Teaching Artistry with Courtney J. Boddie

In Act 1 of this moving two-part arc, we met Charles Moore—alumnus and now Director of Programs and Operations at Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA)—who shared his remarkable journey from a childhood without parents, to his incarceration at age 34, and how he transformed 17 years behind bars into a life rich with education, creativity, and connection. That first episode explored the healing power of the arts and how they can foster purpose, growth, and community even in what could be the most isolating of environments. Act 2 picks up right where we left off, diving even deeper into Charles's journey. We learn that he's been part of RTA for over 20 years, and that transformation was made possible because, as Charles puts it, “somebody believed in me.” He opens up about reentry into society, and how the arts played a crucial role in re-learning essential life skills. The conversation expands to spotlight arts programs for incarcerated individuals across the country, and turns toward legacy—what Charles hopes to build and leave behind. With reflections on leadership, identity, and the power of belief, this episode is filled with insight, vulnerability, and inspiration.

In Act 1 of this powerful two-episode arc, Teaching Artistry with Courtney J. Boddie welcomes Charles Moore, an alumnus and now Director of Operations at Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) for Episode 77: “Transformations of a Credible Messenger“. Charles shares his extraordinary journey—from an early childhood spent with family but without his parents, to the challenges of finding work, and ultimately, to his incarceration at age 34. What could have been a story defined by isolation became one of profound transformation. Over the course of his 17-year sentence, Charles turned to education and the arts to rebuild his sense of purpose and to find a vibrant, supportive community. This episode is equal parts deep and inspiring, shining a light on the power of human resilience and the role the arts can play in redemption and healing.

In Act 1 of this 2-episode arc, we were introduced to Tricia Patrick, Director of Education at Ford's Theatre, as she shared her journey of artistic discovery and self-reflection. She took us through the winding path that led her back to the arts, illustrating how moments of exploration, uncertainty, and personal growth ultimately deepened her understanding of why the arts matter. Through her story, we explored the power of looking back—how embracing the many chapters of our lives helps us refine our purpose, strengthen our creative practice, and bring greater depth to our work as educators, artists, and leaders in the field. Act 2 picks up right where we left off, shifting the focus to the broader impact of theater—not just as an art form, but as a means of fostering essential life skills, interpersonal, and community connection. Tricia unpacks the challenges of access—or lack thereof—to theater, interrogating why it is often undervalued compared to other disciplines and making the case for its immense personal and societal benefits. She also shares her perspective on leadership in the arts, exploring what it means to lead with intention, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning. From the transformative power of storytelling to the responsibility of shaping equitable, inclusive spaces, this conversation is a powerful call to recognize the full value of theater and the arts—not just as entertainment but as a vital force for growth, connection, and change.

In Act 1 of this 2-episode arc, "Manifesting Our Creative Chapters," we are thrilled to welcome Tricia Patrick, Director of Education at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. Tricia's story is one of artistic discovery and self-reflection, rooted in a deep love for the arts that began at a very early age. She takes us on a journey through her life, exploring how an initial spark of passion for the arts led her to navigate diverse paths and career focuses, only to find herself returning to her creative roots with renewed purpose. Along the way, Tricia reflects on the importance of looking back on the many chapters that shape who we are—how embracing our personal histories not only informs our identities but also enhances our ability to engage, educate, and inspire through the arts. This episode invites listeners to consider the cyclical nature of passion and purpose, and how our ever-evolving narratives can deepen our connection to the work we do.

In Act 1 of "Embracing Complexities," we explored Indi McCasey's expansive journey as a performer, teaching artist, arts administrator, and community catalyst. We unpacked the regional nuances of arts education, the power of data-driven innovation, and how the arts can break free from the constraints of curriculum-based teaching to create more liberatory learning spaces. Through it all, Indi highlighted how teaching artistry skills serve as a bridge across disciplines, shaping their approach to leadership and community engagement. Act 2 picks up right where we left off, diving deeper into Indi's personal journey of self-discovery through the arts. They share the transformative impact of discovering drag, how it helped them explore the complexities of gender, and the ways community played a vital role in embracing identity. Courtney and Indi also discuss the profound influence of different art forms in shaping Indi's perspective and sense of self. This episode is an honest and expansive conversation about identity, artistry, and the power of creative expression in building a more inclusive and empathetic world.

We are back with our 75th episode, and can't wait for you to hear it. In Act 1 of "Embracing Complexities," we sit down with Indi McCasey, whose multifaceted journey spans roles as a drag performer, circus artist, teaching artist, arts administrator, and now Executive Director of the Ithaca Public Education Initiative. Indi shares their insights as a community catalyst, exploring how teaching artistry skills translate across diverse professional landscapes. Together, Courtney and Indi dive into themes and topics like regional differences in arts education ecosystems, the liberatory potential of arts-based learning, and the many ways data can drive innovation in education. From the challenges of curriculum-based teaching to the intricacies of NYC's geography—yes, really—this episode celebrates creative approaches to teaching, learning, and community.

In Act 1, we met Hassiem Muhammad, an actor, teaching artist, and multidisciplinary creative, as he reflected on his early discovery of the arts and the experiences that shaped his creative journey. From the mentors who guided him to the unique pathways he's forged as an artist, the conversation explored how the arts became a powerful force for self-expression and transformation in his life. It was an inspiring dive into the roots of artistry and the passion that drives creative individuals to pursue their craft. In Act 2, we pick up right where we left off and venture deeper into the questions that every artist faces. Is an artist ever truly satisfied in their work? How and when do we as artists know when it's time to move on? Hassiem shares his perspectives on the intersection of artistry and education, reflecting on his work with a range of organizations and how their approaches have challenged and shaped his practice. The episode also unpacks the impact of his work, exploring how creativity manifests in the spaces he visits. This thought-provoking conversation is a must-listen for anyone curious about the deeper connections between art, education, and artistic purpose.

