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Ridgemont4sFinest’s- The Podcast — Education
Ridgemont4sFinest’s- The Podcast

Welcome to Ridgemont4sFinest–The Podcast where we stretch out those 3-minute videos from TikTok and continue the unfiltered discussions around public education from the perspective of a veteran teacher. In each episode, I will share my insights and opinions on the issues that matter most to educators – from navigating difficult classroom dynamics to advocating for better funding and policy changes, this podcast will give you an inside look at what it’s really like to be a teacher.

But this isn’t just a one-sided conversation – I will also be interviewing other teachers, education policy experts, and others to get their perspectives on what’s happening in our schools. This podcast is a space for honest conversations and unfiltered opinions about the challenges facing public education today.

If you’re a fellow educator who’s tired of feeling like no one really understands what you’re going through, or if you’re just someone who wants to learn more about the state of public education, then this podcast is for you. Join us for thought-provoking discussions and candid insights into the world of teaching.

Copyright: © 2023 Ridgemont4sFinest's- The Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Episode 33 (Part 2)- The Madison High School Student Protest Feb 15, 2024

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In this episode of our podcast, we continue our conversation with about the recent student walkout and protest at Madison High School, where students are pushing back against a new cell phone policy imposed by their school district, HISD, the district that has recently been taken over by the state's education authority (TEA). Our guest, TB, a student at Madison High School, offers a firsthand account of what life has been like since the TEA took over their school district, implementing policy changes that disproportionately affect schools in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, particularly those with predominantly students of color.

TB sheds light on the administration's treatment of students, which has been marked by inconsistency and lack of empathy. He discusses how teachers are being bullied by the administration, and how these dynamics are contributing to a loss of passion for learning among the student body.

We challenge the narrative perpetuated by the media, which often portrays the students as entitled troublemakers throwing tantrums over their phones. TB provides insight into the deeper issues at play and emphasizes that the protest is about more than just cell phones—it's about students demanding respect, dignity, and a voice in their own education.

Importantly, TB speaks not only for himself but also for the many students who feel silenced and fearful of retaliation from the administration. In a space where students are rarely given the opportunity to express their feelings and concerns about authority, we provide a platform for TB to share his truth and advocate for change.

Join us as we amplify the voices of these courageous students and explore the complexities of education policy, equity, and student empowerment in our public schools.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!
FOLLOW US ON PATREON FOR THE EXCLUSIVE
TEACHERS AFTER DARK PODCAST
SUPPORT OUR GRASSROOTS INITIATIVE

www.theschooltruthproject.org

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Episode 32: The Madison High School Student Protest Feb 15, 2024

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In this episode of our podcast, we dive into the recent student walkout and protest at Madison High School, where students are pushing back against a new cell phone policy imposed by their school district, HISD, the district that has recently been taken over by the state's education authority (TEA). Our guest, TB, a student at Madison High School, offers a firsthand account of what life has been like since the TEA took over their school district, implementing policy changes that disproportionately affect schools in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, particularly those with predominantly students of color.

TB sheds light on the administration's treatment of students, which has been marked by inconsistency and lack of empathy. He discusses how teachers are being bullied by the administration, and how these dynamics are contributing to a loss of passion for learning among the student body.

We challenge the narrative perpetuated by the media, which often portrays the students as entitled troublemakers throwing tantrums over their phones. TB provides insight into the deeper issues at play and emphasizes that the protest is about more than just cell phones—it's about students demanding respect, dignity, and a voice in their own education.

Importantly, TB speaks not only for himself but also for the many students who feel silenced and fearful of retaliation from the administration. In a space where students are rarely given the opportunity to express their feelings and concerns about authority, we provide a platform for TB to share his truth and advocate for change.

