S1:E6 -Connected, Informed, Empowered — Inside the Association with Lisa Nentl-Bloom

S1:E6 -Connected, Informed, Empowered — Inside the Association with Lisa Nentl-Bloom

This episode dives into a topic at the heart of strong public schools: association membership—what it means, why it matters, and how staying informed empowers us to advocate for the profession we love. I am thrilled to be joined by Lisa Nentl-Bloom, Interim Executive Director of the Utah Education Association. With extensive experience—both here in Utah and through her work with the NEA Center for Organizing—Lisa brings a powerful perspective on how union membership strengthens educators, elevates our collective voice, and protects our profession. In this episode, we will explore: * Why membership is more important than ever, * How associations advocate at the local, state, and national levels, and * How podcasts like this help us stay connected, engaged, and informed.

S1:E5 - From Local Wisdom to Statewide School Mental Health Practice - Trevor Olsen

This episode explores how school mental health efforts in Utah are growing from local, culturally responsive practices to statewide impact. We sit down with the Associate Director of School Mental Health Technical Assistance & Consultation at the UTTEC Lab, University of Utah, to discuss collaborative approaches, whole‑child practices, and the evolving work of the Utah School Mental Health Collaborative. Together, we unpack what it takes to support schools, uplift communities, and build equitable, culturally grounded systems of student wellness across the state.

S1:E4 - Inside Educational Advocacy: Dr. Sara Jones on Utah’s Legislative Work

In this episode, Lillian sits down with Dr. Sara Jones, Government Relations Director for the Utah Education Association. Dr. Jones is a leading voice for Utah’s educators and students, advocating for strong, effective education policy at the Utah Legislature. With her background as an educator, leader, and policy expert, she brings clarity, insight, and a deep commitment to ensuring that legislative decisions support teaching, learning, and student success. Together, Lillian and Dr. Jones discuss how advocacy shapes public schools, and why educator voices matter in every legislative session. This conversation offers an inside look at how policy impacts classrooms—and how dedicated leaders like Dr. Jones work to strengthen education for all Utah students.

S1/E3 -Supporting Those Who Support Students: A Conversation on Educator Wellness with Holly Todd

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Holly Todd—former elementary teacher, school counselor, and state‑level specialist—to explore what educator wellness truly looks like from someone who has lived it at every level of the system. Holly brings a grounded, compassionate perspective shaped by years of supporting both students and the educators who care for them. Holly shares personal wellness insights, simple daily practices, and lessons learned from her own journey—offering reminders that wellness is not a destination but an ongoing, intentional practice. Tune in for a thoughtful, honest conversation about wellness, resilience, and reclaiming balance in the work we love.

S1/E2 - Sayre Posey, 2025 Teacher of the Year: Teaching with Heart and History

In this episode, we sit down with Sayre Posey, an educator whose impact reaches far beyond her classroom walls. Sayre’s commitment to literacy‑based social studies instruction and her passion for helping students build meaningful connections with history make her a powerful voice in today’s teaching landscape. Her work continues to inspire not only her students, but also the colleagues and communities. Sayre also shares thoughtful guidance for early career educators, emphasizing the importance of building strong professional learning communities and seeking supportive mentorship. Through collaboration, reflection, and connection with experienced peers, she believes educators can find the insight, encouragement, and resilience needed to grow in the profession. Join us for a conversation full of heart, practical wisdom, and a deep love for teaching—one that reminds us how powerful educators can be when they learn, lead, and grow together.