Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast KindlED | The Prenda Podcast
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Episode 104: What Does It Take to Build a Great School? A Conversation with Norman Atkins.
28 Oct 2026
00:45:34
We talk with Norman Atkins about what it takes to build schools that endure, from the early charter movement to today’s microschools and AI-powered learning. We dig into how to train great teachers, choose clear outcomes for kids, and use edtech without losing the human center of school.
• Norman’s path from the Robin Hood Foundation to founding North Star Academy • Practical advice for starting a school by saying the vision out loud and recruiting partners • Early charter school lessons around innovation, sharing, and building lighthouses others can visit • Why Uncommon Schools scales quality through systems, not hero teachers • How Relay Graduate School of Education grows teacher and leader capacity • The tension between teacher autonomy and coherent student experience • A clearer definition of school purpose through explicit aims and measurable outcomes • What Zearn shows about effective math edtech with strong teacher moves • How AI in education may reshape roles for students and teachers without replacing relationships • Why books and shared reading still matter for literacy and belonging
About our guest Norman Atkins is the Managing Partner at Array Education, an innovation studio that catalyzes and builds enduring, mission-driven teaching and learning organizations. He is the Co-Founder of Relay GSE and served as President in its first decade. He is the Founder and former CEO of Uncommon Schools; the co-founder and former Board Chair of Zearn, and the current Board Chair of Merit America, a national nonprofit that creates fast, flexible pathways to good careers for fellow citizens stuck in low-wage jobs. In 1997, Atkins co-founded and co-led North Star Academy of Newark, one of New Jersey’s first and most celebrated charter schools. From 1989 to 1994, he was the Co-Executive Director of the Robin Hood Foundation in New York City. Atkins has supported a number of global education projects and served on the board of the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls. He received the Heinz Award on the Human Condition and has been inducted into the Charter School Hall of Fame. Atkins began his career as a journalist, writing about education, poverty, politics, culture, and social issues. He received an A.B. in History and an Honorary Doctorate from Brown University and an M.A. in Educational Administration from Columbia University Teachers College.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 103: What If School Worked For Kids Again. A Conversation with Mickey Revenaugh.
20 Oct 2026
00:48:14
We talk with Mickey Revenaugh, co-founder of Connections Academy and author of Schools Out, about why families are walking away from one-size-fits-all schooling. We dig into microschools, homeschooling, unschooling, and what a future “portfolio” of education options could mean for kids’ learning and mental health.
• the origin story of Connections Academy and what early online learning got right and wrong • what “unconventional education” includes and why the label “alternative” misses the point • how families mix models over time rather than choosing one path for 13 years • why many kids learn resilience and self-direction faster in multi-age environments • shifting demographics in homeschooling and why old stereotypes no longer fit • how the pandemic and culture-war pressures accelerate demand for flexible options • why some districts are piloting microschools to respond to declining enrollment • roadschooling and worldschooling as a lifestyle built on remote work and online tools • unschooling basics, de-schooling, and the role of community support for parents • a bold prediction that unconventional education reaches close to half of kids at some point
About our guest Mickey Revenaugh is an education innovator, thought-leader and journalist. She is the co-founder of Connections Academy, a ground-breaking K-12 online school provider that launched in 2001 and now serves more than 110,000 virtual school students around the world as part of Pearson. Prior to her retirement at the end of 2022, Mickey’s work focused on bringing emerging education opportunities such as Harrow School Online and Pearson Online Academy to families around the globe. Previously, Mickey helped launch the E-rate to wire every American school to the Internet, covered edtech and online learning for leading education publications, and was the editorial director of professional magazines at Scholastic. Mickey currently serves as Board Chair of Brooklyn Laboratory Charter School, winner of the $10M prize for innovative school design from XQ Institute, and also chairs the non-profit boards of Yellow Arrow Publishing and the Barbara J. Dreyer Cares Foundation.
Mickey earned a dual-genre MFA from Bennington College in 2017, and her creative nonfiction and fiction work has since appeared in publications as diverse as Chautauqua, LA Review of Books, and VICE. Mickey also holds a BA from Yale University and an MBA from New York University.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 102: Raising Kids Who Can Change History. A Conversation with Latham Turner.
01 Oct 2026
00:45:54
We talk with Latham Turner about leaving a high-performing career to homeschool after watching his son’s love of reading collapse into daily tears and declining test scores. We trace the messy first months, the breakthroughs that follow, and why connection and agency can raise a child’s learning ceiling far beyond what school labels predict.
• Latham’s path from naval aviation and test pilot work to full-time homeschooling • The warning signs at school, including morning crying and sliding standardized scores • The moment teachers admit they cannot teach his child’s profile • The first homeschool days, fear, missteps, and repairing trust after a meltdown • Project-based learning through building a real airplane together • Switching approaches when a rigid plan backfires • Learning Greek for real, finding the right tutor, and reading The Odyssey in original Greek • Connection, attachment, and the parent’s inner work as the unlock for learning • Balancing direct instruction with discovery learning and student agency • Using expertise research to think beyond grades and tests • Practical guidance for parents starting out, including trusting instincts and iterating
About our guest Latham Turner is a homeschooling dad working to create an education that allows his kids to advance the frontier of their potential. In the past, he was a Naval Aviator, developmental test pilot, quantum computing engineer, startup operator, and entrepreneur, but he left all of them to start homeschooling his two kids. He brings a focus on expertise studies and his experience mastering the domains he has into writing about education as a human potential problem.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 101: Build A Career Without The College Default. A Conversation with Hannah Maruyama.
23 Sep 2026
00:46:19
We talk with Hannah Maruyama, founder of Degree Free, about why colleges don’t own education and why the “just go to college” default is failing many young adults. We break down how to plan a career path using real-life constraints, build skills through certifications and work, and decide when a degree is truly worth it.
• Hannah’s personal break with college culture and conformity • The “escalator” model of schooling and why it shuts down curiosity • Separating education from career training and the cost of confusing them • Why many job “degree requirements” function as suggestions • How targeted certifications can unlock remote tech roles • The shift toward downcredentialing across industries • Why common college ROI statistics can hide debt and distort outcomes • The Degree Free Four filter: income, schedule, location, work environment • “Try before you buy” through real work before paying for credentials • Where to find Hannah’s workbooks and Degree Free support
About our guest Hannah Maruyama is the founder of Degree Free and the author of The Degree Free Way. She built her own Degree Free career in AI and machine learning, and now helps parents and young adults think clearly about education, work, and career paths, especially when the old default of "just go to college" no longer fits.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 100: Prenda: Looking Back, Looking Forward. A Conversation with Kaity and Kelly.
17 Jun 2026
00:51:05
We celebrate Episode 100 by digging into Kaity’s first year guiding a home microschool and what it teaches us about building belonging, agency, and high expectations. The big takeaway is that connection comes first, then kids can take on ambitious goals and grow into capable, self-governing learners.
• celebrating Episode 100 and thanking guests, listeners, and the people who kindle learning • Kaity’s KindlED shout-out to her mom and what lifelong learning looks like in real life • why Kaity chose to start a microschool despite already training guides at Prenda • designing the Wonder League culture so middle school feels safe and welcoming • using simple rituals and messages to reinforce belonging and community norms • guiding vs teaching and the “Mario Kart cloud guy” model for getting kids back on track • balancing agency with boundaries so self-directed learning stays productive • “start with heart” as the foundation for academics, behavior, and motivation • setting ambitious but doable goals and recalculating plans together as a class • coaching social skills, optimism, and civil debate through modeling and reflection • piloting Prenda high school ideas to keep learning relevant and engaging
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 99: School Choice Rhetoric and Arguments. A Conversation with Matt Frendewey.
09 Jun 2026
00:47:33
We draw a hard line between tweaking the school system and transforming it, starting with one idea: parents should hold the decision rights for their child’s education. We also test the biggest critiques of school choice against polling, program data, and real parent experiences with flexibility and accountability.
• why “reform” misses the real problem and why transformation fits the moment • what education freedom means in practice and how decision rights have flipped since COVID • why families say they want different schools rather than “better” versions of the same model • how microschools and homeschooling are growing and what customization makes possible • what parents tell pollsters they want most and the size of the flexibility gap • where ESAs and school choice policy are expanding across states and what demand looks like • how to respond to claims about bankrupting public schools, fraud, waste, and accountability • why switching schools can be stronger accountability than test-based systems
About our guest Matt Frendewey is the vice president of strategy at yes. every kid. Matt has over two decades of experience in strategic communications, which includes working as a senior advisor to the U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, and Gov. Jeb Bush at Foundation for Excellence in Education. A Michigan native, Matt spent eight years working for the Michigan Department of Attorney General, and has held various roles in both gubernatorial and presidential campaigns. Matt resides in Washington, D.C. with Jenn and their two dogs, and remains a loyal Detroit Tigers fan.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 98: Pluralism in American Education. A Conversation with Ashley Berner.
