The Texas Association for the Gifted and Talented (TAGT) Podcast

In this episode, we’re joined by Marli Williams, leadership trainer and speaker, for a conversation on what it means to lead with intention in today’s educational landscape.Together, we explore how energy, purpose, and reflection shape effective leadership, especially in gifted education roles that often feel complex and isolating. Marli shares practical ways to build confidence, stay grounded in your impact, and reconnect with why your work matters.Whether you’re leading a program, a classroom, or a team, this conversation offers space to reflect and a few ideas you can put into practice right away.Suggested Resources:www.marliwilliams.commarli@marliwilliams.comwww.podcast.marliwilliams.comwww.instagram.com/marliwilliams

What happens when giftedness and disability coexist?Dr. Susan Baum joins the TAGT Podcast to discuss the needs of twice-exceptional learners and why strength-based environments are essential. Drawing from decades of research and practice, she shares how talent development opportunities, creative entry points, and supportive classroom environments can transform outcomes for 2e students.An encouraging and practical conversation for educators who want to better serve complex learners.Suggested ResourcesBridges Graduate SchoolBridges AcademyTo Be Gifted and Learning DisabledEnrichment Triad ModelMultiple Intelligences: The Theory in Practice

What happens when a teacher “accidentally” walks into a gifted conference—and finds a professional home?Recorded live at giftED25, Luke Hurst, Ph.D., President of TAGT and Executive Director of Advanced Learning Services in Richardson ISD, shares his journey from classroom teacher to district leader. He reflects on mentorship, talent development, CCMR, advising gifted learners, and why schools must trust students to wrestle with meaningful problems.From rapid acceleration models to talent pathways, this episode explores what it means to design systems that truly prepare gifted learners for life beyond high school.A thoughtful conversation about leadership, opportunity, and developing potential with intention.Suggested ResourcesLuke's EmailAVIDTexas Education AgencyEnrichment Model & Talent Development

Gifted services look different in every district, but are they delivering the outcomes students need?In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Todd Kettler to talk about “high dose” gifted education and why increasing both time and intensity can change student outcomes. From acceleration to grouping to enrichment, we break down what works, and what often gets in the way.You’ll also hear a candid conversation about advocacy, program design, and how gifted education can better align with the goals districts already care about.Suggested Resources:Baylor University Staff PageTodd Kettler's Email

What happens when intellectual curiosity turns into a lifelong mission?David Madden, co-founder of International Academic Competitions and 19-time Jeopardy champion, joins the TAGT Podcast to share how academic quiz competitions build confidence, community, and deep knowledge. From his own journey in quiz bowl to launching international competitions serving tens of thousands of students, David reflects on the power of challenge, belonging, and passion-driven learning.A compelling conversation about gifted learners, academic identity, and why finding “your people” matters.Suggested ResourcesInternational Academic Competitions (IAC)David's Email

How do we serve students who are years beyond grade level—and experiencing the world differently because of it?In this episode, Blake Haygood shares his journey from math teacher to advanced academics leader, along with personal insights as the parent of a profoundly gifted child. The conversation covers acceleration, cluster grouping, SEL for gifted learners, and the importance of strong professional networks.An honest and practical look at what it takes to support profoundly gifted students well.Suggested ResourcesPG RetreatAustin ISD – Advanced AcademicsNew Braunfels ISDEducation Service Center Region 13Education Service Center Region 20Blake's Email