The NFHS Podcast

Join NFHS Coordinator of Sports, Jessie Benner as she speaks with MK McGee, a Nebraska high school basketball official and creator of “Her Call.” McGee highlights ways officials can educate and motivate one another and the importance of creating a community of support for female sports officials.Subscribe and share this episode!Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!https://www.nfhs.org/Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: jbenner@nfhs.orgSubscribe and share this episode!Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!https://www.nfhs.org/Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: jbenner@nfhs.org

Maggie Berthiaume is the Director of Debate at Woodward Academy in Georgia. She is a past recipient of the National Debate Coaches' Association Educator of the Year Award and the Georgia Forensic Coaches' Association Debate Coach of the Year Award. She has been on the NDCA and GFCA Executive Board and was a member of the editorial board of Contemporary Argumentation & Debate.As someone that has excelled as a debater herself and now teaching debate in Georgia, Maggie brings an excellent perspective on many things within the education landscape. Listen to this conversation as we discuss: What inspired Maggie to pursue a career in debate educationHow her teaching leads to connections with every student that comes in her classroomWhat sets a good debater apart from a great debaterHer opinion on how to increase participation in speech and debate programsSubscribe and share this episode! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Sean King is the Executive Director of USBands and has been a member of the USBands team for 27 years. Since 2020, he has overseen the transition of the organization from one parent non-profit to a program offering of BD Performing Arts, a non-profit organization based in Concord, CA. Sean has been responsible for aligning organizational and operational cultures as well as the team building, strategy and communications for the largest scholastic music organization in the United States consisting of nearly 200 events in 20 states in excess of 700 participating schools and overall attendance of 300,000 individuals annually. He is a former Director of Marketing and Communications, a founder of an advertising agency, and someone who continuously empowers arts across the nation.As the NFHS is welcoming USBands as an official corporate partner of the NFHS and a founding corporate partner of NFHS Performing Arts, listen as we discuss: Why people should care about bands across AmericaThe mission of USBandsEnsuring inclusivity and support for diverse groups within the organizationMessaging given to educators and students alike when adjudication is successfulWays in which USBands collaborates with schools, directors, and other organizations to further music education and performanceSubscribe and share this episode! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Amy Perras is the Instructional Supervisor for Music, Art, and Library Media for Milford Public Schools in Connecticut, a role she took on after spending 14 years teaching PK-12 instrumental, choral, and general music.  In addition to her work in Milford, Amy is the President of the Connecticut Arts Administrators Association and the NFHS Music Advisory Committee Chair. As we get to learn from Amy about her background in music and music education, listen while we discuss: Her lifelong intrigue with DisneyThe role of a district arts administrator and why it's such an important roleHow her background in education has assisted her in her current roleThe main goals she has as the chair of the NFHS Music CommitteeWhy support systems are crucial for successSubscribe and share this episode! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Join NFHS Coordinator of Sports, Jessie Benner as she speaks with Becky Moran, NIAAA Associate Executive Director on the importance of encouraging support of female athletics. Moran explains what it means to her to be a woman in sports and how we can create a positive narrative around female sports and activities.Subscribe and share this episode!Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!https://www.nfhs.org/Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.orgSubscribe and share this episode! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Host Ken Burke is joined by Eric Arnold, Program Director for the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) Executive Institute at Western Illinois University. As someone who has so much experience with emergency action plans and campus safety, there are few people that know more than Eric on these issues and topics. Throughout this conversation, Eric shares stories, lessons-learned, and strategies that could help substantially in ensuring campus and event safety, no matter the location or size. Listen now and hear more about:Developing and implementing emergency action plansInitial steps he would suggest to administrators and event coordinatorsThe most effective strategies he has implemented or observedSuccess stories of interventions or programs that significantly improved securityChallenges that have emerged in the realm of school safety with the rise of digital platforms and social mediaSubscribe and share this episode! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Join NFHS Coordinator of Marketing and Social Media, Olivia Jennings as she speaks with NFHS Director of Sports, Julie Cochran on the origin and evolution of the Women in Leadership team. Cochran explains how she identified the need and began to create the program and the ways in which it has grown to serve our member states around the nation.Subscribe and share this episode! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of The Stage, host Ken Burke speaks with Ramon Rivera, Mount Vernon School District Mariachi Director, Mariachi Artist, and 2023 Washington State Music Educator of the year. Ramon Rivera began teaching Mariachi in the late 90s and brings a wealth of knowledge on the subject and on educating to this conversation.As he leads and educates students through music, he has built the most extensive Mariachi Program on the west side of the state of Washington in the Mount Vernon High School Mariachi & Folklorico program with over 200 students enrolled. Talking points for today's discussion:How he initially became interested in music education The unique benefits that mariachi music and Folklorico brings to studentsLetting students pursue their passions and any activity they wantHow he has seen mariachi music education positively impact cultural awareness and appreciationWays in which parents and communities can support the growth of music educationSuccess stories about students whose lives have been positively impacted by their involvement in mariachi music educationSubscribe and share this episode! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode, host Ken Burke interviews Dr. David Kelley, Associate Professor in the Sport Administration Program within the University of Cincinnati's School of Human Services. He also currently serves as the Online Master's Degree in Sport Administration Program Coordinator and has a wealth of knowledge not only on sport administration, but on grant writing, corporate sponsorships, and more!Throughout this conversation, we discuss: Having a hands-on teaching approachGrowing programs from "humble beginnings"Why it's important for educators and administrators to educate themselves on grant facilitationThe biggest challenge when it comes to fundraising and grant writingTips he would give for anyone that is interested in securing grants or writing themSubscribe and share this episode! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of The Stage, our guest today is Tooshar Swain, Director of Public Policy at Americans for the Arts. Before joining Americans for the Arts, Tooshar served as Director of Public Policy and Advocacy at the National Association for Music Education. Tooshar has made a career in Music Education, Policy, and Advocacy, and has even worked on Capitol Hill with the US Senate.Throughout the conversation, you will hear more about:How Americans for the Arts aims to promote recognition and support for the artsWhy his experience with the National Association for Music Education shaped his understanding of the challenges faced by music educatorsSuccesses and achievements he's been involved in to make a positive impact on arts education The intersection between arts and policySubscribe and share this episode! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Our guest today is Davine Davis, former Assistant Executive Director of the Missouri State High School Activities Association. Davine, who has recently retired, helped establish Missouri as one of the leading states in the country in terms of music and she has served on the NFHS Education Committee as well as the NFHS Spirit Rules Committee. She made a career out of strengthening relationships with music directors across the state of Missouri.Listen and learn more about her career, what she learned throughout, and more, including: How Davine's teaching background helped her throughout her career with the MSHSAAHow she was able to stay plugged in with music directors across MissouriThe most challenging part of her dutiesOne thing that she wish she knew when she first started in this professionHer pivotal role in pioneering a music festival software to help facilitate district and state festivalsSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of The Stage, our guest today is Chantal Epp! Chantal is the  Founder and CEO of ClicknClear. ClicknClear prioritizes music licensing for Choreographed Sports, Arts, and Fitness, and makes it easy! Chantal is a multiple award winning business founder and owner, an international cheerleader, and so much more that we will touch on throughout our conversation today.Listen now and learn more about her career and life, including: Why/How she started ClicknClearHow her background in cheerleading and music assisted her in making connections for music rightsWhy it's so important for schools, companies, and organizations to be educated on music licensing and copyrightHow the NFHS and ClicknClear work together to help schools and organizationsSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of The Stage, our guest today is Craig Manteuffel, Assistant Executive Director with the Kansas State High School Activities Association and newly appointed Assistant Executive Director of the Kansas Music Educators Association. In his role, Craig oversees Speech, Debate and Drama, Music, Piano administration, Sportsmanship and Event Sanctioning. He is also coming off of his time as the NFHS Music Advisory Committee Chair.In this conversation, Craig gives insight into his teaching background, his love for the performing arts, and legendary stories that will make you laugh, think, and wonder. Listen today as we discuss: The best part of teaching in performing arts for nearly 30 yearsReflection on working at the KSHSAA and as the NFHS Music Committee ChairWhy state associations should work together within and throughout the NFHSHow he has seen the work done in the middle and high school space carry on for the rest of students' livesWhy he loves Kansas City culture, football, and barbequeSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of The Stage,  Nick Averwater, Vice President of Amro Music, joins the show today to discuss how the retail industry continues to support music education across the nation. Amro Music is the largest piano, band, and orchestra store in the Mid-South and one of the largest in the nation. It has been family-owned and operated in Memphis since 1921. Nick also hosts their podcast called "After Hours", in which he has conversations for music educators all across the nation!Today, Nick and host Ken discuss a variety of topics from Nick's personal and professional life, including: What it's like to work for and run the Mid-South's largest music companyHow to support music education from the retail industryThe work he does with NASMD, NAMM, and the Music Achievement CouncilHow the After Hours Podcast helps music educatorsChallenges that music educators face todayCheck out the After Hours Podcast!Subscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of the Stage, we honor Jamelle Brown, 2023 NFHS Citation Award recipient for Speech and Debate. For those of you who remember, Jamelle was a guest on our show a few months ago, but we invited her back on to talk more about her education background, how it feels to win a NFHS Citation award, and more.Jamelle is a high school speech and debate coach at Sumner Academy of Arts and Science in Kansas City, Kansas, teaching and inspiring students for years.  