On this episode of Govs Teach Unplugged, host Megan Simpson sits down with Dr. Terri Clark, who joined the Eriksson College of Education in Fall 2025 as the lead for the nursing educator concentration in the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program. As the first-ever graduate of the concentration she now leads, Dr. Clark shares her inspiring journey from nursing to higher education. She discusses how her philosophy of being "clear and kind" has guided her through 20 years of experience in hospital work, community health, and teaching.

The heart of the conversation dives into Dr. Clark’s research on technostress and the intersection of health education and work-life balance. She introduces her original "Balance Framework," which is designed to help busy professionals manage the stress of constant connectivity through seven simple strategies.

Listeners will also get a personal look at Dr. Clark’s life outside the classroom, from her "mini farm" in Tennessee — complete with horses, dwarf goats, and a "grand puppy" — to her early days as a theater major with dreams of starring on Days of Our Lives. Whether she is hosting the Journal of Pediatric Surgical Nursing podcast or mentoring future nurses, Dr. Clark’s story is a powerful testament to how education can enlarge one's vision for life and create ripples of change in the world.

Dive Deeper:

⁠APSU Eriksson College of Education⁠

APSU Doctor of Education: Nurse Educator Concentration

APSU Full Spectrum Learning

Dr. John McConnell named dean of APSU's Eriksson College of Education

Austin Peay professor publishes new volume of teaching labor history

Audiobooks surge as travel favorite, helping fuel debate over what 'counts' as reading

Journal of Pediatric Surgical Nursing Podcast

Work–Life Balance in an Online World: Simple Strategies for Managing Technostress

It's time for the Season 2 premiere of Govs Teach Unplugged as Megan welcomes Dr. Erica Boone, the newly appointed director of the Center for Rural Education.

An Austin Peay alumna (B.S. ’05, Ed.D. ’25) with over 16 years of teaching experience in rural and suburban districts, Dr. Boone shares her mission to empower rural educators through innovative training, vital resources, and strong partnerships.

This episode dives into the center's major upcoming initiatives, including the 2026 Rural Education Conference themed "Rooted in Rural: Cultivating Place, Partnerships, and Possibilities." Dr. Boone highlights how this year's virtual event on March 16 will expand to include international perspectives and flexible pre-recorded sessions for busy educators.

From her student-centered philosophy to her favorite "hidden gems" in Carroll County — including the best local spots for pancakes and hot wings — get to know the heart behind the center's leadership.

Dive Deeper:

APSU Eriksson College of Education

APSU Center for Rural Education

Dr. Erica Boone: Faculty Bio

APSU Principal Registered Apprenticeship Program

Grow Your Own Grant Announcement

Rylei Johnson (Teen Tennessee Petite)

APSU Tennessee Early Literacy Assessment first-time pass rate

Dr. Terri Clark Journal Article Publication

In the Season 1 wrap-up, Megan welcomes Dr. Allison Oliver, assistant professor of special education at Austin Peay State University. Drawing on her 17 years in public education, Dr. Oliver explores two transformative topics: ethical AI implementation and the future of special education.

Discover how Dr. Oliver views AI as both a powerful teaching tool and a potential challenge, advocating for its use as a "thought partner" rather than a replacement for authentic learning. Learn about her new AI workshop for undergraduates that models responsible usage while promoting deeper thinking.

The conversation shifts to Tennessee's critical special education teacher shortage, with Dr. Oliver — whose research focuses on educational equity and teacher development — passionately describing special educators as "super teachers" who close opportunity gaps. She outlines essential strategies for districts and teacher preparation programs, including APSU's revamped approaches, to better support and retain these vital educators.

Dr. Oliver also shares how her commitment to serving marginalized populations through Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. aligns with her educational mission.

⁠APSU Eriksson College of Education⁠

More about Dr. Allison Oliver

Explore APSU’s Undergraduate Special Education Degree Options

Explore APSU’s Graduate Special Education Degree Options

Association of Teacher Educators Teacher Educator Standards, (3rd Edition)

Call for Proposals: Rural Education Conference

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Dr. Zack Barnes Quoted in Newsweek

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