02 Jun 2026
00:47:46
We ask what it would take to stop treating public education as a zero-sum culture war and start funding many legitimate school models with shared expectations for quality. We trace how America became an outlier, then get specific about what knowledge-rich curriculum and real intellectual work can look like in classrooms and microschools.
• educational pluralism as a tax-funded mosaic of school options held to a quality bar • why the United States diverges from global norms in public education funding • the 19th-century nativist backlash against Catholic schools and the myth of “neutral” common schools • five philosophical arguments for pluralism, including justice, civic obligation, and the role of civil society • how pluralism differs from today’s school choice politics and zero-sum thinking • why skills-based instruction fails without background knowledge in history, geography, science, and literature • what “joyful rigor” looks like, plus examples from charter schools, IB programs, and curriculum-aligned assessments • why great materials often fail in practice, including low expectations and habit-driven lesson-making • how to balance core shared content with curiosity, discussion, and student-driven deep dives
About our guest Ashley Berner is Director of the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy and Associate Professor of Education. Palgrave MacMillan released Pluralism and American Public Education: No One Way to School (2017), and Harvard Education Press released her new book, Educational Pluralism and American Democracy: How to Handle Indoctrination, Promote Exposure, and Rebuild America’s Schools, in April 2024.
Ashley Berner has published dozens of journal articles, book chapters, op-eds, and a widely watched TedX talk on citizenship formation, academic outcomes, pluralism, and the political theories of education in different national contexts. She led the design of the Institute’s School Culture 360™ and ELA and Social Studies Knowledge Maps™. She represents the Institute’s work across the country and consults regularly with international, federal, and state-level agencies, non-governmental organizations, and school systems.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 97: High Agency Learning Environments. A Conversation with Tyler Thigpen.
06 May 2026
00:54:10
We talk with Tyler Thigpen about building student agency through self-directed learning, and why kids thrive when they have purpose, strong relationships, and real choices. We dig into practical frameworks for families and educators who want to move beyond compliance without losing rigor or essential skills.
• Tyler’s origin story and the mission to help kids flourish • Why boredom and drudgery persist in conventional classrooms • A clear definition of agency as skill, will, and goals • The DRIP pathway: desire, resourcefulness, initiative, persistence • Adult formation and unlearning control to become guides • How to think about a national “floor” plus deep personalization • Mastery transcripts as a portfolio and competency-based alternative to grades • Moving from external validation to intrinsic motivation in learners and adults • Freedom levels, consequences, and gradual release of autonomy • Helping kids “make deals with themselves” to build integrity and ownership
About our guest Tyler grew up in Georgia and has worked in innovative district, private, and charter schools, as well as statewide and national nonprofits. Tyler is co-founder and CEO of The Forest School: An Acton Academy in Trilith, The Forest School Online, and the Institute for Self-Directed Learning. He is Academic Director at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education and a Guest Lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 96: Reconnecting to Joyful Learning. A Conversation with Meredith Reyes.
30 Apr 2026
00:45:41
We sit down with former public school teacher Meredith Reyes to unpack the moment burnout stopped being manageable and started being dangerous. She shares how moving states changed her working conditions overnight and how homeschooling helped her rebuild learning around safety, curiosity and mastery.
• Meredith’s path from lifelong “teacher kid” to ten-year public school veteran • COVID-era boundary shifts that made teachers feel less valued • IEP realities when supports do not match student needs • Paperwork, assessments and required programs crowding out teaching time • Class size pressure and why union protections mattered in California • Texas culture shock: pay cut, longer days, extra events and unprotected prep • The mental health spiral that led to a mid-year resignation • An active shooter drill that felt real and reshaped school safety concerns • Early homeschooling mistakes: recreating school at home • De-schooling and building a flexible family rhythm for learning • Inquiry-based learning and following rabbit holes on purpose • Mixed-age co-op learning and why age grouping is a school construct • Rethinking grades through mastery-based learning and repeated practice • The value of conversation as assessment, not just worksheets • Books and voices that helped, including Julie Bogart and The Brave Learner • The teachers who kindled Meredith’s love of learning early on
About our guest Meredith Reyes is an experienced classroom teacher in both California and Texas. After years of teaching in public schools she decided to make the move to homeschool her own children. Meredith shares her journey on instagram as @thestringymama.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 95: A Mathematician's Lament. A Conversation with Paul Lockhart.
22 Apr 2026
00:56:15
We talk with mathematician and author Paul Lockhart about how school can drain the life out of math and why real mathematics feels more like art than a subject. We argue for desire, honesty, and beautiful explanations as the center of learning, then share concrete puzzles that show what math looks like when it is alive.
• why “school teaches school” and how schoolification ruins natural curiosity • learning as a personal gift and teaching as inspiration rather than control • mathematics as pattern, proof, and the art of explanation • building a mathematical worldview through questions and play • practical ways adults avoid killing desire in kids • what a workshop-style math class looks like without tests or homework • domino tiling and checkerboard reasoning as a model for elegant proof • why formulas stick only after you can see the idea • protecting your mind and reclaiming happiness as a learning goal • a surprising shout-out to a student who changed Paul’s thinking
About our guest Paul Lockhart is the author of Arithmetic, Measurement, A Mathematician’s Lament, and Mending Broken Bones. He has taught mathematics at Brown University, University of California, Santa Cruz, and to K-12 level students at St. Ann’s School in Brooklyn, New York.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 94: Recentering the Family. A Conversation with Matt Beaudreau.
02 Apr 2026
00:54:25
We talk with Matt Beaudreau about why kids are born motivated and how schools and homes can accidentally train that drive into distraction and compliance. We dig into microschools, family sovereignty, and practical ways to build capable young people through autonomy, clear boundaries, and real responsibility.
• Matt’s origin story and learning to “play school” without actually learning • Why microschools focus on kids over politics and bureaucracy • Apogee’s mission of building sovereign families through responsibility and self-leadership • A simple daily structure: academics, fitness, and passion projects • How lowered expectations for “teenagers” drains agency and maturity • Creating rites of passage that make kids feel alive and capable • Using mastery-based ed tech with intentional boundaries and strong culture • Coaching conversations that replace tech whack-a-mole and surveillance • Advice for parents who feel stuck in traditional school: move yourself forward and bring your child along
About our guest Matt Beaudreau is a globally recognized consultant and coach who partners with organizations ranging from Fortune 500 companies like Wells Fargo, Honeywell, and Lockheed Martin to leading brands such as American Eagle, Cedars-Sinai, and the United States Air Force. A two-time featured TEDx speaker and recipient of Stanford University’s Corporate Trainer of the Year award, Matt is known for helping teams unlock performance, leadership, and lasting cultural transformation.
In 2017, Matt founded his first private school centered on self-directed learning, with a mission to develop confident, independent young people grounded in strong character and personal responsibility. Since then, he has helped launch multiple campuses around the world, expanding his impact and championing a new vision for education rooted in autonomy, mastery, and purpose.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 93: School Choice Matters. A Conversation with Morgan Camu.
25 Mar 2026
00:51:09
We explore why more parents are rethinking the default school path and how real support makes school choice easier. From being mislabeled in school to helping scale education choice, our guest shares how families can find better-fit options.
• A school choice journey from Taiwan to Florida to a microschool • Why parent-led “kitchen table” decisions lead to better outcomes • How Outschool.org supported families during COVID • What parents want: safety, wellbeing, rigor, flexibility, and time • Why choosing school year by year improves fit • The concept of “firing your school” and choosing intentionally • How unbundled learning expands access to classes and opportunities • Texas ESA insights: timelines, funding, and waitlists
About our guest Morgan Camu is Head of Programs at Outschool.org, where she leads program design, strategy, and implementation to maximize the impact of educational choice programs. Her team partners with state education agencies to provide technology-enabled, human-centered solutions to over 125,000 students each year. Her team has also supported 45 grantees advancing enrichment opportunities for marginalized learners and served more than 30,000 students during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Previously, Morgan served as Chief Academic Officer at a global education company serving nearly 70 school districts across the country, where she led efforts to recruit, select, and support 2,000 international teachers from more than 35 countries. She began her career as a high school science teacher in rural North Carolina.
She holds a doctorate in Education Leadership from Harvard University and a B.A. from Duke University.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 92: The Imagination Crisis. A Conversation with Nicole Jarbo.
17 Mar 2026
00:48:50
We name the “imagination crisis” holding education back and argue that better schools start with better dreaming, not just better funding or tools. We share how 4.0 Schools helps change-curious builders and turn rough ideas into real tests while staying impact-first, resilient, and grounded in what families and learners actually need.
• why education makes people feel personally invested and why that can still produce stale ideas • what 4.0 Schools does as an early-stage launch pad for education founders • how to build resilience by loving the work rather than protecting the original idea • design dreaming basics: cataloguing assets and choosing a motivating question • why “barely better” innovation feels safe and how it limits progress • what anti-scale really means and how to stay impact-first as you grow • learner-centric design as a practical way to build better solutions • AI in education as jet fuel for implementation and a risk to originality Go sign up for 4.0 schools, support the project.
About our guest Nicole Jarbo is the CEO of 4.0 Schools, where she leads one of the country’s most active platforms for early-stage education founders. A former Teach For America corps member and KIPP teacher, she is also a fintech founder who has raised millions in venture capital. Nicole has worked across philanthropy and systems-level education change, and is the host of Pitch Playground, an award-winning podcast spotlighting the future of education.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 90: Microschools for Texas Families. A Conversation with Colleen Dippel.
05 Mar 2026
00:43:58
We dig into what parents actually want from schools: strong reading and math, safety and belonging, and communication that treats families like partners. Texas’s EFA, new accreditation pathways for microschools, and the rise of homeschooling point toward a more plural system grounded in trust and transparency.
• basics as survival skills in modern life • safety, belonging, and being seen • the black box problem and real-time updates • drop-off and pickup as engagement signals • growth of homeschooling, hybrid, and microschools • Texas EFA scale, caps, and prioritization • accreditation as a quality floor, not a barrier • building a TEA-aligned microschool accreditor • vision for plural, calm, human-scale schools • gratitude for mentors who spark learning
About our guest Colleen Dippel began her career as a public-school teacher. Colleen is the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Families Empowered, a Texas based not for profit parent service organization. Families Empowered has provided K-12 school navigation services to over 105K low-income families in Texas. Colleen was a 2013 LEE Emerging Political Leadership Fellow and a 2017 Pahara-Aspen Fellowship recipient. She served on the Advisory Board of the Rice Educational Entrepreneurship Program at the Jones School of Business. She is a member of the John Cooper School Booster Club Board and the Dyslexia School of Houston Board. Additionally, she serves on the Advisory Board of the Thrive with Autism Charter School. She and her daughter are active participants in The Woodlands TX chapter of the National Charity League. She considers being a mother to her two children her greatest accomplishment.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 91: Education Disruption: Where are we now? A Conversation with Michael Horn.
04 Mar 2026
00:47:27
We examine how disruption theory applies to K–12 and how microschools and ESAs shift power from systems to families. We discuss rigor, the science of reading, special education, and how districts could operate in a more plural, community-centered future.
• origins and naming of the microschool movement • disruption theory in classrooms and systems • blended vs. virtual learning • how time-based models hinder student-centered learning • ESAs vs. vouchers and the value of flexibility • overserved families and K–12 market dynamics • rigor through student-centered mastery • adoption and social proof along the S-curve • special education in microschools • rethinking high school identity and rituals • district partnerships with microschools • accreditation and tuition-first policy risks
About our guest Michael Horn is an award-winning author and national bestselling writer of Job Moves: 9 Steps for Making Progress in Your Career. He teaches at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and co-founded the Clayton Christensen Institute for Disruptive Innovation. Through his writing, speaking, and work with education organizations, he champions helping individuals build meaningful careers and lives.
He has authored multiple books on education and innovation, including Disrupting Class, Blended, and From Reopen to Reinvent, cohosts the top education podcasts Future U and Class Disrupted, and writes The Future of Education newsletter. An executive editor at Education Next and contributor to Forbes, his work has appeared in major outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Atlantic. His 2024 Harvard Business Review article, “Why Employees Quit,” won the 2025 Warren Bennis Award for best HBR article on leadership. He serves on several education boards and is a 2014 Eisenhower Fellow. Horn holds a BA from Yale and an MBA from Harvard Business School.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 89: Microschools are Everywhere. A Conversation with Meredith Olson.
29 Jan 2026
00:39:54
We name the real barrier in education as the status quo mindset and share how Vela backs nearly 5,000 founders building learner-centered options. Meredith traces her journey from engineering and finance to education, explains the data behind microschool growth, and offers practical steps for parents and educators to lead change.
• Defining the enemy as mindset, not institutions • Meredith’s path from engineering and economics to education • Three decades of steady growth in low-cost alternatives • Pre‑COVID skepticism and the COVID demand shock • Vela’s microgrants, reinvestments and peer network • The four founder types and their motivations • Parent and learner agency as a new paradigm • Pioneers helping refugees become builders • Wild and wise as a founder operating principle
About our guest Meredith is president and CEO of VELA, a network of self-determined people doing education their own way. VELA supports 4,800+ founders who enable low-cost private and home education for millions of families. Meredith brings more than two decades of philanthropy and community leadership to this work. She previously served as vice president of public affairs for Koch, Inc., where she led corporate philanthropy and community programs. Meredith is the board chair of yes. every kid., an organization advancing transformative education policy, and is a trustee of Wichita Collegiate School.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 88: Money For Microschools. A Conversation with Allison Serafin.
21 Jan 2026
00:53:32
We trace Allison Serafin’s path from restless learner to teacher, elected education leader, and capital guide who helps schools access facilities and finance. The heart of the talk is practical: how founders can become “underwritable” without losing their mission.
• early sparks in entrepreneurship and a misfit K–12 experience • classroom wins and structural limits seen in Houston and Philadelphia • leading in Las Vegas across TFA, district change, and state board service • learning finance to build IDEA campuses and earn credibility • what Building Hope does and why facilities cost so much • pilot microloans for microschools with humane, unsecured terms • clean bookkeeping, days cash on hand, and debt coverage explained • how to use AI to learn finance fast and prepare for lenders • start scrappy, then professionalize when you choose to grow
About our guest Allison Serafin brings experience, accomplishment and energy to her responsibilities at Building Hope. Allison has more than 20 years in the education field, including time as an elected member of the Nevada State Board of Education. She helped raise more than $40 million for IDEA Public Charter School in her hometown of Houston and was Domestic Portfolio Director at Dovetail Impact Foundation. Allison is a dedicated Peloton bicyclist. She earned a BS in Political Science at Texas Christian University and an MS in Social Work at the University of Texas-Arlington.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 87: Innovating From Within: Public Microschools. A Conversation with Victoria Andrews.
14 Jan 2026
00:45:38
We explore how joy, autonomy, and real-world experiences transform learning from third grade to high school, and how microschools inside and alongside public systems meet students where they are. Victoria Andrews shares the question that changed her career and the playbook that’s guiding leaders forward.
• third grade classrooms built on autonomy, stations, and projects • high schoolers engaged through internships, externships, and community partners • logistics and impact of running a hundred field trips in a year • exposure as a driver of curiosity, confidence, and purpose • the catalytic pause after being asked do you love it • building and supporting microschools as responsive community tools • public district partnerships, declining enrollment, and agile design • student dignity, choice, and culturally relevant practices • historical roots of microschools in indigenous and freedom schools • practical ways educators can propose microschools within districts
About our guest Victoria recently served as the Assistant Director for an International Baccalaureate School and guided students and staff through virtual and in person learning. Previously, she served as a Dean at Energy Institute High School, a magnet school with a project-based learning focus on energy. Here, Victoria paired students with summer programs based on their unique interests, developed an internship program for multiple grade levels, created experiential learning opportunities, coordinated field trips, and worked closely with the community and industry partners. Victoria is passionate about serving as a connector and collaborator for underrepresented communities while supporting unique learning environments.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 86: What Does it Take to Start a Microschool? A Conversation with Brittany Miller.
06 Jan 2026
00:46:27
We explore the front lines of the microschool movement with Brittany Munk-Miller, a Prenda microschool specialist, and unpack what it really takes to start small, teach with heart, and track meaningful growth beyond letter grades. We share stories, tools, and steps that make launching doable with zero upfront cost.
• who typically starts microschools and why • definitions, sizes, and common locations for microschools • traits of effective guides and the student‑centered role • curriculum structure, mastery, and flexible customization • balancing technology, AI tutors, and hands‑on projects • how costs work, including no startup fees with Prenda • starting small to test demand and lower risk • accreditation concerns and the Empowered Learner Report • shifting from grades to portfolios and empowerment metrics • founder and student stories that show fires rekindled
About our guest Brittany is a Microschool Specialist at Prenda. Every day, she talks to people thinking about starting microschools, hears their unique stories and passion for the work, and helps them overcome barriers. She is passionate about helping educators and parents create their dream learning environments. Prior to Prenda, Brittany was a successful sales leader and entrepreneur. She is also the mom of three wonderful kids.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 85: Removing Education Barriers in Arkansas. A Conversation with Laurie Lee and Emmy Henley.
16 Dec 2025
00:35:43
We explore how a mother and daughter helped turn Arkansas into a leading state for school choice, sharing hard-won lessons from family needs, policy battles, and the explosive growth of microschools. Stories, strategy, and straight talk show how parents and educators can build options that fit real kids.
• personal journey from limited options to statewide advocacy • the mission and work of Reform Alliance supporting families • education freedom accounts and scholarship access • real family stories showing assistive tools and homeschool support • why one size never fit all and why options matter • launching 10 microschools in 30 days across Arkansas • practical advice on starting a microschool around local needs • overcoming fear, trusting parents, and iterating fast • legacy, mentorship, and passing the torch to new leaders
About our guests Laurie Lee serves as Chairman and Executive Director of The Reform Alliance, a nonprofit committed to ensuring every K-12 student in Arkansas has access to a world-class education. For more than 20 years, Laurie has been involved in the School Choice movement through policy development, coalition building, and collaboration with national education reform leaders. The Reform Alliance has been instrumental in advancing Arkansas's three School Choice programs: the Succeed Scholarship (a voucher), recently absorbed into the Education Freedom Accounts (an Education Savings Account), and the Philanthropic Investment in Arkansas Kids Scholarship (a tax credit program).
Emmy Henley’s journey in education reform began at 16, volunteering with after-school and mentoring programs. Her passion for championing Arkansas students led her to join The Reform Alliance. She has spent the past decade helping drive the success of the Succeed Scholarship, now part of the state’s Education Freedom Accounts (EFA). Today, she oversees the Philanthropic Investment in Arkansas Kids tax credit scholarship, supports the EFA program, and manages The Reform Alliance staff. This team travels statewide, building parent coalitions and developing innovative models like microschools.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 84: The Power of On-Campus Microschools. A Conversation with Robby Meldau.
02 Dec 2025
00:41:26
We trace a principal’s journey from Teach For America to a nine-year commitment leading a high-need neighborhood school, then dive into how a microschool inside the campus turned behavior crises into growth and engagement. The result: fewer labels, more joy, and a practical path other schools can follow.
• why labels from tests and adults damage motivation and identity • how a 10-student microschool structure lowers behavior issues • the surprising success of introverts in small, intentional groups • keeping ties to homeroom, electives, lunch, and campus culture • student voice and choice as drivers of academic acceleration • leadership longevity, trust, and ground-up innovation • advice for launching microschools within districts • focusing accountability on kids and families, not systems
About our guest Robby Meldau is in his 14th year as a public school educator and 9th year as principal at Eisenhower Center For Innovation (ECFI), a PreK-6 neighborhood elementary school in Mesa, Arizona. Prior to arriving at Eisenhower, Robby was a 5th grade math and science teacher at Reyes Maria Ruiz Leadership Academy in South Phoenix. He entered teaching as a 2011 Teach For America Phoenix Corps Member and later worked in teacher training and support roles with Teach For America’s summer institute and Phoenix regional team. Robby has also served as a member of the Teach for America Arizona Alumni Board and as the President elect of the Mesa Association of School Administrators.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 83: Partnering for Innovation. A Conversation with Amy McGrath.
26 Nov 2025
00:36:56
We challenge the assumption that boredom is a student problem and show how design, mentorship and partnerships can make school feel alive. Amy McGrath shares the path from Florida Virtual to ASU Prep’s Digital Plus microschools, mastery learning and the new Tempe Levitt Lab.
• student-centered models that treat boredom as a design signal • lessons from Florida Virtual and one-to-one mentorship • hybrid learning that mixes digital core with in-person projects • ASU Prep Digital Plus hubs and personalized learning guides • partnerships with Khan Academy, Steve Levitt and John Williams • wonder sessions and Socratic seminars that deepen curiosity • mastery, alternative credentials and university collaboration • practical steps to start, fund and pilot new models • mentorship that tells the truth and removes drag
About our guest Amy McGrath is the VP of Educational Outreach and Student Services at Arizona State University, Managing Director of ASU Preparatory Academy, and Chair of the Board for ASU Prep Global. She leads the design and national scaling of innovative learning models in partnership with over 350 school districts via ASU Prep Global. Amy co-designed Khan World School with Sal Khan and is passionate about using emerging technologies to boost engagement and learning. Her past roles include leading product development for 600,000+ learners at Florida Virtual School and advising international education leaders on blended learning. She writes extensively on the intersection of innovation and opportunity, serves on the boards of the World Series of Entrepreneurship, Class Technologies, and Trace Academy, and is committed to redesigning the student experience from the inside out. Amy holds a Bachelor's in Social Science Education and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of South Florida.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 82: School Choice: The Great Debate. A Conversation with Mike McShane.
18 Nov 2025
01:14:13
We trace the rise of school choice from early voucher experiments to modern ESAs, unpack how funding actually follows students, and use fresh data to separate myths from reality. Mike McShane shares trends on parent preferences, teacher morale, and why safety and fit now drive decisions.
• defining vouchers, ESAs, tax credits and open enrollment • how school funding works and what follows students • common school history, Zelman ruling and universal expansion • charter schools and homeschool regulation contrasts • enrollment shares versus parent preferences by sector • arguments for and against school choice, addressed charitably • why families switch: bullying, stress and unmet needs • impacts on districts, hold-harmless provisions and supply growth • teacher morale trends and why microschools attract educators • ten-year outlook and how states can make access truly universal
About our guest Dr. Michael McShane is Director of National Research at EdChoice. He is the author, editor, co-author, or co-editor of twelve books on education policy, including his most recent Getting Education Right (w/ Rick Hess). He is currently an opinion contributor to Forbes, and his analyses and commentary have been published widely in the media, including in USA Today, The Washington Post, and the Wall Street Journal. A former high school teacher, he earned a Ph.D. in education policy from the University of Arkansas, He is also a senior fellow at the Show-Me Institute and an adjunct fellow in education policy studies at the American Enterprise Institute.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 81: Embracing your Child's Uniqueness. A Conversation with Matt Bowman.
13 Nov 2025
00:50:55
We explore how to choose schooling with intention and build an “open education” that taps every resource that fits your child. Matt Bowman shares five building blocks that move families from one-size-fits-all to agency, community, and practical pathways beyond high school.
• partnering with parents as primary educators • the myth of the average student and unique needs • choosing your child over your reputation • mapping interests, family needs, and resources • giving kids a real voice in decisions • two-week learner sprints and showcase nights • play, limits, and latitude for engagement • microschools and community as an antidote to AI noise • flexible post–high school pathways including apprenticeships and certifications
About our guest Matt Bowman is an innovator in education and technology and is deeply dedicated to transforming the way children learn. He and his wife, Amy, founded OpenEd together, and the Bowmans have spent over three decades championing personalized education, combining cutting-edge technology with an entrepreneurial spirit to help students thrive in a rapidly changing world. A former sixth-grade teacher and tech executive, Matt has been at the forefront of online education since the 1990s.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 80: Help! My Kid Hates Writing. A Conversation with Julie Bogart.
05 Nov 2025
00:57:12
We challenge the grading mindset that squeezes the life out of young writers and replace it with coaching, curiosity, and real audiences. Julie Bogart shares practical steps—jot-it-down, family freewrites, reader response, playful revision, and a kind mechanics mop-up—that help kids find their voice.
• treating writing as self-expression first, transcription second • separating ideas from mechanics and using scribing or voice-to-text • shifting from evaluation to allyship and coaching • creating real audiences to replace single-grader assignments • using jot-it-down to “publish” kids’ spoken words • family freewrites to build fluency and confidence • reader response that guides without wounding • playful revision that builds flexibility and voice • gentle mechanics mop-up with student choice and intent • releasing parent performance pressure and trusting development
About our guest Julie Bogart is known for her common sense writing, critical thinking and home education advice. Julie’s the creator of the award-winning, innovative online writing program called Brave Writer serving 191 countries and hundreds of thousands of families. She is the author of Help! My Kid Hates Writing,The Brave Learner and Raising Critical Thinkers.
Her Substack, podcast, and social media are wildly popular sources of support to weary, well-intentioned parents. Julie home educated her five children who are now adults and she has three grandchildren.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 79: Public Microschools Making a Difference. A Conversation with George Philhower.
30 Oct 2025
00:39:53
We explore how clear promises to families can reshape a district and spark a statewide network of microschools. George shares the roadmap from listening to homeschoolers to opening a K–12 site at a campground, plus the courage and imposter syndrome that come with big dreams.
