Education Influencers
Education Influencers
Podcast Description
This show features individuals who are influencing education through thought leadership and hard work. They are making strides toward improving educational experiences and outcomes for all students and all teachers.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on themes of educational leadership, innovative teaching practices, and community engagement, with episodes exploring topics like reading instruction enhancement, academic policy influence, and the development of sustainable educational programs.

This show features individuals who are influencing education through thought leadership and hard work. They are making strides toward improving educational experiences and outcomes for all students and all teachers.
In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks interviews Dr. Audra Lewis-Hoesch, an educator, entrepreneur, and founder of Period Zero Workforce Pathways. Dr. Lewis-Hoesch shares how her doctoral degree from National Louis University opened doors for her to influence systematic change in workforce preparation and educational innovation.
She discusses her nonprofit, Period Zero, which aims to close opportunity gaps for youth by embedding leadership development, financial literacy, and career readiness into micro-credential pathways recognized globally.
Additionally, Dr. Lewis-Hoesch talks about her role as a grants development specialist at the Community College of Allegheny County, where she is developing new healthcare pathways. She provides practical advice for educators, emphasizing the importance of taking initiative and staying curious. You will be inspired by Dr. Lewis-Hoesch's commitment to creating opportunities and making a lasting impact in education.
Episode Highlights:
00:00 Introduction to Education Influencers
00:28 Meet Dr. Audra Lewis-Hoesch
02:22 Impact of a Doctorate in Educational Leadership
03:52 From Classroom Teacher to Educational Innovator
05:17 Transforming Education with Period Zero
07:44 The Skills Framework and Global Competitiveness
08:49 How Period Zero Bridges Education and Employment
17:55 Building a Global Nonprofit
19:41 Teen Networking Nights and Real-World Skills
22:25 The Role of AI in Education
23:15 Embracing AI as an Ally
24:37 Preparing Students for the Future Workforce
28:47 Innovative Grant Writing
29:54 Healthcare Pathways and Apprenticeships
38:12 Advice for Educators and Change Makers

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