She was named the 2022 NFHS Speech, Debate and Theatre Outstanding Educator Award for Section 5 and has led speech and debate teams to a number of Kansas State Championships, along with holding so many leadership roles in the education world. Get ready to listen and learn from one of the brightest minds in the Speech and Debate profession!This series aims to shine light on all three of the 2023 Performing Arts NFHS Citation Award Recipients. Topics for this discussion include: Jamelle's thoughts on receiving the 2023 NFHS Speech & Debate Citation AwardWhy women should hold leadership roles and her experiences as oneWhy “Fear is NOT an Option”How speech and debate pushes students creatively and intuitively unlike any other activityWhat she hopes to accomplish next in her careerListen to Jamelle's previous interview on The Stage: https://thenfhspodcast.buzzsprout.com/274814/12007412 Subscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Jennifer Brooks began her career in 1996 as a band and choir director for Banks (Oregon) Junior and Senior High School before moving to the David Douglas School District in Portland, Oregon, in 1998, where she currently works as the director of all music in the K-12 schools. Today, we get to talk to Jennifer about winning this year's NFHS Music Citation Award, her career as an educator, and what she's learned from holding numerous leadership roles with the NFHS, the Oregon Band Directors Association, and the Oregon Music Educators Association. This series aims to shine light on all three of the 2023 Performing Arts NFHS Citation Award Recipients. Topics for this discussion include: The one thing Jennifer is most proud ofAnalysis on her time serving on the NFHS Music Committee as a member and later as the ChairWhy she has felt called to educate the next generation on the importance of music in the worldAdvice for young women in the performing arts education spaceSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of the Stage, we are honoring Rebecca Meyer-Larson, 2023 NFHS Citation Award recipient for Theatre. Rebecca is a theatre and speech & debate educator at Moorhead High School in Minnesota and has led her students to MANY state titles, awards, and more. During her 32-year career, Meyer-Larson has received several honors including two U.S. Presidential Scholars Program Teacher awards, NFHS Outstanding Educator State Award and Spotlight Education Theater Educator Award, five Diamond Coach in the National Speech and Debate Association and the 2019 Minnesota State High School League AA Coach of the Year.Today you as the listener get to hear from someone that puts her students first, has a passion for theatre and speech & debate, and gives excellent advice for students and educators on being able to have a life full of performing, laughter, and support. This series aims to shine light on all three of the 2023 Performing Arts NFHS Citation Award Recipients. Topics for this discussion include: Rebecca's thoughts on receiving the 2023 NFHS Theatre Citation AwardHow she has prioritized inclusivity and social change through education Why it's important to highlight the work and talent that students possessContinuing theatre well into adulthoodSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of The Stage, John Mlynczak, the new President and CEO of National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM), joins the show to discuss how music education and creative industry can work together to better the future of music as a whole. John has so much experience not only in the creative industry space, but also in the music education world, as well. He has worked as a music educator, the VP at Hal Leonard, and even in the music technology space. Some topics discussed in today's conversation:How John's background in music education and music technology assisted in getting him to this pointWhat he hopes to accomplish in his presidency with NAMMImportance of the NAMM Show for the creative industryRelationship of music education and creative industry in 2033Future plans for arts advocacyHis favorite hobbySubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Dr. Steven Karageanes is a primary care sports medicine physician at Restorative Physical Medicine, a founding member of Athletes and the Arts and co-hosts the Athletes and the Arts podcast, and is one of the first physicians in the United States certified in performing arts medicine by the Performing Arts Medical Association. Today, Dr. Karageanes joins the show today to discuss how to emphasize health and wellness within the performing arts space.  As he has been involved with medicine in athletics and the arts, he brings a unique perspective to this conversation. Listen today as we discuss:Why it's important to advocate for physical and mental health within the performing arts spaceMission and goal of Athletes and the ArtsWhat he's learned from doing the Athletes and the Arts PodcastIncreasing awareness on performer healthHow to advocate for all activities equally, creatively, and collectivelySubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Join NFHS Coordinator of Sports, Jessie Benner, as she speaks with Executive Director and Co-Founder of American Association of Adapted Sports Programs, Tommie Storms, to share her journey. Storms emphasizes the importance of offering inclusive opportunities for all and explains how AAASP came about.Subscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of The Stage,  Adam Jacobi, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Interscholastic Speech and Dramatic Arts Association comes on the show. Adam has been involved in education, adjudication, communication, and so much more for 20-plus years, and he continues to work to bring opportunities for every student in Wisconsin. With a background with the NFHS, NSDA, high school outreach programs, and more, he has wisdom and advice for all educators involved in speech, debate, and theatre. Throughout the conversation, we discuss a wide variety of topics, including:Why Adam has made a career out of advocating and teaching speech, debate, and theatreHis journey through educating, adjudicating, coaching, and moreHis educating experience in ChinaHow his work is helping high school students in Wisconsin The biggest challenges he's faced in his tenureSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of The Stage, Robyn Hilger, Executive Director of the American Choral Directors Association, joins the show to discuss what it means to have sustained creativeness and entrepreneurialism in the music classroom. With a wealth of knowledge within music education and advocacy, Hilger provides key information for all music educators looking for new, innovative ideas in their curriculums.Learn from one of the brightest minds in music education and advocacy on:Robyn's unique journey from band student to choral professionalResources that ACDA gives for music educators and programs all overAdvice she would give for music educators in maintaining creativity and longevityHer love for educating, advocating, and Formula 1 racingSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

