Innovating Education

Innovating Education
Podcast Description
Welcome to Innovating Education with Dr. Riley Williams, the podcast where we explore the future of education through insightful conversations with administrators, policymakers, and educators. Each episode dives into pressing issues in education reform, upcoming policy changes, and innovative ideas from those shaping the system.
Our focus is solution-driven, fostering a positive space for collaborative dialogue that inspires actionable change. Whether you’re a decision-maker, teacher, or simply passionate about education, this podcast offers fresh perspectives and practical insights to help build a brighter future for learners everywhere.
Join us as we uncover groundbreaking approaches to teaching, learning, and leading in education.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on critical topics such as education reform, policy change, and the integration of technology in classrooms. Episodes include discussions on special education leadership, AI ethics, and the need for innovation in teaching practices. Specific examples are drawn from conversations with experts like Dr. Leslie Sparcello on safe environments for innovation and Dr. Brandon Foster on systemic educational transformation.

Welcome to Innovating Education with Dr. Riley Williams, the podcast where we explore the future of education through insightful conversations with administrators, policymakers, and educators. Each episode dives into pressing issues in education reform, upcoming policy changes, and innovative ideas from those shaping the system.
Our focus is solution-driven, fostering a positive space for collaborative dialogue that inspires actionable change. Whether you’re a decision-maker, teacher, or simply passionate about education, this podcast offers fresh perspectives and practical insights to help build a brighter future for learners everywhere.
Join us as we uncover groundbreaking approaches to teaching, learning, and leading in education.
Justin Pickens is a teacher, coach, speaker, and father on a mission to change school culture from the inside out.
Our conversation goes deep on what it really takes to thrive in a school system that often leaves teachers burned out and students unseen. Justin shares what saved him, what still fuels him, and why he believes joyful, intentional educators are the greatest generational change agents we’ve got.
You’ll hear:
Why “remember your why” isn’t enough—and what to do when that no longer motivates you
How to pre‑decide your mindset before the day begins
What strong school culture really looks like (spoiler: it starts with remembering people’s names)
The reason storytelling—not statistics—is what actually builds trust and connection
One question every school leader should ask their students
How small actions from teachers led him out of generational trauma and into purpose
This one’s part pep talk, part mindset reset. If you’re feeling stretched thin or unsure if the work still matters—Justin’s clarity, heart, and humor will hit home.
Booking & Contact Info
Interested in bringing that spark to your next event? Reach Justin Pickens directly:
Email: [email protected]
Website / Booking page: justinpickens.com
You can also connect via LinkedIn—he’s most active there

Disclaimer
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