Latest Episodes

Interviews

Ep 31 – New BTC Framework

In this episode, Kyle, Maegan, and Dean dig into the updated Building Thinking Classrooms framework recently shared by Peter Liljedahl.

Interviews

Ep 30 – Still Here

In this episode, Kyle, Maegan, and Dean pick up where they left off. Maegan shares her experience teaching EMTH 300 through the Gabriel Dumont Institute’s SUNTEP program, where working with soon-to-be teachers brought math trauma and misconceptions to the surface. Dean reflects on how reframing estimation as prediction has shifted his students’ willingness to take risks in the classroom, while Kyle shares where his thinking on assessment and navigation instruments has been heading. Together, the three dig into the vulnerability required to genuinely change your practice, the messy reality that it’s going to hurt before it feels good, and why the relationship a teacher has with math might matter just as much as what they know about it. Tune in for a wide-ranging conversation about identity, risk-taking, and what it really means to be a math teacher.

Interviews

Ep 29 – Behind the Books (Part 2)

In this episode, Dean returns to the host’s chair to welcome back Maegan and Kyle for the second half of their “Behind the Books” conversation, shifting the focus from the writing process to the messy reality of the classroom. Together, they contrast their unique creative styles from Kyle’s “procrastination-to-panic” sprint to Maegan’s marathon of task testing and open up about the vulnerability required to publish a static resource in an ever-evolving educational landscape. They discuss the feedback they have received and explore how teaching with intention can help alleviate math trauma. The conversation also dives into the power of storytelling to keep students engaged during dry curricular units, ensuring math acts as both a mirror and a window for learners, before concluding with reflections on how student solutions often surprised both and why the ultimate goal is teaching students that life, unlike a textbook answer key, is often “messy and gray.”

Interviews

Ep 28 – Behind the Books (Part 1)

In this episode, part one of two, Dean takes the host’s chair to interview Maegan and Kyle, who have both recently co-authored books in the Building Thinking Classrooms series with Peter Liljedahl. They discuss the release of the new Building Thinking Classrooms Tasks in Mathematics, Grades 6-12 book and how it complements Maegan’s previously released Building Thinking Classrooms Tasks in Mathematics, Grades K-5. Together, the group explores the process of selecting tasks, the importance of thin-slicing, and why the pedagogical research found in the rest of the book is just as critical as the tasks themselves. They also open up about the vulnerability required to write these resources, including the realization that even experienced teachers often need to relearn math concepts to teach them effectively. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at creating these resources and how they can support your journey in the classroom.

Interviews

Ep 27 – Jason To

In this episode, Kyle welcomes Jason To, Math Coordinator for the Toronto District School Board. Together, they address the ongoing debate between inquiry-based learning and explicit instruction. Jason shares his journey into the world of cognitive science, exploring how concepts like cognitive load theory and collective working memory may actually help explain why the Building Thinking Classrooms framework is effective. They also discuss common misunderstandings from both “sides” of the debate, the practical plateaus teachers often face, and the critical need for teacher content knowledge. Tune in for a conversation that moves beyond pedagogical labels and focuses on what’s truly important: making sure students are not only engaged, but are also learning.

Interviews

Ep 26 – Chase Orton

In this episode, Kyle and Dean welcome Chase Orton, author of The Imperfect and Unfinished Math Teacher. Together, they dive into the core themes from Chase’s book, exploring the power of vulnerability and what it means to be an “imperfect and unfinished” teacher. They discuss the importance of interrogating our own math story and breaking free from the traditional “script” that so many teachers inherit from their time as students. They also tackle the common belief that the purpose of math is just to prepare for next year’s math class and how this leads to an unhealthy blame game between grade levels. Tune in for a deep conversation about pedagogy, teacher identity, and why the most valuable professional development might just be in the classroom next door.

Interviews

Ep 25 – The Messy Reality

In this episode, Maegan, Dean, and Kyle get real about their day-to-day journeys with Building Thinking Classrooms. Together, they pull back the curtain to share the “messy reality”: the highs, the lows, and the everyday challenges that don’t always make the highlight reel. They discuss the universal struggle of getting students to stand, managing complex classroom dynamics with learners from kindergarten to high school, and navigating logistical hurdles like 30-minute class periods. They also celebrate the profound wins that keep them going: the power of math journals, the joy of seeing unexpected students thrive, and the beautiful moments when a classroom truly becomes a community. Tune in for an honest and relatable conversation about why the journey is worth the effort, even when it’s not perfect.

Interviews

Ep 24 – Vanessa Vakharia

In this episode, Kyle, Maegan, and Dean welcome Vanessa Vakharia, aka The Math Guru and author of Math Therapy. Together, they unpack the deep-seated issue of math trauma and how the Building Thinking Classrooms approach helps us deal with it.

Interviews

Ep 23 – We’re Back… Again! (and We’re Sorry!)

