In this solo episode, Gerardo processes the shooting death of right wing influencer Charlie Kirk by exploring the hidden dangers of teaching debate the traditional way. Drawing on previously published writing that draws a line between traditional debate and the “own-the-libs” take-no-prisoners style of Kirk, Ben Shapiro, Jordan Peterson and others, as well as personal experience as a debate coach, he argues that when debate rewards domination over empathy, it doesn’t just distort classrooms—it fuels toxic politics and real-world violence.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | Amazon Music | RSS

In this episode of Too Dope Teachers and a Mic, Gerardo is joined by Sahba Rohani, Executive Director of Roots Connected, to dive into what it means to center belonging in schools. From her TED Talk on the power of names to her decades of work in intentionally diverse communities, Sahba shares how small shifts in mindset and practice can transform classrooms, staff culture, and whole school communities. Together, Gerardo and Sahba unpack anti-bias education as more than a curriculum add-on—it’s a lens, a practice, and a path toward joy and justice.

Show Notes

In this powerful conversation, Gerardo and Sahba explore:

• The story behind Sahba’s TED Talk on names, identity, and belonging.
• Why belonging isn’t “soft work”—it’s the foundation of learning and thriving.
• How small shifts in practice (like reframing a simple classroom question) can have big impact.
• Roots Connected’s dual process for change: internal transformation + practice shifts.
• Building intentional community with students, families, and staff.
• Staying grounded and persistent in the face of DEI pushback.
• The radical power of joy in justice-centered education.
• And of course… Sahba’s Top 5 hip hop & R&B legends (spoiler: GenX R&B family, this one’s for you).

Resources & Links:

• Roots Connected
• Sahba’s TED Talk
• EmbraceRace

Follow Roots Connected on Instagram and LinkedIn

Listen in for practical takeaways, mindset shifts, and a reminder that joy itself is radical.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | Amazon Music | RSS