Podcast
The Crisis in Education Podcast
Hosted by Pivot Crisis Intervention · EN
Educators are the backbone of our nation, and education is its lifeblood. But because of a number of issues exacerbated by politics and the pandemic, it is progressively faltering. From teacher shortages and failing schools to growing mental health issues, there is an undeniable growing crisis in Education at the individual, classroom, and school level. Though painful, with the right approaches, crises can be leveraged as an opportunity for growth. Therefore, Dr. Paul "Paulie" Gavoni hosts the Crisis in Education Podcast, where Education meets Behavior Science, to interview educational leaders, behavior scientists, and experts around the world to dissect the root causes of crisis issues and explore potential opportunities for sustainable improvement across schools and districts. [Sponsored by Pivot Crisis Intervention - pivotcrisis.com]
24episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Feedback Loop: How Student Surveys Shape Better Classrooms with Tana Stanley
Aug 1, 202500:36:06Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of The Crisis in Education Podcast, Dr. Paul "Paulie" Gavoni sits down with three-time District Teacher of the Year finalist, Tana Stanley, to explore a critical and often overlooked element of classroom success—student voice.They dig into how giving students opportunities to provide feedback through structured surveys can foster engagement, build psychological safety, and contribute to a more learning-ready classroom environment. Tana shares practical strategies from her own teaching experience, including how she uses student surveys to guide her instruction and strengthen her relationship with learners.From implementation tips to lessons learned, this is a must-listen for any educator looking to make student-centered learning more than just a buzzword.📩 Want a Copy of the Student Voice & Learning Readiness Survey? Email moreinfo@pcma.com with the subject line "Student Survey" and we’ll send it your way.⚠️ Disclaimer: This survey is a practical tool informed by research on student engagement, teacher-student relationships, and learning readiness. However, it is not a validated psychometric instrument. Its intended use is to open dialogue, build connection, and guide reflection—not to formally evaluate teacher performance or diagnose student needs. Click here to explore the Parent & Care Giving Courses today!
Transcribe →
From Classroom to Career: Using PBIS to Support Adults with Disabilities with Dr. Keith Storey
Jul 15, 202500:32:55Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Paulie sits down with Dr. Keith Storey—Professor Emeritus, BCBA-D, and lifelong educator—to explore how PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) isn’t just for schools. They break down how the same strategies that support students in classrooms can be used to empower people with disabilities as they transition into adult life and the workforce.Too often, students with disabilities age out of school and enter “the real world” with minimal support and little preparation for independence. Dr. Storey shares how PBIS strategies can help bridge that gap—creating environments that reinforce dignity, build skills, and increase the likelihood of success in the workplace and beyond.Topics Covered:How PBIS principles apply beyond K-12 to adult employment settingsUsing behavior analysis to increase independence and reduce barriersThe role of teachers and job coaches in shaping meaningful, dignified employmentChallenges in applying PBIS and ABA ethically in adult servicesReal examples of successful workplace inclusionWhy systems-level change is critical to long-term impactTreating adults with disabilities as capable contributors, not passive recipients of supportCheck out Dr. Storey's most recent book POSITIVE BEHAVIOR SUPPORTS FOR ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES IN EMPLOYMENT, COMMUNITY, AND RESIDENTIAL SETTINGS: Practical Strategies That Work (3rd Ed.)Click here to explore the Parent & Care Giving Courses today!
