In this episode of Bold Women Collective Backstory, Jolene Levin sits down with Ann Kozma, Education Evangelist at Adobe, for an energizing conversation about edtech, creativity, and empowering every student voice. With over 25 years in education — from first-grade teacher to innovation leader — Ann shares how her journey has been rooted in one mission: helping educators and students step into confidence through creativity and connection. Together, they explore what happens when educators let go of perfection and embrace experimentation — and why Ann’s mantra, “push all the buttons,” is the key to unlocking innovation in today’s classrooms. What you’ll learn: Why student voice is essential to meaningful learningHow creativity builds confidence beyond the classroomThe mindset shift educators need to embrace technologyWhy “push all the buttons” leads to growth and innovationHow empowering teachers transforms entire learning communities Ann’s message is clear: when educators feel safe to explore, students feel empowered to create — and that’s where real learning begins. If you’re an educator, leader, or innovator ready to rethink what’s possible, this episode will inspire you to lead with curiosity, courage, and connection.
Listen +
In this episode of Bold Women Collective Backstory, Jolene Levin speaks with Kim Collins, Director of Curriculum at IMSE, about literacy, leadership, and the science of reading. Kim shares her journey from classroom teacher to curriculum leader and how working with struggling readers shaped her mission to improve how reading is taught in schools. They discuss why literacy is the foundation for all learning, the challenges students face when learning to read, and how better teacher training can transform outcomes for children.
In this episode:
Listen +
In this episode of Bold Women Collective Backstory, Jolene Levin reconnects with Shaream Moneak — leadership style coach, and author of The Professional M.O.D.E.L.Travel Manual: Style & Success for Women Leaders on the Move — for an energizing conversation about confidence, leadership presence, and building a legacy from the inside out. Shaream shares the mindset framework she uses to help women leaders own their presence — whether they’re stepping onto a stage, into a boardroom, or navigating the demands of leadership and travel. Together, they explore why inner character fuels outer confidence, how boundaries protect your energy, and what it truly means to lead with authenticity and intention. What you’ll learn: How mindset shapes executive presenceWhy confidence begins internally — not externallyThe importance of protecting your energy as a leaderPractical strategies for showing up prepared and poisedHow to lead in a way that builds lasting legacy If you’re a woman leader ready to show up boldly and lead with clarity, this episode will inspire you to own the room — without losing yourself in the process. Follow Bold Women Collective on Spotify for weekly conversations amplifying women shaping the future of leadership, education, and impact.
Listen +
In this episode of Bold Women Collective Backstory, Jolene Levin sat down with Janice Wintermyer, Learning Consultant at Canva Education, for this episode of Bold Women Collective Backstory. Janice’s journey — from middle school ELA teacher in her hometown district to supporting educators across the globe — is rooted in one powerful belief: when teachers feel confident, students become empowered creators. They discussed: • Building trust as the foundation for innovation • Supporting educators through rapid change and uncertainty • Navigating AI with intention and ethics • Protecting space for creativity in a test-driven culture • Preparing students with the confidence and adaptability they’ll need beyond the classroom What stood out most? Janice’s legacy focus. Not tools. Not trends. But empowerment. Because creativity builds confidence — and confidence changes futures. If you’re leading in education, navigating AI integration, or passionate about helping students thrive, this conversation is worth your time.
Listen +
In this episode of Bold Women Collective Backstory, Dr. Geri Gillespy shares her journey from classroom teacher to Microsoft education leader — and the bold choices that shaped her 30-year career. From being the only girl in her high school coding class to leading in the age of AI, Geri’s path is rooted in courage, growth, and lifting others along the way. But the mic-drop moment? Her daughter — after facing social anxiety and a lupus diagnosis — reframed a quote on the wall: “You’re not the author of your story — you’re the editor.” And honestly… that changes everything. We talk leadership, resilience, raising strong kids, and rewriting the narrative when life throws curveballs.
