Ruff Draft Podcast
Welcome to the Ruff Draft Podcast, where education meets innovation! Hosted by Clyde CISD, this podcast spotlights the latest in educational technology, classroom creativity, and inspiring stories from our district. Whether you’re a teacher looking for tech tips, a student curious about new tools, or a community member passionate about learning, we’ve got something for you. Join us as we celebrate the Bulldog spirit and explore exciting ways to enhance education!
Episodes
45 episodes
Episode 10: Common Tech Mishaps
In this episode, Mike and Saicy dive into the everyday tech slip-ups that frustrate, confuse, and sometimes make us laugh. From forgotten passwords and Wi-Fi woes to the mystery of why the printer only jams when you’re in a hurry, the duo break...
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37:44
Episode 9: Every Child Needs A Champion
In this episode of the Rough Draft Podcast, we delve into the transformative power of relationships in education. Inspired by Rita Pearson's viral TED Talk, we discuss the importance of being a champion for students, the challenges educators fa...
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Season 2
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Episode 9
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38:00
Episode 8: Genially
Join us on the Rough Draft Podcast as we explore innovative ways to transform traditional classroom tools into engaging learning experiences. Discover how Genially can turn mundane worksheets into interactive adventures, sparking curiosity and ...
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Season 2
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Episode 8
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23:16
Episode 7: Effective Leadership
In this episode of the Rough Draft Podcast, we celebrate Principles Month by exploring the essential qualities that make a great school leader. Join us as we delve into the "Three V's of Leadership"—Visibility, Vision, and Validation—and discus...
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Season 2
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Episode 7
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21:11
Episode 6: Voices Amplified: The Power of School Podcasting
In this episode, Saicy and Mike dive into how any school — regardless of size or budget — can start its own podcasting program to enhance learning, creativity, and communication. From selecting simple recording equipment to using platforms like...
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Season 2
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Episode 6
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33:27
Episode 5: Color Me Confident: Using Color to Shine
In this episode, Saicy shares her creative idea for using AI-powered color analysis to help people discover the shades and tones that best complement their skin tone, hair, and eye color — without paying for an expensive personal consultant. He...
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Season 2
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Episode 5
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16:35
Episode 4: Unlocking AI
This week we’re joined by Ashley from Region 14 to talk about exciting new AI learning opportunities happening this fall. The AI Cohort kicks off October 22 with a keynote from Amy Mayer of friEdTech, and continues on Novem...
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Season 2
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Episode 4
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35:35
Episode 3: Bytes of Leadership
In this episode, we sit down with Clyde's Director of Technology, Mike Neal, for an in-depth conversation about his unique journey to leadership. How does one go from working at AT&T to overseeing the entire technological infrastructure for...
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Season 2
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Episode 3
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47:50
Episode 2: AI Grading
Should robots be grading work like teachers? 🎓🤖 This week we tackle a big (and controversial!) question—can AI really grade essays fairly, or is that a job only humans should do? Tune in for a lively chat full of pros, cons, and a few surprises...
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Season 2
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Episode 2
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57:46
Episode 1: Unpacking TIA
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kinslow to dive into the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) and what it looks like in our district this year. From how teachers can qualify, to the impact TIA has on campuses and student learning, Dr. Kinslo...
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Season 2
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Episode 1
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32:04
Episode 33: Bot Stacking
In this episode, we dive into the world of bot stacking—the strategic use of multiple AI tools to boost creativity, productivity, and personalization in education. We're joined by Miguel Guhlin from TCEA, author of the original ...
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Season 1
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Episode 33
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1:08:35
Episode 32: Tech Beach Retreat
What happens when you mix tech-savvy educators, meaningful professional learning, and a beachside backdrop? You get the Tech Beach Retreat! In this episode, Mike sits down with Saicy to talk all about the vision behind this unique prof...
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Season 1
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Episode 32
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33:08
Episode 31: Texas HB 1481
In this episode, we unpack Texas House Bill 1481 and its sweeping impact on student cell phone use in schools. Learn how the new law will affect school policies, discipline, and device management starting in the 2025–26 school year.
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Season 1
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Episode 31
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11:51
Episode 30: Mastering MobileMind
This year, our district is using MobileMind for all compliance training—and in this quick solo episode, I’m walking you through exactly how to get started. Whether you’re logging in for the first time or trying to track your progress, ...
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Season 1
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Episode 30
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10:55
Episode 29: International Society for Technology in Education
Join Mike as he interviews Saicy on her recent experience presenting at the ISTE Live '25 Conference in San Antonio this summer! We'll dive deep into what ISTE is, how to prepare for a presentation, our favorite parts of conferences, and more!&...
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Season 1
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Episode 29
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38:59
Episode 28: Senior Year Survival Guide: FAFSA, Scholarships & More
Senior year can feel like a whirlwind for students and their families—but you don’t have to navigate it alone! In this episode, we sit down with Alex Jones, a high school counselor, to unpack everything seniors need to know before the school ye...
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Season 1
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Episode 28
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34:38
Episode 27: Cybersecurity
In this episode, host Mike Neal breaks down practical, no-nonsense cybersecurity habits that anyone—whether in public service, education, or the private sector—can adopt to protect their organization. From avoiding phishing traps to securing bo...
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Season 1
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Episode 27
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30:15
Episode 26: Think Remarkable!
In this episode, we dive into Think Remarkable by Guy Kawasaki—a powerful guide to becoming extraordinary in work and life. Join us as we unpack key takeaways from the book, including the mindset shifts, personal branding tips, a...
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Season 1
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Episode 26
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1:09:43
Episode 25: Using ChatGPT + Canva in Education
In this episode, Saicy and Mike break down how educators can pair ChatGPT with Canva to save time, boost creativity, and better engage students and families. From lesson planning to hallway displays, they share Canva basics, favorite tools, and...
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Season 1
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Episode 25
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59:08
Episode 24: Beyond the Fads: Real Talk About Health, Diets & Lifestyle Change
In a world of cabbage soup cleanses and carb-free promises, how do you actually build a healthy life that lasts? In this episode, we get real about fad diets, teacher burnout, and the pressure to “do it all.” Mike shares his experience with Who...
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Season 1
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Episode 24
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51:55
Episode 23: Showing Up Matters
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Rachel and Katie from Communities In Schools to explore how CIS is transforming student lives by addressing the root causes of chronic absenteeism. From food insecurity to mental health...
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Season 1
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Episode 23
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1:11:04
Episode 22: Lighting the Way
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with student leaders from the Intermediate campus Junior Lighthouse Team to learn how they’re promoting the Habits of Highly Effective People through their actions and initiatives. From school-wide activit...
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Season 1
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Episode 22
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32:06
Episode 21: Class of 2025
In this special graduation morning episode, hear from the incredible seniors of the Class of 2025 as they share what’s next after high school—college, careers, military, or other exciting adventures. It’s a celebration of dreams, hard work, and...
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Season 1
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Episode 21
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10:05
Episode 20: Inside Junior High Life
In this special episode, we sit down with a junior high student to explore what school life is like through his eyes. From favorite subjects and influential teachers to hobbies, goals, and dream travel destinations, this conversation is f...
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Season 1
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Episode 20
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25:03
Episode 19: A Family Legacy at Clyde CISD
In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Paula—a dedicated Clyde CISD staff member—and her two daughters, Mikayla and Tara, both soon to be proud Bulldog graduates. As Mikayla prepares to walk the stage and Tara reflects on her own jou...
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Season 1
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Episode 19
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31:28