High-impact coaching starts with the right community. The EDU Coach Collective (brought to you by the team behind Restart Recharge) is your go-to source for the strategies and stories that move the needle in K-12 education.As active coaches at Forward Edge, we are in the trenches with you every day. Our mission? To provide consistent insights that serve all coaches. Through personal perspectives and expert guest interviews, we provide the tools you need to coach fearlessly. Wherever you are in your journey—we’ve been there, we are there, and we’re ready to help you grow. We are so excited to have you join the conversation with the EDU Coach Collective!
Send us Fan MailIs instructional coaching actually working, or are we just treating symptoms of a broken system? In this episode of the Coaching Research Conversations with Matt Brady, we tackle the identity crisis facing modern coaches. With hundreds of different job titles and a lack of clear metrics, many coaches find themselves stuck in a loop of "yak shaving"—tackling endless, irrelevant tasks to get to the actual work of teaching.
3/24/26 • 46:28
Send us Fan MailJoin our coaches Lisa Olidges and Jordan Petri as we explore the "March Madness" coaching cycle—a framework designed to re-energize staff through gamified professional development and high-utility tech tools. From running 4-to-6 week intensive coaching cycles to hosting "Tech Pop-ups" that give teachers their time back, we’re sharing the exact tactics you need to finish the school year strong and build relationships that last into next year
3/10/26 • 17:40
Send us Fan MailInstructional coaching isn’t just about the latest tech—it’s about solving problems and seeing the human in front of you. In this episode, Celine and Katie welcome Dr. Kaylah Holland, a Google Certified Innovator and ISTE award winner, to discuss how we can revolutionize Professional Development.Dr. Holland shares her "non-negotiables" for effective PD and takes us inside the unique world of coaching in juvenile justice facilities. From low-tech engagement strategies like "mood meters" to building trust in high-stress environments, Kaylah explains how consistency and creativity can transform any classroom.
2/24/26 • 32:19
Send us Fan MailIn this heart-to-heart episode of the Edu Coach Collective, we’re stepping away from the "how-to" and leaning into the "why." We sat down with several instructional coaches from the Forward Edge team to uncover the special moments that make this job so rewarding.From the "lightbulb" moments in a classroom to the quiet, breakthrough conversations in a hallway, our coaches share the personal stories and professional wins that keep them inspired. Whether you're a veteran coach looking for a little soul-fuel or a new coach wondering what the journey holds, this episode is a celebration of the impact—both big and small—that happens when we partner with teachers.
2/10/26 • 23:00
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the EDU Coach Collective, hosts Celine Thomas and Katie Ritter sit down with Jeffrey Riley, a former Massachusetts Commissioner of Education, now leading a nonprofit initiative at MIT. The conversation shifts from simple AI tools to the broader necessity of AI literacy for students, teachers, and instructional leaders.
1/27/26 • 27:43
Send us Fan MailHappy New Year, everyone! You are listening to the very first episode of the year, and if you noticed a new name in your feed, your ears aren't playing tricks on you. Welcome to the EDU Coach Collective!We are so excited to kick off this season with a fresh look and a renewed mission. We’re still the same team from Forward Edge you know and love—former educators working as instructional coaches right here in the K-12 trenches—but we’ve evolved. This year, it’s all about the Collective.So, what can you look forward to in this new chapter? We are leveling up our guest list to bring you even more diverse voices from across the country. In the coming weeks, you’re going to hear:Deep dives into the latest AI shifts in the classroom.Raw stories from coaches on the ground dealing with the same 'Sunday Scaries' as you.Expert strategy sessions on how to build teacher buy-in and lead from the middle.We’ve been where you are, we’re still there with you now, and we’re ready to tackle this year’s challenges together. So, let’s get those headphones on and get inspired.You’re part of the collective now. Let’s coach fearlessly!
1/13/26 • 15:29
Send us Fan MailTo all of our valued, loyal listeners, thank you for being the heart of our community!We are thrilled to officially announce that the Restart Recharge Podcast is leveling up and rebranding to become The EDU Coach Collective! This transition marks an exciting new chapter, and we are gearing up to make 2026 our most impactful year yet.
