The “Govs Teach Podcast” is your go-to source for all things at Austin Peay State University’s Eriksson College of Education! Tune in for the latest college news, inspiring student spotlights, insightful teacher interviews, and valuable tips & tricks for educators. Whether you're a future teacher or seasoned pro, we’ve got something for you!
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Austin Peay State University Eriksson College Of Education
Reframing Classroom Assessment with Dr. Joanne Philhower
On this episode of Govs Teach Unplugged, host Megan Simpson welcomes Dr. Joanne Philhower. Dr. Philhower is an assistant professor at Austin Peay State University, where she teaches students seeking initial licensure education degrees.
Dr. Philhower discusses her experiences at Austin Peay State University working with traditional, nontraditional and military-affiliated students. She also expands on her passion for assessment and how that extends beyond tests.
If you're interested in shifting your assessment mindset or learning more about the key skill sets that military veterans bring to teaching, this episode is for you!
Dive Deeper:
APSU Eriksson College of Education (https://www.apsu.edu/education/)
APSU Military & Veterans Affairs Division (https://www.apsu.edu/mva/)
Assessment: It Doesn’t Have to Be Quiet or Completed Alone (https://aspire.apsu.edu/items/86c6070d-e017-4db7-a0b0-2754aba440e9)
Enhancing Education Using Student Feedback for Curriculum Mapping Development (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/au.70026)
Austin Peay honors faculty for excellence during annual awards ceremony (https://www.apsu.edu/news/apsu-faculty-awards-2026.php)
M.A.Ed. in Educational Leadership Studies (https://www.apsu.edu/education/programs-of-study/aspiring-administrator.php)
APSU’s Full Spectrum Learning introduces Mobile Sensory Carts (https://www.apsu.edu/news/apsu-full-spectrum-learning-mobile-sensory-carts.php)
Student Tennessee Education Association (https://govsconnect.apsu.edu/stea/home/)
31 Jul 2026
Growing into Teaching with Jimmy Zambrano-Menard
On this episode of Govs Teach Unplugged, host Megan Simpson welcomes Jimmy Zambrano-Menard. Jimmy is a senior in the Grow Your Own Teacher Residency Program at Austin Peay State University, set to graduate in August 2026.
Jimmy discusses his experience in the Grow Your Own program – the first federally registered teacher apprenticeship in the nation. As a nontraditional student, Jimmy shares how the program enabled him to complete his teaching degree.
If you want to learn more about the world of teacher apprenticeships, this episode is eye-opening for educators and non-educators alike.
Dive Deeper:
APSU Eriksson College of Education (https://www.apsu.edu/education/)
(https://www.apsu.edu/education/)APSU Grow Your Own Teacher Residency (https://www.apsu.edu/education/grow-your-own.php)
McConnell Named Impact Academy Fellow (https://www.apsu.edu/news/john-mcconnell-impact-academy-fellow.php)
Leadership CMCSS (https://cmceducationfoundation.com/programs/leadership-cmcss/)
New Faculty Publication (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10758-026-10017-4)
Tennessee Lookout Commentary (https://tennesseelookout.com/2026/06/30/the-answer-to-challenging-behaviors-in-kindergarten-is-support-not-separation/)
30 Jun 2026
Entering the Classroom with Megan Schneck
On this episode of Govs Teach Unplugged, host Megan Simpson welcomes Megan Schneck. A two-time award winner in the Eriksson College of Education — recognized as an Outstanding Undergraduate Student in 2025 and an Outstanding Graduate Student in 2026 — Megan recently completed her first year teaching third grade at Liberty Elementary School in the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System. She earned both her bachelor's degree in education (K-5) and her master's degree in reading from Austin Peay, and this spring she took her scholarship to the national stage as a presenter at the National Social Science Association conference in Las Vegas. From student to teacher to researcher, Megan's journey is a testament to the power of finding your place.
Dive Deeper:
APSU Eriksson College of Education (https://www.apsu.edu/education/)
APSU Master of Arts in Education: Reading (https://www.apsu.edu/programs/graduate/education-reading)
The Six-Minute Solution: A Reading Fluency Program (https://2.files.edl.io/IPtgBw45oITbDA3zrJPCRFufPnPEk9DzLlNKuaVUqizm7Fs4.pdf)
National Social Science Association (https://nssascholars.org/)
APSU receives $50K Google grant to expand STEM education in rural Middle Tennessee (https://www.apsu.edu/news/google-grant-rural-stem-education-initiative)
Bridging distances: Reflections on STEM education in Suriname’s interior (https://ojed.org/STEM/article/view/10116)
State Board of Education Announces Educator Advisory Team (https://www.tn.gov/sbe/news/2026/6/15/state-board-of-education-announces-educator-advisory-team-to-review-current-math-standards.html)
Beyond Accommodations: Building Belonging for Autistic College Students (https://autismspectrumnews.org/beyond-accommodations-building-belonging-for-autistic-college-students/)
Full Spectrum Learning Admissions Process (https://www.apsu.edu/full-spectrum-learning/admission)
29 May 2026
Setting the Standard for Principal Preparation with Dr. Christi Maldonado
On this episode, host Megan Simpson sits down with Dr. Christi Maldonado, associate dean of assessment and accreditation and assistant professor in the Eriksson College of Education.