As March is Music In Our Schools Month, there is no better way to celebrate than talking with NAfME president Scott Sheehan on the importance of music education across the nation! Scott's presidency began last year, but he has been in music education for nearly three decades. As the Director of Bands and Music Department Chairperson at the Hollidaysburg Area Senior High School in Pennsylvania and former President of the NAfME Eastern Division, he continues his work in advocacy and relationship building throughout the entire country. While we celebrate music education this entire month,  this conversation provides context behind why we should be advocating for music in every school. There are central talking points in this discussion, too, including:How Scott's background has helped him in his presidencyResources for music educators all over in Music In Our Schools MonthBalancing advocacy, research, learning, and growthThe trajectory of music education opportunity in the USEmphasizing collaboration and trust in music educationSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of the Stage, Dr. Mark Spede, Director of Bands at Clemson University, joins the show to discuss how to achieve growth and prosperity in music programs across the nation. As the recipient of the Clemson University 2009 Dean's Award for Excellence in Teaching and a three-time recipient of the Clemson University Board of Trustees Awards for Faculty Excellence, Dr. Spede has a plethora of experience in not only growing programs, but maintaining success in the college setting. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Spede gives excellent advice to band directors across the country that want to grow their programs, whether that be at the collegiate level or the high school level. Listen and learn about:What he looks for in high schoolers when recruiting for his bandThe best part about leading bands and students at Clemson UniversityHis involvement with the International Performing Arts Aerosol StudyHow he's used his platform to see continuous growth at Clemson, going from 150+ band members to over 360 during his time at the universityAdvice he would give to music educators about growth, success, and stabilitySubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Join NFHS Director of Officiating Services, Dana Pappas as she speaks with WIAA Assistant Executive Director, Cindy Adsit to share why she believes education-based activities are a foundation for creating a better society. Adsit explains how she got her start in interscholastic activities and why she loves working with adults who focus on creating opportunities for students to participate.Subscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of The Stage, Julie Duty, founder and CEO of United Sound, comes on to discuss the importance of creating opportunities for every student through music. As a sought after speaker, presenter, and while serving as a member of The Midwest Clinic Advisory Board, Music for All's Advocacy in Action Committee, The Institute for Composer Diversity Advisory Council, and as the Vice Chair of the Tempe Winds Board of Directors, she continuously provides her perspective through music education.Throughout the conversation, not only does Julie provide clarity on how to bring students together through music, she also lays out how United Sound started, what the organization does for music programs all over, and the importance of meeting students where they are in the music educational experience. Listen out for key discussion points, such as:Why Julie started United SoundRelationship building in music educationThe benefit of music for students with disabilitiesWhy educators should advocate for music for all studentsHow educators can get involved with United SoundSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