What do The Karate Kid, Hogwarts, and Fame have in common? You'll have to tune into Episode 74 to find out! In "Run Your Own Race," Courtney dives into an inspiring conversation with Hassiem Muhammad, a dynamic actor, teaching artist, and multidisciplinary creative whose passion for the arts has shaped every aspect of his journey. In Act 1 of this two-part episode, Hassiem reflects on the moments that ignited his love for creativity, the mentors and experiences that guided him, and the unique pathways he's forged to cultivate his artistry. With humor, heart, and plenty of insight, this episode highlights how the arts can open doors to self-discovery, self-confidence and drive.

In Act 1, Nehprii Amenii took us on a journey through her experiences as a New Victory LabWorks artist, emphasizing the importance of artistry, childlike wonder, and fostering harmony in the classroom. She reflected on her connection to the Alvin Ailey company and shared what it means to truly see and embrace the unique possibilities of art. Through these stories, Nehprii inspired us to rethink the role of creativity in our lives and the power of living in harmony with others. Now for Act 2: What kind of artist are you in this moment? What is your purpose as an artist? These are two big questions swirling their way through Act 2, which picks up right where we left off. In this portion of their chat, Courtney and our guest dive deeper into Nehprii's fascinating career in puppetry and how it shapes her creative voice. As she reflects ever-so-briefly on what fuels her artistry—the pressing fear that our humanness is disappearing—Nehprii explores the essence of being an artist, how we define artistic worth, and the deeper questions that keep her art alive. This episode is a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to create, connect, and stay true to our humanity in an ever-changing world.

In Act 1 of Episode 73: “One Hundred Percent Whole,” we welcome the one, the only, the radiant Nehprii Amenii—an educator, Teaching Artist, curriculum developer, theater director, playwright, puppeteer, and a self-proclaimed “creator of things.” Nehprii shares her journey as a New Victory LabWorks artist, exploring how her repeated invitations to the program helped shape her work both within the program and elsewhere. In their conversation, she and Courtney delve into the importance of centering artistry and maintaining a sense of childlike wonder as adults. Listeners will also hear Nehprii's unique approach to fostering harmony within the classroom and her inspiring connection to the Alvin Ailey company, which deepened her understanding of what it truly means to be an artist.

In Act 1, we explored some jaw-dropping stats on arts access in New York City, the transformative power of the arts on emotional well-being, and why the arts deserve a place alongside core subjects like history and social studies. Our guest, Judith Insell, shared her insights on how the arts can be an economic engine and an accessible career pathway. If you missed it, be sure to catch up on that conversation! In Act 2, we get personal. Judith takes us on her own artistic journey, from discovering her passion for music at a young age to attending the prestigious LaGuardia High School and Manhattan School of Music. Through a series of serendipitous events, she found herself gigging professionally and stepping into arts administration by the age of 24. Judith reflects on the reality of supplementing her career as a musician with teaching and how her experience as a practicing artist has shaped her unique approach to arts administration today. This is a powerful exploration of the intersection of artistry and leadership.

Get ready for a mind-blowing conversation as Courtney sits down with the dynamic Judith Insell, Executive Director of Bronx Arts Ensemble, in the first act of this two-part series. In this episode, it's all about stats, stats, and more stats—showcasing the eye-opening numbers around the lack of arts access for kids across New York City. Judith and Courtney, you'll learn, believe that the arts should be advocated for in the same ways that subjects like history and social studies are, and they pose the question: Could and should people in positions of influence declare arts a core subject? Spoiler: the answer is YES! But their chat doesn't stop there. They unpack how the arts uplift emotional well-being, acting as a crucial tool for human connection and mental health. Plus, Judith brings the heat with insights on how the arts are an economic powerhouse and an exciting, accessible, viable career pathway. This episode is filled with passion and advocacy for an art-filled future for young people, and you won't want to miss a second of it!

In Act 1, we explored Betsaleel (Bets) Charmelus's insights on transforming learning spaces, the importance of introducing novelty in education, and the critical role of trauma-informed practices. Bets challenged us to rethink how we prepare young people for a world that isn't trauma-informed, emphasizing that the real impact comes when educators model resilience and adaptability. These foundational ideas set the stage for a deeper conversation in Act 2, where we shift focus from the classroom to Bets's personal journey and the systemic challenges he's faced. In this episode, Bets shares his trajectory into his current role as CEO of ArtistYear, offering a candid reflection on the racism he has witnessed within the arts education field and in society at large. He discusses the difficulties of owning his hard-won position and title in a world that often seeks to either undervalue Black leaders. Bets also tackles the complexities of being a Black leader in a time when Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) work is gaining prominence yet facing pushback from those resistant to change. This conversation delves into the intersection of personal experience and broader societal issues, providing our listeners with a powerful perspective on leadership, identity, and the ongoing fight for equity.

In Act 1 of this two-episode arc, Courtney engages in a thought-provoking discussion with educator and facilitator Betsaleel (Bets) Charmelus. In their discussion, Bets emphasizes why it's essential for educators and facilitators to radically change traditional learning spaces. By altering the energy in these environments, we can create room for creative thinking and innovation, ultimately empowering students to think outside the box. Bets also delves into the significance of introducing novelty in a measured, incremental way during facilitation. He highlights how these small shifts can have a profound impact on student engagement and learning outcomes. The episode also explores the creation of spaces in which kids feel safe to take risks, fail, and learn from those failures—spaces that encourage exploration and experimentation as key components of the learning process. A core theme of this episode is the concept of trauma-informed practices in education. Bets challenges the notion of preparing students for a world that isn't trauma-informed by asking, "Why do we offer trauma-informed strategies if the world doesn't operate that way?" He responds to his own questions with a compelling idea: the power lies in modeling these practices in facilitation. By openly making mistakes, naming them, and celebrating small and big successes, educators can demonstrate resilience and adaptability. Bets asserts that when we model this work, we don't just prepare students for the real world—we begin to change it. This episode is a deep dive into how we can equip young people with the tools they need to navigate a non-trauma-informed world and become agents of change in their own right.