12/9/25 • 14:04
Send us Fan MailThis two-part series features hosts Jordan and Torie discussing the essential process of developing and resetting their coaching personas, especially when transitioning to a new environment or district.In Part 2, the conversation likely pivots from sharing initial struggles (like navigating "Coach-ese" jargon and the cultural shock of starting over, which was covered in Part 1) to actionable strategies for earning trust and establishing a successful coaching identity in a new setting
11/18/25 • 18:24
Send us Fan Mail Instructional coaches Torie and Jordan transition districts, moving from being established experts to the new kids on the block. Hear their hilarious struggles with "Coach-ese" jargon and the cultural shock of starting over. This conversation delivers actionable ideas on how to successfully reset your coaching persona and earn trust in any new school environment. Get ready to laugh and refine your pivot strategy!
11/5/25 • 16:25
Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Restart Recharge, the podcast for coaches ready to level up their practice.In this revolutionary episode, we're joined by Maureen Lamb, a true innovator who blends the ancient world with the future of learning. Maureen teaches Latin, a language often called "dead," yet she's a cutting-edge AI expert and Google Certified Trainer.We dig into the powerful practice of incorporating teaching and learning a language—even a dead one—and how these fundamentals can show you how to use technology not just as a tool, but as a path to more impactful coaching. Get ready to rethink everything, from self-care to teacher engagement, and truly restart and recharge your coaching practice.
10/21/25 • 30:08
Send us Fan MailGet ready for a behind-the-scenes look at the tools that power coaching success!Restart Recharge Podcast: What's in Your Coaching Bag?In this practical and insightful episode, we peek inside the actual coaching bags of our Forward Edge coaches to reveal their essential gear. From productivity tools and tech gadgets to self-care items and unexpected resources, our coaches share the items that truly make their lives easier, enhance their sessions, and keep them running smoothly through busy days.Discover the must-have items that transition them effortlessly between meetings, support client breakthroughs, and help them stay recharged. Whether you're a coach, consultant, or just curious about how others stay organized and effective, you'll walk away with actionable ideas to upgrade your own daily toolkit.Don't just listen—see it all in action! Get the full visual effect of this episode by watching it on the Restart Recharge Podcast on YouTube!
10/7/25 • 20:28
Send us Fan Mail"Getting AI Ready with Gemini" is an episode of the Restart Recharge podcast, tailored for coaches looking to implement AI into their practice for the school year. The episode includes a live demonstration on how to utilize Google Gemini to structure and navigate coaching tasks. Viewers can watch the full demonstration on YouTube @restartrechargepodcast.
9/23/25 • 18:14
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with former superintendent and educational leader Marlon Styles to explore the crucial dynamic between coaches and administrators. Drawing on his experience from both sides of the desk, Marlon offers a unique and practical guide to building trusting, collaborative relationships with school and district leadership. Discover key strategies for effective communication, advocating for your team, and creating a unified vision for success, all delivered with Marlon's signature "stylish" leadership approach.
9/9/25 • 36:32
Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to truly thrive in your career? Find out today on Restart Recharge! We're continuing our illuminating discussion with Lisa Oldiges in 'Career Campus Insights, Part 2.' Let's get you restarted and recharged!
7/22/25 • 36:58
Send us Fan MailWe are excited to announce in this weeks episode that we have a new Podcast Co-host and producer! We welcome Celine Thomas who is sharing her excitement to begin her journey with Restart Recharge.
7/8/25 • 03:24
Send us Fan MailHit the restart button with Celine as she welcomes a dynamic coaching team, Ben and "Katie Mac" from Career Campuses. Discover how they're revolutionizing professional development with their "Learnapalooza" event, injecting fun and growth mindset into their unique career tech environment.From welding to cosmetology, learn how these coaches build vital relationships by diving into teachers' diverse worlds, even getting their hands dirty (or polished!). They'll share practical tips on co-teaching models, team collaboration, and the power of knowing your "why" to drive impactful change. Plus, get a peek into their playful approach to PD, including music-themed sessions and competitive "Tech Madness."Tune in to recharge your coaching batteries and leave feeling less alone on your coaching island, equipped with fresh insights and a renewed sense of community!
6/24/25 • 26:48
Send us Fan Mail This is Restart Recharge, a podcast dedicated to the growth and development of coaches within the Indian Hill School District. Tune in to hear firsthand accounts of how our coaches learn from one another, tackle challenges, and continually refine their approaches to support our students and programs effectively, both as a united team and as individual leaders. Check out our time with Lee Jimenez, Kristi Booth, Betsey Henning, and Elizabeth Ruebusch.
