Best The Arkin Group Podcasts (2025)

1
Uncovering Deep Cover 14:36

2M ago14:36

14:36

In late May, a New York Times investigation revealed that Russia was churning out deep cover operatives from Brazil for years until a CIA tip and sharp Brazilian policework led to their capture and escape. But what exactly is “deep cover” and when and how is it best used? On this episode of Straight from the Shoulder, Jack and Julia chat to uncover…

1
Warning Signals 14:58

5M ago14:58

14:58

In this episode, Jack and Julia discuss the US officials' Signal chat group debacle and why Jack thinks that there’s value in formality when it comes to government decision-making. Tune in for unique insights on: How government decisions of import typically get made, and what, if anything, is different about this Signal conversation. The evolution …

1
Terrorism: Then and Now/Home and Abroad 36:39

7M ago36:39

36:39

2025 began with a tragic, ISIS-inspired terrorist attack in New Orleans that serves as a disturbing reminder of the enduring terrorism threat both at home and abroad. Join Jack and Julia as we discuss the evolution of terrorism over the past several decades, and what we should be watching out for today. On this episode, we’ll consider: How the thre…

1
93. Empowered Reflections: Celebrating 2024 37:34

8M ago37:34

37:34

In this episode, Elin and Christina reflect on their accomplishments in 2024, personally and professionally. They discuss the importance of aligning their work with their values, the challenges faced in the education system, and their goals for 2025. The conversation emphasizes the need for reflection, the value of coaching in education, and the im…

1
92. The Importance of a Supportive Admin Team with guest Marisol Arkin 51:57

9M ago51:57

51:57

In this episode of the Empowered Educational Conversations podcast, Elin and Christina welcome Marisol Arkin, who shares her educational journey, influences, and experiences as an administrator. The conversation delves into the importance of self-care, equitable educational practices, and the challenges faced in leadership roles. Marisol reflects o…

1
Before the Handoff: What to Expect Leading Up to the Presidential Inauguration 29:54

9M ago29:54

29:54

In the immediate aftermath of the 2024 US elections, global leaders are recalibrating their political strategies and vying for President Trump’s good favor. But what can we expect over the course of the next two months before Trump takes office, and what’s the broader outlook for global stability? Join Jack and Julia for a discussion about how Pres…

1
A Sprawling Web of War and Peace 20:00

9M ago20:00

20:00

On the cusp of the 2024 US presidential election, only one thing looks certain: the next US president is going to inherit two major ongoing wars in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. And right now, these wars appear to be expanding, not shrinking. Join Jack and Julia for a thoughtful discussion about these ongoing conflicts and what their outcome …

1
91. We have an important update! 28:00

10M ago28:00

28:00

In this episode of the Empowered Educational Conversations podcast, hosts Christina and Elin reflect on their personal and professional lives as educators. They discuss the importance of mental health, the challenges of balancing multiple roles, and the evolution of their podcast and consulting business. The conversation emphasizes the need for sel…

1
90. Top of Mind Catch Up Session 34:02

11M ago34:02

34:02

In this episode of the Empowered Educational Conversations podcast, hosts Elin and Christina reflect on their experiences as educators, discussing the challenges and insights gained from the new school year. They share their thoughts on teaching as adjunct professors, the importance of supporting new counselors, and the reflections that come with b…

1
89. Collectivity and Solidarity in Education with guest Dr. Whitneé L. Garrett-Walker 1:06:00

11M ago1:06:00

1:06:00

In this episode, Elin and Christina welcome back Dr. Whitneé L. Garrett-Walker, the Assistant Dean of Credentialing and Partnerships in the School of Education. Dr. Garrett-Walker is a Black, Indigenous (Natchitoches Tribe of Louisiana) and Queer educator with extensive experience in public education, having served as a teacher, instructional coach…

1
88. Embracing the New School Year with Purpose and Vision 33:42

12M ago33:42

33:42

In this episode, Elin and Christina discuss their roles in education and reflect on their first days as educators. They share how their perspectives on education have evolved over the years and offer advice to their younger selves. They emphasize the importance of setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and not letting work define their identit…

1
87. Knowing your Values is KEY in leadership REPLAY 37:21

1y ago37:21

37:21

As Elin and Christina are on a much-needed summer break, they bring you a replay from the vault. Recorded in 2022, but still very relevant content. Listen in as they talk about why values are KEY in transformational leadership. New episodes will be back in August! ___⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy our Planner: The Power of Reflection⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠…

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86. Admin Retreats Lead to Stronger Bonds REPLAY 1:00:08

1y ago1:00:08

1:00:08

As Elin and Christina are on summer break, an oldie but goodie is our replay for today. Listen in as they talk about admin retreats. ___⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy our Planner: The Power of Reflection⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Work with Us! Book a consultation call hereFollow us on: Instagram: @elinandchristina Facebook: Empowered Conversations …

1
Announcing our Summer Break and Upcoming Plans 4:38

1y ago4:38

4:38

Elin and Christina are taking a break for the summer. They will be back with new episodes in August. Listen in as Elin reflects on what this break means for her and the encouraging words she has for School Leaders.