The navigation, advocation, and implementation of music initiatives at your school can be a daunting, confusing task at times. This episode can serve as a guide to help those in education, coming from one of the brightest minds in the music profession today!On this episode of The Stage, ASTA executive director Lynn Tuttle comes on the show to talk about the work she does as a lifelong musician, non-profit professional, and advocate for the arts. Throughout the conversation with host Ken Burke, Lynn gives excellent advice for parents, educators, and communities that want to make an impact on students through music. Make sure to listen out for key topics that Lynn and Ken discuss, like: Lynn's recollection of her childhood musical experienceHow Lynn got into the world of arts advocacyNavigating educational resources as an educator or administratorInitiatives that are ahead for ASTAWhat it's like to be surrounded with a family of musiciansSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Educational Theatre Association (EdTA) Executive Director Dr. Jennifer Katona joins the show today to discuss how EdTA provides resources and support for theatre programs across the nation. Dr. Katona comes from a 30-year teaching background and was even awarded for her tireless pursuit of theatre education with the 2014 President's Award for Outstanding Faculty Service at CCNY.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Katona and host Ken Burke bring up important issues for theatre educators, including: What she learned as an educator in BrooklynLeading and educating through adversityHer personal desires of having theatre programs in every school across the countryThe mission of EdTAThe connection between EdTA and the International Thespian SocietyResources that the team at EdTA providesSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of The Stage, Jamelle Brown comes on the podcast to talk about her experiences of living her dream as a speech and debate educator. Jamelle is a high school speech and debate coach at Sumner Academy of Arts and Science in Kansas City, Kansas, teaching and inspiring students for years!  Jamelle was also named the 2022 NFHS Speech, Debate and Theatre Outstanding Educator Award for Section 5 and has led speech and debate teams to a number of Kansas State Championships.This episode serves as a friendly reminder for educators around of the passion and love for education that so many possess in the profession. Throughout the interview, important topics are discussed about her experiences as an educator and speech and debate, including:Why she's wanted to be an educator all of her lifeHow to encourage students to participate in speech and debateThe balance of being educational and enjoyableHer involvement in the NSDA's Black Coaches Caucus and Women's Coaches CaucusSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