6/10/25 • 36:34
Send us Fan MailDr. Jorge Valenzuela is a leading performance and education coach, author, and university instructor at Old Dominion University, as well as a speaker for Lifelong Learning Defined. He is dedicated to empowering educators through training in instructional innovation, action research, project-based learning (PBL), STEM pathways, entrepreneurship, and essential life skills. Partnering with Corwin, Dr. Valenzuela helps schools enhance core instruction with student-centered and impactful strategies. A published researcher, he also hosts the Lifelong Learning Defined podcast, offering practical insights and support to educators worldwide
5/27/25 • 37:45
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Restart Recharge, we welcome Kaitlyn Frederick, an instructional design coach here at Forward Edge, who shares her unique perspectives on coaching, drawn from her experiences in both K-12 and the corporate world. Kaitlyn discusses the importance of creative marketing and truly listening to teachers' needs. She also provides innovative ideas such as "DoorDash PD," offering teachers a choice of snacks and self-guided professional development delivered to their classrooms, and "Tech Talks," designed to connect with teachers and assess their technology needs.Coaches CampProfessional development designed specifically for instructional coaches, like you!Join us in Cincinnati - July 28th - 29thor Virtually - July 22nd - 24thNEW! The Core of Coaching FrameworkWant to drive lasting impact? Get your copy of the Core of Coaching framework and transform your coaching approach. Click the link to learn more!www.forward-edge.net/coreofcoachingPodcast TeamHosts - Katie Ritter & Matthäus HuelseProducer - Celine ThomasEditing Team - Ben GlasureSocial Media Team - Grace Brown
5/13/25 • 31:36
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we are excited to have Alex Melin, an instructional design coach from Forward Edge, share insights on AI in education, specifically exploring Google’s Gemini and its advanced features like gems, canvas, and deep research. Discover practical applications of AI for coaches, teachers, and educational leaders to enhance student learning and teaching efficiency. Learn how to start integrating AI tools in your everyday tasks and maintain human connections in the tech-driven world. This episode is packed with information to recharge your coaching batteries and get you excited for the new school year!Coaches CampProfessional development designed specifically for instructional coaches, like you!Join us in Cincinnati - July 28th - 29thor Virtually - July 22nd - 24thNEW! The Core of Coaching FrameworkWant to drive lasting impact? Get your copy of the Core of Coaching framework and transform your coaching approach. Click the link to learn more!www.forward-edge.net/coreofcoachingPodcast TeamHosts - Katie Ritter & Matthäus HuelseProducer - Celine ThomasEditing Team - Ben GlasureSocial Media Team - Grace Brown
4/29/25 • 24:40
Send us Fan MailJoin Katie Ritter and Matthaeus Huelse as they take a closer look into elementary literacy coaching with guest Jaclynn Krella. Explore how AI is being integrated into K-6 classrooms, the challenges faced, and effective strategies for planning and enhancing lesson engagement. Learn from Jaclynn's insights on cross-curricular approaches, supporting non-ELA teachers, and the impact of video recording in teaching. Discover top tips for instructional coaches, emphasizing efficiency, creating opportunities, and the powerful use of video recordings. Perfect for instructional coaches, curriculum specialists, and teachers seeking innovative ways to enhance their professional learning. Connect with Jaclynn and uncover new strategies to recharge your coaching batteries.Coaches CampProfessional development designed specifically for instructional coaches, like you!Join us in Cincinnati - July 28th - 29thor Virtually - July 22nd - 24thNEW! The Core of Coaching FrameworkWant to drive lasting impact? Get your copy of the Core of Coaching framework and transform your coaching approach. Click the link to learn more!www.forward-edge.net/coreofcoachingPodcast TeamHosts - Katie Ritter & Matthäus HuelseProducer - Celine ThomasEditing Team - Ben GlasureSocial Media Team - Grace Brown
4/15/25 • 22:44
Send us Fan MailJoin Katie Ritter and Matthaeus Huelse as they turn their focus to elementary literacy coaching and welcome Jaclynn Krella, a seasoned educator with a Master's in Education and a structured literacy dyslexia specialist certification. Jaclynn shares her extensive experience as a classroom teacher, reading interventionist, and literacy coach supporting over 100 teachers. Dive into how she collaborates with teachers, sets student-centered goals, utilizes technology for observation, and analyzes impactful student data to enhance instructional practices. Whether you're a tech coach, literacy coach, or an education enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights and practical approaches to effective coaching.Coaches CampProfessional development designed specifically for instructional coaches, like you!Join us in Cincinnati - July 28th - 29thor Virtually - July 22nd - 24thNEW! The Core of Coaching FrameworkWant to drive lasting impact? Get your copy of the Core of Coaching framework and transform your coaching approach. Click the link to learn more!www.forward-edge.net/coreofcoachingPodcast TeamHosts - Katie Ritter & Matthäus HuelseProducer - Celine Thomas, Matthäus HuelseEditing Team - Ben Glasure, Matthäus HuelseSocial Media Team - Grace Brown
