In this episode of Spark Joy in EDU we talk with Dr. Joy about Joy Work EDU and how we can all take ownership of our joy. Dr. Joy shares about how we can be purposeful when it comes to creating joy in our lives and what it means to get 'back to zero.'

About Dr. Joy:
Dr. Joy is an Educator, Author, and Owner of Joy Work EDU, LLC. She is passionate about the presence of joy in organizations that serve children and empowers educators to tap into their own joy. Dr. Joy earned a Master of Arts in Teaching degree and a Doctorate in K-12 Educational Administration and Supervision. Throughout her career, she has served as a classroom teacher, professional learning facilitator, instructional coach, school administrator, college instructor, and educational consultant. Dr. Joy facilitates her work through the lens of joy focusing on important topics related to social and emotional growth. Dr. Joy is the author of two books, Back to Zero, and Joy Works: 8 Lessons for Educators. Currently, Dr. Joy is a Course Instructor at a teacher’s college and embraces the opportunity to help grow future educators. Her company, Joy Work EDU has provided personalized support to organizations throughout the country. On a personal note, Dr. Joy loves family, travel, walks, and music. You can follow her on social media @joyworkedu.

Website: joyworkedu.com

Connect with Dr. Joy:
Twitter: @joyworkedu
Instagram: @joyworkedu

In this episode of Spark Joy in EDU we talk with Kim Strobel about Teach Happy: Small Steps to Big Joy. Kim discusses how educators can be so hard on themselves, but reinforces the concept that perfectionism is the lowest standard we can hold ourselves to. Gain insights on how to reach and capture more happiness in your work and life journey.

About Kim Strobel:
Kim Strobel is a renowned motivational speaker and author of Teach Happy: Small Steps to Big Joy, sought after by schools, businesses, and organizations worldwide. With her powerful message about the impact of happiness on well-being and the pursuit of fulfillment, she traverses the globe, sharing her insights. Kim specializes in empowering educators and professionals, equipping them with the necessary tools and strategies to shift their mindsets, reclaim their happiness, reignite their passion, and lead with purpose. Drawing from her extensive background as a teacher and curriculum director, Kim’s ultimate aim is to inspire her audience. Through her engaging talks, she presents captivating research, heartwarming anecdotes, and practical steps for achieving life-altering results. In addition to her professional pursuits, Kim is a devoted animal rescuer, having rescued 187 dogs. She is also an avid runner and has an unwavering love for life.

Website: www.strobeleducation.com

Connect with Kim Strobel:
Twitter: @strobeled
Instagram @kimstrobeljoy

In this episode of Spark Joy in EDU, we talk with the amazing Lainie Rowell.
Lainie shares valuable insights on how we can evolve with gratitude, intentionally seek joy, and about emotional contagion- catching feelings that improve well-being.

About Lainie Rowell:
Lainie Rowell is a bestselling author, award-winning educator, and TEDx speaker. She is dedicated to human flourishing, focusing on community building, social-emotional learning, and honoring what makes each of us unique and dynamic through learner-driven design. She earned her degree in psychology, and went on to earn postgraduate degrees in education. An international keynote speaker, Lainie has presented in 41 states as well as in dozens of countries across 4 continents. As a consultant, Lainie’s client list ranges from Fortune 100 companies like Apple and Google to school districts and independent schools.

Website: www.lainierowell.com

Connect with Lainie Rowell on:

Twitter: @LainieRowell

Instagram: @LainieRowell

Tisha and Lis explore the power of play in learning and in life. Their conversation revolves around the theme of finding joy in everyday moments, fostering connections, and integrating fun and creativity into the learning process to enhance engagement and meaningful learning experiences.

In this episode of Spark Joy in EDU, we chat with Sean Gaillard about how we can intentionally cultivate joy in and out of the schoolhouse. We explore the importance of embracing our own passions, creating, and how music is the salve that soothes and uplifts the soul.