Welcome back to the second part of our special episode​, the first of which was recorded live at the Face to Face 2024 Conference in New York City. In our last episode, we ​featured an insightful discussion with James Miles, also known as Fresh Professor, about the transformative power of hip-hop in education. James shared his mission to reshape the perception and treatment of children in the U.S. education system, highlighting the importance of teaching methods that resonate with how kids learn and the crucial role of collaboration. ​I​n Act 2, Courtney continues her engaging conversation with James Miles, delving into audience comments and questions from the live session. Together, they explore topics such as the challenges of standardized testing,​ the importance of parental involvement in education,​ and how hip-hop can bridge generational gaps and serve as a catalyst for human connection. Join us as we continue to unpack these vital ​t​opics and more, and their impact on education and community.

In this special episode, recorded live at the Face to Face 2024 Conference in New York City, Courtney J. Boddie has a panel discussion with James Miles, also known as Fresh Professor. With a rich background as an artist and educator, James brings over two decades of experience from New York City to Seattle, where he now serves as an Assistant Professor at Seattle University and Creative Economy Manager at the Seattle Office of Economic Development. In this discussion, centered on the transformative power of hip-hop in education, James reflects on his mission to change how children, particularly those who resemble him, are perceived and treated in the U.S. education system. James also notes how hip-hop culture can bridge the gap between students and curricular content, offering a relatable and engaging learning experience. James highlights the importance of teaching methods that align with how kids actually learn, being a positive influence in all educational spaces, and the crucial role of collaboration. Additionally, he pays tribute to his colleagues at the New Victory Theater in New York City, whose guidance helped shape his inclusive and inspiring approach to education.

Our newest episode, Episode 69: "Building Intentional Queer Spaces,” features Adam Odsess-Rubin, whose many roles include Founding Artistic Director of National Queer Theater (NQT). In their conversation, Adam offers a glimpse into NQT's programs, including DREAMing Out Loud; Write it Out!; and Staging Pride Queer Youth Theater, a program that offers free acting classes for Queer and Trans youth that culminates in devising original works. At the heart of these programs, Adam notes, is Queer activism through community-engaged arts programming. The heart of this thoughtful conversation shines when Adam states, “I'm looking for community,” he says and continues by reflecting, “I'm that queer artist that needed a home.” Their conversation continues as they discuss: creating supportive spaces for Queer youth to be creative and build community; how, within current systems, administrative practices can't always act in concert with the support systems created for meaningful community engagement; and the friction that comes with the balance of programming and finding moments for rest and grace.

Our newest episode, Episode 69: "Building Intentional Queer Spaces,” features Adam Odsess-Rubin, whose many roles include Founding Artistic Director of National Queer Theater (NQT). In their conversation, Adam offers a glimpse into NQT's programs, including DREAMing Out Loud; Write it Out!; and Staging Pride Queer Youth Theater, a program that offers free acting classes for Queer and Trans youth that culminates in devising original works. At the heart of these programs, Adam notes, is Queer activism through community-engaged arts programming. The heart of this thoughtful conversation shines when Adam states, “I'm looking for community,” he says and continues by reflecting, “I'm that queer artist that needed a home.” Their conversation continues as they discuss: creating supportive spaces for Queer youth to be creative and build community; how, within current systems, administrative practices can't always act in concert with the support systems created for meaningful community engagement; and the friction that comes with the balance of programming and finding moments for rest and grace.

In Act 2 of Episode 68: “Pockets of Light,” Courtney continues her conversation with multidisciplinary artist Jerron Herman. What sticks from Act 1 of this episode are the internal themes of personal and professional growth, and disability justice through disability artistry. What's new and exciting about Act 2 is Courtney and Jerron's deep discussions centered on art-making by and about disabled communities through a disability justice lens; Jerron's invitation to identify one's authentic curiosity about this work and considering ways one might enter deep conversations that explore disability justice; what solidarity means in the context of building bridges from one community to the next; and we have been indoctrinated to believe that capitalism (an oppressive presence in our lives) is the only way to exist and how, together, we can move toward a more liberated society, deeper thinking and move beautiful art-making.

Our newest episode, Episode 68: "Pockets of Light,” features multidisciplinary artist Jerron Herman. In their conversation, Courtney and her guest discuss their time together at New Victory, when Jerron was just starting out in the arts world. The episode continues by exploring Jerron's position at the intersection(s) at which his artistry currently lives and continues to evolve. This leads Courtney and Jerron to discuss personal and professional growth and their respective trajectories into their current positions/careers—for Jerron, this is an emphasis on disability justice through disability artistry.

In Act 2 of Episode 67: “The Power of Queer Joy!,” Courtney continues her conversation with guest Lindz Amer. Their chat pivots in tone and substance from Act 1, which was focused on what it means to be a child that is free to explore and to keep that inner child alive as an adult. Act 2 focuses in on Lindz's work as a content creator and the myriad differences between creating and distributing online content, and creating their longform, non-fiction book, “Rainbow Parenting: Your Guide to Raising Queer Kids and Their Allies.” One (of many) interesting parts of this conversation is centered around Lindz's journey away from and back to programming for young audiences, and realizing the importance of feeling and expressing Queer joy in spaces and through content that have not traditionally held space for that joy or narrative.

