A Podcast for Educators, Leaders, and Changemakers
Teaching and Leading with Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi
Overview
Teaching and Leading with Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi brings thoughtful, practical, and expert-driven conversations to the world of education — from P-12 classrooms to higher education and beyond. While we continue to invite exceptional guests and leaders in the field, our recalibrated format centers on topic-based discussions designed to serve as meaningful professional development and training resources.
Each episode explores a key issue in education — unpacking research, policy, strategy, and real-world application. Rather than simply presenting content chronologically, we organize episodes by categories and themes so listeners can dive deep into professional growth areas that matter most.
What You’ll Find
- Expert Conversations. In-depth interviews with educators, researchers, and policymakers who illuminate emerging challenges and proven practices.
- Focused Topic Dialogues. Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi lead evidence-based discussions on high-impact themes, offering practical strategies you can apply immediately.
- Professional Development Tools. Each category functions as a curated learning path — ideal for individual reflection, team PD, faculty meetings, or institutional training.
- Accessible Resources. Episodes are grouped by topic to make it easy for listeners to explore and revisit conversations that support growth and change.
Our Goal
We aim to make Teaching and Leading with Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi a trusted resource for professional growth — helping individuals and institutions engage in better practice, deeper dialogue, and positive change in education.
Meet the Hosts
Dr. Joi F. Patterson is the Chief of Institutional Engagement and Excellence at Governors State University and a seasoned educational leader with more than 30 years of experience spanning P–12 and higher education. A former vice president, superintendent, principal, professor, and teacher, she is passionate about student success, leadership development, and creating inclusive learning environments. Through scholarship, public engagement, and educational innovation, Dr. Patterson works to advance excellence in education. She co-hosts Teaching and Leading with Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi, where they explore current issues, leadership lessons, and practical strategies for educators and leaders.
Contact: jpatterson3@govst.edu
Dr. Amy Vujaklija, Director of Educator Preparation, Accreditation, and Assessment is a former middle and high school teacher and continues to stay active in teacher recruitment and retention.
As an Illinois Writing Project leadership team member and co-director, she facilitates member outreach and local conferences and workshops. Dr. Vujaklija’s research interests use qualitative narrative inquiry to explore the lived experience of teacher leadership and student learning.
Contact: avujaklija@govst.edu