Dr. Maldonado brings more than 20 years of experience in public education to the conversation, including 15 years as an assistant principal in the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System. Now, she helps prepare the next generation of school leaders through Austin Peay's Master of Arts in Education: Educational Leadership Studies program — the university's second-largest graduate program.
The discussion covers everything from what makes the program unique to Dr. Maldonado's role in a historic achievement: the U.S. Department of Labor's recent approval of the first-ever National Guideline Standards for K-12 Principal Apprenticeships. She also shares candid advice for teachers considering the leap into administration.
Whether you're a classroom teacher eyeing a leadership role or just curious about what it takes to run a school, this episode offers an inside look at the pathway from teacher to principal.
Dive Deeper:
APSU Eriksson College of Education (https://www.apsu.edu/education/)
APSU Master of Arts in Education: Educational Leadership Studies (https://www.apsu.edu/programs/graduate/education-educational-leadership-studies.php)
Principal Apprenticeships: 2026 National Guideline Standards (https://www.thepathwaysalliance.org/principal-apprenticeship-ngs)
New U.S. Department of Labor Standards for Principal Apprenticeships Amplify Educator Pipeline (https://edprepmatters.aacte.org/new-u-s-department-of-labor-standards-for-principal-apprenticeships-amplify-educator-pipeline/)
Eriksson College of Education celebrates achievements at annual ceremony (https://www.apsu.edu/news/news-images/apsu-eriksson-college-awards-ceremony-achievements.php)
Tennessee Educational Leadership Journal Latest Issue (https://aspire.apsu.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/cf5f5c57-3bc0-4aa2-b7b5-ca8c7a881d19/content)
A Decade After the Passage of ‘Say Dyslexia’ Bill, Confusion Still Persists (https://www.nashvillescene.com/news/citylimits/say-dyslexia-bill-confusion-tennessee/article_41d63906-6d11-46e8-9631-fe8018ed433c.html)
30 Apr 2026
Blending Legacy, Leadership and a Higher Calling with Mollie Scruggs
On this episode of Govs Teach Unplugged, host Megan Simpson sits down with Mollie Scruggs, a junior elementary education major who is proving that leadership doesn't wait for a diploma. A native of Columbia, Tennessee, and a "legacy Gov," Mollie shares what it was like following in her father’s footsteps to Austin Peay while carving out a path uniquely her own through faith and service.
The conversation dives into Mollie’s extensive campus involvement, including her time as a Resident Assistant and her leadership as the President of Austin Peay’s Student Tennessee Education Association (STEA) chapter. Mollie discusses the lessons she has learned about teamwork and delegation, her experiences at the recent STEA state conference in Nashville, and her inspiring plan to use her education degree for overseas missions work after graduation.
Whether she is sharing advice on why students should lean on their professors or discussing her love for coffee and Gilmore Girls, Mollie’s story is a testament to how passion and preparation can transform the future of education.
Dive Deeper:
APSU Eriksson College of Education (https://www.apsu.edu/education/)APSU K-5 Education (https://www.apsu.edu/programs/undergraduate/education-interdisciplinary-studies-k-5.php)
Licensure Bachelor’s Degree Program (https://www.apsu.edu/programs/undergraduate/education-interdisciplinary-studies-k-5.php)
APSU Student Tennessee Education Association (https://www.apsu.edu/education/currentstudents/student-organizations.php)
APSU Full Spectrum Learning (https://www.apsu.edu/full-spectrum-learning/)
1 Apr 2026
Balancing Life, Work and Education with Dr. Terri Clark
On this episode of Govs Teach Unplugged, host Megan Simpson sits down with Dr. Terri Clark, who joined the Eriksson College of Education in Fall 2025 as the lead for the nursing educator concentration in the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program. As the first-ever graduate of the concentration she now leads, Dr. Clark shares her inspiring journey from nursing to higher education. She discusses how her philosophy of being "clear and kind" has guided her through 20 years of experience in hospital work, community health, and teaching.
The heart of the conversation dives into Dr. Clark’s research on technostress and the intersection of health education and work-life balance. She introduces her original "Balance Framework," which is designed to help busy professionals manage the stress of constant connectivity through seven simple strategies.
