BONDCast
BondCast Season 1 Episodes
Book Study of Caste (Part 1)
Join BOND educators, Kenny Smith, Thomas Ryan, Travis Payne, Desmond Williams, Desmond Mackall, Doug Rivera, Matthew Vaughn Smith, and Daman Harris as they kick off the BOND Summer Book Study with discussion of Caste by Isabelle Wilkerson. The men discuss their experiences with white supremacy and how those experiences compare to the historical references and creative metaphors used by the author.
A Conversation about Critical Race Theory
In this episode of the BONDCast, we delve into the controversy around Critical Race Theory. Our guests, Dr. Julius Davis, professor from Bowie State University, and Dr. Kmt Shockley, professor from the University of Houston, review the academic definition of CRT as well as the recent weaponization of the term for political benefits and the conservation of white supremacy.
The Burning House
This episode features author, speaker, educator, and administrator, Desmond Williams, about his latest book, The Burning House: Educating Black Boys in Modern America. Desmond explains why public schools have never really worked for Black Boys and what those of us who say we want to support all students can do to make things right.
Reframing Our Relationships with Students
This episode features educator, author, speaker, behavior specialist, and podcaster David Spellmon. He explains the purpose of a post he wrote on the bondeducators.org blog entitled “Stop Doing or Saying these things to Students of Color Right Now.” David shares about how his upbringing influences his teaching, what veteran teachers often get wrong about supporting Black and Brown students, and how schools can leverage cultures—especially those influenced by Hip Hop—to become optimal places for student learning.
The Understanding Gap
This episode features educator, author, speaker, Title I specialist, and musician, Rodrigo Godinez. He explains the purpose of a post he wrote on the bondeducators.org blog entitled “The Understanding Gap.” Rod shares about how his upbringing influences his teaching, what veteran teachers often get wrong about supporting Black and Brown students, and how teachers can reimagine their relationships with students in ways that build bridges rather than walls.
Elevating Hip Hop History and Culture
This episode features teacher, speaker, adjunct professor, and youth leader Kenneth Smith. He tells the story of how he moved from the Brooklyn DA’s office to a Maryland High School, and what led him to design a course about Hip-Hop history and culture. Kenneth shares life experiences that led him to teaching, the ways all students benefit from authentic connections to curricula, and how schools can leverage cultures—especially those influenced by Hip Hop—to become optimal places for student learning.
The Hero in All of Us
This episode features author, speaker, adjunct professor, and sportswriter Jerald Hoover as he shares his experiences growing up and creating the Hero Book Series. Jerald describes how his childhood in the Bronx led him to compose his acclaimed young adult series, and he explains the messages therein for all of us.
Principles of Leadership
On this episode, we’re speaking with school leader, Dr. Norman Coleman, about his philosophy regarding key principles of leadership. He explains why understanding and leveraging one’s leadership identity is so critical to moving groups of people in the right direction.
Equity Not Excuses
On this episode, we speak with educator, author, speaker, and school leader, Phillip Yarborough, as he explains the purpose of a post he wrote on the bondeducators.org blog entitled “Equity, not Excuses.” Phil shares how some of early career experiences influence his leadership choices today. He also provides unfiltered advice for school leaders who are trying to figure out how equity work and school improvement work are one and the same. As usual, just pull up a chair, and we’ll drop you right into the middle of our conversation.
Giving Community Colleges a Second Look
On this episode, we talk to speaker and college counselor, Jose Medrano as he explains the meaning behind his recent post on the bondeducators.org blog that described the benefits of a community college foundation prior to moving to a four-year institution. Jose talks about his high school and early college experiences that shaped his thinking about higher education and changed his career trajectory.
BondCast Season 2 Episodes
Put Children in the Driver’s Seat, and They Can Tell Our Story – Dr. Ayize Sabater
On this episode, we talk to school leader, researcher, entrepreneur, and radio host, Dr. Ayize Sabater and his views about the importance of Black History, Montessori education, and retention of black male teachers.
A Principal’s Mission in Designing Trauma-informed Care – Dr. Curtis Callands
On this episode, we catch up with Curtis Callands, a veteran school leader, researcher, and author. Dr. Callands shares his experiences with helping students and teachers navigate the obstacles generated from traumatic backgrounds, and what led him to write his book, “A Principal’s Mission in Designing Trauma-informed Care.”
