Get Inspired with Dr. Barb

Dear Valued Viewver/Listener,In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', I engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Lameen Abdul-Malik, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, about the intersection of education and artificial intelligence. We discuss the importance of education for society, the potential of AI to enhance teaching and learning, and the ethical considerations surrounding its use. Lameen shares his experiences in healthcare, particularly in establishing Zambia's first cancer hospital, and outlines his future aspirations to impact lives through innovative projects. The conversation emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to technology in education, ensuring that human interaction remains central to the learning process.Please connect with amazing Lameen:Website: https://honestmanagement.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lameen-abdul-malik?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fromcoffeewithlove?igsh=MXhtbWNqMGZtMjYxOQ==Please connect with me at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', I speak with Danny Combs, a leading advocate for neurodiversity and the Inaugural Director of the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office. We discuss the importance of inclusive education for neurodivergent individuals, the innovative approaches taken by TACT to provide employment training, and the challenges faced in implementing effective programs. Danny shares his personal journey, insights on changing the narrative around autism, emphasizing the strengths and talents of neurodivergent individuals, and incredible statistics TACT shows . The conversation highlights the need for better data, funding, and awareness to create a more inclusive society.Please connect with incredible Danny and see his amazing initiatives:TACT (Teaching the Autism Community Trades) website: https://www.buildwithtact.org The Nation's First Neurodiversity Chamber of Commerse:https://www.cndcc.orgColorado Disability Opportunity Office: https://cdoo.colorado.govLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-combs-m-a-bccs-cas-90987613a/Please connect with me at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', I interview David Schatzkamer, a licensed mental health counselor and registered play therapy supervisor. We discuss the significance of play therapy in child development, the role of therapists, and how parents can engage in play therapy techniques at home. David shares insights on the importance of unstructured play, the integration of play therapy in schools, and the future of play therapy for both children and adults. The conversation emphasizes the need for play in education and mental health, advocating for a more playful approach to learning and emotional expression.Please connect with David:Website: www.center4playtherapy.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidschatzkamer/Please connect with me at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Viewer/Listener,In this episode, I interview Dr. Jennifer Fraser, a leading expert on bullying and its effects on the brain. We discuss the importance of understanding the psychological and neurological impacts of bullying, particularly on children and adolescents. Dr. Fraser emphasizes the need for advocacy and intervention in bullying situations, the role of empathy in preventing bullying, and the importance of educating both children and adults about the effects of bullying. The conversation also touches on the need for schools to implement effective strategies to create safe environments for students and the potential for brain science to inform educational practices.Please connect with Dr. Fraser and see her books:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-fraser-phd-1466a417/Website (includes links to books, Psychology Today series, and more): https://bulliedbrain.com/Psychology Today Series: https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/the-bullied-brainPlease connect with me at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Viewer/Listener,In this episode of Get Inspired with Dr. Barb, Paul L. Gunn Jr. discusses the intersection of education and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of personal experiences in shaping business aspirations. He highlights the significant role teachers play in influencing students' lives and the need for educational systems to foster resourcefulness and collaboration between parents and educators. Paul shares insights on navigating challenges in education and offers advice for aspiring educators and students alike, encouraging them to explore different paths and embrace their unique learning styles.Please connect with amazing Paul:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-l-gunn-jrInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulgunnjr/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kuoginc/Website: https://kuoginc.com/Please connect with me at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Viewer/Listener,In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', I interviews Todd Cherches, a leadership expert and author, discussing the intersection of leadership and education. We explore the importance of redefining leadership for students, the power of visual thinking in communication, and practical strategies for teachers to engage students effectively. Todd emphasizes the need for relevance in education and the use of metaphors and analogies to connect learning to students' interests. The conversation highlights the significance of creativity and experiential learning in teaching, encouraging both educators and students to embrace innovative approaches to learning.Connect with Todd:Websites:www.toddcherches.comwww.bigbluegumball.