You know what they say: New year, new episode! In Episode 67: “The Power of Queer Joy!” Courtney sits down with guest Lindz Amer, whose impressive list of credits spans stage performance, author, musician and educator. This discussion focuses on a number of Lindz Amer's creative projects ranging from their award-winning web series Queer Kid Stuff, a viral TedTalk on gender and sexuality, and their recently-published book, Rainbow Parenting: Your Guide to Raising Queer Kids and Their Allies. The heart of this episode is a thoughtful exploration of what it means to be a kid with opportunities to experiment with a range of ideas and experience the wide spectrum of human emotions, and what it means to be an adult while trying to keep one's inner child alive in a world that wants adults to just grow up. This thoughtful, introspective episode is one you won't want to miss.

In Act 2 of Episode 66: “For Vocal Girls…,” Carmen Kelly tells of her 22-year history with Creative Arts Team (CAT) and her 40-year career as a teaching artist! This inspiring conclusion to our four-episode arc discussion delves into Carmen's work with high school-aged kids and what it was like developing strategies for talking to them about HIV/AIDS at a time when nobody else had the courage to do so. Carmen also takes time to speak about what it was like to be present within the evolution of teaching artistry. And, in a thoughtfully candid moment, she takes time to highlight the transferable skill sets that made her transition from teaching artistry to a more programmatic leadership role.

In Episode 66: “For Vocal Girls…,” Courtney continues her conversation with guest Carmen Kelly. This thoughtful discussion focuses on Carmen's journey from artist, to office temp, to teaching artist, and everything in between! As Courtney and Carmen weave through their chat, Carmen offers intriguing stories about her stint in the national tour of For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow is Enuf, the many “under fives” she played on soap operas, how camping out in the Drama Book Shop led to her first commercial spot, and how grad school helped her connect theory to practice.

Courtney continues her conversation with Carmen Kelly, an inspiring human with a rich history in arts education and current Program Director of the Brooklyn-based NIA Community Services Network's after-school program. The first portion of Act 2 acts as a kind of “rewind” moment that offers context for Kelly's journey from childhood to school, to her career trajectory. It holds simplicity and complexity as it focuses primarily on two things: the importance of play and finding community at a young age. As the episode moves forward, Kelly really talks about her journey into the arts and to New York City. We don't want to spoil too much about this rich second act. What we do want to highlight here is that our guest, the joyous Carmen Kelly, really digs into her past to bring us back to her present. In between those two points in her life (thus far), there are so many touchstones and flashpoints that truly highlight what so many of us already know and understand on the deepest of levels—if we've found ourselves in the arts, in any way, shape or form, we know what it feels like to have been called to this field and to have landed in spaces that we have needed and have needed us.

In Episode 65: "A Soft Place," Courtney sits down with Carmen Kelly, an inspiring human with a rich history in arts education. Currently, Kelly is the Executive Director of the Brooklyn-based NIA Community Services Network's after-school program, which aims to engage kids in the arts to create positive pathways in their lives. As Courtney takes us deeper into her work, we learn that Kelly aims to encourage primarily Black and brown youth to examine themselves and work to find and name what is intrinsically good about who and what they are. Kelly notes that this work is all about fostering difficult and deep conversations, and intentionally setting up systems that center young people. At the core of this, Kelly tells us, is creating a soft place for kids to turn to, especially in our increasingly chaotic world. Questions that are addressed in this episode are: How can we create opportunities to let young people know that adults care about them and what they have to say? How can young people feel successful in this world without conforming or denying aspects of themselves? There is so much more to glean from this episode. You won't want to miss Courtney and Carmen's thoughtful discussion about care, love, expression, and healing. Listen or download now wherever you listen to podcasts!

Hi, PODience! We're back with Act 2 of our fascinating chat with Yazmany Arboleda titled, “Mobilizing Interdependence.” In their discussion, Courtney and Yazmany continue to tackle a range of deeply meaningful topics. One major theme that really stands out in this episode is how the process of making art in community with others helps us to understand one another, to learn new skills and to evolve into something new. In Act 2 of Arboleda's fast-paced, joyful chat with Courtney, they also discuss Yazmany's work with the Little Amal, the problematic aspects of land acknowledgments, land ownership v. land stewardship in western cultures, and how our lived experience affects how we approach how we move through the world and how we create our art.

Episode 64, Act 1: “Mobilizing Interdependence,” featuring the passionate Yazmany Arboleda, will leave you invigorated, activated and inspired to up your game and think about how you could be engaging with your art and how you're inviting others to engage with and through what you're creating. Have you ever stopped to think that we, as humans, are collectively co-creating our future at all times? Do you center inquiry as the basis for creating works of art? Have you thought of art as a mechanism for healing individual and shared traumas? In his fast-paced, joyful chat with Courtney, Yazmany Arboleda explains that the foundation of his artistry is all about remaining curious about the state of his own existence. His aim is to engage people through inquiry and to imagine the impossible, and collectively rise to the challenge of co-creating something that makes the impossible, possible.

In Acts 1 and 2 of our newest episode, we learned about the origins of Teaching Artists Guild (TAG) and its merger with the Association of Teaching Artists (ATA). In Act 3, "Continuing the Continuum," Courtney sits down with Kerry Warren, Katie Rainey and Marissa Ontiveros, who all hold leadership positions at TAG, to discuss the future of the organization and of the field at large. Together, they talk about the organization's current goals and the tapestry of strategic plans for its future, which include analyzing the co-leadership model intrinsic to the current and future success and expansion of the organization. Their goals also focus on the necessity of building on past strategic plans from the center outwards, in order to strengthen TAG's community and strengthen the continuum of ever-changing leadership and continued learning. Their goals are clear: the organization aims to deepen their advocacy strategies, develop a more representative nationwide community of artists and build toward a more equitable future.

