Articulating - An Independent School Podcast

Episod

• 510 Equity & AI in Education Series: Parents | Amber Berry, Middle States Association 06.03.2025 42min

  With AI now more accessible than ever, its impact on learning and educational equity is rapidly evolving. This series will share hidden challenges, real-world use cases, and actionable strategies for navigating the future of AI in education.This is the last of three episodes and focuses on responsible AI use for parents.ABOUT AMBER BERRYAmber Berry is a trailblazer in the field of AI and education, serving as the inaugural Vice President of AI and Strategy for Middle States Association (MSA). In this role, Amber cofounded RAIL: Responsible AI in Learning, shaping the future of accreditation and school improvement. With over 15 years of school experience spanning both public and independent education, she has held positions of increasing responsibility, including Division Head and Director of Teaching Fellows at St. Luke’s School in Connecticut.Amber’s thought leadership in responsible AI adoption is grounded in her rich educational background. A graduate of Princeton University with a B.A. in French & Italian, she earned her M.A. in Linguistics and Pedagogy from Middlebury College and an M.Ed. in Private School Leadership from Columbia University. Most recently, she added a Mini-MBA in AI for Business to her impressive credentials, amplifying her expertise in leveraging AI for strategic innovation.Amber is a sought-after speaker, an advocate for equitable AI practices, and a member of Excelle Collective for women in educational leadership. At home, she balances her roles as a devoted mom, NFL wife, and active community leader, inspiring others to embrace transformation in every sphere of life.Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 509 Equity & AI in Education Series: Students | Amber Berry, Middle States Association 27.02.2025 36min

  With AI now more accessible than ever, its impact on learning and educational equity is rapidly evolving. This series will share hidden challenges, real-world use cases, and actionable strategies for navigating the future of AI in education.This is the second of three episodes and focuses on responsible AI use for students.ABOUT AMBER BERRYAmber Berry is a trailblazer in the field of AI and education, serving as the inaugural Vice President of AI and Strategy for Middle States Association (MSA). In this role, Amber cofounded RAIL: Responsible AI in Learning, shaping the future of accreditation and school improvement. With over 15 years of school experience spanning both public and independent education, she has held positions of increasing responsibility, including Division Head and Director of Teaching Fellows at St. Luke’s School in Connecticut.Amber’s thought leadership in responsible AI adoption is grounded in her rich educational background. A graduate of Princeton University with a B.A. in French & Italian, she earned her M.A. in Linguistics and Pedagogy from Middlebury College and an M.Ed. in Private School Leadership from Columbia University. Most recently, she added a Mini-MBA in AI for Business to her impressive credentials, amplifying her expertise in leveraging AI for strategic innovation.Amber is a sought-after speaker, an advocate for equitable AI practices, and a member of Excelle Collective for women in educational leadership. At home, she balances her roles as a devoted mom, NFL wife, and active community leader, inspiring others to embrace transformation in every sphere of life.Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 508 Equity & AI in Education Series: Schools | Amber Berry, Middle States Association 20.02.2025 40min

  With AI now more accessible than ever, its impact on learning and educational equity is rapidly evolving. This series will share hidden challenges, real-world use cases, and actionable strategies for navigating the future of AI in education.This is the first of three episodes and focuses on responsible AI use for schools.ABOUT AMBER BERRYAmber Berry is a trailblazer in the field of AI and education, serving as the inaugural Vice President of AI and Strategy for Middle States Association (MSA). In this role, Amber cofounded RAIL: Responsible AI in Learning, shaping the future of accreditation and school improvement. With over 15 years of school experience spanning both public and independent education, she has held positions of increasing responsibility, including Division Head and Director of Teaching Fellows at St. Luke’s School in Connecticut.Amber’s thought leadership in responsible AI adoption is grounded in her rich educational background. A graduate of Princeton University with a B.A. in French & Italian, she earned her M.A. in Linguistics and Pedagogy from Middlebury College and an M.Ed. in Private School Leadership from Columbia University. Most recently, she added a Mini-MBA in AI for Business to her impressive credentials, amplifying her expertise in leveraging AI for strategic innovation.Amber is a sought-after speaker, an advocate for equitable AI practices, and a member of Excelle Collective for women in educational leadership. At home, she balances her roles as a devoted mom, NFL wife, and active community leader, inspiring others to embrace transformation in every sphere of life.Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 507 A new DEI-rection for Articulating | Gina + Sam, co-hosts 30.01.2025 13min

