The Truth About Ed: Unearthing the Real Stories in Education

Serving and Protecting Our Schools: A Conversation with Trooper Thomas Kinnunen

What does it take to create schools where students feel safe, supported, and known? In this episode of The Truth About Ed, Dr. Jessica Betz sits down with Michigan State Police Trooper Thomas Kinnunen to discuss school safety, relationship-building, leadership, and the critical role trusted adults play in the lives of young people. This conversation goes beyond security measures—it’s about connection, community, and the people who make a lasting difference in our schools. Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats [https://stock.adobe.com/search/audio?k=1696899212]

From Officer to Deacon: A Life of Service in Our Schools

Education is never just about curriculum. It is about people. It is about presence. It is about relationships. And it is about the many individuals who walk alongside students, often quietly, shaping who they become.  Episode Six of The Truth About Ed features a powerful conversation with Deacon Gregg St. John about service, relationships, school culture, and the lasting impact adults can have on students. From his years as a beloved D.A.R.E. officer in local schools to his vocation as a deacon, this episode reflects on what young people truly need today: presence, guidance, faith, and connection. A heartfelt conversation about education, safety, mentorship, and the people students never forget. Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats [https://stock.adobe.com/search/audio?k=1696899212]

The Teachers Who Stay, A Conversation with Steve Solinski

Every teacher has a story. No one becomes a teacher by accident. There is always something that draws them in. Join Dr. Jessica Betz as she discusses with guest Steve Solinski what draws teachers to the profession and keeps them teaching year after year despite challenges that may be faced. A former teacher of Dr. Betz's who is retiring from the field of education, Steve shares his thoughts on ways to keep teachers invested in teaching future generations. Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats [https://stock.adobe.com/search/audio?k=1696899212]

Burnout Is Real and We Cannot Ignore It

God worked, and then He rested. He blessed rest. He made it holy; And Jesus calls us to Him with an invitation for rest. Join Dr. Jessica Betz as she discusses burnout in education and how teachers and other educational leaders can avoid it, while setting healthy boundaries and taking time to rest when needed, emphasizing how even God Himself rested after undertaking the work of creation. Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats [https://stock.adobe.com/search/audio?k=1696899212]

The Five-Minute Conversation That Can Change a Writer Forever

Five minutes can build confidence. Five minutes can deepen understanding. Five minutes can change a student’s identity as a writer. And sometimes, five minutes can change a life. Join Dr. Jessica Betz as she explores diving into writing with students and forming human beings, sharing how important it is to see the individual in front of educational leaders and helping students discover their own voice, their own confidence, and their own potential.  Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats [https://stock.adobe.com/search/audio?k=1696899212]