1
Acts of Betrayal, Part One: Hearts and Minds 36:01

1y ago36:01

36:01

Betrayal is a complicated act of “deliberate disloyalty” that can shock and unravel the fabric of any relationship. But when an intelligence officer is caught working for the other side, the damage is amplified - shattering the hard-won trust among colleagues and spy agencies that’s essential to doing effective intelligence work. The reasons why an…

1
85. How Admin Experience Influences Coaching with guest Ariana Valencia 47:30

1y ago47:30

47:30

In this episode Elin and Christina welcome back our guest, Ariana Valencia. Ariana is a first-generation Latina educator with a strong background in dual language instruction and educational leadership. She holds bachelor's degrees from UC Davis and a Master's from Loyola Marymount University. Ariana has held diverse roles in education, including d…

1
84. From TSA to Teaching Abroad with guest Nichole Morales 49:11

1y ago49:11

49:11

In this episode, Elin and Christina are honored to welcome Nichole Morales, a dedicated science educator with an impressive nine years of teaching experience. Nichole holds a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from The University of Georgia, a Master of Teaching in Urban Education from Loyola Marymount University, and an Educational Specialist deg…

1
83. When "duties as assigned" are way too misaligned. 50:53

1y ago50:53

50:53

In this episode, Elin and Christina dive into the challenges Teachers/Counselors on Special Assignment (TOSA/COSA) face when assigned tasks outside their job descriptions. TOSAs/COSAs, essential for student achievement and teacher development, often get bogged down with administrative duties, leading to burnout and frustration. --- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠…

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82. The Global Counselor: Stories from International Schools with guest Kenneth Ronquillo @thegayschoolcounselor 50:53

1+ y ago50:53

50:53

In this episode, Elin and Christina talk with Kenneth Ronquillo, a high school counselor at an international school in Mexico and soon-to-be Japan! Known as @TheGaySchoolCounselor on social media, he's sharing his career journey from San Jose, CA, and Las Vegas, NV, to the global stage. With a background in Secondary Education, School Counseling, a…

1
81. Learnings from Losing an Election. 31:40

1+ y ago31:40

31:40

Join Dr. Elin P. Cervantes in this episode as she recounts her experience running for a seat on the CASC board of directors. Tune in to hear about Dr. Cervantes' journey and her commitment to enhancing member engagement and representation in CASC. --- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy our Planner: The Power of Reflection⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠…

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80. A Call to Action: Advocating for our Global Students 26:48

1+ y ago26:48

26:48

In this solo episode, Christina explores how advocating for a ceasefire aligns with key K12 standards. From prioritizing safety and well-being to fostering a positive school culture and engaging with our community, she delves into the role of ethical leadership in promoting peace. Christina discusses the significance of advocating for a ceasefire a…

1
Screen of Spies 25:48

1+ y ago25:48

25:48

Hollywood serves as a powerful recruiting mechanism for spy agencies like the CIA- using the screen to glamorize the work of intelligence operatives worldwide- but it also contributes to some of the biggest misunderstandings of what spies do and how they operate. Join Jack and Julia for a fun and enlightening conversation about what Hollywood gets …

1
79. Honoring Nex Benedict. Learning from what happened, so it doesn't happen again. 26:57

1+ y ago26:57

26:57

In this episode, Elin goes solo to honor the life of Nex Benedict by offering strategies for School Leaders to create inclusive school environments. Elin doesn’t go into detail about the incident but instead focuses on what can be done in our schools so this doesn’t happen again. --- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy our Planner: The Power of Reflection⁠⁠⁠⁠…

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78. Reflecting on my Educational Journey. A solo episode with Christina. 19:21

1+ y ago19:21

19:21

In this episode, Christina shares her educational journey part II as she records solo. In episode 2, Christina took us through her educational journey from K12 adolescence to becoming a teacher, transitioning to a school leader, and completing her master's and doctorate degrees. In this installment, Christina picks up the story from 2021 to 2024, d…

1
Disinformed 22:33

1+ y ago22:33

22:33

Many Americans now consider disinformation to be a key national security threat, and disinformation topped the World Economic Forum’s list of short-term global risks for 2024. But what’s the history of disinformation and how is it increasingly interfering in international relations and eroding the trust of civilian populations? Are democratic natio…

1
77. Thoughts on National School Counseling Week as a Former School Counselor. 29:38