  Articulating co-hosts return to the virtual studio with a major update that will shape the future of the podcast. Co-written by Sam Osborne and Tyler Woods Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 506 Raising minimalist kids in a world of excess | Christine Platt, Afrominimalist and Author 19.12.2024 39min

  'Twas the week before Christmas, and you still haven't done your holiday shopping yet. But hold your reindeer! We've got a special bonus episode featuring Christine Platt, author of the Afrominimalist guide to Living with Less.  This is a must-listen for those who wish to tackle overconsumption and inspire their students to embrace a more minimilast and intentional lifestyle! ABOUT CHRISTINE PLATT A multi-genre author and advocate for representation and inclusion, Christine Platt has carved a unique path in literature, lifestyle, and wellness. Also known as the Afrominimalist, Christine’s work centers on honoring Black voices and experiences—past, present, and future. She holds a B.A. in Africana Studies from the University of South Florida, M.A. in African and African American Studies from The Ohio State University, and J.D. from Stetson University College of Law.  Christine’s literary works include the influential adult titles 'The Afrominimalist’s Guide to Living With Less' and 'Rebecca, Not Becky', and the beloved children’s series that teaches kids about media literacy, 'Frankie & Friends'. Her multifaceted career in advocacy spans working as a Senior Policy Advisor for the U.S. Department of Energy to Managing Director of American University’s Antiracism Center to Director of Communications for Rihanna’s nonprofit, The Clara Lionel Foundation. Christine is a member of the Association of Writers and Writing Programs, Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, Association of Black Women Historians, and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. She also serves as an Ambassador for Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 505 Inside a Black Independent School | Pat Williams, The Imani School 12.12.2024 32min

  Have you contemplated sending your student to an all-Black school? Patricia Hogan Williams is Head of the Imani School, the largest black independent school in the U.S. Founded in 1988, the school serves 100% African American students and emphasizes faith, confidence, and self-belief. Williams highlights the importance of setting high expectations and providing a nurturing environment that fosters academic excellence and self-worth. The school's curriculum includes African American history and literature, aiming to instill pride and competence in students. Williams stresses the critical role of education in empowering black children and the need for intentionality in their learning environment.  ABOUT PATRICIA HOGAN WILLIAMS A graduate of Fisk University, Patricia Hogan Williams has more than 40 years of experience as an educator with students from preschool classrooms to university campuses. She is the Founding Head and Executive Director of The Imani School — now the largest independent, predominantly African American private Christian school in the nation, serving students from preschool through eighth grade. Williams continues to be the driving force behind the school’s progression, prevailing at the school’s helm since 1988. The institution has grown to include more than 350 students across pre-kinder, elementary, and middle school grade levels, receiving national and international recognition for its success in developing self-confidence and academic excellence in African-American children. Mrs. Williams also serves as an adjunct professor in Child Development at Texas Southern University, where she helps sow into the next generation of educators. For her commitment to improving the lives of children and youth, Williams has received numerous honors and awards including: U.S. News and World Report’s “Twelve Indispensable Americans''; “Current History Maker” by KHOU –TV; the Distinguished Woman Award from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated; Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church’s Audrey A. Lawson Impact Award winner; the American Heart Association Award of Excellence as well as its Outstanding Educator Award; the National Association for Financial Assistance to Minority Students’ Outstanding Educator Award; Links, Inc. Western Area for Outstanding Services to Youth; Texas Southern University Award for Excellent Service; and the Community Service Award from the Top Ladies of Distinction. Williams is the wife of Attorney Connie B. Williams, and the proud mother of three sons, Brian, founder of Step Afrika, the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping; Christopher, owner of Lucille’s Hospitality Group, which includes nationally acclaimed restaurant Lucille’s and its non-profit Lucille’s 1913; and Benjamin, the co-owner of Highway Vodka, the country’s first of its kind spirit crafted with hemp seed. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating! Special thanks to Vibrant Health for sponsoring this episode of Articulating! We're thrilled to share an exclusive 20% discount for our listeners. Use code ARTIC20 and take a step toward vibrant living!
• 504 Fostering a love for reading in the digital era | Ramón Javier, George Jackson Academy 14.11.2024 31min