This is the tenth episode of the NFHS Women in Leadership series. Join NFHS Director of Officiating Services Dana Pappas as she sits with Francine Martin, Assistant Executive Director of the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) to discuss her career journey and who has impacted her along the way. After serving the KSHSAA membership for 18 years, Martin is set to retire in June of 2023. Her impressive career was celebrated last year with her induction into the National High School Hall of Fame. Listen as Martin shares why she believes mentorship is so important and how she was able to build strong relationships throughout her career.Subscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

How can theatre emphasize communication and dialogue in high schools today? What does it mean to have community standards in music? What in the WORLD is going on in theatre today??? Listen to this episode to find out!On this episode of The Stage,  Cory Wilkerson, Education Director at the Education Theatre Association (EdTA) comes on to discuss initiatives, lessons-learned, and tips for theatre educators! Cory has a passion for theatre education and continues to provide resources for theatre teachers across the nation through EdTA. With her knowledge, Cory and host Ken Burke deep-dive into:The mission of EdTAHer love for theatre and educationThespy AwardsProtecting and advocating for theatre programs across the nationRelying on your calendar (amongst other things) to aid your lifeSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

On this episode of The Stage, Save The Music Foundation Chief Program Officer and 2017 Casio Leadership in Music Education Award recipient Chiho Feindler comes on to discuss how parents, educators, and administrators can prepare students for life. As Chiho has been involved with music education for years, she provides her secrets to sustained success, thoughts on why music education is important for every student involved, and her amazing journey to where she is now!Feindler and host Ken Burke lay out what steps can be taken to improve music education nationally,  how the Save The Music Foundation aids programs across the world annually, and how music programs can be sustainable even through uncertain times. Listen and learn more about what it takes to help prepare students for their future!Check out the Save The Music Foundation!Subscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

With his experiences in music education and his work in string pedagogy, violinist, conductor, and professor Bob Gillespie joins the podcast to share his thoughts on how he has achieved great success in the music world. As some have claimed him the godfather of string pedagogy, Bob has written texts on string education, including the world-renowned books  Essential Elements for Strings and Strategies for Teaching Strings: Building A Successful School Orchestra Program, conducted countless performances, and has been involved with music projects throughout his entire career. On this episode, Bob and Ken discuss how educators around the nation can reinvigorate their string programs and music programs in general, his work with the American String Teachers Association, and how he has become one of the most sought-after guest conductors in the nation. Listen out for his subtle wisdom, lifelong advice, and how he continues to stay involved with the OSU students, bands, and community!Subscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

As a former educator, now author, public speaker, and music advocate, Fran Kick has dedicated his life in helping the next generation of students through his speaking and educating abilities. As he travels all across the world speaking, Kick takes an interactive approach in his lessons, and gives resources that students, parents, and teachers can use for the rest of their lives!On this episode of The Stage, Kick joins Ken Burke to discuss how he has managed to achieve success through teaching students about the importance of music and the work he continues to do with national organizations like the NFHS, Music for All, and more! Listen as he explains how he moved from educating to speaking, why he wrote his books Kick It In and What Makes Kids Kick, and an important event coming up for students involved in band called the Future Music Educators Experience in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out Fran Kick's resources here: https://www.kickitin.com/Subscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Barry Houser, Director of the Marching Illini, Associate Director of Bands,  Director of the Fighting Illini Athletic Bands, and Clinical Associate Professor of Music of the University of Illinois joins The Stage to discuss his life experiences in music and advocating for music. Barry has a hand in a number of different band activities at Illinois, as well as teaching and directing band camps, and directing bands that have performed at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, the NBC Today Show, the Indy 500 Parade, along with many more. On this episode, Houser joins Ken Burke to talk about a number of different topics within his expertise, including how important it is to have band and music programs in schools across the country, the difference between successful music programs and those that struggle, and what being the Director of the Marching Illini has taught him. Throughout the conversation, it's clear that Barry continuously strives to be the best possible version of himself, and even gives tips for educators and administrators that are involved in music. Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating!Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!NFHS website : https://www.nfhs.org/Subscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