• four promises as the foundation for culture and decisions • replacing compliance‑driven teacher evaluation with growth • enrollment insights from homeschool and virtual families • designing a statewide charter and governance model • launching a K–12 microschool at a youth campground • multi‑age, self‑paced, hands‑on learning in small groups • founder support through district back‑office services • honest trade‑offs on services, logistics and scale • using microschools as living labs for district change • practical advice for leaders facing imposter syndrome
About our guest Dr. George Philhower serves as the superintendent at Eastern Hancock Schools in Indiana. He holds a Bachelors in Elementary and Special Education from Cardinal Stritch University, a Masters in Instructional Leadership from the University of Indianapolis, and an Ed.S. and Ph.D. from Indiana State University. George imagines a future where every student and educator wakes up genuinely excited to go to school—not because they have to, but because they know it’s a place where they are safe to be themselves, where success is attainable, where their work has meaning, where friendships thrive, and where they are greeted by adults who truly see, support, and love them. George is convinced that the best way to make this vision a reality is through collaboration among leaders in the field of education who are committed to disrupting the status quo. George works hard to share the work happening in his district and learn from others in the field in order to make his vision a reality.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 78: Kids Do Well if They Can. A Conversation with Stuart Ablon.
21 Oct 2025
00:50:04
We rethink “behavior problems” with Dr. Stuart Ablon, showing why kids struggle when skills lag and how collaboration—not control—creates durable change. We walk through Plan B step-by-step, with a classroom role play that turns disruption into progress.
• kids do well if they can as core mindset • relationship quality as strongest predictor of change • plans A, B, C defined with pros and cons • plan B three steps: empathy, adult concern, invite solutions • externalizing the problem to reduce defensiveness • real-time role play: talking during math • testing solutions against both concerns for realism • building intrinsic motivation via mastery, autonomy, relatedness • strategic use of plan C for prioritization • how adults regulate themselves to avoid power struggles • resources for learning more about Think Kids and Collaborative Problem Solving
About our guest Stuart Ablon, Ph.D., is Founder and Director of Think:Kids in the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital. An award-winning psychologist, Dr. Ablon is Associate Professor and the Thomas G. Stemberg Endowed Chair in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He is the author of three books, Changeable, hand-picked by Malcolm Gladwell, Adam Grant, Dan Pink, and Susan Cain for their Next Big Idea Club, The School Discipline Fix, and Treating Explosive Kids: The Collaborative Problem Solving Approach. Dr. Ablon received his doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of California at Berkeley and completed his training at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. One of the world’s top-rated thought-leaders and keynote speakers, Dr. Ablon teaches educators, parents, clinicians, managers, and leaders a very different approach to understanding and addressing challenging behavior of all types and in all people. Dr. Ablon has helped hundreds of organizations throughout the world implement the Collaborative Problem Solving approach.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 77: The Power of Project Read. A Conversation with Vivek Ramakrishnan.
16 Oct 2025
00:46:45
We explore why reading scores have fallen, what the Science of Reading actually demands in classrooms, and how AI can scale productive practice without replacing human connection. Vivek Ramakrishnan shares data, bright spots from states like Mississippi, and a grounded look at tutoring tech that helps kids decode for real.
• national reading trends and why they predate the pandemic • foundations beneath fourth-grade comprehension scores • what the Science of Reading supports and what it rejects • bright spots in Mississippi, Louisiana and Alabama • why early literacy beats late remediation • explicit instruction, decodables and fluency development • differences between math rules and English patterns • how AI scales individualized practice and feedback • classroom constraints, noise and practical setup • empowered learners and the moment self-correction clicks
About our guest Vivek Ramakrishnan is the CEO and Co-Founder of Project Read AI, an AI-powered literacy platform for educators and students alike. Project Read's Science of Reading tool suite allows teachers to generate personalized decodable texts, fluency passages and more, while its AI Tutor delivers personalized, 1-1 early literacy tutoring using speech recognition. Through its bottoms-up, teacher-driven approach, Project Read's AI tools have been adopted by educators in over 50% of US elementary schools. Viv previously was an award-winning teacher at Freedom Preparatory Charter Schools in Memphis and Co-Founder of One City Schools in Madison, Wisconsin. He holds an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business, where he received the Stanford Social Impact Founder fellowship to help start Project Read.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 76: Excellence in Writing. A Conversation with Andrew Pudewa.
08 Oct 2025
01:09:24
Andrew Pudewa, founder of the Institute for Excellence in Writing, joins us to unpack how skill-first teaching unlocks motivation, builds real confidence, and quite literally reshapes the brain for better thinking. We trace the invisible steps the mind takes to write a single sentence, then show how to lower the cognitive load with structure, small wins, and a steady climb: easy plus one.
• the true goal of writing as expressing ideas, not feelings • why motivation follows mastery and “kids like what they can do” • the cognitive steps of writing and why it feels hard • breaking tasks into “easy plus one” to lower load • building a language database through read‑alouds and poetry • using structure and style: outlines, units, and checklists • feedback that builds: edit to legal, A/I grading • separating spelling from composition early on • mixed‑age groups benefiting from repetition and modeling • tech and AI as tools, not replacements for thinking • resources: IEW, Arts of Language Podcast, Memory practices
About our guest Andrew Pudewa is the founder and director of the Institute for Excellence in Writing. Presenting around the world, he addresses issues relating to teaching, writing, thinking, spelling, and music with clarity, insight, practical experience, and humor. His seminars for parents, students, and teachers have helped transform many a reluctant writer and have equipped educators with powerful tools to dramatically improve students’ skills.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 75: School Choice For All Families. A Conversation with Matt Ladner.
06 Oct 2025
00:45:28
We explore how Education Savings Accounts move accountability to families, why universal eligibility builds durable coalitions, and what it takes to grow small pilots into statewide “oaks” that actually meet demand. Matt Ladner shares lessons from Arizona, Texas, Florida, and West Virginia on funding design, flexibility, and political strategy.
• ESA as flexible, multi‑use accounts beyond vouchers • Texas milestone and scale context for a “big acorn” • Shift from means‑tested to universal eligibility • Coalition building across income and zip codes • Special needs origins of choice and lived accountability • Bullying as top driver for switching schools • Demand‑driven design: formula funding, no lotteries • Funding parity and the West Virginia shortfall lesson • Plural supply: private, public courses, microschools, tutors • Teacher autonomy and co‑creation with families • Legal headwinds and why courts often uphold programs • Optimistic outlook for a more vibrant, plural system
About our guest Matt Ladner has been writing about education policy for decades and he has been instrumental in the creation of school choice policies all over the country. He blogs at Next Steps and he is a Senior Advisor at Heritage’s Center for Education Policy. Previously, Matt held roles with the Arizona Charter Schools Association, EdChoice, and ReimaginED. Ladner is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and received a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Houston.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 74: Making Math Relevant. A Conversation with Jo Boaler.
24 Sep 2025
00:44:35
Dr. Jo Boaler shares her groundbreaking work in mathematics education, exploring how beliefs shape learning and how we can transform math instruction to help every student succeed.
• Starting her career in London schools where she discovered anyone can learn math with the right opportunities • Joining Stanford and later collaborating with Carol Dweck to spread growth mindset ideas through YouCubed.org • Explaining how neuroscience reveals five brain pathways used in math thinking, with two being visual pathways • Discussing how beliefs about math physically shape the brain's ability to learn • Highlighting the damage caused by fixed mindset praise like "you're so smart" • Describing how math anxiety activates the same fear center in the brain as seeing snakes or spiders • Advocating for celebrating struggle as essential for brain growth and learning • Explaining why standards should be organized into big, connected ideas rather than isolated skills • Sharing how integrated math instruction (rather than separating algebra, geometry, etc.) mirrors real-world math • Introducing Strugly.com, which rewards persistence and connection-making rather than speed or accuracy
About our guest Dr. Jo Boaler is a Stanford Professor. Formerly, she was the Marie Curie professor of mathematics education in England, and a mathematics teacher in London comprehensive schools. She is the author of 19 books, numerous articles and a White House presenter on women and girls. Her latest book is: Math-ish: Finding Creativity, Diversity and Meaning in Mathematics. She co-founded www.youcubed.org and www.Struggly.com. She was on the writing team for the 2023 California Mathematics Framework and was named as one of the 8 educators “changing the face of education” by the BBC.
Connect with Jo Visit YouCubed.org, Strugly.com, and Mathish.org to learn more about Dr. Boaler's work and access free resources for teaching and learning mathematics.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 73: Finding Your Family's Learning Path. A Conversation with Elle Rowley.