  When was the last time you read for 30 minutes straight? Uninterrupted? Ramon Javier, Head of School at George Jackson Academy, joins Articulating to discuss the importance of literacy in academic success, developing empathy, and building critical thinking skills. Listen for strategies on how to foster a love for reading not only for your scholar but also yourself!  ABOUT RAMON Ramón is a lifelong New Yorker, proud of his Afro-Latinx roots. A member of Prep for Prep, Ramón graduated from The Hackley School, Williams College, and received his Ed.M from Teachers College, Columbia University. He worked for Prep for Prep, The TEAK Fellowship, KIPP, Packer Collegiate, and The Trinity School in a variety of leadership roles. He also served on the NYSAIS Diversity Committee for six years.  Ramón sits on the boards of the International Boys' Schools Coalition, the New York State Association of Independent Schools. He is also a  member of the Education Committee of the Grace Church School Board of Trustees and sits on the Advisory Board of Parents In Action. Ramón is in his third year as Head of School at George Jackson Academy. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 503 Student-led organization for Black Joy | Black Student Coalition 31.10.2024 31min

  Gina and Sam sit down with Summer Love and Gabby Mclain, co-presidents of the Black Student Coalition (BSC), a thriving network serving over 500 students across New York and New Jersey. Summer is a senior at the Chapin School. At school, Summer is the DEIB president, student a cappella co-director, member of the speech and debate team, a singer in the rock band, and a student admissions ambassador. Her passion for connection and identity-based social justice work is exemplified in her work as the Co-President and Events Team Leader of the Black Student Coalition. The Black Student Coalition is a student-led group that supports the personal, academic, profesional, and social growth of over 500 Black students attending PWIs across 14 states. Fun fact, Summer is double jointed in both of her hands! Gabrielle McLain, a Senior at Horace Mann School, is Co-President and Newsletter Manager of the Black Student Coalition, a 500-member student-led nonprofit that celebrates culture, connections and community amongst Black high school students at PWIs in the New York tri-state area. In addition to BSC, Gabrielle is President of The Union at Horace Mann, which promotes inclusion and belonging for HM’s Black student population. Gabrielle is also a Freshman Orientation Peer Leader, an editor of three student publications, and an afterschool tutor. Gabrielle, a social justice advocate, spent a semester in Washington, DC at The School for Ethics and Global Leadership, where she studied the complexities of geopolitical issues, followed by a summer at Yale Young Global Scholars program in the Solving Global Challenges cohort. Gabrielle is currently a Research and Teaching Assistant for Professor Timothy Adkins-Jones of Union Theological Seminary, where she is researching women’s contributions to Bloody Sunday of the Civil Rights Movement and crafting a youth itinerary for the annual commemoration event in Selma, Alabama. In her free time, Gabby likes to bake and spend time with her beloved Lab, Polo. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 502 Combatting imposter syndrome | Dr. Kay De Simone, DSW 18.10.2024 34min

  Dr. Kay De Simone, a wealth mindset coach and complex trauma psychotherapist, joins Articulating to discuss the concept of imposter syndrome in the context of independent schools. Imposter syndrome is often fueled by external factors such as societal biases and institutional practices rather than individual shortcomings.  Dr. De Simone shares tools and strategies families can use to support their children so they can build confidence and resilience, and also self-advocate in educational settings. ABOUT DR. DE SIMONE Dr. Kay De Simone is a mental wellness expert, university professor, complex trauma therapist, researcher, and TEDx presenter with over two decades of experience supporting high achievers in competitive educational and professional environments. As a parent of daughters who have attended independent schools, she brings both personal and professional insight into the unique challenges faced by students and families in these high-pressure settings. Dr. De Simone is also an avid volunteer, fundraiser, and active contributor to independent school communities. A sought-after paid speaker, she focuses on mental wellness, wealth mindset, and developing strategies that help individuals not only survive but thrive in demanding environments. With a passion for leveling up skills, navigating complex trauma successfully, and helping individuals rise to their  moment, Dr. De Simone empowers students and families to achieve sustainable success while cultivating emotional well-being and personal fulfillment. Outside of her professional life, Dr. De Simone has a deep love for fashion, art, and building a lasting legacy through meaningful contributions and personal growth. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 501 Engagement on The Vineyard | Gina + Sam 03.10.2024 22min

