That's the IDEA Podcast
Illinois educators have important stories to tell.
Help Shape the Future of the
That’s the IDEA! Podcast!
The That’s the IDEA! podcast is evolving into a community-powered, volunteer-led experience—created with educators, for educators. Help shape the future of That’s the IDEA! and continue the great tradition established by Don and Stefanie, whose voices, vision, and dedication brought meaningful conversations to educators across the IDEA community.
At the heart of this next chapter is a commitment to center and elevate the voices of IDEA members and educators throughout Illinois. The podcast will provide a platform for educators to share their experiences, expertise, challenges, and successes—highlighting the innovative work happening in classrooms, schools, districts, and communities across our state.
Through authentic conversations and diverse perspectives, episodes will help educators and be branded, connect through shared experiences, grow through new ideas and professional learning, share their knowledge and stories, and inspire meaningful change in teaching and learning.
Have you wanted to be a podcaster? Join the IDEA Podcast team.
Community members can also help by recommending guests, suggesting topics, sharing stories, joining conversations, or supporting the creation and promotion of future episodes. Participate regularly or contribute when a particular subject connects with your experience and interests.
Together, we can make That’s the IDEA! a platform that reflects the people, possibilities, and powerful work shaping education today.
Have a story, perspective, or idea others need to hear? Help us create what’s next for That’s the IDEA!
Past Episodes
Don and Stefanie on Connection, Community, and Showing Up
In this special episode of That’s the IDEA, Don and Stefanie take time to reflect as they record their final episode together. Along the way, they dive into a conversation that feels simple on the surface but runs much deeper: the value of in person learning.
From the lasting impact of Edcamps and conferences to the reality of time, energy, and funding challenges, they explore what actually motivates educators to show up, connect, and grow. You’ll hear honest reflections on professional learning, the power of relationships, and why sometimes even one meaningful conversation can make all the difference.
It’s a thoughtful, real, and at times lighthearted conversation about connection, change, and what comes next.
So whether you’re thinking about your next professional learning experience or just reflecting on your own journey, this episode is one to sit with.
After all, sometimes the best ideas start with simply showing up.
Sitting Down with Dr. Sawsan Jaber
Join Don and Stefanie as they sit down with Dr. Sawsan Jaber for a powerful conversation about student voice, identity, and what it truly means to create human-centered classrooms. From her journey in education to the ideas behind Pedagogies of Voice, she challenges us to rethink how we build community, honor lived experiences, and use inquiry to transform learning. This is one of those conversations that stays with you.
April 8, 2026 | 39 min 54 sec
Sitting Down with Stefanie Pitzer
In this episode, Don Sturm and Stefanie Crawford talk with Stefanie Pitzer, 2025 IDEA Administrator Educator of the Year, about building a culture of readers through simple, powerful moves like lunch read alouds and a virtual family book club. Expect practical takeaways, relationship-driven leadership, the importance of embracing what makes you “extra,” and a few laughs along the way because learning should come with some joy.
March 4, 2026 40 min 39 sec
