Episode Details

What does it look like when a third grade STEM teacher from Houston uses comedy, creativity, and storytelling to pull back the curtain on the real life of an educator and build a community that refuses to feel alone?  In this episode of Aspire to Lead, Joshua Stamper sits down with educator, podcaster, and doctoral student Brandon Jenkins to talk about the power of authentic storytelling in education and why laughter might be one of the most underrated tools in our profession. Brandon shares how social media became a lifeline for connection in a career that can feel deeply isolating, and how his comedic content gives educators permission to laugh at the hard stuff while sparking real conversations with people outside of education who had no idea what teachers actually face every day. He also unpacks why representation in schools goes far beyond skin tone and covers zip code, access to programs, arts, technology, and the profound impact of seeing yourself reflected in the adults who show up for you. The conversation goes deeper as Brandon shares his doctoral research on trust within Black and Brown communities in education, the inspiration behind his podcast Teaching in Color now in its third season, and a simple but powerful leadership challenge to sit down, grab a journal, and write your own story before someone else writes it for you. About Brandon Jenkins Brandon Jenkins is a 3rd grade Math and Science teacher in Houston, Texas and the creator of the Teaching in Color podcast, a platform dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and perspectives in education. As an educator, Brandon is passionate about creating engaging learning environments that empower students and highlight the cultural experiences that shape how communities interact with schools. Beyond the classroom, Brandon is a nationally recognized education content creator known for his humorous and insightful takes on teacher life, education policy, and classroom culture. Through his social media platform @allabout.brandon, he has built a large community of educators by blending storytelling, satire, and honest conversations about the realities of teaching. Brandon is also pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, where his research focuses on how families from historically underserved communities perceive and engage with the education system. Through his teaching, scholarship, and digital storytelling, he works to reimagine a more equitable and culturally responsive future for education. Follow Brandon Jenkins Facebook: Allabout.brandon YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@allabout.brandon Teaching in Color Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teaching-in-color/id1753541231 -- NEW Aspire to Lead Cohort: Join the April 1st Launch Ready to move from teacher to administrator? The Aspire to Lead Cohort is a monthly leadership program designed for educators pursuing administrative roles. Get expert training, peer accountability, interview prep, and a clear roadmap to advance your career. December 1st cohort launching soon. Limited spots available. READY TO JOIN? Apply for the Aspire to Lead Cohort: https://bit.ly/47xWzIu  Limited spots available. Next cohort starts 4/1/26 📧 QUESTIONS? Email me: Joshua@joshstamper.com