The Balance, by Dr. Catlin Tucker

Audio Diary From Work in Africa

In this special episode, I share my audio diaries, reflecting on daily experiences and insights from working with schools in Cairo and Ghana.

Overcoming Fear & Leaning into Change: The Power of Self-paced Learning

In this episode, I chat with Toni Rose Deanon about their journey as an educator and the transition from traditional, teacher-led lessons to a more student-driven, self-paced learning model with the Modern Classroom Project. We explore our shared work supporting teachers, the ways fear can stifle innovation, the limitations of conventional teaching methods, and how to design classrooms that foster deeper human connection.

Why Don't We Trust Students?

In this mini-episode, I explore the questions: Why don’t we trust our students? What is it that we really fear? As someone who regularly works with teachers on topics like blended learning, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and student-led learning, one recurring theme I encounter is control. Educators have a lot of fears about releasing control and allowing students to take more ownership and responsibility for their learning.

To read my blog on this topic, click here.

Tech Talk: Data Visualization, The Digital Divide & Artificial Intelligence

In this episode, I chat with Jose Gonzolas, the Chief Technology Officer for the Los Angeles County Office of Education. He was recently named one of the top 100 influencers in education. We chat about data visualization, artificial intelligence, and supporting student and teacher success with technology.

You can connect with Jose on X @JRGonzalezSELA

Ask Catlin & Noelle: Creating Inclusive Classrooms with Station Rotation Model and Co-teaching

In this episode, Noelle and I discuss five strategies designed to maximize co-teaching using the Station Rotation Model. As schools focus on creating inclusive classrooms and least restrictive learning environments, co-teaching offers an exciting pathway to meet all learners' needs in the classroom.

To read more about these strategies and see examples of each, check out this blog post.

My TEDx Talk Journey

In this mini-episode, I share my journey to the TEDx stage and provide a sneak peek into my talk.

You can watch Education Reimagined: Student-led Learning on YouTube, download the free interactive workbook on my website, and dive into my self-paced course that extends on the ideas presented in my talk on Teachable!

Building a Strong Class Culture

In this mini-episode, I explain why I've never liked the term "classroom management" and prefer to focus on building a strong classroom culture and partnering with students to establish class agreements and a clear path of consequences.

AI-powered Coaching and Feedback

In this episode, I chat with Avery Pan, an education enthusiast, former writing tutor, and cofounder of Class Companion – an AI platform, designed in partnership with teachers. Class Companion provides instant coaching and feedback for students in a way that teachers can control.

Reciprocal Teaching with Multimedia

In this mini-episode, I delve into the reciprocal teaching strategy, highlighting its power to foster critical thinking and deep engagement with media among students. I walk you through the strategy step-by-step and offer practical tips on how to onboard your students effectively.

Episode Resource

• Blog - Reciprocal Teaching with Multimedia
• Resource - Reciprocal Teaching Strategy Template with Roles Explained

Personalize: Meeting the Needs of All Learners

In this episode, I chat with Eric Sheninger and Nicki Slaugh about their new book Personalize: Meeting the Needs of All Learners. We clarify what personalized learning is and talk about how data, using technology strategically, and focusing on human connection and relationships are key. Eric and Nicki share their experiences and advice about how to build a culture that supports this shift. You can connect with Eric on X @E_Sheninger and Nicki @nickiatquest.