About Sean Gaillard:
Sean Gaillard is a school leader, author, and podcaster. He is the author of "The Pepper Effect" and has contributed to various books and written articles on leadership, innovation, collaboration, and music. He is the host of "The Principal Liner Notes Podcast" and the founder of #CelebrateMonday. Sean is the principal of The Appalachian State University Academy at Middle Fork. Sean was named the 2019 Wells Fargo-Piedmont Triad Regional Principal Year and was also a finalist for North Carolina Principal of the Year. Sean is currently writing another book.

Website: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sean-gaillard

Connect with Sean Gaillard on:

Facebook: sean.gaillard

Twitter: @smgaillard

Instagram: @smgaillard

In this episode we chat with Barbara Bray about how we can Spark Joy in EDU through connections, meaningful learning experiences, and by defining our why. We explore the importance of recognizing the strengths and gifts within every child and how we can uplift one another. Barbara also shares how she sparks joy in her day-to-day life and the importance of family.

About Barbara Bray:
Barbara Bray is a creative learning strategist, author, podcast host, coach, speaker, and story weaver. She has been on a mission for over 30 years to transform teaching so learning is more authentic, meaningful, and joyful. Barbara started the Rethinking Learning podcast to get to know the personal stories from inspirational thought leaders. There are now more than 140 podcasts. Barbara included 26 vignettes with tips and activities in her book, Define Your Why, and is starting a new adventure with publishing her next book, Grow Your Why, one story at a time. You will love hearing Barbara's story and all that she has to share!

Connect with Barbara:

Twitter

Instagram

LinkedIn

Facebook

barbarabray.net

In this episode of Spark Joy in EDU, we talk with Adam Welcome about how we can spark joy in education through meaningful and authentic learning experiences. Tune in to hear how Adam inspires educators to be the best they can be- kids deserve it!

About Adam Welcome:
Adam is a Professional Speaker, Author, Podcaster, Former Principal. He has been speaking all around the country (and international) for the past decade. Adam’s journey with speaking began back when he was a classroom teacher and he got tapped to provide professional development in his district around educational technology! Fast forward ten years and Adam has given over 300 keynotes in 30+ states with audiences of all sizes. From large school districts and small ones, state leadership organizations, edtech conferences and long term consulting work with organizations.

Adam really prides himself on providing the best possible experience for the people he works with.

Website: mradamwelcome.com

Connect with Adam Welcome on:

Twitter

In this episode of Spark Joy in EDU, we talk with Ken Shelton about how we can shift classroom culture and empower students as leaders by dismantling hierarchy in the classroom. Additionally, we explored the importance of every child feeling seen and heard by a supportive adult. Ken also shares how we can explore factors that bring us joy and then apply them within an educational setting or environment. There is so much goodness and depth to this conversation, we hope you enjoy it!

About Ken Shelton:
Ken (He/Him/His) currently holds an M.A. in Education with a specialization in Educational Technology as well as New Media Design and Production. He has worked as an Educator for over 20 years and spent most of his classroom experience teaching technology at the Middle School level. As a part of his active involvement within the Educational Technology community, Ken is an Apple Distinguished Educator, a Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, and a Google Certified Innovator. Ken has worked extensively at the policy level with a number of State Departments of Education, Ministries of Education, non-Profits, and was appointed to the Education Technology Task Force formed by a previous California State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Ken regularly gives keynotes, presentations, consults, and leads workshops, covering a wide variety of Educational Technology, Equity and Inclusion, Anti-Bias/Anti-Racist, Multimedia Literacy, Cultural Intelligences, Visual Storytelling, and Instructional Design topics. Ken is the International Society for Technology in Education Digital Equity Professional Learning Network 2018 Excellence Award winner. Ken is the International Society for Technology in Education 2022 Making IT Happen Award winner due to his extraordinary commitment, leadership, courage, and persistence in improving digital learning opportunities for students. Because of his extensive and broad impact, Ken has also been named by EdTech Magazine as an influencer to follow. Ken is currently serving on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Board and an advisor for several tech companies as well as non-profits. His services include advisement, platform analysis, policy analysis, and outreach, in addition to the development of both equitable and inclusive internal recruitment and retention programs.

Website: KennethShelton.net

Connect with Ken Shelton on:

Twitter

Instagram