Authentic Educators

39: Invitations and Expectations w/ Cornelius Minor

There’s something exciting about opening an invitation and looking ahead to an experience that matters. In education, that same feeling can shape the way students enter a classroom each day. In this episode of Authentic Educators, we sit down with educator and author Cornelius Minor to explore the power of invitations and expectations in learning. Together, we discuss how teachers can spark curiosity, honor students’ natural desire to learn, and create clear roadmaps that help every student feel prepared to engage. Cornelius Minor is a Brooklyn-based educator, author of We Got This, and founder of The Minor Collective [https://www.theminorcollective.com/]. His work has been featured in Education Week, Brooklyn Magazine, and Teaching Tolerance Magazine, and he has delivered keynote addresses at conferences around the world. We hope you enjoy this thoughtful and inspiring conversation.

38: Navigating Trauma w/ Mark O’Brien

Tragedy can bring some of the most painful moments in a person’s life.  Some people know this all too well.  In this week’s episode of Authentic Educators, we are joined by Mark O’Brien, founder of growthandgoodness.com [http://growthandgoodness.com] as well as the author of the book Crashing. I love you.  Forgive me to discuss how he was able to find incredible purpose in his life after facing incredible trauma.  Our conversation highlights two specific tactics that not only educators can use in the classroom but also anyone can use in their lives to create a culture of community that is best equipped to process the unfortunately inevitable lows of life.

37: Always Measure Backwards w/ Anthony Scornaienchi

On this episode of Authentic Educators, Cody and Dave sit down with Anthony Scornaienchi, a Health and Physical Education teacher who brings a powerful mindset shift to both the classroom and everyday life. Anthony shares how the ideas from The Gap and The Gain have transformed the way he approaches teaching, goal setting, and personal growth. Instead of constantly comparing yourself to an ever-moving target, Anthony explains the importance of “measuring backwards” — reflecting on how far you’ve come rather than how far you still have to go. He also shares how he has his students keep daily win journals, helping them recognize small victories and learn how to measure their own progress over time. Through stories from his work with students and lessons from education, wellness, and leadership, Anthony offers practical strategies for building confidence, resilience, and a healthier perspective on success. This conversation is a must-listen for educators, coaches, and anyone striving to grow without losing sight of their progress.

36: Knowledge, Skill, and Will Gaps w/ Anthony Benvenuto

Are students struggling to engage or manage their emotions in class? In this episode of Authentic Educators, Cody and Dave sit down with Anthony Benvenuto, who brings 14 years of experience teaching special education in New Jersey and Tennessee, across both public and private schools. They explore behavioral manifestations in the classroom and the critical role of social-emotional learning. Anthony breaks down the “knowledge, skill, and will” gaps he’s observed in students and shares strategies for supporting post-pandemic social-emotional recovery. Educators and parents alike will gain practical insights for helping students thrive academically and emotionally.

35: Discussing Belonging w/ Dr. Maggie Broderick

We’re wired for connection—belonging isn’t just a nice idea; it’s a fundamental human need. When people feel seen and heard, every part of life improves.. In this episode, Cody and Dave are joined by Dr. Maggie Broderick of National University (https://www.nu.edu [https://www.nu.edu/]) to explore what it really means to create a sense of belonging in the classroom—and why it matters more than ever. Together, they unpack the challenge of defining something that can feel intangible, reflect on Dr. Broderick’s powerful concept of an “Oasis of Belonging,” and discuss how a teacher’s presence and disposition shape the entire learning environment. If you care about connection, education, or creating spaces where people can truly thrive, this conversation is for you.