

Better Teaching: Only Stuff That Works
Gene Tavernetti
Descriptions of effective teaching often depict an idealized form of "perfect" instruction. Yet, pursuing perfection in teaching, which depends on children's behavior, is ultimately futile. To be effective, lessons and educators need to operate with about 75% efficiency. The remaining 25% can be impactful, but expecting it in every lesson, every day, is unrealistic. Perfection in teaching may be unattainable, but progress is not. Whether you are aiming for the 75% effectiveness mark or striving for continuous improvement, this podcast will guide you in that endeavor.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 23, 2025 • 42min
Best from the Archive: Three Important Areas for Schools to Focus On with Dr. Mike Schmoker
Mike Schmoker, educator and best-selling author, speaks from decades of experience as he details the three most important areas school musts Focus on to get Results. (Caps and pun intended.)Get in touch with Mike through his website here.
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Jul 16, 2025 • 52min
Best from the Archive: Teaching Students to Solve Word & Story Problems with Dr. Sarah Powell
Dr. Sarah Powell describes her research on teaching students to solve word, or story, problems.Dr. Powell is a professor at the College of Education, University of Texas Austin. Her primary research focus is identifying the most effective strategies for teaching mathematics to elementary students. Her research provides guidance to teachers in what does work, and what does not work.Links:X: @sarahpowellphdBluesky: @sarahpowellphd.bsky.socialSarah's Website
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Jul 9, 2025 • 41min
Best from the Archive: The Impact of Excessive Screen Time on Our Children with Dr. Frank Rodriguez
In this episode, host Gene Tavernetti sits down with Dr. Frank Rodriguez to discuss his extensive experience in the education sector and his focus on parent education. They delve into the nuances of post-pandemic education, the challenges faced by students and educators, and the importance of integrating technology intelligently in classrooms and at home. The conversation also highlights the development of parent education modules aimed at mitigating the negative impacts of screen time on children's development. Contact Dr. Rodriguez here.00:00 Introduction00:38 Guest Introduction03:14 Pandemic Response03:22 Parent Education12:21 Implementing Parent Modules28:44 Educator's Role in Technology Use35:22 Frank Has a Question for Gene40:18 Conclusion and Call to ActionBooks referenced in this podcast:Jonathan Haidt: The Anxious GenerationJohann Hari: Stolen Focus
(00:00) - Frank Rodriguez
(35:52) - Frank Has a Question for Gene
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Jul 2, 2025 • 40min
Best from the Archive: Tackling Math Education Challenges with Dr. Anna Stokke
Gene Tavernetti hosts Dr. Anna Stokke, a math professor and educational advocate, discussing math education, her non-profit after school math program, math facts, and the importance of effective teaching methods grounded in rigorous research.
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Jun 25, 2025 • 50min
The Writing Revolution with Christine Teahan and Alexandria Chalonec
Many teachers lack confidence in their ability to teach writing. Christine Teahan and Alexandria Chalonec, Co-Directors of Academics at The Writing Revolution, share how they support educators across the country and around the world in delivering effective, impactful writing instruction using the Hochman Method.Links:Twitter: @TheWritingRevolLinkedIn: @TheWritingRevolutionFacebook: @TheWritingRevolutionInstagram: @TheWritingRevolution
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Jun 18, 2025 • 48min
Coaching Cycles - Thinking Out Loud #4
Zach and Gene provide a definition of coaching cycles for the purpose of the discussion. Are coaching cycles necessary? How long should they last? Are they always necessary when coaches are supporting teachers?Episode LinksZach’s book: Just Tell Them: The Power of Explanations and Explicit TeachingZach’s website: Education RickshawX: @MrZachGLinkedIn: @MrZachGBluesky: @mrzachg.bsky.socialPodcast: Progressively Incorrect
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Jun 11, 2025 • 44min
Continuing Support for New Classroom Teachers with Cameron Castaneda
Cameron Castenda is the director of the Teacher Induction program in her district. She is responsible for ensuring that newly credentialed teachers successfully complete a state approved program that allows them to “clear” their preliminary credential.Cameron is an experienced and award-winning teacher who has supported teachers in various roles since leaving the classroom.Episode Links:Instagram: @PYLUSD_Induction
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Jun 4, 2025 • 50min
Teachers Helping Teachers Getting Better with Laura Stam
In this episode teacher leader Laura Stam shares personal experiences in her journey to continual improvement in her teaching practice.Laura also describes her experience of participating in an instructional coaching cycle for the first time.X: @stamstam193Facebook: @Mrs.Stam.2021
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

May 28, 2025 • 46min
Evidence-Based Schools with Glenn Whitman
Glenn Whitman is a distinguished educator who has worked with schools around the world to support schools and teachers bringing evidence practices to their classrooms.In this episode Glenn talks about his own school’s journey to becoming an evidence-based teaching institution, his continued role in that journey, and how his school supports schools around the world who also want to become evidence-based through The Center for Transformative Teaching.Episode Links:Website: Home - The Center for Transformative Teaching and LearningGlenn's Email: gwhitman@saes.org
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

May 21, 2025 • 53min
Writing Instruction with Sherry Lewkowicz
In this episode, Gene Tavernetti interviews Sherry Lewkowicz, an expert in writing instruction. They discuss the importance of direct scaffolded writing instruction, the role of AI in enhancing teaching practices, and the challenges teachers face in effectively teaching writing across different grade levels. Lewkowicz emphasizes the significance of building foundational skills for both students and teachers and shares insights into effective writing instruction strategies.LinkedIn: @SherryLewkowiczWebsite: Writing PathwayGoogle Scholar: Teaching Writing During the COVID-19 Pandemic
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.