Being My Brother’s Teacher – Dr. William White
In this episode, we speak with professor William White, a decorated scholar and leader, as he shares his insights on teacher preparation and the educational presence of Black and Brown men in Early Childhood settings.
Progress Report – Mr. Corey Carter
On this episode, we talk to artist and educator Mr. Corey Carter, about how his new album, “Progress Report,” both empowers and informs audiences of all kinds. He’s a former teacher of the year, talented musical performer, and he guides new and aspiring teachers as the assistant director the Sherman Scholars Program at the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
Surviving and Thriving after Trauma – Mr. Robert Murphy
During this episode, we talk to Mr. Robert Murphy as he shares ways to help ourselves and others survive and thrive after traumatic experiences. As an educator for 25+ years in a variety of roles and settings, and navigating trauma in his personal life, Rob has seen it all; and he’s helped hundreds if not thousands of others—if not thousands—of other people directly through his work or indirectly through his book: [N words] Ain’t Astronauts: Love and Trauma in an American Family.
Centering Student Identity in the Music Classroom and Beyond – Mr. Eric Williamson
During this episode, we speak with teacher, speaker, and conductor with the Grammy award winning Brooklyn Youth Chorus, Eric Williamson. Mr. Williamson describes his desire to make every child feel included in every classroom, not just in the music class. He also offers tips to help teachers center the identities of all students across every subject area.
How to Diversify the Teacher Pipeline and Supporting Needy Students Simultaneously – Mr. Marquis Taylor
In this episode, we speak with Marquis Taylor, co-founder and CEO of Coaching4Change, a program that partners with colleges and public school districts to provide academic support and mentor-ship for children in grades 4-12 while helping colleges to develop a diverse teacher pipeline.
Adding Value to Those Who Add Value – Dr. Brandon C.S. Wallace
In this episode, we talk to Dr. Brandon C.S. Wallace. Brandon describes what he learned as he grew from student, to teacher, to curriculum writer, and now college professor. He explains what schools and districts can learn from his journey as well as how his current work is adding value to the field.
Driving Purposeful Outcomes by Leveraging Human Relationships – Mr. David Hardy
In this episode, we talk to Mr. David Hardy, co-founder and CEO of Made by Change, an organization that helps companies leverage human relationships in ways that drive purposeful outcomes. David shares the practices that he used to turn around two school Midwestern districts, and how those principles can apply to any organization, large or small.
Leveraging Restorative Practices and Student-Led Practices – Mr. Walter Taylor
During this episode, we talk to Walter Taylor, the Director of Professional Development (PD) for the Chicago Teachers Union Foundation. Walter shares ways that schools can leverage student leadership to foster culturally responsive school environments that encourage high achievement and social emotional learning.
Cultivating the Next Generation of Community-Conscious Leaders – Mr. Michael Stevens
In this episode, we talk to Michael Stevens, Executive Director of City Year DC. City Year DC recruits and trains volunteers to support schools in Washington, D.C. The organization is driven to cultivate the next generations of community-conscious leaders across a variety of sectors of our society. You can find out more about City Year DC at www.cityyear.org/dc and @CityYearWDC on Instagram.
Leading District Equity Work in the South – Mr. Ashford Hughes
In this episode, we talk to Mr. Ashford Hughes, the Executive Officer for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for Metro Nashville Public Schools. Ashford explains how he rose to executive leadership in a large urban district and how educators can hold their districts—and themselves—accountable for ensuring that every student has access to a world class education.
Cultivating a Staff Full of Black Male Teachers – Dr. Harold McCray
During the episode, we speak with Dr. Harold McCray, a principal in Washington, D. C. Dr. McCray explains the values that fueled his rise to school leadership, and he shares the practices he uses to fill his staff with Black male teachers and leaders.
Adapting to Change: School Response Strategy to Covid and a Collaborative Roadmap Forward – Dr. Emmanuel Vincent (Catch the Replay! // Originally Aired: Summer 2022)
Catch the Replay! // Originally Aired: Summer 2022
In this episode, we’re speaking with Dr. Emmanuel Vincent, a veteran international teacher, leader, and consultant. Dr. Vincent reflects on how many school systems responded to the COVID-19 pandemic, and he offers some advice about how they can adjust since we’ve entered the endemic stage of the health crisis.