Join us as we amplify the voices of these courageous students and explore the complexities of education policy, equity, and student empowerment in our public schools.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!
FOLLOW US ON PATREON FOR THE EXCLUSIVE
TEACHERS AFTER DARK PODCAST
SUPPORT OUR GRASSROOTS INITIATIVE

www.theschooltruthproject.org

Support the show

Episode 31: A Chat with Dr. Qiana O'Leary, the Social Justice Educator Jan 28, 2024

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In this episode, we discuss the concept of radical education with the inspiring Dr. Qiana O'Leary, a seasoned educator turned principal, and now the founder of an education consulting firm. Dr. O'Leary shares her transformative journey, leveraging her knowledge and skillset to champion the cause of students of color.

Our conversation covers various aspects of Dr. O'Leary's impactful career, from reducing high school dropout rates to creating systemic resolutions that improve school culture and organizational structures. Learn about her innovative approach to professional development through the progressive learning model and the importance of equity-centered instruction in shaping the future of education.

Amidst these discussions, she poses a fascinating question to us: "Are you willing to eat pizza on a Monday?" This metaphor challenges the compromise of one's core values to bring like-minded individuals into the fold. We explore the delicate balance of compromise and authenticity in the pursuit of a more inclusive education system.

Furthermore, the episode introduces a compelling query for radical educators: "Are you a Coretta/Michelle type or an Afeni/Malcolm X type?" This comparison prompts reflections on leadership styles and approaches within the realm of radical education.

Join us as we discuss the complexities of education, touching on the coddling of white female counterparts in the industry and the impact it has on the pursuit of radical change. Dr. Qiana O'Leary provides insights, challenges the status quo, and empowers educators to make a lasting impact on the lives of their students. Tune in for a conversation that goes beyond the conventional, inviting you to think, question, and inspire change in the field of education.

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Support the show

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!
FOLLOW US ON PATREON FOR THE EXCLUSIVE
TEACHERS AFTER DARK PODCAST
SUPPORT OUR GRASSROOTS INITIATIVE

www.theschooltruthproject.org

Support the show

Episode 30:CPS Stories:The Realities of the Child Welfare System Jan 21, 2024

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Continuing our conversation with B. Drake, a seasoned professional in the field of child welfare with years of experience. He goes deeper into the stories about kids finding their way through state custody and foster homes. In this segment he discusses the privatization of foster care, which ironically sounds like the privatization of prison...Which then leads us to acknowledge that just like the school to prison pipeline exists, so does the CPS to prison pipeline! We discuss residential treatment facilities who want the kids with the highest needs/level of care because they benefit more from them financially. When those kids start to improve those behaviors and no longer need "high care", they are sometimes removed from those facilities because those facilities can't benefit from them financially.
We again touch on how kids are placed in foster homes with parents who just view them as a paycheck and isolate them from the rest of the family. We talk about a young man who experienced this isolation after having an extremely rough life of neglect, only to be sexually abused once he entered into the system by the very foster parents that were supposed to care for him.
We also discuss educational surrogates and their impact on students with IEPs in the school and court system.
This was definitely a tear-jerker episode that I had to cut short because the truth was a bit too truthful for me. Tune in and let's hear your thoughts!

Support the show

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!
FOLLOW US ON PATREON FOR THE EXCLUSIVE
TEACHERS AFTER DARK PODCAST
SUPPORT OUR GRASSROOTS INITIATIVE

www.theschooltruthproject.org

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Episode 29: CPS Stories:The Realities of the Child Welfare System Jan 14, 2024

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In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with B. Drake, a seasoned professional in the field of child welfare with years of experience. We team up to really get into the nitty-gritty of the child welfare system, swapping heartfelt stories about kids finding their way through state custody and foster homes.

We dive deep into the challenging realities of the child welfare system, shining a light on the serious issues it faces. We're not shying away from talking about the troubling presence of corruption, often linked to financial motives. It's like pulling back the curtain on how some foster parents, instead of putting kids first, treat it as a business opportunity.

Our chat also delves into the heartbreaking issue of abuse within the system, giving a voice to the tough experiences many children go through. We also tackle the immense stress and pressure on case workers, unfairly taking the blame for the system's shortcomings.

As we chat, we get real about how being a caseworker can deeply impact personal relationships and physical health. This episode isn't just scratching the surface; it's a raw, honest talk about the challenges, injustices, and complexities woven into the fabric of the child welfare system.

Come join us as we unveil the harsh truths, share stories that deserve attention, and have a genuine conversation about the multifaceted issues within child welfare—issues that urgently need acknowledgment and change.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!
FOLLOW US ON PATREON FOR THE EXCLUSIVE
TEACHERS AFTER DARK PODCAST
SUPPORT OUR GRASSROOTS INITIATIVE

www.theschooltruthproject.org

Support the show

Episode 28: No Role Modelz, That is Your Job! Jan 08, 2024

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Welcome to another episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast. We are prepping to return to work after the much needed winter break and I have some of my teacher besties with me to get the conversation started. We joke around about our holiday shenanigans and I try to pry about their holiday hook-ups, lol!
We then get into the real discussion: Are teachers always supposed to be professional, selfless, sacrificial moral authorities with limited personal lives? How do societal expectations shape the way teachers are perceived, especially when it comes to personal aspects of their lives? We delve into the stereotypes that paint teachers as infallible authorities with limited personal lives, exploring the impact of these norms on our well-being and mental health. So, buckle up for laughter, real talk, and a glimpse into the unfiltered lives of teachers as we break the mold and go beyond the classroom on this rollercoaster of an episode.
And in the midst of it all, we confront the desire to shed the title of a role model for students, particularly when there's no increase in pay.
Plus, get ready for the launch of our spin-off series, "Teachers After Dark," where we shatter classroom norms and discuss the unfiltered realities of being a teacher without the judgment. We have a hypothetical discussion about what this spin-off series could look like and the topics that we should cover. We will definitely need the participation of our audience to get this spin-off series in motion!

Support the show

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!
FOLLOW US ON PATREON FOR THE EXCLUSIVE
TEACHERS AFTER DARK PODCAST
SUPPORT OUR GRASSROOTS INITIATIVE

www.theschooltruthproject.org

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Episode 27: A Chat with Dr. Byron McClure, the Black Unicorn School Psych Dec 17, 2023

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Welcome to another episode of R4F- the Podcast and today we sit down with THE INCREDIBLE Dr. Byron McClure, a rare gem in the field of school psychology—part of the less-than-1% club of Black male school psychologists. We’re jumping right into his journey, starting with how he got into the world of school psych.
We’re not skirting around the issues. Dr. McClure discusses the culture of low expectations that often shackles Black students, the hesitation to set high standards, and the unfortunate trend of overassessing and placing Black students in special education.
Dr. McClure shares his insights on helping parents understand the often confusing process of special education, connecting certain behaviors to disabilities, and shining a light on the high number of Black boys being written up by teachers who might be lacking a bit in the cultural awareness department.
Dr. McClure drops the details on his creation—an app that’s not just about identifying, but actively combating discipline disparities. And because he’s not just about the issues, but also about solutions, we dive into his passion for Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and its powerful impact on Black boys.
We are so honored to sit down and have this chat with Dr. McClure!

Support the show

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!
FOLLOW US ON PATREON FOR THE EXCLUSIVE
TEACHERS AFTER DARK PODCAST
SUPPORT OUR GRASSROOTS INITIATIVE

www.theschooltruthproject.org

Support the show

Episode 26: (pt2): Loyalties Tested: Teacher-Parents and the Family First Dilemma Dec 11, 2023

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We left y'all with a cliffhanger on that last episode, so let's finish it off!!!!
Welcome back to another episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast. On this episode, I am joined by some teacher-moms as we discuss the chaos of being a loyal employee of a school/district where your own children attend. How do you manage this juggling act without feeling like you're dropping the ball in either role?

We discuss the complexities of navigating advocacy challenges when it comes to our own children. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you desperately wanted to advocate for your child but felt your hands were tied due to your role as a teacher/employee in that very district? How do you navigate that tricky territory? Our guests share their stories, and we revisit the story of Angela, whose 10 year old son was arrested while in the care of educators she trusted and how years later, they are still dealing with the PTSD from that event.

