A student once told me they’d “worry about their future in 12 years.”

This episode is about why that mindset is exactly why CTE teachers do what we do — and why the lessons that matter most often get ignored until it’s almost too late.

We talk about teaching beyond projects and grades, preparing students for real clients, real bosses, real pressure, and real crossroads. It’s about protecting students from learning everything the hardest way, even when they don’t realize we’re doing it.

I also share how I use AI — not as a shortcut or replacement — but as a way to simulate real-world situations inside a classroom, helping students practice professional communication, career paths, and decision-making before the stakes are real.

If you’ve ever tried to warn students about what’s coming — and watched them laugh it off — this episode is for you.

Finally, PD that’s personal.

After 23 years of teaching art and design, I faced the most disengaged, unbothered, creativity-resistant group of students I’ve ever had. Basic figure drawing? Nope. Participation? Hard pass. Failing? Totally fine by them.

In this episode, I’m telling the full story — the frustration, the accountability pressure, the moment halfway through the second marking period when I realized I wasn’t just failing one student… I was failing twelve.

But it’s also about the shift. The moment I realized this wasn’t about transforming the kids — it was about protecting my program, my sanity, and my job. With documentation, clearer structure, and a surprising ally: ChatGPT.

You’ll hear how AI helped me break assignments down, communicate professionally (even when I was not feeling professional), and build a system that kept the year from completely derailing.

And yes — we end with why this year feels so much better.

If you’ve ever had a class that drained your soul, this one’s for you. And if you haven’t yet… buckle up. Your time is coming.

Keep creating—because this is finally PD that’s personal.

Steven shares the story of how ChatGPT and Base44 became essential tools for teaching intuitive cooking. This episode explores how AI prompts, structured learning, and conversational guidance can turn complex techniques into simple, approachable steps. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at how modern tools can elevate the way we teach, learn, and practice culinary skills at home. Checkout the app - www.cookingwithskillet.com - Still has a long way to go, but its a great start!