Navigating Crises with a Steady Hand – Dr. Lorenzo Johnson & Dr. Leroy Wray
In this episode, we speak to Dr. Lorenzo Johnson and Dr. Leroy Wray about how they coach individuals and organizations to leverage personal relationships in ways that mitigate challenges posed by crises.
Black on Black Education – Mr. Jamaal Thomas
During this episode, we speak with Mr. Jamaal Thomas, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Black on Black Education, an organization that supports districts to adopt customized, student-centered approaches to curriculum and instruction.
Nurturing the Spark within Students in Higher Education – Mr. Napthali Bryant
During this episode, we speak with Mr. Napthali Bryant, the founder of Spark-Ed, an organization that offers a holistic approach to succeeding in higher education. Mr. Bryant explains what led him to develop the organization and how prospective students could choose the right college, find funding, and successfully graduate.
BondCast Season 3 Episodes
The Impact of Social Identity on Education Policy – Mr. David Lopez
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! To open season 3, we talk to Mr. David Lopez, Senior Technical Assistance Specialist for WestEd, a research, development, and services agency, works with education and other communities to promote excellence, achieve equity, and improve learning for children, youth, and adults. Mr. Lopez is going to share his perspective about how social identity affects the world of education policy development and implementation. You can find out more information about Mr. Lopez and his work at dlopez2@wested.org and @dlopez196 on X.
Impacting Children Beyond Your Own Building – Mr. Ron Brown
In this episode, we’re talking with Mr. Ron Brown, Chief External Affairs Officer at the He is Me Institute. Mr. Brown will share how he balances his personal and professional lives and navigates systemic changes in ways that allow him to make huge impacts within school buildings beyond what used to be his own. You can find out more information about Mr. Brown on LinkedIn as “Ronald Brown,” www.heisme.org, and @heismeinstitute on Instagram.
When Affinity Work for Black Male Teachers Becomes International Travel for Black Male Students (Mr. Rictor Craig)
In this episode, we talk to Mr. Rictor Craig, Co-Founder/Founding Director of Instruction for Statesmen College Preparatory Academy for Boys and the Founder of the National Association of Black Male Educators. Rictor explains how he channeled his passion for supporting boys from marginalized communities into pipeline organizations that have an international footprint.
Striking a Balance Between Pedagogy, Andragogy, and Activism (Mr. Devon Beck)
In this episode, we’re talking with Mr. Devon Beck, Facilitator of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Talbot County Board of Education, a school district in Maryland. Devon talks to us about how male educators of color have to strike a balance between pedagogy, andragogy, and activism. You can find out more information about Mr. Beck and his work via @devonbeck365 on Instagram and X.
BondCast Season 4 Episodes
Learning to Relearn
Season 4 of the BONDCast closes with Kwame Sarfo-Mensah, the founder of Identity Talk Consulting, LLC, a global educational consulting firm that specializes in developing K-12 teachers into identity-affirming educators. Given our current sociopolitical climate, Kwame explains why his new book, “
Good Classroom Instruction Requires Antiracist Pedagogy
Teacher, leader, fitness trainer, and traveler, Mr. Lorenzo Deloatch, shares his view as a person who has recently transitioned from classroom teacher to teacher leader, and how effective classroom instruction and antiracist pedagogy are one and the same.
Men of Color as Educators of Young Children
This episode features the early childhood educator and school math coach, Mr. Olurotimi Fagbohun. “Mr. Timi” shares how his experiences as an educator of young children have shaped his personal and professional perspectives.
Unlocking Leadership Potential with Strengths-Based Strategies
In this episode, strengths-based consultant and international speaking champion, Tre’ Gammage explains how leaders leverage their strengths to reduce staff conflict, set clear goals, and eliminate previously unseen weaknesses. Here are Tre’s sites:strengthsbasedtraining.com
Sharing Our Stories: The Power of the M.I.L.K. Writing System
This episode features the prolific best-selling author and educator, Dr. Oliver T. Reid. He introduces us to some new terms, like “literary equity.” He’s written over 2 dozen books and won multiple awards. So tolerate Daman’s broken microphone and let’s learn together!