We explore the fine line between professionalism and parental instincts. Teachers who are parents know this all too well. Our guests talk about instances where decisions became personal and navigating professionalism became harder and harder to do.

When internal channels seem limited, seeking external support becomes a lifeline. Our guests unfold stories of rallying support from outside sources, painting a picture of resilience in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

This conversation is real, the emotions run deep, and the stories will be a constant reminder for us to always put our families first.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!
FOLLOW US ON PATREON FOR THE EXCLUSIVE
TEACHERS AFTER DARK PODCAST
SUPPORT OUR GRASSROOTS INITIATIVE

www.theschooltruthproject.org

Support the show

Episode 25: Loyalties Tested: Teacher-Parents and the Family First Dilemma Dec 03, 2023

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Welcome back to another episode of Ridgemont4'sFinest-The Podcast. On this episode, I am joined by some teacher-moms as we discuss the chaos of being a loyal employee of a school/district where your own children attend. How do you manage this juggling act without feeling like you're dropping the ball in either role?

We discuss the complexities of navigating advocacy challenges when it comes to our own children. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you desperately wanted to advocate for your child but felt your hands were tied due to your role as a teacher/employee in that very district? How do you navigate that tricky territory? Our guests share their stories, and we revisit the story of Angela, whose 10 year old son was arrested while in the care of educators she trusted and how years later, they are still dealing with the PTSD from that event.

We explore the fine line between professionalism and parental instincts. Teachers who are parents know this all too well. Our guests talk about instances where decisions became personal and navigating professionalism became harder and harder to do.

When internal channels seem limited, seeking external support becomes a lifeline. Our guests unfold stories of rallying support from outside sources, painting a picture of resilience in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

This conversation is real, the emotions run deep, and the stories will be a constant reminder for us to always put our families first.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!
FOLLOW US ON PATREON FOR THE EXCLUSIVE
TEACHERS AFTER DARK PODCAST
SUPPORT OUR GRASSROOTS INITIATIVE

www.theschooltruthproject.org

Support the show

Episode 24- The Rhyme & Reason of Education Reform: Attorney Staci Childs Nov 26, 2023

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In this long awaited episode, we get into the diverse and dynamic journey of Attorney Staci Childs, a remarkable woman who transitioned from the classroom to the courtroom. Staci, a former teacher turned attorney (and dope rapper), shares her insights and experiences serving on the Texas State Board of Educators, where she actively shapes policies that impact school districts across the state.

As an outspoken advocate for education reform, Staci discusses with me the controversies surrounding curriculum decisions, notably her views on the Prager U curriculum and the challenges posed by groups like Moms for Liberty. She reflects on the personal attacks she has faced, both for her professional opinions and aspects of her personal life.

We explore the legal landscape of education with Staci, touching upon significant laws and rules, including the mutual combat law in schools, shedding light on the complexities of student discipline in the Texan educational system.

Being one of only two black women on the entire board, Staci provides a candid look into her experiences, addressing the dynamics, challenges, and the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping educational policies.

Throughout the episode, Staci's unique identity as not only an attorney and educator but also as an activist and rapper is explored. Her creative endeavors add a distinctive layer to the conversation, showcasing how her passion for justice and education extends beyond traditional avenues.

Join us for a fun episode with candid conversation as we uncover the layers of Staci Childs' extraordinary journey, from her roots in education to her impactful role in shaping the educational landscape of Texas.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! Follow me on TikTok @ Ridgemont4sFinest , IG @ Ridgemont4s_Finest, and Facebook @ Ridgemont4sFinest. Don't forget to support the podcast by clicking the links in the bio's!
FOLLOW US ON PATREON FOR THE EXCLUSIVE
TEACHERS AFTER DARK PODCAST
SUPPORT OUR GRASSROOTS INITIATIVE

www.theschooltruthproject.org

Support the show

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