Transcribe →
Virtual Solutions, Real Impact: ABA Support for Military Families in Education with Emil Majetich
Apr 9, 202500:41:16Tap to summarizeSend us a textIn this powerful episode of the Crisis in Education Podcast, Dr. Paulie welcomes Emil Majetich, a doctoral candidate in early childhood special education, licensed behavior analyst, university instructor, and 25-year fire service veteran. Emil shares his remarkable journey from fire lieutenant and paramedic to behavior analyst, emphasizing the transferable skills and values that fuel his passion for helping others. With firsthand experience supporting families of children with autism in education, especially military families navigating the challenges of virtual service delivery, Emil brings a unique blend of grit, compassion, and behavioral science to the table.Listeners will hear about Emil’s work mentoring the next generation of practitioners, his involvement with organizations like Surfers Healing, and how his experiences in high-stakes, real-life crises inform his perspective on meaningful family and educator support. This episode underscores the importance of authenticity in service delivery and highlights practical ways educators and behavior analysts can collaborate to create lasting impact—not just in theory, but in action.Military & DoD Families with Autistic Children: Take part in a free virtual ABA family coaching study designed specifically for you. Receive personalized support from a Licensed and Board Certified Behavior Analyst and learn practical, evidence-based strategies you can use at home—no travel required. The program is flexible, confidential, and built with military life in mind. Support your child’s development while helping shape better services for other military families. Please use this link https://bit.ly/4hzDjxA or contact Emil Majetich Jr. at emajetic@gmu.edu
Transcribe →
Bringing Learners to Center Stage in Value-Based Care with ABA Toolbox's Leila Farshchian
Mar 25, 202500:45:12Tap to summarizeSend us a textJoin Dr. Paulie as he explores value-based care in education with Leila Farshchian MA, BCBA, leader of ABA Toolbox—an award-winning platform advancing science-driven, learner-centered interventions for individuals with autism and disabilities. The conversation explores how integrating behavior analytic principles with compassion and creativity can significantly enhance outcomes for students with special needs. Listen in as Layla shares her inspiring journey into behavior analysis, the critical role of values in education, and practical strategies to empower educators, students, and families alike.Key Takeaways:How CABAS merges science & teaching for individualized success The role of tech-driven solutions in special education & ABA Toolbox The power of collaboration in transforming therapy & learningThis engaging conversation is packed with practical insights for providers dedicated to collaboration, brining the learner to the center for enhanced treatment outcomes in education.To learn more about Leila and her mission, please visit us at: www.abatoolbox.comLeila Farshchian, MA, BCBA. https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-farshchian-33974335 Contact: Leila@abatoolbox.com
Transcribe →
Inclusive Education for Deaf Students: Challenges and Solutions with Jamia Green
Mar 7, 202500:35:53Tap to summarizeSend us a textIn this episode of Crisis in Education, Dr. Paulie sits down with educator and leader Jamia Green to discuss the challenges and opportunities in supporting deaf students. With experience as a teacher of the deaf, a STEM technology educator, a principal, and now a state-level leader in Hawaii, Jamia brings a wealth of knowledge on how to create inclusive and effective learning environments.They dive into why deaf students are often overlooked in discussions about special education, the importance of understanding deafness as an "invisible disability," and how behavior science can be leveraged to enhance learning, communication, and engagement for deaf students. Tune in for an insightful conversation on advocacy, accessibility, and the power of culturally responsive education.
Transcribe →
Leadership, Behavior Science, and Change in Education with Pierre Louis
Jan 31, 202500:39:51Tap to summarizeSend us a textIn this episode of the Crisis in Education Podcast, host Dr. Paulie welcomes his good friend and former colleague, Pierre Louis. As a long-time leader and one of the founders of Ovation Behavior Group, Pierre brings deep insights into the intersection of behavior science, leadership, and education.Dr. Paulie and Pierre discuss:✅ How behavior science drives effective leadership in education✅ Challenges and successes in implementing behavior-based strategies✅ The power of mentorship and leadership in fostering meaningful changeThis engaging conversation is packed with practical takeaways for educators, behavior analysts, and leaders committed to improving systems through evidence-based practices. Don't miss it!
Transcribe →
Building Assent, Fun, and Trust: Supporting Teachers and Students in Special Education with Steve Ward
Jan 3, 202501:08:30Tap to summarizeSend us a textEpisode Description:In this episode of The Crisis in Education Podcast, Dr. Paulie sits down with behavior analyst and education expert Steve Ward to discuss practical strategies for supporting teachers and students—especially those with special needs—while highlighting lessons that apply to all classrooms.They dive into the critical role of assent and assent withdrawal, exploring how these concepts can be observed, measured, and taught to both teachers and parents. Steve emphasizes the importance of respecting a learner's right to say "no" and, more importantly, how to reintroduce expectations in ways that build trust, confidence, and engagement.The conversation also challenges traditional approaches to learning by making a compelling case for expanding fun—particularly social fun—as a primary goal. By prioritizing enjoyment and meaningful interactions, educators can create positive ripple effects that go far beyond preparing students to complete tasks.Tune in to learn actionable strategies, from fluency-building formats to incorporating games and routines, that help turn novelty and unpredictability into opportunities for growth. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or school leader, this episode offers insights you can apply right away to make learning more effective and enjoyable for all students.More on SteveWebsiteFacebookArticleshttps://www.archivesofpsychology.org/index.php/aop/article/view/82https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5352626/https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF03393050Webinarshttps://www.eventbrite.com/o/cabs-autism-and-behavior-specialists-34162179949PodcastsTrauma-Informed Care, Assent, and Compassion - A Call for Nuance in ABATrauma Informed Care: Some ThingsYou Should KnowPunishment on Trial in Behavior AnalysisAssent and Compliance: When to Use WhichHow to Help Individuals with Anxiety: Session 187 with Steve WardThe Case for Humor in Behavioral Interventions: Session 111 with Steve WardTeaching Kids with Autism Games and Leisure Activities: Interview with Steve WardBook linksTeaching Good Learner RepertoiresWhat You Need to Know about Motivation and Teaching Games: An in