The Power of Math Education: From the Classroom to Consultancy
In this episode of the BONDCast, we sit down with Okera Hawkins, CEO of Sound Perception Consulting, to explore his journey as an educator, consultant, and proud “girl” dad. With over 20 years of experience, Okera shares his mission to empower math educators through research-based strate
Brothers From Different Continents
Mr. Kennedy Donkor, school leader and 2nd Deputy General Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Private Schools, describes the Ghanaian school system at the classroom, school building, and policy levels.
Promoting Mental and Physical Health
Mr. Lewis Ponzo, Substance Misuse and Mental Health Promotion Director for the state of Georgia, explains how connections between substance abuse prevention, mental health supports, and community fellowship play roles in the education and wellbeing of our youth.
Success Is a Campaign of Discipline
Mr. Justin Sinclair is a former school leader, current licensure-track therapist, and founder of Epiphany Education. He joined the BONDCast to discuss his transition from big-time college athlete to big-time advocate for wellness in education.
Reflections From Multiple Levels
Dr. Lorenzo Hughes has excelled in almost every position in which one can serve in education. He joined the BONDCast to share what he’s learned along the way,
Balancing Purpose, Leadership, and Life
Jason Epting, veteran educator and leader of Avatar Educational Advisements, describes how culturally relevant instruction and leadership enhances student engagement and fosters an atmosphere of inclusivity. Jason also describes several innovative approaches to address diverse learning styles, ensuring that every student, and leader, can thrive.
The Intersection of Education and Christianity
Pastor DaQuan Gibson, the head of the Bible department of a Christian school near Wilmington, Delaware, discusses how his calling to pastorship blends with his mission to teach in ways that maximize his impact on his community.
Chronicling Success
Best-selling author, Chip Baker, describes the multiple ways that he chronicles his success, such as his experiences as a teacher and coach, books, relationships with education leaders around the country, and popular YouTube channel and podcast: “
Chronicling Success (Video)
Best-selling author, Chip Baker, describes the multiple ways that he chronicles his success, such as his books, experiences as a teacher and coach, books, relationshipswith education leaders around the country, and popular YouTube channel and podcast: “
Black Male Educators Talk
Ayodele Harrison, the leader of Black Male Educators Talk, shares how BMEs Talk fosters the personal development, professional growth and economic mobility of Black men working across the education sector.
Black Male Educators Talk (Video)
Ayodele Harrison of Black Male Educators Talk describes how BMEs Talk fosters the personal development, professional growth, and economic mobility of Black men working across the education sector.
No More Broken Black Boys (Bobby Morgan)
Long-time NJ school leader, Bobby Morgan, explains how he creates inclusive, culturally responsive, and transformational learning environments that counteract the messages that Black boys receive about themselves. He also encourages Black boys and men to consider the ways that humility, curiosit
No More Broken Black Boys (Bobby Morgan)
Long-time NJ school leader, Bobby Morgan, explains how he creates inclusive, culturally responsive, and transformational learning environments that counteract the messages that Black boys receive about themselves. He also encourages Black boys and men to consider the ways that humility, curiosit
Resistance Through Liberation (Dr. Frederick Engram)
Dr. Frederick Engram, Assistant Professor of Higher Education at Fairleigh Dickinson University, shares his inspiration for—and insights from–his book, “Black Liberation Through Action and Resistance: MOVE.”
Resistance Through Liberation Video (Dr. Frederick Engram)
Dr. Frederick Engram, Assistant Professor of Higher Education at Fairleigh Dickinson University, shares his inspiration for—and insights from–his book, “Black Liberation Through Action and Resistance: MOVE.”
Musical Inspirations (Mr. Sean McClure)
In this episode, we’re talking with Sean McClure, the Senior Program Coordinator for the Center for ResearchEngagement and Collaboration in African American Life as well as the project manager for the Slavery, Race and Memory Project at Wake Forest University. Sean explains how educators ca
Education as Liberty (Mr. Jeremy Fuller)
In this episode, we talk to Mr. Jeremy Fuller, a professional learning facilitator in Metro Atlanta. Mr. Fuller shares about empowering Black boys through a combination of literacy and liberty.