1+ y ago29:38

29:38

In this episode, Elin is solo and shares her thoughts on National School Counseling Week as a former school counselor. Gain insights, perspectives, and heartfelt stories on the vital role of school counselors in shaping students' lives. Tune in for a meaningful exploration of the impact, challenges, and successes within the world of school counseli…

1
76. Ethnic Studies in CA, what to consider! 1:03:53

1+ y ago1:03:53

1:03:53

In this episode, Elin and Christina navigate a diverse landscape, jumping from intimate discussions within Black and brown educator affinity circles to a deep dive into the impactful world of Ethnic Studies programs. The journey unfolds through the lens of the Pajaro Valley Unified School District and culminates in insights from Dr. Allyson Tintian…

1
Held Hostage 25:52

1+ y ago25:52

25:52

Given that hostage taking is again in the spotlight after the October 7 Hamas attacks, what is the latest status of Washington’s hostage policy? What can we learn from a review of the past several decades of hostage crises worldwide? And is it possible for Americans to avoid hostage situations in the coming years, even while tensions between democr…

1
75. Making Services Accessible to Everyone with guest Zeyda Garcia 1:03:49

1+ y ago1:03:49

1:03:49

In this episode, Elin and Christina are honored to host Zeyda Garcia, Founder of Healing Aguas Wellness Solutions, LLC, a mental health and wellness consulting firm. Zeyda, a licensed therapist and lead school counselor, is dedicated to ensuring all students have access to mental health services. Her work focuses on creating community-responsive sp…

1
Straight from the Shoulder, Episode 1 18:13

1+ y ago18:13

18:13

“How is the world being reshaped by two active wars involving US allies in Europe and the Middle East? And what will the outcome of these conflicts mean in terms of the world we want to live in? Join us for a thoughtful discussion about these destabilizing global conflicts, where we grapple with the question of what’s really at stake. On this episo…

1
74. Supporting others in living purpose-driven lives with guest Dr. Michelle Seijas 1:06:24

1+ y ago1:06:24

1:06:24

In this episode, Elin and Christina have an inspiring conversation with the incredible Dr. Michelle Seijas as we delve into the art of helping others live purpose-driven lives! Get ready for insightful wisdom, practical tips, and a dose of motivation to elevate your journey. --- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy our Planner: The Power of Reflection⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠…

1
73. Reflecting on your journey so far: it's time for a mid-year check-in 41:47

1+ y ago41:47

41:47

In this episode, Elin and Christina, former secondary administrators and current school leader coaches, share their insights on how high school leaders can navigate the critical tasks at the end of the fall semester and set the stage for a successful spring. Tune in for some straight-up advice and practical tips to be mindful of and consider as you…

1
72. School Leaders, we need to talk...about Palestine. 56:22

1+ y ago56:22

56:22

In this episode, Elin and Christina want to address the silence they are witnessing in their local school districts about Palestine. Listen in as they offer suggestions for School Leaders to support students and staff when addressing global issues, especially between Palestine and Israel. --- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy our Book: The Power of Reflection⁠⁠⁠⁠…

1
71. Rooted in love with guest Dr. Natalie Mejia 54:03

1+ y ago54:03

54:03

In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with Dr. Natalie Mejia. The founding principal of the only boarding school in California. It was a great conversation with so much for school leaders to take away and reflect on. Dr. Natalie Mejia has been serving our community as a dedicated, transformational educator for 11+ years. She is cu…

1
70. Being a place-based educator with guest, Dr. Yee. Part 2 1:04:48

2y ago1:04:48

1:04:48

In this episode, Elin & Christina conclude their conversation with guest Dr. Yee. Before stepping into education, Dr. Yee served as a Captain in the United States Air Force for nearly five years, excelling as a Chief Meteorologist. His educator path began as a third-grade teacher in Oakland Unified, followed by six years in school site administrati…

1
69. Being a place-based educator with guest Dr. Yee, Part 1 45:09

2y ago45:09

45:09

In this episode, Elin and Christina have the pleasure of conversing with a long-time mentor, colleague, and friend. Dr. Yee played a pivotal role in their journey from teachers and counselors to site administration. The first encounter was at a parent-counselor conference, where he approached as a Skyline High School parent, not a boss boss. From t…

1
68. Why do we always have to advocate? Addressing a School Counselors's concern. 54:54

2y ago54:54

54:54

In this episode, Elin and Christina address a post they came across in a Facebook group. This time it’s talking about something School Counselors often have to deal with…advocating for their profession and explaining what they do! School leaders, this episode is especially important for you to listen to. --- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy our Book: The Power of R…

1
67. We're a lot more resilient than we think we are! With guest, John Nepomuceno. 59:29

2y ago59:29

59:29

In this episode, Elin and Christina have a great conversation with their long-time colleague and fellow admin, John Nepomuceno. From the 619 to the 510 to the 415, John has been serving the CA school community. Listen in as they talk about what led John into administration and what he has learned throughout the way. We spend time discussing resilie…