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddcherches/TEDx talk "The Power of Visual Thinking": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WmF5A6zZj0ETodd's book "VisuaLeadership":https://www.amazon.com/VisuaLeadership-Leveraging-Visual-Thinking-Leadership/dp/1642933376Please connect with me at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', Dr. Risë VanFleet discusses her extensive experience in Animal Assisted Play Therapy®, emphasizing the importance of relationships between children and animals. She shares powerful stories of transformation, illustrating how animal interactions can significantly impact children's emotional and social development. The conversation also touches on the challenges and the future of animal-assisted therapy in educational settings. Dr. VanFleet explains how understanding animal behavior is crucial for effective therapy practices and how the future of animal-assisted therapy lies in understanding the needs of both the animal and the child.Please connect with Dr. VanFleet and see information about her incredible organization and activity:Personal Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/rise.vanfleetProfessional Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RiseVanFleetPhD Dr. VanFleet's Email: ⁠info@iiaapt.org⁠International Institute for Animal Assisted Play Therapy® (training and supervision): https://iiaapt.orgInternational Association for Animal Assisted Play Therapy®(community, magazine, newsletter): https://iaaapt.orgAnimal Assisted Play Therapy® International Certification Board (standards, competencies, certification): https://aaptcertboard.orgFacebook Group: Animal Assisted Play Therapy® Communityhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/AnimalAssistedPlayTherapy/ Please connect with me at ⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', I discuss the transformative role of therapy dogs in education with guests Ginette Garrity, a teacher, and Katie Baron, a therapy dog advocate. They explore how therapy dogs can enhance learning experiences, foster engagement, and create a positive classroom environment. The conversation highlights innovative teaching methods, the importance of collaboration between teachers and therapy dog teams, and practical advice for educators looking to implement similar programs in their schools. Bonus: Archer, Katie's incredible therapy dog, makes an appearance in this episode!Please connect with Ginette and Katie:Ginette's Twitter: https://x.com/ginettegarrity1?lang=esGinette's Email: Garrity.Ginette@byramschools.orgKatie's Website: https://archerthetherapydog.comStudents' Writing Samples: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lIn8wKNThANMX1pPb_mB6N9iroDO6s7oKoG_DXX0ph4/edit?tab=t.0Descriptive Activity with Archer: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YZHeaZFQ6G0hvIWy97GNTy3dN-JcTiOP9CLfMz7qn_U/edit?tab=t.0Please connect with me at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', I engage with Iuri Melo, the founder of SchoolPulse, to discuss the importance of proactive mental health support in education. We explore the collective responsibility of education, the need for positive relationships between students and educators, and the role of parents in fostering a supportive environment. Iuri shares the genesis of SchoolPulse, its innovative approach to student mental health, and the significance of prevention in addressing youth challenges. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community engagement and effective communication in creating a culture of care within schools.Connect with Iuri and see his resources:Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/iuritiagomeloLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iuri-melo-1b41482/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iuritmelo/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SchoolPulsePodcast/videos?view=0&sort=dd&shelf_id=2Know Thy Selfie - t.ly/juUMBMind Over Grey Matter - t.ly/SxNUUPlease connect with me at ⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', I speak with Donna Lee Zmenak, a thought leader and expert in biofield energetic communication. We discuss the importance of authenticity in healing and teaching, the challenges faced by neurodivergent children, and the role of parents in advocating for their children's needs. Donna shares her personal journey of overcoming illness and how it shaped her approach to education and parenting. The conversation emphasizes the need for safety and connection in learning environments and the benefits of therapy animals.Connect with Donna:Website:https://www.donnaleezmenak.com/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/donna-lee-zmenak-43357b26 Please connect with the host, Dr. Barb, at ⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', I interview Jonathan Macdonald, the CEO and founder of Potency.World, an initiative aimed at transforming education for children, particularly girls. Jonathan shares his journey from working with children in hospitals to volunteering in schools, emphasizing the importance of engaging and empowering children through innovative teaching methods. Our conversation highlights the detrimental effects of labeling in education and the need for a supportive environment that fosters self-belief and creativity. Jonathan discusses his vision for Potency. World, which focuses on providing girls with the tools and opportunities to succeed in a rapidly changing world, encouraging them to believe in themselves and their potential.Connect with Jonathan:Website: https://potency.world/LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/potencyworldPlease connect with me at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this solo episode, I discuss the critical role of self-efficacy in education and how innovative approaches, particularly involving therapy dogs, can significantly enhance children's belief in their ability to learn. I emphasize the importance of language and engagement in boosting self-efficacy, especially for children in remedial education. Through creative activities, children can develop a positive attitude towards learning, leading to improved motivation and success.Please connect with me at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode, I engage with Josh Mirsky, the creator of the Neurodiversity Strength Flag, discussing the importance of neurodiversity awareness and advocacy. We explore the origins of the flag, its significance in challenging societal stigmas, and the need for greater acceptance of neurodivergent individuals. Josh shares personal experiences and offers advice for neurodivergent youth, emphasizing resilience. The conversation highlights the ongoing efforts to promote the flag and its message, aiming to create a more inclusive society for all.Please connect with Josh:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p47dthunderbolt?igsh=MWNuc2VyZnBlMzA0Mg%3D%3D&utm_source=qrInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/neurodiversity_strength_flag/profilecard/?igsh=MW92Z2NibXE0dW5mNA==⁠TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joshmirsky?