MindBeat Podcast

Latest Episode

EP 40: Regulating, Relating, and Reasoning: Applying the Neurosequential Model in Schools

In this episode, Laine Whitaker and co-host Laura Butler of Sacramento City Unified School District welcome Katie Lohmiller and Halley Gruber, program directors with the Neurosequential Model in Education (NME), for a conversation about bringing neuroscience into everyday classroom practice. Together, they explore how understanding brain development can transform the way educators interpret behavior, respond to student needs, and build supportive learning environments. The discussion highlights common misconceptions about discipline and behavior change and practical strategies schools can use to implement brain-informed practices that strengthen both teacher efficacy and student well-being.
Hosted By:
Laine Whitaker

March 12, 2026

51 min

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Voices of ESS

Cortnee, Megan, & Jalen

EP 17: School-based Clinicians Weigh in on the Youth Mental Health Crisis

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EP 15: Supporting the Mental Health Needs of Early Learners

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EP 14: Summer Planning for Student Mental Health

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All Episodes

March 12, 2026

29 MIN

EP 40: Regulating, Relating, and Reasoning: Applying the Neurosequential Model in Schools

In this episode, Laine Whitaker and co-host Laura Butler of Sacramento City Unified School District welcome Katie Lohmiller and Halley Gruber, program directors with the Neurosequential Model in Education (NME), for a conversation about bringing neuroscience into everyday classroom practice. Together, they explore how understanding brain development can transform the way educators interpret behavior, respond to student needs, and build supportive learning environments. The discussion highlights common misconceptions about discipline and behavior change and practical strategies schools can use to implement brain-informed practices that strengthen both teacher efficacy and student well-being.
Listen now on Apple Podcasts
Listen now on Spotify
February 24, 2026

29 MIN

EP 39: Kids Do Well If They Can: Rethinking Behavior and Belonging in Schools

In this episode, Laine Whitaker and co-host Colleen Patterson, Director of Development of Effective School Solutions, welcome Dr. Ross Greene, clinical psychologist, author, and creator of the Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS) model. They discuss how “kids do well if they can,” why unmet skills drive challenging behavior, and how CPS reduces suspensions and punitive discipline. The conversation provides a compassionate, research-based framework for educators and leaders seeking more effective approaches to student behavior. 
Listen now on Apple Podcasts
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January 20, 2026

29 MIN

EP 38: Helping Students Thrive: Preventing Burnout and Supporting Mental Health in Schools

In this episode, Laine Whitaker is joined by guest co-host Dr. Cherina Betters, Chief of Equity and Access for San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, for a powerful conversation with Dr. Rebecca Branstetter, school psychologist, author, and national voice on student well-being and burnout prevention. Together, they explore the biggest mental health challenges facing PreK–12 schools, common misconceptions about educator and student burnout, and practical strategies for building school cultures where both students and educators can thrive.
Listen now on Apple Podcasts
Listen now on Spotify
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