1
66. Managing transitions. Unpacking a new AP's mindset struggles. 55:31

2y ago55:31

55:31

In this episode, Elin & Christina try on their "Dear Abby" hats and address a Facebook post from a School Leadership group. The post brought up something they often hear from their clients and even experienced it themselves... managing the transition from classroom to administration. Listen in as they unpack the mindset struggles a new administrato…

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65. The Arts as a Safe Space. From a Scarcity Mindset to an Arts Pathway with guest Jamie Treacy 1:03:19

2y ago1:03:19

1:03:19

In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with their former teacher and Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) director, Mr. James (Jamie) Treacy. He is a devoted OUSD educator for the past 10 years, and he is currently the OUSD instructional coach for Arts, Media Entertainment, and Fashion programs as of 2022. Take a listen as they catch …

1
64. Our ASCA conference takeaways and reflection. 56:59

2y ago56:59

56:59

In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation about their experience at the 2023 ASCA annual conference in Atlanta, GA...not New Orleans. You'll have to listen to the episode to get that. They describe the workshops they attended and their overall takeaways. --- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy our Book: The Power of Reflection⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Work With Us! B…

1
63. Rigor & Love in Education with guest Cecilia Paz Aguilar 52:57

2y ago52:57

52:57

In this episode, Elin & Christina have a conversation with Cecilia Paz Aguilar. We talked about her early education experiences that really impacted the type of educator she is today. From early advocacy and its impact to how a focus on school turned into a focus on staying alive. Rigor was a big theme in this conversation and how love must play a …

1
62. Leading through an Identity Safe Lens with guest Alexandrea Creer Kahn 53:14

2y ago53:14

53:14

In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with Alexandrea Creer Kahn. Christina and Alex met during their pre-educator years back in the early 2000s. For the past 18 years, Alex has worked in several roles in K-12 and higher ed including teacher, school coach, principal, and district leader as well as graduate instructor. Take a liste…

1
Summer BREAK- be back soon! 5:26

2y ago5:26

5:26

We are taking a quick break! We will be back with a new episode on July 11, 2023. --- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy our Book: The Power of Reflection⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Work With Us! Book a Clarity Call.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: @elinandchristina ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: Empowered Conversations with Elin & Christina Check out our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.empowereduc…

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61. Representing school districts to do better by their students with guest Dora Dome, Esq. 1:05:29

2y ago1:05:29

1:05:29

In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with their former professor, Dora Dome. They talk about what it was like being students in her class and how she approached education law to empower educators. Dora Dome went from searching for a profession that makes good money to making a difference! Her story and experience will inspire you…

1
60. Over 40 episodes later, admin turnover and burnout is still relevant. 1:00:18

2y ago1:00:18

1:00:18

In this re-release episode, Elin and Christina talk about admin turnover and burnout. They share their experience with it and how it is still relevant today. --- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy our Book: The Power of Reflection⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Work With Us! Book a Clarity Call.⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: @elinandchristina ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: Empowered Conversations …

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59. Building Stronger Bonds: the Role of Admin Team Retreats in Fostering Communication & Collaboration 56:26

2y ago56:26

56:26

In this episode, Elin and Christina talk about the importance of team building. They reflect on their own experiences and why admin retreats make a difference in how they function and accomplish goals. --- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy our Book: The Power of Reflection⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Work With Us! Book a Clarity Call.⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: @elinandchristina …

1
58. Design for Depth Framework & Being Mission Aligned with guest Sasha Kirkman. 54:56

2+ y ago54:56

54:56

In this episode, Elin & Christina have a guest, Sasha Kirkman. They talk about supporting new leaders, equity practices, and the need to humanize our systems. Sasha also talks about her Design 4 Depth framework and how she encourages educators to put it into practice. About our guest: Sasha Kirkman comes from an education background where she taugh…

1
57. What an Equity-Focused Master Schedule Does NOT Look Like. 53:30

2+ y ago53:30

53:30

In this episode, Elin and Christina replay their IG live where they talk about what an equity-focused master schedule does NOT look like. They talk about actions that make the master schedule inequitable, and possible solutions. --- ⁠⁠⁠Buy our Book: The Power of Reflection⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Work With Us! Book a Clarity Call.⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠: @el…

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56. Without Admin Support, School Counselors can Strive but not Thrive. Unpacking the 2023 National School Counseling Leadership Conference. 1:02:34

2+ y ago1:02:34

1:02:34

In this episode, Elin & Christina unpack their reflections and takeaways from the 2023 National School Counseling Leadership Conference. School Admin, this is a good episode for you to understand the power of counseling departments and a valuable professional development opportunity to invest in. --- ⁠⁠Buy our Book: The Power of Reflection⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Book…

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