Transcribe →
Teacher Turnover May Be a Threat to National Security: A Chat with Dr. Greg Rockhold
Dec 2, 202401:06:25Tap to summarizeSend us a textIn this eye-opening episode of Crisis in Education, Dr. Paulie sits down with Dr. Greg Rockhold to explore a bold and urgent topic: the growing teacher turnover crisis and its potential implications for national security. Drawing from decades of experience in education and leadership, Dr. Rockhold offers a compelling analysis of how the exodus of teachers from the profession threatens not only the quality of education but also the stability of communities and the nation's future workforce.The conversation lifts up the hood on the systemic challenges driving teacher burnout, the lack of preparation and support for educators, and how these issues ripple out to impact society on a broader scale. Together, they discuss actionable solutions grounded in behavioral science, leadership principles, and policy reform to address this alarming trend.Tune in for a powerful discussion that reframes the teacher turnover crisis as more than just an educational issue—it's a national security concern that demands immediate attention.About Dr. RockholdDr. Greg Rockhold, in his 28th. year as an educational leader, served on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). He has served in a variety of roles, including:NASSP No Child Left Behind National Task Force,Testified in US Senate Sub-Committee Hearings on Education and New Mexico Legislature many times on behalf of public education, Presenter at NASSP Convention regarding NCLB in San Francisco and Reno,President - New Mexico Coalition of School Administrators (NMCSA),Executive Director - New Mexico Association of Secondary School Principals (NMASSP),Secretary - New Mexico Association for Supervision & Curriculum Development (NMASCD),Colorado Rural Caucus Steering Committee, NCATE - Educational Leadership Constituent Council Reviewer,Considered for a White House Appointment, McDonald’s/NASSP New Mexico Assistant Principal of the Year, Adjunct Professor with Trinity Southwest University, and USMC veteran and Eagle Scout.Greg is a professionally skilled problem solver and highly organized team builder who leads a focus on increasing student performance via targeted professional development for all staff using student data to make informed decisions.Greg is a highly effective change agent and consummate student of transformational leadership, organizational management, organizational efficiency, organizational effectiveness, organizational health, and organizational motivation.As a change agent, Greg presents a clear vision that enables communication to be a give-and-take arena; he is patient yet persistent as people are moving forward; asking the tough questions; character and credibility as Greg is knowledgeable in what he is speaking about as he builds strong relationships on a foundation of trust. He is highly approachable and reliable. While a change agent, Greg creates conditions for sustainable change that permeates the organization.People rejecting indifference – demanding excellence – PRIDE. - Greg Rockhold
Transcribe →
Making Data Matter: Christopher Hull on Stakeholder Engagement in Education
Nov 20, 202400:39:24Tap to summarizeSend us a textIn this episode, Christopher Hull sits down with Dr. Paulie to share his journey from the classroom to becoming a leader in educational innovation. As a former teacher, Christopher understands the challenges educators face every day and uses that experience to drive meaningful change in K-12 education. Together, he and Dr. Paulie dive into what it takes to empower teachers, improve student outcomes, and turn data into tools that truly support learning.Christopher opens up about his mission to create a better educational experience for everyone involved—students, teachers, and administrators alike. He discusses how his firsthand experiences shaped his vision and commitment to making a difference where it counts most: in the lives of students and the educators who support them. Tune in for an insightful conversation on rethinking education through passion, purpose, and practical solutions.Click here to learn more about OTUS
Transcribe →
Measuring What Matters: Integrating School Climate into School Ratings with Dr. Skip Wilhoit
Nov 7, 202400:48:58Tap to summarizeSend us a textIn this episode of the Crisis in Education podcast, Dr. Paulie sits down with Dr. Skip Wilhoit to dive into a critical yet often overlooked aspect of educational success—measuring and incorporating school climate into the overall school grade. Together, they explore why a supportive, positive climate is essential for both students and educators, the ways in which it impacts academic outcomes, and how school climate metrics can—and should—be integrated into accountability systems. With a blend of candid insights and data-driven discussion, Dr. Paulie and Dr. Wilhoit make the case for why shifting the focus beyond academic scores and towards climate measurement can transform schools into healthier, more effective learning environments. This episode is a must-listen for educators, policymakers, and anyone passionate about meaningful change in education. About Dr. WhilhoitDr. Skip Wilhoit is an experienced educator and administrator specializing in school safety, student intervention, and behavioral management. He has served as the Safe Schools, Dropout Prevention, and Student Intervention Specialist for the School District of Manatee County in Florida. His work in the district includes initiatives focused on bullying prevention and character education, aiming to foster a positive and safe learning environment for students. Dr. Wilhoit has also been involved in securing significant funding for educational programs. He was awarded a $2.7 million grant to benefit his K-12 school district, reflecting his commitment to enhancing educational outcomes and addressing behavioral issues within schools.
Transcribe →