17 Sep 2025
00:47:22
Elle Rowley shares her transformative journey from struggling high school student to successful entrepreneur and educational innovator creating alternative learning environments for children in her community. Through personal experience and experimentation, she's developed a thriving microschool model that prioritizes curiosity, community, and child-led learning.
• Finding educational approaches that honor different learning styles and children's natural curiosity • Creating educational communities that thrive despite philosophical differences among families • Building Solly Baby as an entrepreneurial "master's program" driven by problem-solving and curiosity • Converting a barn into a one-room schoolhouse that evolved into multiple campuses • Allowing children to initiate and lead their own learning projects like plays and community-building • Focusing on whether education amplifies rather than diminishes a child's natural curiosity • Starting small with available resources rather than waiting for perfect conditions
About our guest Elle Rowley is the host of the show Down the Well, founder of the award-winning baby carrier company Solly Baby, and partner at Levin Capital, a private equity fund focusing primarily on female and family-owned businesses. She lives in Bonsall, California with her husband and four children on a backyard farm with a little barn that they have turned into a one room schoolhouse for the community.
Connect with Elle To learn more about Elle's work, follow her on Instagram @ellerowley or check out her podcast "Down the Well" which explores motherhood as a transformative journey rather than merely a self-sacrificing one.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 72: Getting High School Right. A Conversation with Chad Carlson.
09 Sep 2025
00:52:20
Chad Carlson shares how One Stone Lab School uses human-centered design to transform education by treating students as end users rather than products. He describes their unique approach that removes traditional grades, subjects, and bells in favor of personalized growth frameworks that prepare students for the real world.
• One Stone's origin story as an innovative school designed alongside students to make learning relevant and meaningful • How human-centered design principles are applied to education through continuous iteration and student feedback • The shift from viewing students as products to seeing them as end users of education • One Stone's daily structure including Design Labs, interdisciplinary experiences, and mentor relationships • Their growth transcript system that assesses 24 skills across contexts, replacing traditional grades • The difference between durable skills (empathy, communication) and cognitive skills • How colleges respond to their innovative transcript (accepted by 190+ institutions) • The importance of human relationships over technological solutions in education's future
About our guest Chad is the Director of Research & Design of the One Stone Lab School in Boise, Idaho. Chad joined One Stone in 2016 and helped design and lead the implementation of One Stone’s innovative, student-driven Lab School. He is currently leading One Stone's initiative to scale the school’s Growth Framework learning model and support schools in their transition to becoming transformative, future-ready schools.
Connect with Chad Visit onestone.org to learn more about their model and trainings, or email chad@onestone.org for discovery calls to discuss how these principles might work in your educational setting.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 70: Beyond One Size Fits All Learning. A Conversation with Yong Zhao.
26 Aug 2025
00:57:18
Dr. Yong Zhao challenges us to keep children at the center of education by acknowledging their uniqueness and building learning systems around that core idea. His approach aims to give kids the skills they need for meaningful future work instead of the synthetic tasks often imposed throughout traditional K-12 education.
• Education should build on student strengths, not force mastery of every weak spot • Meritocracy fails by judging all kids with the same yardstick instead of honoring diverse talents • Schools lost the race with tech by neglecting to prepare students to use it well • “Personalizable education” means kids drive their learning journey, not just receive “personalized” lessons • Real learning happens through solving authentic problems, not completing artificial assignments • Humans are natural learners who need autonomy to discover strengths and interests • Tech isn’t good or bad—what matters is how we teach kids to use it productively • Systems should avoid one-size-fits-all and give schools more freedom • Nothing works for every child—education must adapt to differences • We should help kids create the future, not just prepare for it
About our guest Dr. Yong Zhao is a Foundation Distinguished Professor in the School of Education at the University of Kansas. He previously served as the Presidential Chair, Associate Dean, and Director of the Institute for Global and Online Education in the College of Education, University of Oregon, where he was also a Professor in the Department of Educational Measurement, Policy, and Leadership. His works focus on the implications of globalization and technology on education. He has published over 100 articles and nearly 40 books, including: Duck and Cover- Confronting and correcting dubious practices in education, Teaching students to become self determined learners, What works may hurt -side effects in education, Never send a human to do a machine’s job.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 69: What School Could Be. A Conversation with Ted Dintersmith and Garrett Smiley.
19 Aug 2025
00:48:11
The rapidly accelerating capabilities of artificial intelligence are creating an urgent need to rethink how we prepare young people for a world where machines will soon outperform humans in many cognitive tasks.
• Schools train students in what ChatGPT already does best • AI power doubles yearly, reshaping the workforce • The “school-to-career” escalator model is collapsing • Content delivery dominates, but agency and values matter most • Don’t trade kids’ mental health and relationships for small GPA gains • Students need entrepreneurial skills to solve real problems • Hands-on, career-focused learning deserves equal respect with academics • Families should explore AI tools as “curiosity machines” • Future success depends more on AI collaboration than college prestige
About our guests Ted Dintersmith is a change agent focused on the impact of education and innovation. His professional background spans technology, entrepreneurship, and public policy. He has been the executive producer of several films that have premiered at Sundance, including the acclaimed Most Likely to Succeed. Ted’s most recent book What School Could Be: Insights and Inspiration from Teachers Across America is based on a trip he took to all 50 U.S. states during a single school year. In 2018, he received NEA’s prestigious “Friend of Education” Award.
Garrett Smiley is the Co-Founder of Sora Schools, an education startup. Sora is a virtual, project-based high school where students explore their interests, learn however is best for them, and gain exposure to future careers and fields of work. Prior to Sora, Garrett co-founded a charity which built wells in developing nations called Drops of Love. Garret also directed a university startup incubator called Core Founders at Georgia Tech, and started an education non-profit that worked with foster kids to develop financial literacy called Flip. Garrett worked as a Venture Partner at Contrary Capital where he scouted, invested in, and mentored startups in the Atlanta area.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 68: Centering Humanity in Teaching. A Conversation with Matt Eicheldinger.
13 Aug 2025
00:54:28
Matt Eicheldinger, NYT bestselling author and educator, shares his journey of persistence and the power of meaningful connections with young people. He centers on building trust and creating space for kids to develop confidence, curiosity, and resilience.
• Becoming a teacher because he enjoyed kids and had parents who modeled empathy • Writing his first book for struggling readers, facing 600+ rejections before succeeding • The impact of small moments that resonate with students years later • Playing "the long game" with disengaged students by building trust before pushing academics • The importance of boredom as a catalyst for creativity • Creating space for silence and reflection in our overstimulated world • Showing vulnerability by sharing rejection letters with students • Helping children develop identity beyond academic achievement
About our guest
Matt Eicheldinger is a New York Times bestselling author, storyteller, and educator who brings humor and heart to every story he tells. With a knack for finding the extraordinary in everyday moments, Matt has captivated readers with books like Sticky Notes: Memorable Lessons from Ordinary Moments and Matt Sprouts and the Curse of the Ten Broken Toes, and continues to write stories that capture the imagination and heart for readers. Beyond the page, Matt shares relatable stories with his hundreds of thousands of followers on social media, and has amassed over 100 million views where he makes people laugh, think, and appreciate the small moments in life.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 67: The Microschool Movement. A Conversation with Kaity Broadbent and Kelly Smith.
05 Aug 2025
00:50:54
Education is undergoing a seismic shift as families and educators seek alternatives to traditional schooling, with microschools emerging as a powerful option for personalized learning in supportive communities.
• 48% of parents feel education is heading in the wrong direction • 17.5% of kids are now outside traditional schools (up from 11.8% in 2018) • The one-size-fits-all classroom approach leaves many students either bored or lost • Education Savings Account (ESA) programs across 25-30 states are making school choice accessible regardless of income level • COVID forced education onto kitchen tables, revealing limitations in traditional approaches • Microschools transform narratives from "problem kid" or "good kid" to recognizing inherent worth and potential • Prenda provides tools to make starting microschools accessible, including goal-setting features and portfolio-based assessment • Some forward-thinking public schools are incorporating microschool elements within their existing structures • The education revolution is gathering momentum, promising to unleash more human potential
Check out Prenda on social media @prendalearn to learn more about starting your own microschool.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 66: Raising Kids With Purpose. A Conversation with Adriane Thompson.
24 Apr 2025
01:02:22
Adriane Thompson, founder of Raising Kids With Purpose, shares her transformative journey from controlling parenting to creating an environment that meets children's developmental needs through intentional family culture.