Listen +
In this episode of Bold Women Collective Backstory, Jolene Levin sits down with Erica Ramos, Director of Pupil Services at Brown Deer School District, to talk inclusion inside the classroom, leading with authenticity, and why collaboration changes everything. From growing up bilingual to becoming a district leader and doctoral candidate, Erica reminds us that our voice, culture, and passion are strengths—not something to tone down.
Listen +
In this episode of Bold Women Collective Backstory, host Jolene Levin sits down with Dr. Jenny Nash, Head of Education Impact, US, LEGO® Education, to explore educator confidence and experiential learning. Jenny shares her journey from rural West Virginia classrooms to global education leadership, and why confidence—not cost—is often the biggest barrier educators face. Together, they discuss how hands-on STEM learning, thoughtful professional support, and age-appropriate computer science and AI help teachers innovate without adding “one more thing.” This episode is a reminder that when educators are empowered, students are free to explore, create, and go further than imagined.
Listen +
Parallel Purpose explores what sustainable leadership really looks like. In this episode of Bold Women Collective Backstory, host Jolene Levin sits down with Johari Mitchell to discuss leading with intention, navigating career pivots, and creating impact without burnout. Johari shares her journey across multiple leadership roles and introduces the concept of parallel purpose—the idea that the most effective leaders grow themselves while serving others. Through candid reflection and practical insight, this conversation challenges traditional leadership narratives and offers a refreshing perspective on purpose, longevity, and influence.
Listen +
In the BWC Backstory, Dr. Deb Kerr sits down with a bold mother–daughter duo—Jerri Kemble and Hannah Mick—for a candid conversation on leadership, legacy, and refusing to shrink.
Listen +
This conversation features an inspiring conversation with Melissa Shaffer, Director of Special Education at Central Cambria School District. We talk about what it truly means to lead with empathy, support educators, and build inclusive systems that serve every student. A meaningful listen for anyone in education or leadership.
Listen +
In this episode of Bold Women Collective Backstory, host Jolene Levin speaks with Dr. Rachel Moya, CEO and Founder of Scale Strategies, Inc., shares her unexpected path into education policy and entrepreneurship, what it means to “have it all” in seasons, and why designing your life with intention—and confidence—matters.
Listen +
In this episode of Bold Women Collective Backstory, host Jolene Levin speaks with Kristen Brooks, educational technology consultant and founder of Kristen Brooks for Edu, about leadership, creativity, and confidence in education. Kristen shares her journey from classroom teacher to edtech pioneer, the mentors who shaped her path, and why giving students and educators permission to experiment, fail, and grow transforms learning environments. 🎧 A powerful reminder that your voice—and how you use it—can shape the future of education.
Listen +
In this inspiring episode, host Jolene Levin sits down with Tabitha Branum, Superintendent of Richardson ISD, to explore her journey from an Air Force childhood abroad to becoming a leader grounded in purpose, heart, and unwavering care for her community. Tabitha shares how mentors shaped her path, how she stays centered while carrying the responsibility of 37,000 students, and why giving ourselves grace—both as leaders and as humans—is essential to staying connected to our "why." A warm, uplifting conversation that reminds us of the power of showing up with intention, compassion, and courage.
Listen +
This week's BWC Backstory is all heart. Jolene Levin sits down with Deb O'Riley to talk educator voice, learning spaces, and the environments where kids truly thrive. A powerful, purpose-filled listen.
Listen +
Darlene Akers chats with Hila Stern of @HSBARC in this BWC Backstory — a quick, inspiring look at how she found her way into educational design and how neuroscience is shaking up today's learning spaces.
Listen +
Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket — Blue Ribbon principal, boundary-setter, and powerhouse school leader — digs into what bold, heart-first leadership really looks like in today's schools. Quick hits: a fresh take on honest, human leadership; building true belonging for every learner; mentoring women through balance and boundaries; leading with courage, clarity, and unstoppable heart.