4/1/25 • 24:11
Send us Fan MailJoin hosts Katie Ritter and Matthaeus Huelse as they explore the highly-talked-about tool, Notebook LM, on this episode of Restart Recharge. Special guest Bryson Min-Ryan, Assistant Director of Learning and Development, shares his insights on how instructional coaches and adult learners can leverage Notebook LM to enhance productivity and collaboration. Discover its unique features, including customized AI-powered experiences, interactive AI-hosted podcasts, and collaborative tools that benefit educational settings. Perfect for instructional coaches, curriculum specialists, and administrators looking to boost their teams' efficiency with streamlined technology.Find Bryson on LinkedIn!Bryson Min-RyanCoaches CampProfessional development designed specifically for instructional coaches, like you!Join us in Cincinnati - July 28th - 29thor Virtually - July 22nd - 24thNEW! The Core of Coaching Framework Want to drive lasting impact? Get your copy of the Core of Coaching framework and transform your coaching approach. Click the link to learn more!www.forward-edge.net/coreofcoachingPodcast TeamHosts - Katie Ritter & Matthäus HuelseProducer - Celine Thomas, Matthäus HuelseEditing Team - Ben Glasure, Matthäus HuelseSocial Media Team - Grace Brown
3/18/25 • 25:43
Send us Fan MailJoin us as we discuss the transition from classroom teacher to instructional coach with our very own, Grace Brown. Grace, an instructional coach here at Forward Edge, shares her journey from teaching high school English to becoming a curriculum innovator and instructional design expert. This episode explores the challenges and adjustments teachers face when leaving the classroom, offering insights and tips for those considering a similar path. Grace discusses both the positive shifts and the unexpected difficulties of her new role, while offering valuable perspectives on maintaining professional autonomy, building a supportive network, and understanding the importance of perseverance and confidence. Whether you're an instructional coach, curriculum specialist, or someone eyeing an admin role, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge and community for educators at all stages of their career.Find Grace on her SocialsCoaches CampProfessional development designed specifically for instructional coaches, like you!Join us in Cincinnati - July 28th - 29thor Virtually - July 22nd - 24thEdge•U BadgesEdge•U is an anytime, anywhere professional learning platform made for teachers by teachers!Podcast TeamHosts - Katie Ritter & Matthäus HuelseProducer - Celine Thomas, Matthäus HuelseEditing Team - Ben Glasure, Matthäus HuelseSocial Media Team - Grace Brown
3/4/25 • 24:55
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Restart Recharge, Matthaeus Huelse and Katie Ritter introduce the Core of Coaching Framework. Special guest Brooke Conklin shares insights into developing this comprehensive framework that guides coaches through building relationships, implementing sustainable changes, and initiating organizational shifts. Learn how to measure impact, utilize data, and foster systemic change within school environments. Tune in to discover valuable tips and how you can implement the Core of Coaching Framework as an instructional leader, a single coach in a district, or anyone who want to systemically impact teaching practices.Click here, to learn more about the Core of Coaching Framework and to get your own copy:www.forward-edge.net/coreofcoachingFollow Brooke on X/Twitter@brookeconklin19Coaches CampProfessional development designed specifically for instructional coaches, like you!Join us in Cincinnati - July 28th - 29thor Virtually - July 22nd - 24thPodcast TeamHosts - Katie Ritter & Matthäus HuelseProducer - Celine Thomas, Matthäus HuelseEditing Team - Ben Glasure, Matthäus HuelseSocial Media Team - Grace Brown
2/18/25 • 34:54
Send us Fan MailJoin us as we jump back into part two of our discussion on aligning instructional coaches and administrators. In this episode, we explore specific activities and strategies from a recent collaborative workshop designed to enhance communication and clarity in roles. We discuss key activities such as establishing communication cadences and brainstorming ways coaches can support broader district goals. Hear firsthand insights from guests Tyler Erwin and Torie Mollett on the impact of these strategies and the subsequent steps to strengthen the coach-admin relationship. Tune in to learn valuable tips and recharge your coaching battery!Follow Tyler and Torie on their Socials!Twitter/X - @edtechtyler, @ TorieTeachesEdge•U BadgesEdge•U is an anytime, anywhere professional learning platform made for teachers by teachers!Coaching NetworkWe empower coaches with a holistic approach to implement practical skills and strategies that creates a wave of lasting change with the educators in their schools. We work to improve learning by being right there with you, on the ground, and in schools every day.Podcast TeamHosts - Katie Ritter & Matthäus HuelseProducer - Celine Thomas, Matthäus HuelseEditing Team - Ben Glasure, Matthäus HuelseSocial Media Team - Grace Brown
2/4/25 • 18:50
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, join us as we explore the crucial dynamics between instructional coaches and administrators in education. Learn practical strategies for aligning their efforts to foster a supportive, goal-driven environment for teachers and students. Featuring Tori Mollett, an instructional design coach, and Tyler Erwin, Assistant Director of Curriculum and Integration, the discussion covers goal alignment activities, effective meeting structures, and the importance of clear communication. Whether you're an educator, coach, or administrator, this episode offers valuable insights into enhancing collaboration and achieving success in your school or district.Edge•U BadgesEdge•U is an anytime, anywhere professional learning platform made for teachers by teachers!Coaching NetworkWe empower coaches with a holistic approach to implement practical skills and strategies that creates a wave of lasting change with the educators in their schools. We work to improve learning by being right there with you, on the ground, and in schools every day.
1/21/25 • 16:40
Send us Fan MailIn this final episode of Season 4 of the Restart Recharge podcast, hosts Matthaeus Huelse and Katie Ritter revisit the importance of providing positive feedback to educators. They are joined by Jill Dubois, a professional learning specialist with Forward Edge, who shares her insights on how meaningful and uplifting feedback can drive growth and confidence among teachers. Jill discusses her experience with the EdgeU Badges Program, her strategies for building remote relationships, and the nuances of delivering constructive feedback. This episode is filled with practical advice for instructional coaches, curriculum specialists, and educators looking to enhance their feedback techniques. Tune in to learn how positive and purposeful feedback can transform teaching and foster a supportive educational community.Find Jill On her Socials!Edge•U BadgesEdge•U is an anytime, anywhere professional learning platform made for teachers by teachers!Coaching NetworkWe empower coaches with a holistic approach to implement practical skills and strategies that creates a wave of lasting change with the educators in their schools. We work to improve learning by being right there with you, on the ground, and in schools every day.
11/26/24 • 29:50
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Restart Recharge, hosts Matthaeus Huelse and Katie Ritter discuss innovative professional development strategies for instructional coaches, featuring guest Tracee Keough, an instructional design coach at Forward Edge. Tracee shares her experiences and successes with the 'October Pop Up PD' – a 30-minute classroom engagement initiative aimed at helping teachers overcome time constraints while integrating fun, theme-based learning activities. Tracee's fresh approach includes low-threat, practical tech-based activities that not only support teachers but also engage students. Tune in to discover how these strategies can rejuvenate your coaching practice, foster deeper connections, and enhance classroom impact. Find Tracee on XTKEducateEdge•U BadgesEdge•U is an anytime, anywhere professional learning platform made for teachers by teachers!Coaching NetworkWe empower coaches with a holistic approach to implement practical skills and strategies that creates a wave of lasting change with the educators in their schools. We work to improve learning by being right there with you, on the ground, and in schools every day.
11/12/24 • 27:15
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Restart Recharge, hosts Matthaeus Huelse and Katie Ritter explore the world of immersive learning and escape rooms with Dr. Rachel Arpin, an expert in instructional design. Dr. Arpin discusses her innovative approaches to creating transformative learning environments, including the use of digital and in-person escape rooms for leadership development. The conversation touches on practical frameworks like the CAR (Challenge, Action, Reward) model, the three-column structure for planning learning activities, and leveraging AI in educational game design. Tune in for insights on fostering engagement and making learning both effective and enjoyable for K-12 educators and adult learners.Find Dr. Rachel Arpin on LinkedInDr. Rachel ArpinEdge•U BadgesEdge•U is an anytime, anywhere professional learning platform made for teachers by teachers!Coaching NetworkWe empower coaches with a holistic approach to implement practical skills and strategies that creates a wave of lasting change with the educators in their schools. We work to improve learning by being right there with you, on the ground, and in schools every day.
10/29/24 • 31:57