Mark Wood is a legend in the violin world and music community. Mark has accomplished so much in his life, including creating the first solid body electric violin, traveling the world performing with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Celine Dione, and Billy Joel (along with so many others), and now rocking out with students throughout the nation. As he has studied and learned from some of the brightest names in the music world, the "Van Halen of the Violin World" has earned countless awards including an Emmy Award in his time performing and now spends his life and skills advocating for music globally.Mark Wood joins Ken Burke on The Stage to talk about his life as a rock violinist and how he changed the world by bringing together the classical violin style with rock and roll. Mark and Ken discuss changing the violin industry, how it has been performing with some of the biggest stars and groups in music, and why he started the Mark Wood Music Foundation. Mark even gives listeners a glance into his world on the episode as he rocks out on his violin in the interview! As a part of his Electrify Your Symphony  movement, Mark's Breakout Tour kicks off in October, so make sure to visit Mark's website for locations and tickets now!http://www.markwoodmusic.com/Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating!Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!NFHS website : https://www.nfhs.org/

Mike Plunkett - Former Assistant Director with the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association joins The Stage to share his journey through performing arts and performing arts education. Mike has played a major role not just in music education in Oklahoma, but across the nation! As he has had a hand in creating performing arts resources, NFHS Learn courses, and systems, Mike has had significant impacts on the world of music, theatre, and speech and debate.Listen to this entertaining and educational interview as Mike and Ken share unbelievable stories and discuss key topics like how to excel in performing arts education, the importance of participating in performing arts, and why he stayed in the profession for decades. Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating!Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!NFHS website : https://www.nfhs.org/

On this episode of The Stage, Bob Morrison joins the show to discuss his lifelong journey in music advocacy. As the CEO of Quadrant Research and former Executive Director of Arts Education NJ,  Bob talks about his experiences playing in bands and orchestras as a child, to now advocating for music participation globally. The Emmy and Peabody winner shares his thoughts on why participating in music is so important for so many people's lives and why he has worked nearly his entire life to provide opportunities for musicians across the nation. Along with other important topics and learning from Bob about his life, the main focus of this episode was to share Bob's thoughts on a monumental project for music education that he has had a hand in creating. The Arts Education Data Project is now available for any and all individuals that want to see the status and condition of music participation in the US today. This project is the first of its kind and provides key statistics in understanding the state of music education in America today. Click the link below to view the Arts Education Data Project interactive website and learn more today!Arts Education Data Project: https://artseddata.org/national_report_2019/Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating!Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!NFHS website : https://www.nfhs.org/

Former broadcaster and Utah High School Activities Association Assistant Director Jon Oglesby stars on this episode of The Stage! Jon has had a unique journey throughout his career, while having a number of different opportunities with college programs and conferences, professional teams like the Utah Jazz, and now as a director with the UHSAA. Listen as Jon gives advice on how to grow both as a leader and as a communicator, all while tying it back to his days of being involved with speech and debate. This episode has many different topics, but tune in to hear how speech and debate has helped Jon throughout his career, how Jon went from play-by-play announcing to a high school association, and more! As the keynote speaker for the 2022 Performing Arts Conference, Jon even gives a sneak peak of what he will bring to the table in his address to hundreds of people!Register NOW for the Performing Arts Conference : https://meetings.nfhs.org/website/42332/ Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating!Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!NFHS website : https://www.nfhs.org/