After a longer-than-planned break, Kyle, Maegan, and Dean are back! In this candid episode, the trio addresses their podcast hiatus and shares their excitement to reconnect with the community. Dean and Maegan dive into powerful stories from their first day back in the classroom, while Kyle reflects on his role in professional development and his passion for getting back into classrooms to learn from other teachers. They discuss how they get students into a state of flow, the importance of small wins, and their goals for the year, including improving assessment and fostering numerical flexibility. Tune in to hear about their on-the-ground experiences and get a preview of what’s to come this season.

Interviews

Ep 22 – Tammy McMorrow

In this episode, Kyle and Maegan welcome Tammy McMorrow (@TammyMcMorrow / @tammymcmorrow.bsky.social) to discuss her experiences with Building Thinking Classrooms. Tammy shares her journey from discovering the transformative BTC approach in 2021 to implementing it with her first-grade students in Idaho. She talks about the impact of creating a Thinking Classroom including the surprising gains her students have made as mathematicians. The conversation addresses the challenges of managing young learners, adapting BTC practices for primary grades, and the importance of embracing the messy and magical aspects of teaching. Tammy also shares her insights on the thin-slicing technique, the importance of trust in students, and how BTC has changed her approach to student engagement. Listeners will also hear about Tammy’s podcast, Little Minds Big Thinkers, where she shares stories from her classroom and interviews with fellow educators.

Interviews

Ep 21 – Peter Liljedahl

In this episode, Kyle, Maegan, and Dean welcome back Dr. Peter Liljedahl to discuss his ongoing work and insights in Building Thinking Classrooms. Together, they delve into a range of topics like the recent BTC conference, various strategies for using banners and partitioning student workspaces, and the evolving nature of the Thinking Classrooms practices. Tune in to also hear about the importance of student self-efficacy, identity in math, and the effects of math trauma. Peter highlights ongoing research, shares effective teacher practices, and offers valuable recommendations for further reading and professional development.

Interviews

Ep 20 – We’re Back!

After a bit of a break from the podcast, we’re back with a new episode (and more to come)! In this episode, Dean, Maegan, and Kyle reintroduce themselves and share updates on their current roles and endeavors. They delve into their experiences with the Thinking Classroom model across various grade levels, discussing both the successes and challenges they’ve encountered. Maegan highlights her work with younger students and her focus on enriching mathematical experience, while Dean shares his high school teaching journey, emphasizing innovative assessment strategies. Kyle reflects on his new role focused on facilitating BTC professional development and the importance of staying connected to classroom realities. They also share highlights and takeaways from their recent participation in the Building Thinking Classrooms conference in Phoenix, which brought together passionate educators and offered valuable insights.

Interviews

Ep 19 – HS Student Insights

In this episode, Kyle and Dean have a conversation with three of Dean’s students about their experiences in his Thinking Classroom. Recorded just before the end of the last school year, the students share how this approach to learning math has transformed their perspectives and engagement. They discuss the social and collaborative benefits of Thinking Classrooms, how it has helped them overcome challenges, and the inclusive environment it fosters. Listen in to hear firsthand accounts of how the Thinking Classroom practices make significant impacts on our students’ educational journeys.

Interviews

Ep 18 – Alicia Burdess

In this episode, Maegan and Kyle are delighted to welcome Alicia Burdess (@BurdessAlicia), a math coach and numeracy lead from Grand Prairie Catholic School District. Alicia shares her inspiring journey from aspiring sports doctor to a passionate math educator and leader. She discusses her deep love of Building Thinking Classrooms and how it transformed her teaching approach. Alicia passionately talks about the power of ‘big, beautiful problems’ in mathematics education and how they can engage students of all ages. She also shares insights from her experience running math camps and the joy of connecting math concepts with children’s literature. Alicia also gives us a glimpse into her self-published children’s book, ‘The Dragon Curve,’ and its magical approach to teaching fractals. Tune in for an episode filled with enthusiasm, innovative teaching strategies, and a celebration of joyful learning in math.

Interviews

Ep 17 – Peter & Maegan’s K-5 Task Book

Join Kyle and Dean as they engage in a lively conversation with Peter Liljedahl and Maegan Giroux about the newest addition to the world of Building Thinking Classrooms: Mathematics Tasks for the Thinking Classroom, Grades K-5. This book is specially crafted for K-5 educators and goes beyond being just a collection of tasks. It encapsulates years of research and classroom experience from the Thinking Classrooms approach, providing a comprehensive guide that combines effective pedagogy with engaging tasks to ignite student thinking.

Interviews

Ep 16 – Jerrold Wiebe

In this episode, Kyle and Dean chat with Jerrold Wiebe (@Jerroldwiebe), a Numeracy & Mathematics Consultant and a part of the Building Thinking Classrooms Canadian team.

Interviews

Ep 15 – Judy Larsen

In this episode, Kyle has a conversation with Judy Larson (@JudytaLarsen), Associate Professor at University of Fraser Valley and longtime Building Thinking Classrooms teacher.

Interviews

Ep 14 – Sophie Bresciani

In this episode, we take you back to a pivotal conversation from 2022 between Kyle, Dean, and the Sophie Bresciani (@soph_bresciani), a champion of trauma-informed teaching and Thinking Classrooms. Sophie offers deep insights into creating classroom environments that are not only safe and supportive but also nurturing, paving the way for holistic student development.