• Shifting from viewing parenting as controlling children to understanding and meeting their developmental needs • Creating strong family culture through shared values, family meetings, and consistent modeling • Understanding that big emotions and behaviors in children signal unmet needs, not "bad kids" • Helping neurodivergent children by recognizing their unique nervous system needs • Building a family where unconditional love and acceptance form the foundation • Recognizing that our own nervous system regulation directly impacts our children • Starting with awareness of our triggers and patterns from our own upbringing • Using values as an anchor during challenging parenting moments • Creating consistent family time to strengthen connections
About our guest
Adriane Thompson is a certified parenting coach living in Surprise, Arizona, with her husband, three energetic boys, and two Aussiedoodles. She’s passionate about helping parents navigate challenges with a connection-based approach and is the creator of the P.U.R.P.O.S.E. Parent Transformation Program, a 12-week coaching experience designed to help overwhelmed parents break generational cycles, build emotional resilience, and foster a strong family culture rooted in mutual respect. With over five years of experience in coaching, education, and mentoring, Adriane has a gift for breaking down complex topics like neurodevelopment, emotional regulation, attachment, and family dynamics into practical, life-giving strategies. She shares value-packed blog posts and printables at Raising Kids With Purpose, offering tools that support parents on their journey toward more peace and joy at home. When she’s not coaching, you’ll find Adriane hiking, camping with her family, leading local mom groups, or mentoring high school girls at her church. She believes in the power of connection, kindness, and lifelong learning to make a lasting impact on the world.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 65: Know and Tell, The Power of Narration. A Conversation with Karen Glass.
09 Apr 2025
00:54:45
Karen Glass discusses the power of narration in education, sharing her journey from homeschooling mom to Charlotte Mason education expert and author of "Know and Tell: The Art of Narration."
• Narration is simply telling back what you've learned, a natural human activity we use to build relationships • Charlotte Mason's educational philosophy centers on two key principles: "children are born persons" and "education is a science of relations" • Narration develops multiple cognitive skills including comprehension, memory, ordering of thoughts, and communication • The progression of narration moves from oral telling (ages 6-9) to written narration (10-12) to formal composition (junior high and high school) • Narration can be applied to any subject and take many forms—oral, written, artistic, dramatic, or even through building models • Children don't always enjoy narration, but it works effectively regardless, developing communication skills that serve students throughout life • Special needs children can benefit from narration through alternative expressions like drawing, building, or dramatic play • The mental processes involved in narration help students build connections between subjects and with their prior knowledge
About our guest
Karen Glass has been studying and learning about Charlotte Mason’s philosophy of education since 1994. She homeschooled her four children who are now all adult graduates, but her passion for this life-giving view of education has not diminished and she welcomes opportunities to share it with others. She has spoken at homeschool conferences, taught online classes, conducted teacher training at schools, and served as an adjunct professor to teach college-level classes. She is the author of several books based upon Charlotte Mason’s ideas, including Consider This, Know and Tell: The Art of Narration, In Vital Harmony, and most recently Much May Be Done with Sparrows. After living in Krakow, Poland for almost 25 years, she now lives in rural Indiana where she continues to read, learn, teach, and write.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 64: Trauma-Informed Education. A Conversation with Alex Shevrin Venet.
25 Mar 2025
01:05:09
Alex Shevrin Venet shares how educators can build unconditional positive regard that helps children feel valued regardless of behavior, improving their ability to regulate emotions and engage in learning.
• Trauma affects behavior by triggering stress responses that appear as choices but aren't really choices • Co-regulation (calm adults helping dysregulated children) precedes self-regulation • Restraint collapse explains why children often "fall apart" after holding it together at school • Children behave better when they feel safe, not when they're punished or shamed
More about our guest
Alex Shevrin Venet is an educator, author, and professional development facilitator based in Vermont. She teaches graduate teacher education at Vermont State University. Alex works with educators around the country to strengthen their trauma-informed education practices, with a focus on empowering teachers to create systemic change.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 63: Keeping Kids Safe Online. A Conversation with Brock Murphy.
13 Mar 2025
00:52:02
Brock Murphy, co-founder of Parent ProTech, shares critical insights about helping families navigate the challenging digital landscape that's targeting our children. He draws on his unique background spanning government work and SpaceX to offer practical strategies for protecting kids while building healthy relationships with technology. In this episode, we cover...
• Building on relationships as the foundation for digital safety conversations rather than leading with restrictions • Understanding the neuroscience behind teen technology use - "overdeveloped accelerators and underdeveloped brake systems" • Creating community standards around technology use to combat the "everyone else has it" pressure • Recognizing that content previously considered extreme has become normalized and easily accessible • Looking at technology access holistically rather than just focusing on phones • Partnering with schools to create consistent approaches to technology both in and out of the classroom • Staying informed about platform changes and understanding the social features hidden within educational apps • Getting involved in your child's digital world by participating in their online activities • Finding resources to help navigate the constantly evolving digital landscape
More about our guest
Brock Murphy is a graduate of Texas A&M University with time spent in the agriculture industry, at the White House, and at SpaceX. After being approached by parents and teachers to solve various problems about new technology and applications, he co-founded Parent ProTech to help empower families and educators with the tools and knowledge needed to safely navigate technology.
Connect with Brock Visit ParentProTech.com for resources to help your family navigate technology safely or sign up for their newsletter to stay informed about changes in the digital landscape.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 62: Building Thinking Classrooms. A Conversation with Peter Liljedahl.
25 Feb 2025
01:04:25
Engaging students in meaningful thinking and learning is essential for effective education. We explore the principles of creating a thinking classroom with Dr. Peter Liljeddahl, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, purposeful tasks, and a supportive learning environment.
What we'll cover... - Discussion of non-thinking behaviors observed in traditional classrooms - Introduction to the 14 key practices for building thinking classrooms - Importance of random group formations for collaborative learning - Strategies for implementing thinking tasks into classroom routines - The role of teacher-student dynamics in fostering engagement - Emphasis on valuing mistakes as learning opportunities - How to incorporate playful and non-curricular tasks into learning - Insights into Dr. Liljedahl's further resources and books
If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe for more insights on transforming education through innovative practices!
About our guest...
Dr. Peter Liljedahl is a Professor of Mathematics Education in the Faculty of Education and an associate member in the Department of Mathematics at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, Canada. Dr. Liljedahl has authored or co-authored 9 books, 26 book chapters, 27 journal articles, and over 50 conference papers.
His research interests are creativity, insight, and discovery in mathematics teaching and learning and teacher development. He consults regularly with schools, school districts, and ministries of education on issues of teaching and learning, assessment, and numeracy.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 61: Coaching Kids Through Anger. A Conversation with Samantha Snowden.
12 Feb 2025
01:05:45
Ever feel lost when a child erupts in frustration? You’re not alone! In this episode, we dive deep into understanding childhood anger, why it happens, and—most importantly—how to guide kids toward healthy emotional regulation.
Our guest, Samantha Snowden, an expert in emotional intelligence and child development, shares powerful tools for parents, educators, and caregivers to help children manage big emotions with compassion and confidence.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ Why compassion is the key to emotional development ✅ The root causes of anger and how to address them ✅ Practical strategies for emotion identification and regulation ✅ How culture and language shape a child’s emotional understanding ✅ Post-regulation reflection: Helping kids learn from emotional moments ✅ How to foster emotional intelligence and self-awareness in everyday life
If you're raising or teaching kids, this episode is packed with insights to help you build emotional resilience and create a supportive learning environment. 🎧 Hit play now and join the conversation!
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 60: You Can Homeschool Your Way. A Conversation with Elan Page.
27 Jan 2025
00:55:22
Discover how homeschooling can revolutionize your child’s education and fit seamlessly into your family’s lifestyle. This episode features Elan Page, the founder of Homeschool Our Way, who shares her inspiring journey from a lifelong learner to a trailblazer empowering families, especially families of color, to embrace homeschooling with confidence. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with practical tips and encouragement.
We explore critical topics like setting family goals, selecting the right curriculum, and managing work-life balance while homeschooling. Learn about valuable resources like educational savings accounts (ESAs) and how they can open doors for a personalized learning experience. From overcoming challenges to finding homeschool co-ops and expert support, we’ve got you covered.
At its core, homeschooling fosters student autonomy and creates opportunities for personalized, mastery-based learning. Elan highlights the importance of representation and community, ensuring every child feels seen and valued. Don’t miss this empowering conversation that’s full of actionable advice to make homeschooling work for your family.
More about our guest Elan Page, a native of Dallas, Texas, is a lifelong learner who is passionate about helping other families of color access the freedom and fulfillment that homeschool offers.
After a brief return to traditional schooling, the Page family made the collective decision to embrace homeschooling as the future for their daughters. Elan then drew on her own learnings from starting the homeschooling process, and she created Homeschool Our Way to help other families of color avoid the overwhelm she had experienced in starting something new.