On this episode of The Stage, Dr. Neha P. Raukar, M.D., M.S. brings her knowledge of medicine on the show to discuss heat illnesses and the harmful realities that plague sports and activities outside. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Raukar breaks down why heat illnesses have become so prevalent in the last couple of decades and what coaches, educators, and administrators can do to prevent students from being affected by the heat. Dr. Raukar has a lot of experience in this field and provides key insights into why the heat is becoming such a factor for performers and athletes across the US. Listen and educate yourself on an issue that not only could prevent an injury or illness, but also death. Through this conversation, Dr. Raukar shares personal stories and her thoughts on a variety of topics related to heat illness prevention.Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating!Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!NFHS website : https://www.nfhs.org/Register NOW for the Performing Arts Conference : https://meetings.nfhs.org/website/42332/

On this episode, NSDA Executive Director Scott Wunn joins The Stage to discuss how he and the NSDA continue to modernize speech and debate. Scott, who has had enormous success both as a coach and as a director, talks about a wide variety of topics, including how he has been able to grow speech and debate in today's technological world, who he looked up to as a speech and debate coach (someone you may not assume), and so much more! Listen and learn from one of the biggest names in the speech and debate world as he explains why this activity is such a crucial part of the high school experience.Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating!Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!NFHS website : https://www.nfhs.org/NSDA website : https://www.speechanddebate.org/Register NOW for the Performing Arts Conference : https://meetings.nfhs.org/website/42332/

This is the ninth podcast episode of the NFHS Women in Leadership series. Join NFHS Director of Sports, Lindsey Atkinson as she sits with retired NFHS Director of Sports/Executive Director of the Missouri State High School Activities Association, Becky Oakes to discuss the ongoing Title IX celebration and how the law impacted her career journey.

This is the eighth podcast episode of the NFHS Women in Leadership series. Join NFHS Director of Sports, Sandy Searcy as she sits with retired Assistant Commissioner of the IHSAA, Mildred Ball while she shares her career journey and offers words of wisdom along the way.

This is the seventh podcast episode of the NFHS Women in Leadership series. Join NFHS Coordinator of Sports Angela Williams as she speaks with NJSIAA Executive Director, Colleen Maguire about her leadership style and the impact of Title IX on her life.

This is the sixth podcast episode of the NFHS Women in Leadership series. Join NFHS Director of Officiating Services Dana Pappas as she speaks with Executive Director of the WIAA, Stephanie Hauser about her mentors, the importance of education-based athletics and what Title IX means to her.

This is the fifth podcast episode of the NFHS Women in Leadership series. Join NFHS Coordinator of Sports Andrea Mortimer as she speaks with CHSAA Commissioner, Rhonda Blanford-Green about her career journey, being a woman in a leadership position, her leadership style, and Title IX. 

This is the fourth podcast episode of the NFHS Women in Leadership series. Join NFHS Coordinator of Sports Andrea Mortimer as she spoke with NFHS Director of Officials and Sport, Theresia Wynns about her career journey and what it takes to be a leader in the education industry. 

How many of you have some negative influences or people in your ensembles or organizations? Are YOU the negative influence?Why do some ensembles or organizations seem to have culture and positivity figured out, while others do not? The “I get to” vs “I have to” mindset is important to creating a positive culture in your organization. Guest: Barry L. Houser, Director of the University of Illinois Marching IlliniWatch the Video Version

This is the third podcast episode of the NFHS Women in Leadership series. Join NFHS Coordinator of Sports Angela Williams as she spoke with DIAA Executive Director, Donna Polk about what it takes to be a leader in high school sports, what sports mean to her and how they have played a role in her life. 

The authors of the Water Resources topic, Pam McComas, Luke Brinker and Peter Crevoiserat, join the show to talk about the challenges of writing a paper during the pandemic, the virtual Topic Selection Meeting, the final balloting process and how Water Resources makes for a balanced topic.See the Map (Who Voted For What)Read the Press Release

This is the second podcast episode of the NFHS Women in Leadership series. Join NFHS Coordinator of Sports' Andrea Mortimer and Angela Williams as they chat with NCHSAA Commissioner, Que Tucker about her career journey, and how she hopes to inspire others.