_t=ZP-8xAxfnh7ZIU&_r=1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-mirsky-bb32b3290 You can purchase the Neurodiversity Strength Flags and Pins by contacting Josh on social media.Please connect with me at ⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', I interview Jacob Farkash, a 16-year-old author, illustrator, and podcaster who shares his experiences living with autism. Jacob discusses his journey of self-expression through social media, his podcast, and the importance of music in finding his voice. He offers valuable advice for teachers, parents, and peers on supporting individuals with autism and emphasizes the significance of being true to oneself and cherishing friendships.Connect with Jacob:Website:  www.JacobsCreativeJourney.comYouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/@JacobFarkashBook The Missing Voice (Jacob’s Memoir): a.co/d/2kprBweLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobscreativejourney Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacobfarkash/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571810859396Book The Adventures of Even Steven and Dr. Odd Man Out: The Evens vs. The Odds: amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0DXTVR69D/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?ie=UTF8&sr=Please connect with me at ⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', Dr. Amy Hawrylchak discusses the importance of teacher agency and project-based learning at Tech Valley High School. The conversation explores how authentic learning experiences can engage students, particularly those with disabilities, and emphasizes the role of reflection and feedback in the learning process. Dr. Hawrylchak shares practical strategies for teachers to implement project-based learning and highlights the significance of collaboration and networking in education.Connect with Dr. Hawrylchak and see the Tech Valley High School:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-hawrylchak-302b857bTech Valley High School website: https://www.techvalleyhigh.org/staff-directory-with-bios/Tech Valley High School Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TVHS1Tech Valley High School Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/techvalleyhigh/Tech Valley High School LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tech-valley-high-school/Please connect with me at ⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode, I interview Lucinda Ormiston, a dedicated teacher who shares her journey of becoming an educator and the transformative impact of therapy dogs in the classroom. We discuss how my therapy dog Carmel has enhanced student engagement. Lucinda shares various classroom activities, including writing projects and hands-on science experiments, that have fostered creativity and kindness among students. The conversation emphasizes the importance of collaboration between teachers and therapy dog teams to create a nurturing learning environment.Connect with Lucinda on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ormistonlucinda/See the book Lucinda co-authored: https://a.co/d/4iwdLUzPlease connect with the host, Dr. Barb, at ⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', we explore the innovative perspectives on education from a young author, Zoraib Nadeem, and his mother, Ambreen. They discuss the importance of fostering curiosity in learning, the challenges posed by traditional education systems, and the vital roles that parents and teachers play in empowering children. The conversation emphasizes the need for individualized learning approaches and the significance of children's voices in advocating for educational change.Please connect with Ambreen and Zoraib:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ambreen-nadeem/Website: https://thepsychologytalks.com/Website: https://savelivesproject.com/Website: https://impactactivators.com/Ambreen's book:https://www.amazon.com/Algorithm-Life-Code-Choose-Destiny/dp/B0B7H949DYhttps://www.amazon.com/Zoraib's book:Curious-Giraffe-Jungle-Discovery-Hidden/dp/1733956174/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8Please connect with me at ⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this episode of “Get Inspired with Dr. Barb,” we explore the transformative power of therapy dogs through the inspiring project 'Woofers, Snow, and Sky'. The conversation delves into the journey of the hosts from Europe to India, the impact of therapy dogs on children and the elderly, and the innovative activities that can be implemented in educational settings. The discussion highlights the psychological benefits of learning with dogs, the importance of choosing the right therapy dog, and the need for more awareness and research in the field of animal-assisted therapy.Connect with Sandra and Eva:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woofers_snowandsky/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/snowtherapydog/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063788990588Please connect with me at ⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this inspiring conversation, I interview Dr. Jeff Karp, a Harvard Medical School professor and bioengineer, about the challenges faced by neurodivergent children in the education system. We discuss the importance of recognizing different abilities, the role of nature in fostering creativity, and the need for supportive structures in education. Dr. Karp shares his personal experiences overcoming labels and challenges, emphasizing the significance of cultivating confidence in children and the role of parents and teachers in guiding them. The conversation concludes with a call to action for educators and parents to create opportunities for children to explore their interests and develop their unique gifts.Please connect with Dr. Karp:Website: https://www.jeffkarp.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkarpboston/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjeffkarp/Twitter: https://x.com/MrJeffKarpPlease connect with me at https://barbaravokatis.com, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Robert Melillo and I explore the complexities of autism, focusing on the Melillo approach, which emphasizes understanding the brain's functional imbalances. We discuss the importance of early diagnosis, the role of primitive reflexes, and the need for systemic changes in education and medicine. The conversation highlights the unique gifts of individuals with autism and offers practical advice for educators to better support their students.Please connect with Dr. Melillo and see his resources:Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/drrobertmelillo/?hl=en⁠Website: ⁠https://www.drrobertmelillo.com⁠About Dr. Melillo: ⁠https://www.drrobertmelillo.com/about-dr-melillo/⁠Books/Products: ⁠https://www.drrobertmelillo.com/books-products/⁠NY Offices: ⁠https://www.drrobertmelillo.com/ny-office/⁠Courses: ⁠https://www.drrobertmelillo.com/courses/⁠Virtual Programs: ⁠https://www.drrobertmelillo.com/virtual-programs/⁠Please connect with the host, Dr. Barb, at ⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!