak, you know how important a journal is to my lifestyle and productivity. I don’t go anywhere without my Moleskine.

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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.

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WEP 233: Rocking an iPad in Any Classroom, an Interview with Kristen Brooks

How to Bring Creation over Consumption with Devices to All Grades and Content Areas

This is the Wired Educator Podcast episode 233, my interview with Kristen Brooks. Kristin is an Apple Distinguished Educator and an education leader that’s making a difference in the lives of others. She helps me and my district with adding creation to our learning, especially with iPads. I’m excited to share her story and message with you and the impact that she’s making around the world. You’re going to love this interview. It is all about rocking iPads in any classroom and putting creation over consumption with devices.

Kristen is so, very, very kind. She is the type of educator, leader and friend. She is the type of person who checks in on others and she did that with me recently and it really helped. What a genuine, compassionate educator and difference maker!

(Click here to play from your email.)

Kristen Brooks is an amazing force for all things good in education. She is an innovator. She is a leader. She is an inspiration to all. Kristen is an Apple Distingued educator of whom I have traveled the world with at global ADE Institutes, and I follow her on social media making an impact everywhere with her amazing knowledge and resources. (She sent me some amazing resources of hers to include in the show notes, so check the out. )

She has held numerous positions in the Cherokee County School District from Elementary Tech Lab & iPad Lab Creator to Instructional Technology Specialist & Tech Coach. She is a veteran teacher of 28 years with the last 18 years exclusively in Educational Technology. She keeps herself busy as a Technology Teacher encouraging students to regularly create more than they consume with their devices and as an Educational Technology Consultant supporting learners of all ages by helping them effectively use technology for learning and creating. This can include training teachers on how to integrate technology into their curriculum, designing and implementing technology-based learning programs, and providing support and resources for students and educators.

Mentioned in this episode: 

• Edu X-Chats (Twitter Chats): #WiredWednesday chats are every other Wednesday and #EDULeaderChat every other Thursdays. Both are only 30 minutes long, starting at 9PM EST.

• Follow Kelly’s  30 Day Challenge on X app (Twitter): #AppleEducationCommunity30DayChallenge.

• Congratulations on retiring to my best friend, Richard Baird, superintendent of North Union Schools in Richwood, Ohio. He made such a tremendous difference there and in all of education. Can’t wait to see what is next for him. Here’s our interview together: https://wirededucator.com/wep99/

• Check out the Apple Education Community and all they have to offer you at: http://education.apple.com

• Grow Leaders Opportunity to learn about becoming an Edu Administrator: Here is the chance for your golden ticket: Grow Leaders Course. We will select five (5) winners from these applications by end of September: www.wirededucator.com/growleaders Pat Adkins was a guest on my 166th episode. You can listen here: https://wirededucator.com/wep166/

• Follow Kristen on X or Twitter and LinkedIn at @KristenBrooks77

From Kristen: New friends- Thank you for listening today. I would love to continue this conversation so please reach out to me with questions or to invite me to consult with your school or district. 

Kristen Brooks link tree -link

Twitter: @KristenBrooks77

Kristen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristenbrooks77

Clips Tutorial for all learners created in clips app by Kristen Brooks. Feel free to use and share. https://youtu.be/PU6lsiXcFsE

What’s next for Kristen Brooks? 

I will be retiring from my district in 1 year with 30 years in education; but I am not retiring from Education or Edtech! I am excited to announce I have started my own LLC which is called 

Kristen Brooks #forEDU and I will be available to consult and present around the globe at schools and districts. I am excited to help encourage more students and educators the importance & value of creating more than they consume.

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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?

Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.

Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.

Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.