Listeners will also get a personal look at Dr. Clark’s life outside the classroom, from her "mini farm" in Tennessee — complete with horses, dwarf goats, and a "grand puppy" — to her early days as a theater major with dreams of starring on Days of Our Lives. Whether she is hosting the Journal of Pediatric Surgical Nursing podcast or mentoring future nurses, Dr. Clark’s story is a powerful testament to how education can enlarge one's vision for life and create ripples of change in the world.
Dive Deeper:
APSU Eriksson College of Education (https://www.apsu.edu/education/)
APSU Doctor of Education: Nurse Educator Concentration (https://www.apsu.edu/programs/graduate/doctor-education-nurse-educator.php)
APSU Full Spectrum Learning (https://www.apsu.edu/full-spectrum-learning/)
Dr. John McConnell named dean of APSU's Eriksson College of Education (https://www.apsu.edu/news/john-mcconnell-named-dean-eriksson-college-education.php)
Austin Peay professor publishes new volume of teaching labor history (https://www.apsu.edu/news/eriksson-college-professor-publishes-teaching-labor-history-volume.php)
Audiobooks surge as travel favorite, helping fuel debate over what 'counts' as reading (https://www.foxnews.com/travel/listening-audiobooks-during-travel-why-some-insist-counts-reading)
Journal of Pediatric Surgical Nursing Podcast (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlHZ4cjYRYI)
Work–Life Balance in an Online World: Simple Strategies for Managing Technostress (https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/23320249251367754)
26 Feb 2026
Strengthening Rural Education with Dr. Erica Boone
It's time for the Season 2 premiere of Govs Teach Unplugged as Megan welcomes Dr. Erica Boone, the newly appointed director of the Center for Rural Education.
An Austin Peay alumna (B.S. ’05, Ed.D. ’25) with over 16 years of teaching experience in rural and suburban districts, Dr. Boone shares her mission to empower rural educators through innovative training, vital resources, and strong partnerships.
This episode dives into the center's major upcoming initiatives, including the 2026 Rural Education Conference themed "Rooted in Rural: Cultivating Place, Partnerships, and Possibilities." Dr. Boone highlights how this year's virtual event on March 16 will expand to include international perspectives and flexible pre-recorded sessions for busy educators.
From her student-centered philosophy to her favorite "hidden gems" in Carroll County — including the best local spots for pancakes and hot wings — get to know the heart behind the center's leadership.
Dive Deeper:
APSU Eriksson College of Education (https://www.apsu.edu/education/)
APSU Center for Rural Education (https://www.apsu.edu/education/ruraled/)
Dr. Erica Boone: Faculty Bio (https://www.apsu.edu/directory/faculty/boonee.php)
APSU Principal Registered Apprenticeship Program (https://www.apsu.edu/news/austin-peay-launches-tennessee-first-principal-apprenticeship-program.php)
Grow Your Own Grant Announcement (https://www.apsu.edu/news/apsu-eriksson-college-of-education-receives-1-025-million-grow-your-own-grant.php)
Rylei Johnson (Teen Tennessee Petite) (https://www.apsu.edu/news/education-major-rylei-johnson-prepares-for-petite-usa-nationals-leads-wow-initiative.php)
APSU Tennessee Early Literacy Assessment first-time pass rate (https://www.apsu.edu/news/austin-peay-teacher-candidates-highest-literacy-assessment-pass-rate.php)
Dr. Terri Clark Journal Article Publication (https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/23320249251407544)
1 Dec 2025
Navigating Ethical AI Use in Education with Dr. Allison Oliver
Megan interviews Dr. Allison Oliver, assistant professor, who examines ethical AI implementation in education and strategies for districts to support special education teachers, highlighting the importance of responsible AI usage and teacher retention.
31 Oct 2025
Connecting Online and On Campus with Meagan Potts
Community engagement coordinator Meagan Potts discusses integrating online platforms with on-campus student life at Austin Peay State University, highlighting esports and student support initiatives in an interview with Megan.
1 Oct 2025
Exploring Education through Nature with Dr. Jena Collins
Megan interviews Dr. Jena Collins about her experience in special education, her role supporting neurodivergent students, and inclusive field trip options.
1 Sept 2025
Cultivating a Love of Reading with Amanda Bradley
Host Megan interviews reading instructor Amanda Bradley about cultivating a love of reading and shares teaching strategies for ELL and reading educators.
1 Aug 2025
Becoming a Teacher Apprentice with Kristen Johnson
Kristen Johnson, an Austin Peay State University student, describes her teacher apprenticeship within the Grow Your Own program and highlights the benefits and challenges she faces as a non-traditional student in this interview.
30 Jun 2025
Reinventing Teacher Education with Dr. Lisa Barron
Dr. Lisa Barron discusses her experiences teaching in Tennessee, how teaching has evolved, and the advantages of teacher apprenticeships in this interview.
29 May 2025
Fusing Technology and Creativity with Dr. Barbara Tucker
Dr. Barbara Tucker shares her journey from student worker to IT leader at Austin Peay State University and discusses integrating AI, VR, and AR on campus, plus her children's book series inspired by her cancer journey in this interview.
28 Apr 2025
Empowering Neurodivergent Students with Emmanuel Mejeun
In honor of Autism Acceptance Month, we’re joined by Emmanuel Mejeun (https://www.apsu.edu/full-spectrum-learning/team/emmanuel-mejeun.php), Director of Austin Peay’s Full Spectrum Learning (FSL) Program. Originally from Haiti, Emmanuel’s journey from student to leader has helped shape FSL into a standout support system for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
In this episode, Emmanuel shares how his personal story fuels his professional mission, how FSL empowers neurodivergent students through events like the Reverse Career Fair, and what it means to create a space where students can truly be themselves.
We also chat about his doctoral studies, his passion for music, and the growth of the program under his leadership. Tune in to hear how Emmanuel and FSL are changing the game for inclusion in higher education.
Dive Deeper:
APSU Full Spectrum Learning (https://www.apsu.edu/full-spectrum-learning/)
APSU Eriksson College of Education (https://www.apsu.edu/education/)
Mia Ayarza Student Spotlight (https://www.apsu.edu/news/mia-ayarza-education-major-multicultural-inclusive-teaching-journey.php)
Why Some Math Teachers Don’t Want Professional Development on AI (https://www.edweek.org/technology/why-some-math-teachers-dont-want-professional-development-on-ai/2025/04)
28 Mar 2025
Embracing Early Childhood Educators and Doctoral Studies with Dr. Noelle Cannon
Dr. Noelle Cannon, director of the Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance (TECTA) at Austin Peay State University, joins us to discuss her impactful work in providing professional development and support to early childhood educators across Tennessee. Learn about TECTA's free orientations and tuition assistance scholarships that help individuals achieve their educational goals, from CDA credentials to advanced degrees. Dr. Cannon also shares her experience as a graduate of APSU’s Ed.D. program in Educational Leadership, highlighting how the program has shaped her professional approach. Discover how TECTA and the Ed.D. program empower educators, expand access to higher education for early childhood professionals, and enhance the quality of early childhood education throughout the state. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on shaping the future of early childhood education in Tennessee!
Dive Deeper:
APSU Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance (TECTA) (https://www.apsu.edu/tecta/)
APSU Doctor of Education (Ed.D) Program Information (https://www.apsu.edu/programs/graduate/doctoral-educational-leadership.php) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKxWDOhBAy8)
APSU Doctor of Education (Ed.D) Program Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKxWDOhBAy8)
APSU Eriksson College of Education (https://www.apsu.edu/education/)
Introductory Statistics A Contextualized Approach – 4th Edition (https://linusbooks.com/product/introductory-statistics-a-contextualized-approach-4th-edition/)
Sarah Earls Student Spotlight (https://www.apsu.edu/news/apsu-nontraditional-student-earns-statewide-leadership-role.php)
2025 Teacher Morale Index (https://www.edweek.org/state-of-teaching/teaching-learning/what-teacher-morale-looks-like-in-every-state/2025/03)
28 Feb 2025
Bridging Rural Roots and Higher Ed with Dr. Cheryl Lambert
In this compelling conversation, we sit down with Dr. Cheryl Lambert, department chair of Teaching and Learning and Coordinator of the Center for Rural Education at Austin Peay State University. Dr. Lambert shares her journey from rural roots to higher education leadership and discusses the connection between rural communities and educational advancement.
Dive Deeper:
APSU Center for Rural Education (https://www.apsu.edu/education/ruraled)
APSU Eriksson College of Education (https://www.apsu.edu/education/)
Dr. Cheryl Lambert (https://www.apsu.edu/directory/faculty/lambertc.php)
Jon White Student Spotlight (https://www.apsu.edu/succeed)
Inclusive Leader Mini-Grants (https://www.apsu.edu/news/december-2024-eriksson-college-education-awards-inaugural-changemaker-grants.php)
Who has been a guest on Govs Teach Unplugged
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Dr Allison Oliver
Meagan Potts
Dr Jena Collins
Amanda Bradley
Kristen Johnson
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
4,096,839
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 36 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
26
Social presence
0
YouTube
86
Engagement
32
Contact Govs Teach Unplugged
Guest appearances
Does not typically book guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Questions about Govs Teach Unplugged
Who hosts Govs Teach Unplugged?
Megan host the show. Published by Austin Peay State University Eriksson College Of Education.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes monthly, based on its RSS feed.
Does Govs Teach Unplugged take guests?
The show does not typically feature guests, based on episode analyses.
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