  Sam Osborne and Gina Parker Collins explore the growing trend of engagement events at Martha's Vineyard, a popular vacation destination for Black families. They discuss how it has become a hub for conferences, workshops, and networking opportunities that foster community and education.  The co-hosts also celebrate two significant milestones: the 15th anniversary of RIISE (Resources In Independent School Education) and the 5th anniversary of the Articulating podcast.  Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 411 The Bumpy Transition to Adulthood | Alexa Juanita Jordan, Life Coach 10.05.2024 31min

  Graduation season is upon us, students--are you ready for life after independent school. Gulp. Life coach Alexa Juanita Jordan joins us to discuss potential challenges that independent school alumni may encounter in adulthood and strategies for overcoming them.   Alexa is a certified life coach and writer. Her new book, THE START OF IT ALL, is now on sale! It's a 20-something's guide to resilience, empowerment, and authenticity at the dawn of adulthood, featuring questions for self reflection paired with anecdotal stories from her 20s.   Alexa has written several full-length and one-act plays and has been published in Smith and Kraus’ Best Women’s Stage Monologues of 2022, and is also a Premiere Stages Play Festival Semi Finalist.   In addition to writing and coaching, Alexa has also explored careers in marketing, development, arts administration, education, and theater performance.   She also designed Authentic by Alexa, a downloadable guide that Alexa created to make her signature process more accessible. It’s full of journal prompts, visualization exercises, and personal anecdotes.  Join Alexa for her free weekly drop-in discussion group, “Authenticity Tuesdays” every Tuesday from 8 - 9:00 PM EST on Zoom. She created this space to chat with people about what authenticity means to them, and how we can cultivate more of it. Check out some of the past prompts here.  Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 410 Achieving Trans "Normalcy" | Mimi Shelton, Researcher 25.04.2024 38min

  While gender inclusivity has made strides in independent schools, transgender students still face challenges in achieving a "normal" school experience. Mimi Shelton joins us to discuss trans belonging.   Mimi Shelton (She/Her) is currently the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Trans (NHBS-Trans2023-24) Project Coordinator at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene where she leads research projects designed to improve the health of the trans community. Mimi has an extensive background in education and community-based advocacy work. In addition to her experience teaching English at Riverdale Country School, Manhattan Country School, the TEAK Fellowship, and the William Penn Charter School. Mimi's experience also includes serving as the Director of Trans Initiatives and Services at Destination Tomorrow, the Bronx LGBT Center.In 2022 Mimi received the Monica Roberts Torch Award for her work as an organizer of the National Trans Visibility March. She has also been a panelist and presenter for the Audre Lorde Project, GLSEN, the National Education Association, the National Council of Teachers of English, the Ethical Culture Fieldston School, and the Osborne Association. In 2020, Mimi was a featured talent in the Dove Pride 2020 Campaign, “Nothing More Beautiful,” directed by Tourmaline. She also serves on the board of directors for the New York Transgender Advocacy Group and The Okra Project.  This fall Mimi begins her first year of law school (1L) at City University of New York (CUNY) School of Law. She plans to pursue public interest law, particularly relating to labor justice, civil rights, and trans issues.  When she isn't advocating for collective liberation, Mimi loves to roller skate, watch professional wrestling, and dance. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 409 Inside the World of Gifted Education | Christopher Federico, The Roeper School 11.04.2024 28min

  Does it seem like every parent thinks their child is "gifted"? Well, they might be right! Even if the grades don't show it. Gina went on location and visited the Roeper School, an institution for gifted students in the Detroit area to interview Head of School Christopher Federico.  Christopher comes to Roeper from Toronto, having previously served as Head of Academics and Upper School at Bayview Glen and as Director of Curriculum, Research, and Uni Partnerships at the University of Toronto Schools. Fun fact. Or serious fact. Christopher has been a member of the Canadian Army Reserve since 1991 now serves as the Senior Instructor at the Canadian Army Command and Staff College in Kingston, Ontario. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 408 Equity Audits | Keeniun Brumskill, Ethical Culture Fieldston School 14.03.2024 22min