Listen +
Architect. Advocate. Trailblazer. On the latest BWC Backstory Podcast, Kelsey Jordan of Legat Architects shares how honesty, empathy, and purpose guide her work designing spaces where every learner can thrive. Because when we design with heart, we build more than schools — we build futures filled with peace and possibility.
Listen +
When Karyn Richmond followed her passion for occupational therapy, she never imagined it would lead to transforming how an entire district approaches wellness. On the Bold Woman Collective Backstory podcast, Jolene Levin talks with Karyn about turning compassion into measurable impact — proving that when people thrive, so does the organization.
Listen +
On the BWC Backstory podcast, Darlene Akers of Akers Business Solutions chats with Nora Fenlon, the Chief Commercial Officer at Via Seating, about how one life-changing "seat" sparked a passion for wellness, innovation, and inclusion. From Ireland to America, from finance to furniture, Nora Fenlon turned curiosity into courage and movement into mission.
Listen +
On the BWC Backstory podcast, Jolene Levin chats with Dr. Christina Counts of MiEN Company and Kate Forcucci of PD by MiEN about turning curiosity into courage and passion into purpose. Together, they share how they reimagine learning, build connections, and lead with heart and resilience.
Listen +
On the BWC Backstory podcast, Darlene Akers talks with Heidi Grinde, Director of Category Management at Global Industrial, about her fearless path from pharma to industry leadership. Recorded live at NeoCon, Heidi shares how she turns vision into results, builds trusted teams, breaks barriers, and leads boldly — proving that true leadership starts when you stop asking and start doing.
Listen +
On the BWC Backstory podcast, Jolene Levine sits down with Heather Durkac, Chief Innovation Officer at Gaggle, to uncover her inspiring professional journey. She shares how her path prepared her to: Embrace tenacity by stepping into roles and challenges others avoided Transform problems into opportunities through training, process, and innovation Advocate for herself by creating her own pathways to leadership Lead with humility, gratitude, and a focus on the journey, not just the destination With resilience, curiosity, and a commitment to saying "yes" even when uncertain, Heather shows how bold choices and persistence can shape a career of lasting impact.
Listen +
Join Jolene Levin and Dr. Deb Kerr on the BWC Backstory Podcast as they sit down with Dr. Atiya Perkins, Superintendent of Linden Public Schools, to share her inspiring journey from substitute teacher to leading the very district where she once studied. She reflects on how her path prepared her to: Stay grounded in the community by leading in the place that shaped her life Build diverse, unified schools where every student's voice matters Elevate her team by bringing colleagues into spaces of growth and connection Lead with authenticity, humility, and a belief that leadership is never a solo journey with resilience, gratitude, and a commitment to empowering others, Dr. Perkins shows how bold leadership can transform not only schools, but entire communities. Recorded live at Leadhership Network for Women Conference 2025
Listen +
On the BWC Backstory podcast, Jolene Levin sits down with Christa Samaras — former Princeton lacrosse star, USA National Team player, entrepreneur, and founder of Brave Enterprises. Christa shares how her journey prepared her to: Transform setbacks into resilience and growthUse curiosity as a powerful hack to braveryTeach honesty with self as the foundation of confidenceBuild programs that turn fear into fuel for action with grit, energy, and authenticity, Christa demonstrates how curiosity in your career can unlock confidence and create an extraordinary impact.
Listen +
On the BWC Backstory podcast Darlene Akers, along with cohosts Dr. Deb Kerr and Jolene Levin, sits down with Cheryl Durst, EVP & CEO of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), to uncover her remarkable leadership journey. She shares how her path prepared her to: Bring the power of storytelling and words into design Elevate education and access as central to her work Lead with authenticity, transparency, and resilience Inspire joy, curiosity, and listening as essential skills With vision, courage, and a lifelong love of learning, Cheryl shows how saying "yes" to opportunities can shape a legacy of impact. Recorded following EDmarket's BWC live virtual event.
Listen +
MORE EPISODES +
.jpg)
