In this first of a two-part conversation, we sit down with Don Johnston, founder of Don Johnston Inc. and now the creative force behind Building Wings. Don shares his journey from developing assistive technology to creating literacy-focused tools that honor the learning potential of every student.From his early collaborations to his ongoing work Don’s story reminds us what’s possible when we believe all students can learn to read, write, and communicate. Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!Here is the transcript for Episode 81: Building Wings with Don Johnston (Part 1)
Join us for our recap of Day two of the Closing the Gap conference where we share our main takeaways including more about Comprehensive Literacy for All and the CITES Framework. We are wrapping up our time inspired to continue this work.- - - - - - - -Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!
Carolyn and Sara are back in person at the 43rd Annual Closing the Gap conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota! Tune in to hear about their first pre-conference session about coaching and the amazing sessions from Day 1. - - - - - - - -Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!
This school year has started with weight. From staff shortages to rising student complexities, many of us are navigating classrooms that feel heavier than usual. In this honest conversation, Sara and Carolyn sit down to talk about what it means to show up in those hard seasons.They share their own recent challenges as administrators, celebrate small wins, and reflect on the importance of humility, connection, and hope. If you're feeling stretched thin, you're not alone. This episode offers solidarity and a reminder that even in the heavy, there’s movement forward.- - - - - -Here's the Transcript for Episode 78: Embracing the HeavyThanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!
If you've focused on building capacity or shifting practices chances are you've heard something like, “We tried it and it didn’t work.” But what if our coaching conversations focused more on building trust?In this episode, we’re giving you a sneak peek into our Closing The Gap pre-conference session, Coaching for AAC Success: Empowering Teams. You’ll get a feel for the hands-on activities, hear how we apply adult learning truths and the GROWTH model, and find out why this isn’t just a session, it’s a full-on AAC coaching challenge.If you’ve ever wanted to help shift mindsets and implementation practices, this one’s for you! If you can't join us at Closing the Gap and want to learn more -- reach out to start the conversation!- - - - - -Here's the Transcript for Episode 77: Coaching for AAC Success: Empowering TeamsThanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!
We're kicking off Season 4 with a bang! In this episode, Carolyn and Sara reflect on their journey to this point, working together as a team, and dreams coming true (new jobs, pre-conference workshops, all the fun!). Join us at Closing the Gap in Minneapolis, MN between October 21-24! Register for a pre-con and save on your registration/pre-con bundle!- - - - - - Here's the Transcript for Episode 76: New Season, New School Year! Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!
In this episode, Carolyn and Sara recap highlights from Day 2 of the Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education (MAASE) Summer Institute. Connection is key, as is making sure the right voices are at the table... Also, when you golf, watch out for those geese (listen in to hear more). Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!Here is the transcript for Episode 75: MAASE - Day 2.
Carolyn & Sara share insights from the Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education (MAASE) Conference! Listen in as they discuss the importance of intentional leadership, building school culture, recognizing staff contributions, and fostering meaningful connections. Highlights include reflections on a keynote by Joe Sanfilippo, emphasizing that every interaction matters, and strategies for supporting staff and students.Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!Here is the transcript for https://docs.google.com/document/d/1r453JODEn64lyHyeARNmgsPwqnTqbcHOpP1Lq8YAKMA/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Carolyn gets vulnerable about when change doesn't happen as quickly or as seemlessly as you want. She reminds you to use data to drive decisions, value multiple perspectives, and be ready for the push back - and take advantage of the little yeses that may open the door for something bigger!Good luck this school year and keep doing all the great things! We are proud of YOU.Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!Here is the transcript for Episode 73: Change is Hard, Y'all.
In this episode, Sara and Carolyn dive into one of their favorite topics: designing professional learning that goes beyond the “sit and get.” They unpack what it takes to create intentional, engaging, and responsive learning experiences for educators - ones that not only spark mindset shifts but also support long-term changes in practice. Drawing from their years of experience and favorite conference takeaways, they share strategies for creating safe spaces, inviting vulnerability, and embedding implementation supports that make professional learning meaningful. Whether you’re facilitating professional learning for a district or presenting at a conference, this conversation will leave you reflecting on how to design with purpose, engage your audience, and keep the focus on real outcomes for students.Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!Here is the transcript for Episode 72: Designing Professional Learning that Lasts
At the end of a chaotic school year, it's easy to focus on your end-of-year to-do list and all of the things that haven't gone right in the last few weeks. We're challenging you to think bigger and recognize all of the good you and your team were able to do with your learners this year!Using these reflective questions, consider all of the work you've accomplished this year as an individual and as a team. Use your responses to plan for what's next! Most of all: enjoy your summer break. Rest and reset for another impactful school year!Here is a transcript of Episode 71: Reflect and Plan
In this episode, Carolyn and Sara unpack Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and reflect on how placement decisions affect students' long-term opportunities. They discuss the importance of shared understanding, the risks of staff-driven decisions, and how to keep students at the center.Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!Here is the transcript for Episode 70: Rethinking LRE: Putting the Student at the Center
Earlier this week, Carolyn attended the 24th Annual START Conference here in Michigan. This episode recaps the energizing day of learning by reflecting on Caroline Gaddy's and Ashley Larisey's keynotes, then describes one of Carolyn's breakout sessions where participants designed stickers! Listen in to hear why the session went so well (and no, it's not because Carolyn hit all her marks and gracefully shared content). Sometimes, we all need to release the stress to be able to dream. Mentioned in this episode:START (Michigan's STatewide Autism Resources & Training)Caroline GaddyAshley LariseyHere is the transcript for Episode 69: Igniting Change.
Feeling stuck in the chaos of the day-to-day? You’re not alone - this episode is your reminder to pause, reset, and breathe. Carolyn and Sara dig into the unspoken weight of "just getting through" and challenge the idea that business equals success. They reflect on modeling balance for our teams, our families, and ourselves. From reframing breaks as resets to scheduling self-care like any other meeting, this is a heartfelt call to step outside, unfollow the chaos, and truly live. Because life isn’t just about surviving - it’s for living.Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!Here is the transcript for Episode 67: Bravery and Fear
"When we default to comfort out of fear of the unknown, we often ignore the paths that may change our life." - Todd Henry.We've said time and time again that this work is HARD - and it often involves bravery to take the leap. Scared? Do it anyway. The weird thing about bravery is that if you're doing it right, it feels like fear! Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!Here is the transcript for Episode 67: Bravery and Fear
In this episode Carolyn and Sara dive into the challenges of the "messy middle"—that awkward, uncertain phase where self-doubt creeps in and progress feels slow. They discuss the importance of showing up, celebrating small wins, and surrounding yourself with supportive people to push through tough moments in both personal and professional growth.Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!Here is the transcript for Episode 66: Navigating the Messy Middle - Finding Growth in the Struggles
While we all wish to be superheroes with a track record of 100% good days, we' re human. During this episode, Carolyn and Sara discuss the importance of showing up, giving what you have, and simply trying. By extending this grace to ourselves and others, we accept what it means to be human: perfect imperfections. Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky!Here is the transcript for Episode 65: Giving What You Have When You Have It
In part two of our conversation with Kim Strobel, happiness coach and author of Teach Happy: Small Steps to Big Joy, we dive into practical strategies to find flow and boost well-being. Kim shares simple, science-backed tips to help you reframe your mindset, build gratitude, and cultivate lasting happiness in everyday life. Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky! Here is the transcript for Episode 64: Small Steps to Big Joy with Kim Strobel (Part 2)
In this episode, we’re joined by Kim Strobel, a former educator turned happiness coach and author of Teach Happy: Small Steps to Big Joy. Kim shares practical insights from the latest happiness research and explains simple, actionable steps we can all take to find authentic happiness. Tune in for a refreshing, no-nonsense conversation on how to live with more happiness. Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Bluesky! Here is the transcript for Episode 63: Small Steps to Big Joy with Kim Strobel (Part 1)
As we wrap up ATIA 2025, we’re filled with gratitude for our amazing community. In this episode, we’re joined by the one and only Mike Marotta, who shares his key takeaways from the conference. Wherever you are, remember you’re a valued part of this community. Feel free to reach out anytime to connect! Resources Shared in this Episode: bit.ly/appsmack25 Mike's contact info: BlueSky (@mmatp.bsky.social), X (@mmatp), e-mail (mike.marotta.atp@gmail.com) Thanks for listening and, if you haven't already, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, and now Bluesky! Here is the transcript for Episode 62: ATIA 2025 - Day 3.