  In recent years, schools have launched major initiatives and strategic plans around DEI. How do they hold themselves accountable to their commitments? Keeniun Brumskill joins us to discuss equity audits. Keeniun is the Executive Director of Community and Social Impact for the Ethical Culture Fieldston School which has locations in Manhattan and the Bronx. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 407 Parent to Partner | Leilani M. Brown 29.02.2024 31min

  When your student graduates, that doesn't mean you have to. Leilani Brown joins to discuss how parents and guardians can become partners. Leilani M. Brown is an advisor to a diverse portfolio of clients including private and independent schools. Her boutique consulting firm has supported strategic plans, cultural audits, and equity-related crises. For over 15 years, Leilani has served as a board member and trustee for various non-profit, education, and art and culture organizations. Leilani is also a published author! Her book From Campus to Career: 25 Tips for Your First Professional Year, is in it's second edition is a widely celebrated guide for interns, new graduates and young professionals. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 406 The well-being of boys of color | Dwight Vidale 15.02.2024 32min

  Dwight Vidale joins to discuss the current state of young men of color in indy schools and his upcoming annual symposium. Register for March 2nd here! Dwight is the Assistant Head of School for Institutional Equity and Belonging for the Collegiate School. Prior to Collegiate, he spent over ten years at Riverdale Country School, facilitating equity programming and teaching middle and upper school English. In 2010, Dwight developed The Young Men of Color Symposium and in 2018, Dwight created Beyond Fear LLC, a consulting firm that collaborates with organizations and institutions to shift equity practices and policies. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 405 How to lose a Black teacher, Part 2 | Hope Rias, PhD. 01.02.2024 24min

  Gina and Sam continues its conversation with Dr. Hope Rias and dig deep into what schools and educators can do to reduce faculty of color turnover. Hope Rias, Ph.D. is an anti-racist educator and author who teaches History at Siena College. In 2019, she published, St. Louis School Desegregation: Patterns of Progress and Peril and continues to research this subject today. She holds degrees from Spelman College, Brown University, and Indiana University and is a St. Louis Missouri native. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 404 How to lose a Black teacher, Part 1 | Hope Rias, PhD. 25.01.2024 28min

  Today we chat with Dr. Hope Rias, about Black faculty turnover and unpack Claudine Gay’s resignation through the lens of indy schools. Hope Rias, Ph.D. is an anti-racist educator and author who teaches History at Siena College. In 2019, she published, St. Louis School Desegregation: Patterns of Progress and Peril and continues to research this subject today. She holds degrees from Spelman College, Brown University, and Indiana University and is a St. Louis Missouri native. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 403 Students by Day, Founders by Night | Identifyou 09.01.2024 27min

  As we struggle to address America's youth mental health crisis, it's become clear that traditional paths can fall short for students of diverse backgrounds. High schoolers Krish Mulholtra and Aaron Harrison are exploring an alternative route through Identifyou, an organization that promotes mental wellness and connects students through their digital app. Krish and Aaron are high school seniors at the Dwight Englewood School and co-founders of the organization Identifyou. Krish is an active student leader with a passion for community outreach and development, and Aaron serves as Student Body President and a peer mentor. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!
• 402 Unpacking "Burnout" | Dr. Rashidah Bowen White 11.10.2023 27min

  Is your student exhibiting signs of burnout or worse? Dr. Rashidah Bowen White, shares what families and schools can and should be doing to address this very serious issue. Rashidah Bowen White, Ph.D. is committed to advancing the mental health of BIPOC students and families and supporting independent schools in creating equitable, affirming, learning environments. As a psychologist, educator, and advocate, Dr. Bowen White defended her dissertation at Columbia University centering Black parents and how they racially socialize their children to thrive. Please note: we initially focused on young girls and women in the episode, but decided to zoom out to include all genders so pardon the deviation! Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!