Bold By Choice Podcast

S4 E10 Catalyst for Change

What does it take to build an education movement that actually lasts? In this episode of Bold by Choice, hosts Vashaunta Harris and Jim Goenner sit down with Terry Ryan of Bluum, recipient of the 2026 Bold by Choice Catalyst Award, to explore how leadership, talent, and shared values can transform educational opportunity across an entire state. From teaching in post-Communist Poland to helping launch one of the nation’s most influential charter school ecosystems in Idaho, Terry shares the unexpected journey that shaped his belief in innovation, community, and courageous leadership. The conversation dives into Bluum’s bold vision to create 20,000 new school seats in 10 years, the launch of the Idaho New School Fellowship, the power of investing in people first, and why rural communities deserve innovative learning models designed around their unique needs. Together, they explore the difference between leadership and management, why movements matter more than sectors, and how catalysts create momentum by bringing people together around possibility. Because real change doesn’t happen by accident. Somebody has to choose to build it. Show Notes In This Episode: * The story behind Bluum and Idaho’s charter school growth * Why talent and leadership matter more than perfect plans * Building rural and remote learning models * The Idaho New School Fellowship * Leadership vs. management * Why movements begin with vision * How charter schools create space for innovation * The role of values in long-term educational change * What it means to be a “Catalyst” in education Key Takeaway: Catalysts don’t just spark ideas — they create momentum, build partnerships, and help communities imagine what’s possible for students.

S4 E9 The Meaning Behind the Movement

What does it really mean to be Bold by Choice? In this special episode, hosts Vashaunta Harris and Jim Goenner reflect on the heart behind the Bold by Choice movement following the inaugural Bold by Choice Summit. Together, they unpack the ideas, values, and leadership commitments shaping the future of education — and why courage, responsibility, and possibility matter now more than ever. This conversation explores why boldness is not about being loud or disruptive, but about choosing action, building intentionally, and believing deeply in students even when the path forward is uncertain. From the future of learning and school design to the emotional power of movements, relationships, and community, Jim and Vashaunta reflect on the deeper purpose behind the summit, the podcast, and the work educators are being called to do in this moment. The episode also introduces the meaning behind the Bold by Choice Awards — including Stewards of Possibility, Pathways of Opportunity, Catalyst, Arc Changer, and Lantern — and why these honors were intentionally designed around values rather than status or achievement. Because great schools don’t happen by chance. Movements happen when people choose to build. Show Notes In This Episode: * What “Bold by Choice” actually means * Why education requires courage and movement thinking * The future of learning, AI, personalization, and student belonging * Why movements are emotional — not just strategic * Reflections from the inaugural Bold by Choice Summit * The purpose behind the Bold by Choice Awards * Why schools must focus on possibility, not sameness * The importance of relationships, connection, and student dignity Featured Award Themes: * Stewards of Possibility * Pathways of Opportunity * Catalyst * Arc Changer * Lantern Key Takeaway: Bold by Choice isn’t about being fearless. It’s about choosing to move forward with courage anyway — because students deserve leaders willing to build something better.

S4 E8 Beyond The Screen

Technology is everywhere in education, but is it actually transforming learning? In this episode of Bold by Choice, hosts Vashaunta Harris and Jim Goenner, joined by guest host Don Cooper, explore the difference between using technology to make school more efficient… and using it to make learning more personal. They’re joined by Dr. Garland Thomas-McDavid, CEO of Brooklyn LAB Charter School, whose leadership is grounded in lived experience, resilience, and an unwavering belief in what students can achieve. At Brooklyn LAB, technology isn’t about replacing teachers—it’s about expanding what’s possible for students. From STEM pathways and Project Lead The Way to adaptive learning tools and real-world problem solving, this conversation highlights how intentional design—not just devices—can unlock student potential. And just as importantly, it reminds us that relationships, culture, and purpose must remain at the center. Show Notes In This Episode: * Technology as an enabler—not a replacement—for teaching and learning * The difference between efficiency vs. personalization in ed tech * How Brooklyn LAB uses STEM pathways and Project Lead The Way * Real-world, hands-on learning through engineering and biomedical programs * Balancing screen time, focus, and student engagement * The importance of adult courage in adopting new tools and practices * Why relationships remain the foundation of powerful learning environments Key Takeaway: Technology doesn’t transform schools on its own—intentional design does. When used thoughtfully, it can personalize learning, expand opportunity, and empower students without losing the human connection that matters most.

S4 E7 More Than Students

What if adolescence wasn’t just about preparing for the future—but contributing to the present? In this episode of Bold by Choice, hosts Vashaunta Harris and Jim Goenner, joined by guest host Don Cooper, explore what happens when schools trust young people with real responsibility. They’re joined by Dan Porter, an experienced educator and leader at Kwiyagat Community Academy, alongside student Naomi Cowboy. Rooted in partnership with the local Ute community, Kwiyagat was created to address a critical need: a school where Indigenous students are seen, supported, and connected to their culture. Through language, storytelling, and community-based learning, students are not only building academic skills—they’re developing identity, confidence, and voice. From capstone projects tackling real community issues to students learning directly from elders, this episode highlights a powerful shift: when students are treated as contributors, not just learners, education becomes deeply meaningful. Show Notes Guests: * Dan Porter, Leader, Kwiyagat Community Academy * Naomi Cowboy, Student, Kwiyagat Community Academy Hosts: * Vashaunta Harris * Jim Goenner * Guest Host: Don Cooper In This Episode: * Rethinking adolescence: from compliance to contribution * The founding of Kwiyagat Community Academy and its community roots * Revitalizing Ute language and culture through education * Student capstone projects and real-world problem solving * The role of elders, storytelling, and identity in learning * Measuring success beyond academics: belonging, voice, and resilience Key Takeaway: When students are grounded in culture, trusted with responsibility, and given a voice, they don’t just prepare for the future—they help shape it.

S4 E6 Governed By Teachers

What if teachers didn’t just work in schools—but helped lead them? In this episode of Bold by Choice, hosts Vashaunta Harris and Jim Goenner, joined by guest host Don Cooper, sit down with Amy Junge (Education Evolving) and Dr. Julie Cook (Teacher Powered Schools Network) to explore a growing movement redefining the teaching profession. Across more than 300 schools nationwide, teacher-powered models are shifting decision-making from top-down systems to collaborative teams of educators. From hiring and budgeting to curriculum and culture, teachers are not just implementing decisions—they’re making them. Julie brings this model to life through her experience at Souderton Charter School Collaborative, where co-teaching, shared leadership, and collective responsibility create a dynamic, student-centered environment. The result? Stronger teacher retention, deeper professional ownership, and learning experiences that better meet students’ needs. This episode challenges a core assumption in education—and offers a powerful alternative: when teachers are trusted as professionals, schools—and students—thrive. Show Notes Guests: * Amy Junge, Senior Director, Teacher Powered Schools (Education Evolving) * Dr. Julie Cook, Teacher Leader, Souderton Charter School Collaborative In This Episode: * What “teacher-powered” schools really are * How shared leadership changes school culture * The shift from compliance to professional ownership * Co-teaching, collaboration, and distributed decision-making * Why teacher retention improves in this model * What this means for the future of school design Key Takeaway: When teachers have the authority to lead—not just implement—schools become more responsive, collaborative, and effective for students.