138. Small Shifts, Big Impact: Sahba Rohani on Belonging, Anti-Bias Education, and Joy
From Too Dope Teachers and a Mic by Too Dope Teachers and a Mic
September 2, 2025
About this episode
Sahba Rohani discusses the importance of belonging and anti-bias education in schools, emphasizing small shifts that can lead to significant impacts.
In this episode of Too Dope Teachers and a Mic, Gerardo is joined by Sahba Rohani, Executive Director of Roots Connected, to dive into what it means to center belonging in schools. From her TED Talk on the power of names to her decades of work in intentionally diverse communities, Sahba shares how small shifts in mindset and practice can transform classrooms, staff culture, and whole school communities. Together, Gerardo and Sahba unpack anti-bias education as more than a curriculum add-on—it’s a lens, a practice, and a path toward joy and justice.Show NotesIn this powerful conversation, Gerardo and Sahba explore:* The story behind Sahba’s TED Talk on names, identity, and belonging.* Why belonging isn’t “soft work”—it’s the foundation of learning and thriving.* How small shifts in practice (like reframing a simple classroom question) can have big impact.* Roots Connected’s dual process for change: internal transformation + practice shifts.* Building intentional community with students, families, and staff.* Staying grounded and persistent in the face of DEI pushback.* The radical power of joy in justice-centered education.* And of course… Sahba’s Top 5 hip hop & R&B legends…
People in this episode
Host: Gerardo
Guest: Sahba Rohani
Topics covered
- belonging
- anti-bias education
- mindset shifts
- school culture
- joy in education
Keywords
- belonging
- anti-bias education
- school community
- mindset shifts
- joy
- justice
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Roots Connected, EmbraceRace
Books & works: TED Talk
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