Interviews

Ep 13 – Tim Brzezinski & Melisa McCain

Join hosts Dean and Kyle as they chat with Tim Brzezinski (@TimBrzezinski) and Melisa McCain (@mccainm), advocates for Building Thinking Classrooms and improving assessment practices. Their conversation is focused on a grading tool, crafted by Tim, Melisa, and their colleagues. This tool, deeply rooted in the principles of Building Thinking Classrooms, provides teachers a tool to actualize the assessment practices laid out by Peter Liljedahl around student assessment.

Interviews

Ep 12 – Brian Jackson

In this episode, hosts Kyle and Dean have a conversation with Brian Jackson. With over three decades of teaching experience, Brian offers unique insights into the transformative power of the Thinking Classrooms methodology.

Interviews

Ep 10 – The Art of the Close

Join Kyle, Dean, and Maegan as they share the latest insights gleaned from Peter Liljedahl on the new ideas taking hold in Thinking Classrooms.

Interviews

Ep 9 – Lana Steiner

In this episode of the podcast, Kyle and Dean are joined by Lana Steiner (@LanaSteiner4), a math teacher, coach, and administrator from Saskatchewan.

Interviews

Ep 8 – Back to School

Join Kyle, Dean, and Maegan as they candidly discuss the early days of the school year in Building Thinking Classrooms. They share their experiences and provide insights for educators at any stage of their journey into this innovative teaching approach.

Interviews

Ep 7 – 4R’s of Decolonizing Math Ed

Join Kyle as he sits down with Maegan for an enlightening discussion on mathematics education through the lens of decolonization. In this episode, Maegan unveils her 4R’s of Decolonizing Mathematics Education: Respect, Responsibility, Relevance, and Reciprocity.

Interviews

Ep 6 – The Students Have Their Say

It’s summer break for us and in this episode, we take a different direction by revisiting and resharing a recording from our previous podcast. Listen in as we talk directly to students in Thinking Classrooms from a few of our schools. You’ll hear from students in a wide range of grades as they share how math has been different this year, what they’ve liked and disliked, and what they hope for the future of math class. Enjoy!

Interviews

Ep 5 – Peter Liljedahl

In this episode, Dean, Maegan and Kyle interview Peter Liljedahl (@pgliljedahl), author of Building Thinking Classrooms and lead researcher behind the transformational teaching practices.

Interviews

Ep 4 – Lisa Eberharter

In this episode, Kyle and Dean are joined by Lisa Eberharter (@lisaebe), a Curriculum Consultant with Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Education. They discuss the intersection of Building Thinking Classrooms and multiple representations in math class. The conversation highlights the importance of the concrete-pictorial-symbolic continuum (sometimes called concrete-representational-abstract) and ways to integrate more manipulatives and concrete representations into math class to enhance student understanding.

Book Club

Ch 4 – How We Arrange Our Classrooms

Join Kyle and Maegan as they dive into Chapter 4 from Building Thinking Classrooms by Peter Liljedahl. They discuss why how we arrange our classroom matters and what defronting our classroom is all about. They also provide some ideas on how you might tackle this practice in your classroom.

Book Club

Ch 3 – Where Students Work

Join Kyle and Maegan as they dive into Chapter 3 from Building Thinking Classrooms by Peter Liljedahl. We discuss why where we have students work matters, how implementing vertical non-permanent surfaces (VNPS) can promote student engagement, thinking, collaboration, and reduce anonymity. Throughout the conversation, they provide valuable insights and practical tips for maximizing the benefits of VNPS in the classroom setting.

Interviews

Ep 2 – Gale Russell

Kyle and Dean are joined by Dr. Gale Russell (@GaleForcedWinds), a professor of Mathematics Education at the University of Regina. Gale shares her insights on building a Thinking Classroom and how Peter Liljedahl’s work has influenced her teaching of pre-service teachers. She also talks about the importance of creating a safe and inclusive learning environment for students.

Book Club

Ch 2 – How We Form Collaborative Groups

Join Kyle and Maegan as they dive into Chapter 2 from Building Thinking Classrooms by Peter Liljedahl. We discuss why the way we form groups matters, how to form frequent visibly random groups, and share some of the benefits of structuring groups this way.

Book Club

Ch 1 – Tasks in Thinking Classrooms

Join Kyle and Maegan as they dive into Chapter 1 from Building Thinking Classrooms by Peter Liljedahl. We discuss why tasks matter, the characteristics of good tasks, and share some of our favorite tasks with you.

Book Club

Ch 0 – Introduction to Building Thinking Classrooms

Join Kyle and Maegan as they explore the Introduction chapter from Building Thinking Classrooms by Peter Liljedahl. We discuss how this introduction sets the stage for the rest of the book by introducing the “studenting” behaviors and looks at how little thinking is actually happening in traditional math classrooms.

Interviews

Ep 1 – Jared Sliger

In this episode, Dean, Maegan and Kyle interview Jared Sliger (@jared_sliger), a middle school math teacher who teaches in Caldwell School Districts in Idaho.

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