What do the words intentionality, collaboration, community, responsiveness, tenacity, perseverance and leadership have in common? They're all terms or themes that emerge in our newest episode. And they're all used in reference to teaching artistry and its pivotal role in the constant reshaping and elevation of arts education and arts administration. In Episode 63, Act 2: “Collaborate, Cultivate, Celebrate,” a number of big ideas and questions arise, two of which take center stage: In a world in which the non-profit industrial complex holds such a firm presence, how do we establish a more equitable leadership model? In what ways can we center teaching artists' voices and perspectives to help drive organizational practices forward? In this newest installment, a panel of arts practitioners and administrators discuss the merger between Association of Teaching Artists (ATA) and Teaching Artists Guild (TAG) and the interpersonal discussions that were had, and the big ideas and systems that, out of necessity, were deconstructed and/or developed in order to make that meaningful merger happen. These brilliant minds also chat​​ about the impact, positive and negative, that the pandemic had on the internal operations of non-profit organizations. This includes, of course, the innovative ways teaching artists and their expertise were invited into new discussions and either uplifted or not given their due. The panel's conversation really hits full throttle when the panel discusses​ ways they've let go of hierarchical leadership models and instead chosen to embrace a more equitable concentric leadership model. That's when they dive into a rich discussion about the emergence of that type of model and how the pendulum has swung into the position of embracing equity and rejecting old, oppressive models that have for so long kept the non-profit industrial complex aloft.

We've got another great episode for you, TA PODience! We're back with Act 1 of a fascinating three-act series titled “Looking Back to Look Forward.” Episode 63, Act 1: “Collective Field Building,” features an exciting panel of inspiring multi-hyphenate artists and arts administrators who were instrumental in the formation of what would eventually become the Teaching Artists Guild (TAG). This episode is a fascinating reunion of sorts that is made up of Jean Johnstone, Kai Fierle-Hedrick, Lynn Johnson, Miko Lee, Jessica Mele, Eric Booth and of course Courtney J. Boddie. In Act 1, we learn about the “who” and “how” this confluence of creative minds intersected to found Teaching Artists Organized (TAO), and how that turned into Teaching Artists Guild. We also learn about the creation of two different tools developed in part by this group, one of which is the Teaching Artist Manifesto and how to create such a hold statement representative of every facet of teaching artistry as a field. The other is a larger, deeper conversation piece is the aspirational thinking behind the development of the teaching artist pay rate calculator, which can be used, in part, as a negotiating and advocacy tool, and a means to devising better hiring practices and roads to more equitable compensation for the teaching artist community as a whole. And all of this is discussed in the first half of this episode. So what else does this fascinating panel discuss? You'll have to listen to find out!

In Act 3 of our three-part series, “In Conversation with ‘Start the Conversation,'” we dive right into a crucial topic: emergency drill support for teachers and kids. In this episode, we spotlight New York City Children's Theater's Caitlyn McCain and Nicole Hogsett who have developed a groundbreaking resource called, “Start the Conversation.” This video series aims to provide grown-ups with a range of tools needed to engage in ongoing conversations with children on important and complex subjects like race, politics, mental health and LGBTQ+ identities. Our panel discussion focuses specifically on emergency drill support. The inspiration for their work on emergency drill support stems from real-life classroom experiences, including active shooter drills and fire drills. Drawing from their own experiences in classrooms, and in collaboration with educators and mental health professionals, Caitlyn and Nicole have created valuable resources for teachers, teaching artists and anyone working with young people. Their resources include a three-part video series that provide strategies for supporting young people before, during and after they experience emergency drills. They've also developed two comprehensive print resources—an Educator Emergency Drill Guide and two visual stories centered on fire drills and lockdown drills. Listen to the conclusion of this informative series to learn more about these essential resources and how they can reshape emergency preparedness in educational settings. Together, we can ensure the well-being and safety of our children while fostering meaningful conversations on these important topics.

We're back with Episode 62, Act 2: “Make Space, Give Grace,” featuring Caitlyn McCain, Teaching Artist and Education Associate for Public Engagement with New York City Children's Theater (NYCCT), and Lindz Amer, creator of the video series “Queer Kids Stuff” and author of the book, “Rainbow Parenting.” This act is packed with rich discussion about gender and the conversations happening now in legislative bodies and learning spaces across the country about how we see (or don't see) and understand (or don't understand) gender. In their chat, the second in our three-part series, “In Conversation with ‘Start the Conversation,'” Courtney, Caitlyn and Lindz cover topics like pushing back against the current wave of anti-LGBTQIA legislation on the federal and local levels, book bannings and filling the void of Queer representation in TYA. In an effort to confront all of these issues, they discuss a shared interest: developing engaging education content that invites adults to have big conversations with kids about a range of topics from LGBTQIA+ identities to the non-binary and gender spectrum. Listen to this thoughtful episode to hear more!

We are back with an exciting three-part series titled “In Conversation with ‘Start the Conversation.'” In episode 62, Act 1: “Step In and Go Slow,” Courtney sits down with panelists Caitlyn McCain, Tara Kirton and Nicole Hogsett to discuss how New York City Children's Theater resources came to be, beginning with a three-part video series called, “Our Relationship to Race.” The series we focus on in Episode 62, Act 1, as Caitlyn and Nicole state, was born out of urgency and necessity during the racial uprisings of 2020, following the murder of George Floyd. Caitlyn notes that the series they've created invites deep conversations between adults and kids about their relationship to race and racism within the context of the U.S. and its ongoing struggle to reconcile its society's shared violent past and present. As Tara states, these conversations may seem, to some, too big for kids to understand but, as she also notes in the episode, research tells us that is simply not true. Kids, indeed, notice and are curious about the world around them, and the adults in their lives can either face harsh truths, challenge the status quo and have deep conversations with kids, or they can perpetuate the white supremacist standard of behaving as if these topics aren't meant to be investigated and therefore reinforce white supremacist culture norms in kids, therefore passing down dangerous, deeply-rooted practices that negatively affect humans of the global majority and society at large. Big questions asked here are: How can we get to a place where we can begin to notice, ask, learn and celebrate what we may not understand so that we can grow as individuals and as a society? How can we invite white-identifying families to interrogate themselves in a way that is structured to create brave and meaningful conversations among one another? Despite the current wave of legislation being pushed to restrict knowledge centered on our actual shared history, how can we be brave to push past discomfort to have deeper conversations and learn together to affect societal change? Listen to this riveting conversation to hear and learn more, and be on the lookout for Act 2 next week as we continue to be “In Conversation with ‘Start the Conversation.'”

We're back. Act 2 of our newest episode, “Finding Paths for Freedom Dreaming,” can be whittled down to three main ideas: 1. Aspiring to a more liberated arts and culture world; 2. Feeling our emotions through the work we do as artists and arts educators and not giving in to shutting down when the work feels difficult; 3. Having the ability to recognize the power one has and knowing when the time has come to relinquish that power. The second part of this episode steers us more intentionally into our upcoming episodes, which showcases the New York City Children's Theater's (NYCCT) resources titled, “Start the Conversation.” In their chat, Caitlyn takes a deeper dive into the work she does at NYCCT. She talks about how that work has only deepened since the start of the pandemic and has aimed at being responsive to kids and families with a focus on ”having conversations about topics that I wish someone would've talked to me about when I was a kid.” The conversation reaches its most grounded moment when the focus becomes all about trauma-informed approaches to teaching and learning. As Caitlyn notes when speaking on the six principles of a trauma-informed approach, every room we enter as artists and arts educators, someone has experienced some sort of trauma. So remembering to lead with this type of practice truly is a healing-centered and human-centered approach, which connects back beautifully to the three main ideas central to this chat. Find out how this conversation ends by downloading and listening today! Stay tuned next month for Episode 62: “In Conversation with: ‘Start the Conversation'” featuring three separate panel discussions with the collaboration teams of the following topics: Our Relationship to Race/Race, Racism and BLM, Exploring Gender and Emergency Drill Support.

We're back with Episode 61: “Finding Paths for Freedom Dreaming,” featuring Caitlyn McCain, Teaching Artist and Education Associate for Public Engagement with New York City Children's Theater (NYCCT) and recipient of the 2023 TYA Community Impact Award. Question: can you recall a teacher from your childhood—yes, that one teacher—the one who ignited the spark of your artistic trajectory? Courtney and Caitlyn can and do in this two-episode arc! Episode 61 is all about identifying passion, knowing where one is meant to be, loss and grief, and finding meaning and power in the arts. In this time machine of a discussion, Courtney and Caitlyn go back to their respective moments of foundational learning to investigate their lived childhood experiences, and reflect on the people that supported their growth and urged them to be their best selves. They also delve into what it means to find one's calling in the arts, dreaming big and the harsh realities that reveal themselves when artistic ambition and lack of financial literacy are at odds with one another. Reiki and spiritual mediums are pivotal discussion points here, too! How? Well, you'll have to listen to this brand new episode to find out.

Hello, PODience! We're back with Act 2 of Episode 60: “The Pursuit of Synergy,” featuring Melissa Friedman, co-founder of Epic Theatre Ensemble. If Act 1 of Episode 60 reflected on the ways in which Courtney and Melissa's artistic and administrative work has been challenged by the pandemic (masks, shutdowns, reframing the art we make and how we connect with students and each other during times of unrest), Act 2 continues down a similar path but focuses even more on access and inclusivity. The main themes of this episode are: breaking down barriers to provide opportunities for young people to experience live theater, creating art that truly represents and amplifies young people's voices, the positive effects of young people seeing themselves represented in stories being told on stage, and the gaps in learning and implementation still present in the theater industry after “We See You White American Theater” was first published. You won't want to miss the conclusion of this profound conversation, still taking place at the intersection of social justice, education and the arts!

Hello, PODience! We've got a brand new two-act episode arc for you! Episode 60: “The Pursuit of Synergy” features Melissa Friedman, co-founder of Epic Theatre Ensemble, a professional social justice theatre company in New York City. In many ways, Episode 60 really holds its finger to the pulse of the zeitgeist. At the top of their chat, Courtney and Melissa take time to reflect on the myriad ways in which their artistic and administrative work was challenged by the pandemic. For instance, Melissa names and digs into the complex frustrations and roadblocks created by simply donning a mask. In a way, masks became her Kryptonite, diminishing her so-called “super powers” as well as her ability to effectively connect with a group of students. She also uplifts what it meant to discover and implement new mechanisms for teaching and mentoring young people while covering the most expressive and communicative part of her body. Courtney and Melissa speak very personally and thoughtfully about what it feels like on this side of the pandemic and the shared traumas we're all processing (to varying degrees) as we navigate choppy personal and professional waters. Their discussion goes on a deliciously winding road through themes like: art born out of tragedy, shifting paradigms, the ways we think about our expertise, building bridges between artistry and education, and the intersection of social justice, education and the arts. Don't miss this brand new episode!

Hello, PODience! We're back with Act 2 of Episode 59: “Divine Self Development.” “Everybody's story is so different,” says Courtney to our newest featured guest, Aminisha Ferdinand. In the first part of this two-episode arc, we posed the essential questions: What ignites something in you that must be expressed through art that cannot be expressed through words? Where do you fit on the spectrum of artistry? And we're going to stick with and build upon those questions. In Act 2 of Episode 59, Courtney and Aminisha continue their deeply philosophical conversation about what it means to fall into or find one's way to the arts. When Aminisha was young, people told her that she was “good at [theater and dance]” and she admittedly “like[s] to do things that [she] feels [she's] good at.” This time around the discussion really begins to focus on what happens when dreams shift, the universe takes a hand and one finds themself doing something they know they want to do but it's in the wrong space and time. What does it mean to realize that one's existence within the global arts community has shifted? How might the existential dread that comes with that fuel one to seek a new position within the creative arts spectrum? So, how does this conversation end? You've gotta listen to find out!

Hello, PODience! We've got a wonderful new two-act episode arc for you to kick off our sixth season! Episode 59: “Divine Self Development” features Aminisha Ferdinand. What ignites something in you that must be expressed through art that cannot be expressed through words? Where do you fit on the spectrum of artistry? These are the essential questions that fuel our newest episode. In Episode 59, Courtney and Aminisha have a philosophical conversation about what it means to fall into or find one's way to the arts. For instance, when she was a young child, people told Aminisha that she was “good at [theater and dance]” and she “like[s] to do things that [she] feels [she's] good at. Their discussion digs deeper when they talk about what it means to find and exist with a community of artists and the reciprocal nature of making something new with a cohort of creative humans. They take a step further when they ideate on how our creativity lives inside of our brains but looks and acts differently—in good and bad ways—when our bodies make that art. So how deep does this discussion go? You've gotta listen to find out!

In the second installment of this two-episode arc, Courtney continues her conversation with Alex Santiago-Jirau. This thought-provoking chat is driven by the essential questions: How can theater be of service to the community? How can theater hold value beyond production and how can we create experiences that are not transactional? Alex dives even deeper into his work with Theater of the Oppressed and how those techniques are intrinsically embedded into his work and approaches to theater making. One example Alex offers is New York Theatre Workshop's intergenerational “Mind the Gap” program, which sees teens and elders act as co-generators of original theater. There is a lot to unpack in this conversation and there's even more to take away and reflect upon. Give our newest episode a listen!

Hello, PODience! We've got a great new two-act episode arc for you! Episode 58: “Processing the Collective Scars” features New York Theater Workshop Director of Education, Alex Santiago-Jirau. Their conversation begins with connecting around the missions and multi-faceted approaches of both New York Theatre Workshop and New Victory Theater. The real inquiry begins with the question: What does it mean to define oneself as an artist? The focus then turns to Alex Santiago-Jirau—born and raised in mountainous, small-town Puerto Rico, known for its arts-rich culture—who grew up singing, dancing and acting. As Alex puts it, he very much connected with the "play" aspect of theater, which “allowed me to explore and try things that me as Alex would not typically explore.” In other words, through the arts, he discovered a world in which he could be expressive and tell stories. Their conversation deepens further when Alex begins to discuss his work with Augusto Boal and the Theater of the Oppressed, which Alex characterizes as theater as activism driving toward liberation—a space in which one must be comfortable with being uncomfortable in confronting things that are messy in the world. What else do Courtney and Alex discuss? You'll have to catch this delightful conversation, which takes place right at the intersection of art and activism, to find out!

We are back with Act 2 of Episode 57: “Arts, Essence…Us,” featuring activist, storyteller and educator Miko Lee, Director of Programs at Asian Americans for Civil Rights and Equality (AACRE). As in Act 1, Courtney's chat with Miko remains at the intersection of arts and social justice. This conversation holds fast to the tone of the first half of the episode, which focused on arts and social change. Here, Courtney and Miko both hold court and really lean into a few key points like: the need for the arts as a pathway for change-making, the global cultural variances in the approach to one's artistry, the imperative of being in the right relationship with oneself and approaching transformative justice from the inside (self) to the outside (those one wishes to serve through the arts). Their conversation continues down a path that, at times, feels very introspective while also asking very meta questions. You'll really want to connect with this one, listeners! Listen or download wherever you get your podcasts!

Hey, PODience! We're excited to share our newest episode with you. Episode 57: “Arts, Essence…Us” is a thoughtfully passionate conversation featuring activist, storyteller and educator Miko Lee, Director of Programs at Asian Americans for Civil Rights and Equality (AACRE). The setting of Courtney's chat with Miko is at the intersection of arts and social justice. At the top, we learn a lot about Miko's trajectory from the arts into civic engagement, which occurred, she states, because she was at the right place at the right time. Miko really hones in on her passionate connection to her artistry and how the collaborative, communal nature of that artistry is so important in driving social change. Their conversation hits full throttle when they begin to discuss the power of teaching artistry and teaching artists' innate ability to truly bring about positive change. The conversation weaves a fascinating web of topics including radical welcoming, guerilla theater as entrypoints to the arts and how teaching artistry can and must be the things that gets us out of the messy, oppressive world in which we're currently living. You won't want to miss this uplifting episode!

What is it that drives you? What is the impact you want to have on the world? Those are the questions that are central to the heart of the conversation featured in the second part of our episode featuring James C. Horton. In Act 2 of Episode 56: “Arm Yourself with Hope,” Courtney and James's conversation segues from the meaning of family and finding connection to the arts to the impact of the arts. This is where we learn much more about James's career trajectory, a path which led him to a position at Carnegie Hall and then the Museum of the City of New York, where he was at the time of this recording. One of the most meaningful parts of this conversation focuses on James's work with incarcerated youth, using the arts as a pathway to process trauma. You won't want to miss Courtney and James's thoughtful conversation about supporting human healing through trauma-informed arts practices and amplifying the voices of those who are often marginalized, ignored or criminalized. Be sure to check out Act 2 of Episode 56: “Arm Yourself with Hope” wherever you get your podcasts!

Hey, PODience! We've got a brand new episode for you and you won't want to miss it. Episode 56: “Arm Yourself with Hope” is a thoughtful, and in some aspects spiritual conversation with James C. Horton, the newly-appointed President of Harlem School of the Arts in New York City. At the top of Courtney's chat with James, a self-proclaimed "analog dude" and father of four ambitious kids, they linger for a while on their childhood experiences. Their conversation really gains momentum when they connect over the meaning of family and finding a connection to the arts as a safe space at just the right time in life. The heart and soul of this meaningful chat is centered around the word “tension.” As James says it, every aspect of art is based in tension and how we, as artists, explore and move through that tension. Without the presence of tension, James notes, there is nothing. How one harnesses and focuses the power of that tension is the artist's ultimate challenge. Other topics explored in this episode include core values as personal and professional anchors, the collaborative and communal nature of theater and slingshots. Yes, you read that right. Slingshots. So where exactly does this conversation begin and end? You've just gotta listen to find out!

Hey, PODience! We're back with Act 2 of our newest episode. This thoughtful conclusion of Episode 55: “Calling in Your ‘Why',” features a deeper chat between Courtney and Shanna Melton, a poet and visual artist. Their discussion dives a bit deeper into what it means to grieve as humans, artists and learners, to lose oneself in trauma and to find oneself and one's strength as they emerge from a place of dissociation to a moment of recognizing the power of vulnerability and personal strength. They also discuss the meaning of that word—strength—and how we are perceived from the outside doesn't always reflect what's going on inside. Courtney and Shanna's chat eventually turns to things like: creating meaningful art, emotionally impactful artistic experiences and the future of the field of Teaching Artistry. So, how does this conversation end? You'll have to listen to find out!

Greetings, TA PODience! We've got a brand new two-episode arc for you! Act 1 of Episode 55: “Calling in Your ‘Why',” features an introspective chat between Courtney and Shanna Melton, a poet and visual artist. Courtney's conversation with Shanna, who believes in the power of being selective about where, when and how we leave our artistic imprints and energy in the world, is a thoughtful one. Their conversation runs the gamut concerning pathways to discussing the impact of the arts. Some of the rich ideas discussed in this episode are: what it means to create art that holds true meaning and placing that art in spaces that have impact; the realization that the art we create can and should be for others to consume and appreciate; the positive, healing nature of art; and the ways through which we grieve. So, how do we get from point A to point Z? You'll have to listen, learn and reflect on that!

Hey, PODience! What are you saying "yes" to right now? What obstacles are standing in your way that you are willing to knock over in order to do and feel something new? These are just a few questions that pervade the second part of our two-episode arc featuring Melissa Parke. In Act 2 of Episode 54: "Walk in Truth," Melissa talks a bit more about her work. She specifically goes into more detail about the Afro-centric SEL framework she created, noting that the lens through which the framework operates is centered in culture. Then, suddenly, the conversation turns sharply into a talk about love of sports, fitness and the power of saying yes. This carves out space for the two to discuss the work that needs to be done, internally and externally, in order to create meaningful goals and bring new ideas and systems into all aspects of life, particularly in education. So, will Melissa and Courtney be going head-to-head in a rugby match? It'll make sense when you listen, which you can do via SoundCloud, iTunes, Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts. You don't want to miss this episode!

Hello, TA PODience. We hope you're staying safe, healthy and cool during these extremely hot days. We're back with a brand new episode that we think you're going to love! What drives you creatively and personally? Can you name it or are you still trying to place it? These questions, and so many more, fuel this two-episode arc. Episode 54: “Walk In Truth,” features an inspiring conversation between Courtney and Melissa Parke, Founder of Black Teaching Artist Lab, LLC and a creative that focuses her work and impact in the arts education world. Courtney's conversation with Melissa hits on so many touchpoints that we're certain will resonate with anyone listening like growing up in a time of COVID, what it means to belong and what our perceived placement is in society and our ever-fluctuating relationship with time, process and deadlines as a measurement of success. All of this leads into a discussion about Parke's passion project—creating an Afro-centric social emotional learning (SEL) framework that is inspired in part by a combination of the Casel framework and the White Racial Identity Model, which was developed in 1990 by psychologist Janet Helms. So how exactly did Parke come to shape and mold this new framework? How did she conduct the necessary research and what questions did she ask? In what ways does Parke hope this work will affect Teaching Artistry as a field? You'll just have to listen to find out!

Hey, TA PODience! Teaching Artistry podcast is made up of a team of humans that have many identities including LGBTQ+, Black, Jewish, and more. We acknowledge the Supreme Court's ruling to overturn Roe v. Wade. We are reaffirming our commitment to continue to uplifting and amplifying BIPOC women and other humans who do remarkable work in our field and advocate and fight for justice. We are back with the inspirational second act of our newest two-episode arc. In Act 2 of Episode 53: “Passing the Baton,” Courtney continues her conversation with Margie Johnson Reese, an educator and lifelong advocate for children and the arts. The second half of their chat keeps a laser-sharp focus on legacy that begins with a transition into thinking not only about personal legacy but about what we can do to create opportunities for those who follow. This episode asks the questions: How can we leave doors wide open for younger generations to walk and reap the benefits of our work? What does it mean to stay true to ourselves and our passions in a world that wants us to conform to prescribed constructs? When it's time for us to pass the mantle, what do we want our life's work to have been? Who do we want that work to benefit and what systems can we dismantle, and build up stronger and better, in order for future generations to thrive? You won't want to miss the conclusion of this thoughtful episode.