STEM is Just the Beginning (Dr. Richard Warren)
In this episode, we talk to Dr. Richard Warren, the Hazel Professor of Education at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Dr. Warren tells us how he channeled his passion for STEM education into a recruitment tool for current students, future teachers, and culturally responsive educational environments.
We Will All Rise (Dr. Mark Nash, Mr. Ricardo O. Neal)
In this episode, we’re talking with Dr. Mark Nash, Sr. and Mr. Ricardo O. Neal of We Will All Rise, dedicated to increasing rates of college completion and classroom representation of Black and Brown men. Dr. Nash and Mr. Neal explain how they banded together to support the college completion of brilliant men of color across the country. You can find out more information at www.wewillallrise.org.
Mentorship that Inspires Future Mentors (Mr. Nathaniel Smith)
In this episode, we talk to Mr. Nathaniel Smith, Director of NYC Men Teach at CUNY Queens College. Mr. Smith explains how role models, mentors, and goal-settingstrategies compelled him beyond temporary obstacles, and he talks about how those experiences inspired him to be a mentor to others
Leaders Who Successfully Interrupt Inequities (Dr. Troy Boddy)
In this episode, we’re talking with Dr. Troy Boddy, CEO of the East Coast Racial Equity Group and the Co-Director of the Sandy Spring Slave Museum and African Art Gallery. Troy will point out some of the equity-related patterns he sees in schools and corporations, and he’ll identify characterist
The Cultural Lens of a Latino Administrator (Mr. Heber Paredes)
In this episode, we talk to Mr. Heber Paredes, an assistant principal in Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia. Mr. Paredes explains how he leverages his own cultural background to support the community he serves. You can get in touch with Mr. Paredes via hjparedes89@gmail.com and @hjparedes1on X.
Equity-Focused School Leadership in Florida (Mr. Otis Kitchen II)
In this episode, we’re talking with Mr. Otis Kitchen, principal of Town and Country Elementary School in Hillsborough County School Systems in Florida. Mr. Kitchen shares how he leverages his background in college sports to become a positive, equity-focused school leader in Florida. You can find
“Edupreneurial” Principles for Leadership (Dr. Ian Buchanan)
In this episode, we’re talking with Dr. Ian Buchanan CEO of Nia Education Group, a coaching and consulting firm dedicated to helping great leaders become their greatest leadership selves.Ian reflects on some of his experiences as an “edupreneur” and explains how the principles that he’s lea
Brotherly Connections that Last (Mr. Max Brooks & Mr. Javaris Powell)
In this episode, we’re talking with Mr. Max Brooks and Mr. Javaris Powell. The gentlemen share how their longstanding friendship not only keeps them mentally healthy, but it keeps them in the profession of education. You can connect with Mr. Brooks via @MaxBrooks1 on X, and you can connect with Mr. Powell via @Jarvaris_Powell on X.
“Becoming” is Greater than “Being” (Dr. Hassan Brown)
In this episode, we talk to Dr. Hassan Brown is the Chief Executive Officer of Career Catalyst, an education technology initiative designed to cultivate confidence in you
Introducing Blerd Culture (Mr. Charles Alexander)
In this episode, we’re talking with Mr. Charles Alexander, English Language Arts Instructional Specialist with Montgomery County Schools in Maryland. Charles teaches us about Blerd (Black Nerd) Culture. If you’v
The Critical Role of Affinity Spaces (Mr. Tim Garcia)
In this episode, we talk with Mr. Tim Garcia, diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner and author of Bailey Bear Goes to Work, a children’s book that centers the childhood exploration of identity, systems, str
BondCast Season 5 Episodes
Journey to Excellence: Dr. Marvin Lynn
One of the most cited researchers in the United States, Dr. Marvin Lynn, reflects on his journey to world-renowned excellence and what the rest of us can learn from his experiences.
Belonging is More Than a Word
Author, host, and equity leader, Dr. Sheldon Eakins, shares his definition” of “belonging,” describes how great organizations can operationalize it, and explain concrete ways that you can cultivate it within your organization.