Homeschool Our Way offers a weekly podcast, an online course called the Homeschool Launch Blueprint and other resources to empower families of color to educate their children with confidence and clarity.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 59: Executive Function Development and AI. A Conversation with Peter Fitzpatrick.
06 Jan 2025
00:48:41
Join us as we sit down with Peter Fitzpatrick, co-founder of FawnFriends.com, to explore the creation of Willow, a robotic plushie designed to support neurodivergent children in their emotional growth. Peter shares his personal journey, from his experiences with ADHD and familial challenges to the innovative hackathon project that gave birth to Willow. Discover how this cuddly AI companion is transforming the landscape of emotional support for children and their parents, without replacing traditional methods.
We also examine the broader implications of AI in child development and mental health, highlighting AI's unique ability to scale educational support and provide tailored assistance. Peter's insights challenge us to consider how robots might enrich our lives, encouraging us to look beyond metal and circuits to see potential companions in child development and emotional well-being.
More about our Guest Peter is building Willow, a robotic plushy that helps neurodivergent kids grow up to be successful by helping them learn to regulate emotions, set and pursue goals, and build more secure relationships. Peter, co-founder of FawnFriends.com, is a student of child psychology, how robots can help children mature successfully, and emotional wellness.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 58: The Science Behind Microschools. A Conversation with Kaity Broadbent.
16 Dec 2024
01:00:22
How do we create learning environments that foster curiosity while helping kids develop real-world knowledge and skills? Since 2018, Prenda has helped open over 1,000 microschools across the US making small, effective learning environment accessible to thousands of families. Microschooling is a rapidly growing educational model, but how does it work? In this episode we'll peel back the layers of Prenda's mission to "empower learners," revealing how a community-focused approach can create learning environments where kids genuinely thrive.
Imagine transforming education from a fear-based model to one that champions intrinsic motivation and real-world readiness. Prenda makes that vision a reality by fostering environments that emphasize choice, while also equipping students with vital life skills and personal accountability.
More about our guest Kaity Broadbent currently serves as Chief Empowerment Advocate and Head of Marketing at Prenda Microschools. As co-host of the Kindled Podcast she's focused on spreading the word about how microschooling can revolutionize education. In her previous role as Prenda's Head of Learning she helped articulate Prenda's unique microschool learning model ensuring that Prenda students and guides have access to high-quality, effective learning practices. Prior to Prenda, she was an ASHA certified Speech Language Pathologist. She plays "Adventure Kait" in Prenda's free literacy curriculum and she's the mother of 4 very curious Prenda kids.
Connect with Kaity Follow Prenda on all social outlets @prendalearn Follow Kaity personally on instagram @kaity_forthekids Find more information about Prenda at Prenda.com
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 57: AI Supported Personalized Learning. A Conversation with Dr. Kristen DiCerbo
04 Dec 2024
00:55:53
How can technology reshape education to cater to every student’s unique learning journey? Join us as we explore this question with Dr. Kristen DiCerbo, the Chief Learning Officer at Khan Academy, who shares her transformative insights into personalized and mastery-based learning. Discover how Khan Academy's new AI tool, "Khanmigo" is revolutionizing learning as it helps educators address the diverse needs of students worldwide, breaking free from the constraints of traditional educational models.
Dr. DiCerbo highlights the challenges teachers face, such as managing large classrooms and addressing special education shortages, and how technology can alleviate these burdens. By leveraging platforms like Khan Academy, educators can provide tailored learning experiences that empower students and nurture creativity. We delve into the ways technology can reduce teacher burnout, foster stronger student-teacher connections, and transform teaching roles to be more focused on creating meaningful educational experiences and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
More About Our Guest Dr. Kristen DiCerbo is the Chief Learning Officer at Khan Academy, where she leads the content, design, product management, and community support teams. Dr. DiCerbo’s career has focused on embedding insights from education research into digital learning experiences. Prior to her role at Khan Academy, she was Vice-President of Learning Research and Design at Pearson, served as a research scientist supporting the Cisco Networking Academies, and worked as a school psychologist. Kristen has a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from Arizona State University.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 56: Strengthening Cognition Through Gaming. A Conversation with Anna Vagin
18 Nov 2024
01:03:14
Discover how games can revolutionize the way we support children with social cognitive differences in our engaging conversation with Dr.Anna Vagin. Anna takes us on her journey into the world of social cognition, sharing her expertise in working with children on the autism spectrum, children with ADHD, and other communication challenges. Learn how attachment theory plays a crucial role in understanding these differences and how parents and educators can shift their perspectives to better support unique communication styles. Anna's personal anecdotes highlight the transformative power of empathy, offering insights into creating inclusive environments for diverse learners.
We delve into practical strategies for making game nights an enjoyable and educational experience for the whole family. Discover how games can become powerful tools for teaching emotional intelligence and social growth. We share tips on adapting complex games for neurodivergent children, creating a safe space for emotional learning, and encouraging post-game discussions to enhance children's emotional intelligence. With Anna's wisdom and experience, this episode is packed with valuable tools and strategies to make your next family game night not just fun, but a meaningful learning opportunity for everyone involved.
More About Our Guest Anna Vagin, PhD, is a licensed speech/language pathologist with over 30 years of experience. In her private practice in Marin County, California, she provides individual sessions and social learning groups to children, young adults, and their families. Her particular interests are using media and gaming, including Therapeutically Applied Role-Playing Games, to support students with social cognition and language differences, and the role of mental processes in communication, relationships, and life satisfaction.
She provides consultation to parents and schools, is a frequent US and International speaker, and a prolific writer/contributor on topics related to social cognition.
Connect with Anna Website: https://www.socialtime.org/ Instagram: annavagin.sociallearninglabs
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 55: Building Connection at Bedtime. A Conversation with Andrew Newman
06 Nov 2024
00:56:16
Unlock the secrets of bedtime storytelling with our special guest, Andrew Newman, an acclaimed author and founder of Conscious Stories. He sheds light on the remarkable influence of bedtime stories in nurturing the priceless bond between parents and children. Together, we explore how those precious last 20 minutes of the day can be transformed into a powerful tool for emotional and cognitive growth, setting the stage for a lifetime of strong connections.
Dive into the fascinating realm where storytelling meets science, as we discuss the positive impacts of bedtime stories on children's emotional regulation and cognitive development. Discover how these narratives help children sequence events, expand vocabulary, and process emotions in a safe environment, while even assisting in calming their nervous systems for a restful sleep. Through engaging tales like "The Little Brain People," storytelling becomes a gateway to understanding brain functions and behavior, offering a playful yet profound approach to emotional intelligence and community building.
More About Our Guest Andrew Newman is an internationally-renowned and award-winning author and founder of Conscious Stories, a growing series of bedtime stories purpose-built to support parent-child connection in the last 20 minutes of the day. His early and profound longing for connection with all things spiritual later inspired a career in writing and communication in many forms.
A recognized voice in the conscious parenting movement, Conscious Stories, is a culmination of his background, experiences, and humanitarian efforts, and is intended to bring parent and child into deeper connection with each other.
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool
Episode 54: The Art of Problem Solving. A Conversation with Richard Rusczyk.
24 Oct 2024
00:55:25
Ready to unlock the magic of math? 🎉 This episode features Richard Rusczyk, founder of Art of Problem Solving and Beast Academy. His journey—from an “aggressively average” high school in Alabama to Princeton—shows the magic of student empowerment through autonomy and intrinsic motivation. 🚀
We explore learning spaces where project-based learning and creative problem-solving shine. Richard explains how leading with questions reduces math anxiety and builds confidence. Through stories of teachers and mentors, he highlights the value of self-paced and mastery-based learning.
At Art of Problem Solving, students don’t just excel—they join a vibrant learning community and build lifelong friendships. 🧑🤝🧑❤️
This episode celebrates the mentors, parents, and educators creating empowered learners. 🙌 Tune in and get inspired to help kids think creatively, overcome challenges, and thrive. 🎧
More About Our Guest Richard Rusczyk founded the Art of Problem Solving in 2003 to create interactive educational opportunities for avid math students. Art of Problem Solving now reaches hundreds of thousands of high-potential math students every year through its learning centers, online schools, books, websites, and online learning systems. Richard authored or co-authored 7 math textbooks and was one of the co-creators of the Mandelbrot Competition and a past Director of the USA Mathematical Talent Search. Richard was a participant in National MATHCOUNTS, a three-time participant in the Math Olympiad Summer Program, and a USA Mathematical Olympiad winner (1989). He graduated from Princeton University in 1993.
Connect with Richard https://artofproblemsolving.com/ https://beastacademy.com/
About the podcast The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.
Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being.
Got a burning question? We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!
Interested in starting a microschool? Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool