SatCast

About SatCast

#SatCast is a reflective podcast for educators who value thoughtful conversation and professional growth. Each episode centers on one meaningful question, inviting teachers, school leaders, and education voices to share experiences, insights, and perspectives. Designed for listening at your own pace, SatCast offers calm, purposeful conversations that support lifelong learning and foster educator connection.

Publisher

#SatCast - Christopher J. Nesi & Dan Kreiness

Category

education · education · education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

17 Jan 2026

Latest episode

15 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

7 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   15 Aug 2026

   Are Grades Getting in the Way of Learning? (8/15/26) - SC005

   What if students could start high school or college without immediately feeling like every grade defines their future? An ABC News article about the University of Michigan's approach to grading incoming freshmen (https://abcnews.com/GMA/News/university-michigan-grade-policy-freshmen-ahead-school-year/story?id=135548166) sparked this conversation between Chris Nesi and Dan Kreiness, but the discussion quickly becomes much bigger than one university. Grades are supposed to communicate learning. But what happens when students become more focused on earning the grade than actually learning? What happens when an A becomes the goal rather than evidence of what a student understands? Chris and Dan explore the connection between grades and student mental health, drawing from their own experiences as educators, parents, and former students. Dan shares what his own difficult transition into college was like and wonders whether a different grading approach might have changed some of his early college experience. Chris talks about students who become consumed by grades, and Dan talks about a memorable student who wanted to raise a 96 or 97 to a 100 because her parents had promised her something very specific: the opportunity to lease a horse. The conversation eventually moves from college to high school—and even elementary school. Could an approach like this help incoming ninth graders transition into a new academic environment? Could standards-based grading and rubrics help students understand where they stand without making the grade itself the center of the experience? And perhaps most importantly: Are students in our classrooms trying to learn—or are they just trying to earn? Chris and Dan aren't offering a definitive answer. They're asking you to join the conversation. Key Topics Discussed Examine the relationship between grades, motivation, and student mental health. Consider whether students sometimes become better at "playing the game of school" than actually learning. Explore how a credit/no-credit approach could change the first-semester experience for incoming students. Recognize why high-achieving students can experience significant academic pressure. Question whether traditional grades always communicate what a student has actually learned. Consider how similar ideas might apply to incoming ninth graders. Reflect on how parents can respond to grades without making grades the center of the conversation. Identify students who may be easy to overlook because they are neither struggling nor exceptional. Reconsider what "doing your best" means when evaluating student performance. Discuss whether K–12 schools should do more to address student mental health through grading and assessment. BIG Question Should there be more done at the K–12 level, like the University of Michigan policy, to support students' mental health as it relates to grading and assessment? Ways to Connect & Participate Website: thesatcast.com (https://thesatcast.com/) Email: hello@thesatcast.com (mailto:hello@thesatcast.com) Voicemail: thesatcast.com/voicemail (https://thesatcast.com/voicemail) Hashtag: #SatCast Social Media: BlueSky: @thesatcast.com (https://bsky.app/profile/thesatcast.com) X (Twitter): @satcastpodcast (https://x.com/satcastpodcast) Instagram: @thesatcast (https://www.instagram.com/thesatcast/) Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! SatCast is hosted on Captivate.fm - Host and launch your podcast today! This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free. (https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntzmody)

2. 

   1 Aug 2026

   Introducing Dr. Dan Kreiness and the Next Era of SatCast (8/1/26) - BONUS

   In this special bonus episode, Chris introduces Dr. Dan Kreiness as the new co-host of SatCast and discusses the podcast's future direction. Together, they reflect on the importance of educator community, collaboration, and lifelong learning while inviting listeners to become active contributors through questions, stories, emails, and voicemail. This episode sets the stage for the official relaunch of SatCast at the beginning of the 2026–2027 school year. Key Topics Discussed Chris announces Dan Kreiness as the new co-host of SatCast. Dan shares his background as a classroom teacher, administrator, instructional coach, and educational technology leader. The hosts discuss why the educator community matters now more than ever. A look back at the collaborative spirit of the early connected educator movement. Why today's educators need opportunities to learn from one another. How listeners will help shape future episodes. What to expect when regular episodes begin at the end of August. Mentioned in this Episode House of #EdTech (https://chrisnesi.com) Brisk Teaching (https://share.briskteaching.com/mQIFxcg) - Dan's Special Link! Ways to Connect & Participate Website: thesatcast.com (https://thesatcast.com/) Email: hello@thesatcast.com (mailto:hello@thesatcast.com) Voicemail: thesatcast.com/voicemail (https://thesatcast.com/voicemail) Hashtag: #SatCast Social Media: BlueSky: @thesatcast.com (https://bsky.app/profile/thesatcast.com) X (Twitter): @satcastpodcast (https://x.com/satcastpodcast) Instagram: @thesatcast (https://www.instagram.com/thesatcast/) Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! SatCast is hosted on Captivate.fm - Host and launch your podcast today! This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free. (https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntzmody)

3. 

   11 Apr 2026

   What Makes Learning Relevant for Students Today? (4/11/26) - SC004

   In Episode 4 of SatCast, Chris Nesi and Joe Dziuba tackle one of the most pressing questions in modern education: how do we make learning relevant for students in a world where information is instantly accessible? Building on their previous discussion about educator effectiveness, this episode dives into the challenge of connecting content to students’ real lives. Chris and Joe explore how relevance is not about changing what we teach, but how we teach it—through relationships, context, and intentional design. Featuring listener perspectives, the conversation emphasizes that relevance is the bridge between engagement and meaningful learning in today’s classrooms. Key Topics Discussed What “relevance” really means in today’s classrooms Why content alone is no longer enough Connecting curriculum to students’ real-world experiences The role of relationships in making learning meaningful Designing lessons that go beyond memorization The impact of technology on perceived relevance Balancing the required curriculum with student engagement Key Takeaways Relevance is about connection, not just content Students engage more when they see a real-world application Relationships are the gateway to meaningful learning Teachers must be intentional in designing experiences, not just delivering information Ways to Connect & Participate Website: thesatcast.com (https://thesatcast.com/) Email: hello@thesatcast.com (mailto:hello@thesatcast.com) Voicemail: thesatcast.com/voicemail (https://thesatcast.com/voicemail) Hashtag: #SatCast Social Media: BlueSky: @thesatcast.com (https://bsky.app/profile/thesatcast.com) X (Twitter): @satcastpodcast (https://x.com/satcastpodcast) Instagram: @thesatcast (https://www.instagram.com/thesatcast/) Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! SatCast is hosted on Captivate.fm - Host and launch your podcast today! This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free. (https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntzmody)

4. 

   14 Mar 2026

   What does it mean to be an effective educator? (3/14/26) - SC003

   In Episode 3 of SatCast, Chris Nesi and Joe Dzuiba move the conversation from community to a deeper question: what does it actually mean to be an effective educator today? Through a thoughtful discussion about relationships, intentional teaching, and the role of content in modern classrooms, Chris and Joe explore how effectiveness goes far beyond delivering information. Instead, it centers on care, deliberate instructional choices, and the ability to create learning environments where students feel valued and challenged. Key Topics Discussed Effectiveness Starts With Caring Joe argues that effective teaching begins with genuine care—about students, about content, and about the learning environment itself. Intentional Teaching Effective educators make deliberate decisions about the experiences they design for students. Relationships Matter Students are more willing to engage when they believe their teacher likes them and wants the best for them. Content Is Not the End Goal Both Chris and Joe acknowledge that most content is easily accessible today. The real goal is developing skills such as thinking, problem-solving, and communication. Learning Through Struggle Joe highlights that productive struggle—especially in subjects like math—is an important part of meaningful learning. Listener Voicemails Derek Larsen (https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=c84071398b66a2e1&sxsrf=ANbL-n6fuUHYMYBhenk6Pbc7L_hdy_l3VQ:1773282322420&q=lars3eb&nfpr=1&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjg9ae3p5mTAxUvKlkFHTeJMhcQvgUoAXoECA4QAg&biw=1920&bih=935&dpr=1)'s Perspective Derek reinforces the idea that connection is foundational. When students feel valued, they are more willing to try, persist, and engage. Question for Next Episode How do you make the content you teach relevant to students today? Share your thoughts by March 22, 2026 Ways to Connect & Participate Website: thesatcast.com (https://thesatcast.com/) Email: hello@thesatcast.com (mailto:hello@thesatcast.com) Voicemail: thesatcast.com/voicemail (https://thesatcast.com/voicemail) Hashtag: #SatCast Social Media: BlueSky: @thesatcast.com (https://bsky.app/profile/thesatcast.com) X (Twitter): @satcastpodcast (https://x.com/satcastpodcast) Instagram: @thesatcast (https://www.instagram.com/thesatcast/) Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! SatCast is hosted on Captivate.fm - Host and launch your podcast today! This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free. (https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntzmody)

5. 

   14 Feb 2026

   What Does Real Community Look Like in Education? (2/14/26) - SC002

   In Episode 2 of SatCast, Chris Nesi goes solo to continue the conversation around community in education. Building on the question introduced in Episode 1, Chris reflects on what real community looks like in today’s classrooms, schools, and professional spaces. From adding a “fifth C” of community in his classroom to exploring the role of belonging in schools, this episode centers on connection as a foundation for both student success and educator growth. Featuring a listener voicemail from Shivon Persad, the conversation expands into leadership, inclusion, and sustaining meaningful professional networks in a post-pandemic world. Key Topics Discussed Revisiting the Episode 1 community question Adding a fifth “C” — Community — to the traditional four C’s Why belonging and rapport matter in classrooms Community as a professional necessity for educators Listener voicemail from Shavon Persad (Assistant Principal, NJ) The role of administrators in fostering a school-wide community Moving from passive listening to active participation Listener Voicemails Shivon Persad - https://x.com/ShivanPersadEDU (https://x.com/ShivanPersadEDU) Elementary School Assistant Principal Member of the Edcamp organization team Advocate for belonging and inclusive school communities Question for Next Episode What does it mean to be an effective educator today, in 2026? Share your thoughts by February 22, 2026 Ways to Connect & Participate Website: thesatcast.com (https://thesatcast.com/) Email: hello@thesatcast.com (mailto:hello@thesatcast.com) Voicemail: thesatcast.com/voicemail (https://thesatcast.com/voicemail) Hashtag: #SatCast Social Media: BlueSky: @thesatcast.com (https://bsky.app/profile/thesatcast.com) X (Twitter): @satcastpodcast (https://x.com/satcastpodcast) Instagram: @thesatcast (https://www.instagram.com/thesatcast/) Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

6. 

   31 Jan 2026

   Rebuilding An Educator Community (1/31/26) - SC001

   In the inaugural episode of SatCast, Chris Nesi and Joe Dziuba introduce the show's purpose and the community they hope to build. Drawing on the legacy of educator Twitter chats like #satchat, Chris and Joe reflect on how digital connections in education have evolved since the pandemic. This episode lays the foundation for SatCast as a space for slower, more intentional dialogue, centered on a single guiding question per episode. You are invited to actively participate by sharing reflections, questions, and voicemails that will help shape future conversations, beginning with a powerful focus on community in education today. Key Topics Discussed The rise and impact of educator Twitter chats (2014–2020) How the pandemic reshaped professional connections in education Nostalgia vs. evolution: why SatCast isn’t a reboot, but a reimagining The importance of authentic, educator-led conversation Supporting both novice and veteran educators through shared voice Introducing the SatCast format: one question, community-driven dialogue Question for Next Episode What does community actually mean in today’s education spaces? And how do we know when we’re part of one—how do we find one, or even build one ourselves? Share your thoughts by: February 8, 2026 Ways to Connect & Participate Website: thesatcast.com (https://thesatcast.com/) Email: hello@thesatcast.com (mailto:hello@thesatcast.com) Voicemail: thesatcast.com/voicemail (https://thesatcast.com/voicemail) Hashtag: #SatCast Social Media: BlueSky: @thesatcast.com (https://bsky.app/profile/thesatcast.com) X (Twitter): @satcastpodcast (https://x.com/satcastpodcast) Instagram: @thesatcast (https://www.instagram.com/thesatcast/) Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

7. 

   17 Jan 2026

   SatCast - Trailer

   SatCast begins a new chapter by reimagining how educators connect, reflect, and share their voices in today’s world. Hosted by Chris Nesi and Joe Dziuba, this episode introduces the heart of SatCast: a slower, more intentional podcast built around one central question per episode, focused on teaching, leadership, learning, and life in education. Listeners are invited not just to listen, but to participate by sharing reflections, questions, and voicemails that help shape future conversations. SatCast isn’t about recreating what once was. It’s about building a meaningful educator community for where we are now. Ways to Connect & Participate Website: thesatcast.com (https://thesatcast.com/) Email: hello@thesatcast.com (mailto:hello@thesatcast.com) Voicemail: thesatcast.com/voicemail (https://thesatcast.com/voicemail) Hashtag: #SatCast Social Media: BlueSky: @thesatcast.com (https://bsky.app/profile/thesatcast.com) X (Twitter): @satcastpodcast (https://x.com/satcastpodcast) Instagram: @thesatcast (https://www.instagram.com/thesatcast/) Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings