In a time when parents face rising pressure to get everything right, this episode offers something rare and essential: a deeply honest, poetic, and practical conversation about the transformative power of self-compassion.

Join Marin Montessori School’s Head of School, Sam Shapiro, and guest Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer, celebrated poet and parent educator, as they explore what it means to parent with grace instead of perfection.

Drawing on both research and lived experience, Rosemerry offers a path toward parenting that’s emotionally sustainable—and deeply human.

Together, they discuss:

• What self-compassion really is (and why it’s not indulgent)
• How it benefits our health, motivation, and relationships
• The link between grace for ourselves and connection with our children
• The latest science from Dr. Kristin Neff and the field of self-compassion research
• Why embracing our own imperfections is a powerful parenting act

Whether you’re navigating daily struggles or simply looking to show up with more presence and care, this conversation is a powerful reminder: we teach our children not by being perfect—but by being real.

What if summer wasn’t just time off—but time well used? In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, Marin Montessori Head of School Sam Shapiro talks with Dr. Christina Carroll, an Elementary Guide and educational researcher, about how families can rethink the summer months as a powerful opportunity for curiosity-driven learning.

Drawing from years of Montessori teaching experience and her doctoral research on how teacher beliefs shape student outcomes, Christina shares practical, project-based ideas for summer—from baking and gardening to trip planning and self-reflection.

This episode is ideal for any parent looking to support their child’s growth this summer in a way that’s joyful, intentional, and deeply engaging—without relying on worksheets or screen time.

📝 Download the Montessori Summer Project Guide here.

In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, Head of School Sam Shapiro speaks with neuropsychologist Dr. Ghazaleh Rafati on how parents can introduce the concepts of voting, civic responsibility, and democracy to children of various ages.

In an increasingly polarized world, understanding how to engage young minds in thoughtful conversations about elections is more important than ever.

Dr. Rafati provides insightful strategies for age-appropriate discussions, managing parental anxieties, and fostering healthy curiosity in children.

Key Takeaways:

• How children of different ages process abstract concepts like voting
• When and how to introduce civic responsibility based on developmental milestones
• Strategies for managing your own election-related anxieties in front of children
• Tips for fostering critical thinking and viewpoint diversity in young minds

In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, Terry Dubow and Siri Panday, Director of Education for Toddler and Primary at Marin Montessori, dive into the complexities of separation anxiety in young children.

From school drop-offs to moments of everyday goodbyes, learn how to create routines that promote confidence and help your child thrive emotionally.

Episode Highlights:

• Spotting the signs of typical separation anxiety vs. deeper concerns
• Practical strategies for establishing stress-free morning and evening routines
• Tips for short, reassuring goodbye rituals that build confidence
• Understanding the developmental stages related to independence
• Supporting emotional growth through positive, calm separations

Welcome back to Grounded and Soaring. In this first episode of Season 3, Terry Dubow and Sam Shapiro dive into the importance of "thinking differently" about education. Based on Sam's recent blog post, this episode explores how to break free from outdated assumptions about learning, encourage deeper thinking, and prepare children for an ever-changing world.

Episode Highlights:

• Understanding the risks of "automated thinking" and how it impacts education.
• Why age-based grades and standardized models might limit a child’s potential.
• Strategies to create an environment where children feel safe exploring diverse perspectives.
• How to balance digital exposure while fostering deep learning and curiosity.
• Key qualities children need to develop today to navigate an uncertain future.

In this final episode of our second season, we focus on how to prevent the summer slide. With insights from our level directors at Marin Montessori School, we offer actionable steps to keep your child engaged and learning over the summer.

Episode Highlights:

• Eye-opening statistics on summer learning loss and its impact on your child’s education.
• Practical Montessori activities to incorporate into your child's daily routine.
• Creative ways to balance educational activities with the joys of summer.
• Strategies for maintaining academic skills, particularly in reading and math.
• Advice on managing technology use and avoiding screen time battles.
• Tips for fostering independence, responsibility, and curiosity in your child.
• How to create meaningful family time and strengthen your child’s social skills.

Don’t forget to visit Grounded and Soaring for more episodes and resources. Enjoy your summer!

In this enlightening episode of Grounded and Soaring, Siri Panday, Director of Education for Toddler and Primary at Marin Montessori School, hosts a brief conversation with Rachel Manfredi, a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst and Behavioral Health Director from Child Development Center of Marin (Speech Marin).

They explore how early intervention through behavioral support for children under five, strengthens social skills while addressing common misconceptions and fears that may prevent families from comfortably seeking behavioral support.

Episode Highlights:

• Understanding Behavioral Therapy: What it is and how it can address a wide range of challenges
• Real-Life Success Stories: How early intervention can help diverse situations
• Managing Daily Routines: Practical strategies for easing morning and evening challenges
• Daily Integration: How to incorporate behavioral support techniques in everyday life
• Debunking Myths: Fears and misconceptions about seeking support for non-extreme cases

Explore the evolving landscape of education in the age of artificial intelligence with Sam Shapiro, Head of School at Marin Montessori, and Dr. Alex Curtis, Head of the New England Boarding School Choate Rosemary Hall.

This episode dives into the implications, challenges, and opportunities that AI, particularly ChatGPT, presents in educational settings.

Highlights include:

• Anticipation of the upcoming Gather for Good, which will include a panel with Sam Altman of OpenAI, discussing AI’s impact on future generations.
• Dr. Curtis's insights on integrating AI within a storied educational framework.
• A discussion on how AI reshapes the learning experiences and academic integrity.
• Strategies for educators and parents to harness AI while fostering critical thinking and creativity in students.
• Reflections on the balance of embracing technology and maintaining essential human skills.

Into the Wild: Unleashing Curiosity with Adventure explores the transformative power of experiential learning beyond the classroom. Join Terry Dubow and Bill Sneed from Marin Montessori School as they recount a recent snow science trip to the Sierras, delving into the profound impact of real-world experiences on adolescent development. This episode offers insights into:

• The Importance of Experiential Learning: How hands-on experiences enrich understanding and foster a deeper connection to academic subjects.
• Challenges and Adaptability: Discover how students navigate unexpected challenges, enhancing resilience and problem-solving skills.
• Community and Individual Growth: Learn about the role of communal experiences in shaping personal identity and strengthening social bonds.
• The Balance of Discomfort and Growth: Insights into how stepping out of comfort zones can be a catalyst for personal development.
• Montessori Philosophy in Action: See how Montessori principles of independence, observation, and curiosity come to life in the great outdoors.

Whether you're a parent seeking to broaden your child's horizons or simply interested in the benefits of learning outside traditional settings, this episode will inspire and inform.

"From Diet to Dreams: Building Healthier Habits for Kids" is a must-listen episode of Grounded and Soaring, the podcast that dives deep into nurturing healthier, happier kids in today's complex world.

Join Sam Shapiro, head of school at Marin Montessori, and special guest Anahad O'Connor, a Washington Post health columnist and award-winning author, as they explore the intersection of nutrition, sleep, and overall well-being for our youngest generation.

You'll discover tips for:

• Nutritious Eating: Learn how to introduce your children to a balanced and healthy diet that sets the tone for their entire day.
• The Science of Sleep: Uncover the critical role sleep plays in emotional regulation and how it affects parental patience and presence.
• Practical Wellness Tips: Gain insight into achievable practices that enhance both parental and child well-being.
• Fostering Healthy Habits: Find out how involving kids in food choices and preparation can boost their interest in nutritious eating.
• Emotional and Physical Health Connections: Understand the link between a healthy lifestyle and improved mental and physical health for the whole family.

Whether you're navigating the challenges of picky eaters, trying to improve sleep routines, or simply looking for ways to be more present with your children, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

In this thought-provoking episode of Grounded and Soaring, Sam Shapiro, head of Marin Montessori School, speaks with Noah Orgish, educational technologist at Marin Academy, in a deep dive into the role of AI and technology in modern education.

They explore the impacts, challenges, and potentials of AI tools like ChatGPT in shaping learning and critical thinking skills.

From understanding AI's limitations to strategizing its effective use in classrooms, this discussion offers valuable insights for parents and educators on preparing students for a technologically advanced future.

In this eye-opening episode of Grounded and Soaring, Sam Shapiro, Head of Marin Montessori School, speaks with Dr. Madeline Levine, a psychologist renowned for her insights into the paradoxes of parenting in prosperity.

They delve into the unexpected emotional challenges faced by children in affluent communities, from heightened anxiety and depression to the pressures of success.

Dr. Levine, with her wealth of experience and bestselling books including The Price of Privilege, offers a crucial perspective on fostering resilience, empathy, and genuine happiness in children amidst the often-overlooked pitfalls of affluence.

This discussion is a must-hear for parents seeking to navigate the nuanced landscape of raising healthy, well-adjusted children in a world where more can mean less.

Netflix’s Adolescence is more than just another teen drama—it’s a window into the risks, contradictions, and hidden struggles of today’s young people. In this special pop culture episode, Terry Dubow and Bill Sneed, Director of the Junior High at Marin Montessori School, explore the show’s emotional accuracy, why it hits a nerve for adults, and what it reveals about how we understand—and often misunderstand—adolescence.

The episode touches on sensitive topics and is intended for adult listeners.

In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, join Sam Shapiro and his guests – all parents at Marin Montessori and professionals in sports and education – as they delve into cultivating a love for physical activity and sportsmanship in children.

Explore how Montessori principles can foster resilience, teamwork, and a balanced approach to athleticism.

Episode Highlights:

1. Cultivating Joy in Sports: Discover the importance of fun and enjoyment in children's sports and how it fosters a lifelong love for physical activity.
2. Building Resilience Through Team Sports: Learn how team sports can develop resilience, character, and meaningful friendships among young athletes.
3. The Role of Coaches and Parents: Understand the impact of positive coaching and parental support in shaping a healthy sports culture for children.
4. Balancing Specialization and Generalization: Insights into the debate on early sports specialization versus a more well-rounded approach to physical activities.
5. Montessori's Unique Approach to the Spirit of the Game: Discussion on how Montessori's focus on the whole child contributes to developing respectful and supportive athletes.
6. Physical Activity Beyond Team Sports: Emphasizing the value of diverse physical activities, from team sports to individual pursuits like biking and hiking.

In the latest episode of 'Grounded and Soaring,' host Terry Dubow invites Marin Montessori School's Eluna Antle and Carla Rummo to explore the acceleration of adolescence that we see everywhere in our culture.

Eluna, an Upper Elementary teacher, and Carla, a parent of young adolescents, describe how extending childhood with an additional year in a Montessori Elementary class nurtures resilient, curious, and emotionally intelligent young individuals.

Episode Highlights:

• The significance of Montessori education in countering the early onset of adolescent pressures.

• A deep dive into the sixth grade at MMS: the extra year that makes a difference in a child's life.
• Addressing parental concerns about digital distractions and the importance of preserving childhood innocence.

This discussion is pivotal for parents and educators seeking to foster a balanced, holistic developmental journey for children in an era of accelerated adolescence.

Navigate school breaks with ease and creativity in our latest Grounded and Soaring episode. Whether embarking on a family trip or enjoying a staycation, Siri Panday, Marin Montessori School's Director of Education for Toddler and Primary, offers valuable tips for a rewarding time with your young children.

Episode Highlights:

• Montessori Methods for Memorable Family Travel: Stress-free traveling tips with toddlers.
• Staycation Success: Maximizing home-based activities during school breaks.
• Routine & Exploration: Balancing structured routines with exciting exploration for young kids.
• Practical Parenting Tips: Keeping mealtime and bedtime routines while encouraging creative play.

Join Sam Shapiro, head of Marin Montessori School, in a vital discussion with psychoanalyst Sally Weintrobe about how parents and children can face the climate crisis with honesty, humanity, and, ultimately, hope.

This episode delves into managing climate emotions amid the escalating climate crisis, offering insights for parents and educators. Explore practical approaches to guide children through their fears and foster meaningful conversations about our changing world.

Episode Highlights:

• Understanding Climate Emotions: Sally Weintrobe, featured in The New Yorker, discusses the psychological impact of the climate crisis on families.
• Navigating Parental Responses: Strategies for parents to address their own and their children's climate anxieties.
• Fostering Open Conversations: Tips on how to talk with children about climate change in an age-appropriate and supportive way.
• Balancing Truth and Empathy: Finding the right way to discuss the realities of climate change with kids without causing undue distress.
• Building a Supportive Environment: Ways families and educators can create a nurturing space to explore climate-related emotions.

Tune in for this essential episode that intertwines understanding, support, and practical advice, crucial for today’s parenting challenges in the face of global environmental changes.

In this episode of "Grounded and Soaring," join Terry Dubow and Marin Montessori educators, Liesbeth Koning and Seth Kroschel, as they tackle the evolution of math education for young minds.

Discover how the Junior High's new math program steps away from traditional methods to foster a learning environment where understanding and curiosity drive student success.

Delving into the challenges and rewards of adopting new educational models, this talk is an essential listen for any parent who worries about the right balance in their child's education.

Episode Highlights:

• Unveiling Marin Montessori’s innovative approach to Junior High math that balances fundamental skills with real-world application.
• The impact of mixed-age classrooms and individually paced homework sets on student learning and engagement.
• Liesbeth and Seth’s insights into the value of learning from mistakes and fostering a growth mindset in math education.
• Discussion on low-tech teaching strategies that focus on concept mastery over digital distraction.
• Addressing parental concerns about the efficacy of new educational models versus traditional standards.

The Grounded and Soaring podcast is back for season two -- and just in time for parents prepping for the new school year.

In this episode, authors and experts Sheri Glucoft Wong and Olaf Jorgenson join Sam Shapiro, Head of Marin Montessori School, to share parenting tips based on their book Raising Kids. Their guidance is compassionate, profound, and actionable.

In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, host Sam Shapiro, head of Marin Montessori School, delves into the transformative world of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) with expert guest Meena Srinivasan. Together, they unravel the significance of SEL in nurturing emotional intelligence and providing children with essential life skills beyond academics. Don’t miss out on invaluable insights and practical tips for incorporating SEL into your parenting approach.

In an age where adult rudeness seems to be on the rise, how do we ensure our teens don't follow the same path? Join Terry Dubow and Bill Sneed from Marin Montessori School as they delve into the challenges of raising adolescents amidst a backdrop of adult incivility. Drawing insights from a provocative Atlantic article titled "How America Got Mean," this episode touches on:

• The societal trend of declining civility and its impact on young minds.
• Understanding the unique challenges and misconceptions surrounding today's adolescents.
• Practical strategies to foster empathy, respect, and open communication at home.
• Navigating the divide between digital drama and real-world respect.

Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of modern parenting challenges and learn actionable solutions to help nurture well-rounded teens in today's complex landscape.

In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, we dive deep into the challenges of parenting in an age of instant gratification and digital distractions. Join Sam Shapiro, Head of School at Marin Montessori School, in a thought-provoking conversation with renowned expert Dr. Anna Lembke, a professor of psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Dopamine: Learn about the role of dopamine in our brains and how it influences pleasure, reward, and motivation.

• The Pleasure-Pain Cycle: Explore the connection between dopamine spikes and the craving that follows, exemplified by binge-watching TV shows.

• Impact on Children and Families: Discover how digital devices are affecting families, from less quality time together to dysregulated behavior in kids.

• Dopamine Fast: Explore the benefits of taking a break from digital devices and how it can help regain control over your digital habits.

• Investing in Real-Life Experiences: Understand the importance of diverting creative energies from the virtual world to the real world and enriching your family's experiences.

Join us as we navigate dopamine nation and gain valuable insights on fostering healthier relationships with technology while raising resilient and balanced children.

Are your mornings a hectic rush? Discover the Montessori approach to mastering back-to-school mornings in this episode of Grounded and Soaring.

Join Terry Dubow, Director of Communications and Story at Marin Montessori School, and Siri Panday, Director of Education for Toddler and Primary, as they unlock the secrets to smooth, stress-free school starts:

🌟 The Power of Routines: Learn why routines and independence are your morning allies.

🌟 Toddlers in Focus: Explore Montessori-inspired tips for setting a positive tone with your littlest ones.

🌟 Ages 2 to 5: Find out how to make mornings efficient and enjoyable for this age group.

🌟 Older Children: Discover how to foster independence and responsibility in your older kids.

🌟 Balancing Act: Learn how Montessori guides you in balancing routine with flexibility, even on chaotic days.

🌟 Words of Wisdom: Siri shares her final thoughts for a successful start to the school day.

Transform your mornings into moments of growth, connection, and calm.

Remember, you can connect with us at ⁠groundedandsoaring.org ⁠and rate us on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback is invaluable!

Adolescence is longer—and more complex—than ever before. In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, Marin Montessori Head of School Sam Shapiro sits down with Dr. Laurence Steinberg, one of the world’s foremost experts on adolescent development. Together, they unpack the neuroscience of adolescence, the crucial role of risk-taking, and how parents can support their teens through this transformative stage.

Dr. Steinberg explores why adolescence now lasts into the mid-20s, how brain plasticity shapes behavior, and how parents can balance warmth with firm boundaries to help their teens thrive. Whether you're raising a teen or preparing for what’s ahead, this conversation offers critical insights into fostering independence, resilience, and responsible decision-making in today’s youth.

Tune in to hear why adolescence is both a vulnerable and opportunistic stage—and how we can better support the teens in our lives.

Feeling the weight of an uncertain world? It's common for parents to grapple with anxiety about the future, and this can unintentionally affect their children.

Join us as we delve into this topic with Dr. Denise Pope, the visionary behind Stanford University's groundbreaking research-based initiative, Challenge Success. Discover how redefining "success" can lead to well-being, a sense of belonging, and greater engagement for families.

We'd love to hear what you think of this and any of our episodes. Rate us wherever you get your podcasts!

As parents, we know our kids will face challenges and disappointments, but we don't always know how to prepare them to bounce back. In this episode, Michelle Borba, author of Thrivers, joins Sam Shapiro, Head of Marin Montessori School, to discuss a handful of practical tools parents can use to increase their children's resilience and confidence.

Michele Borba is an educational psychologist and best-selling author with more than 40 years of experience helping parents and their children. She’s also written UnSelfie, a study of empathy in an age of egocentric social media, and is a regular contributor to TV shows including Today, Dateline, The View, Dr. Phil, NBC Nightly News, Fox & Friends, Dr. Oz, and The Early Show.

We all know it: something is not working for the youth in our society right now. Data, scholarship, and lived experience all tell us that social media and unimpeded technology have disrupted childhood profoundly and, often, destructively. In this episode, Sam Shapiro, head of Marin Montessori School, joins to reflect a bit on the series of blog posts he penned over spring break called Real Fear, Real Hope: Social Media, Mental Health, and Our Children.

What could be more essential -- and challenging -- than feeding your child food they love and that they need? It can be a struggle, but there's hope! In this episode, Sam Shapiro, Head of Marin Montessori School, speaks with Nimisha Gandhi, who runs Moon Cycle Nutrition, about her approach to inspiring a love of healthy eating in children.

In this episode, Sam Shapiro, Marin Montessori's Head of School, speaks to Varun Soni, Dean of Religious Life at the University of Southern California, about the mental health crisis on college campuses and what we might do about it.

Throughout their deeply felt conversation, they try to work backward to identify the strategies parents of young children can use to increase the likelihood that their kids will enter college healthy, confident, and whole.

Children are creative creatures -- and not just with paints and clay but also with how they approach challenges. We know it's crucial to nurture their creative spirits, but sometimes that's easier said than done.

Enter DrawBridge, a nonprofit organization that provides free expressive arts programs to children in domestic violence and homeless shelters, affordable housing facilities, and in communities across seven San Francisco Bay Area counties. In this episode, Tracy Bays-Boothe, Executive Director of DrawBridge, shares about her organization, the power of nurturing the creative spirit, and why she's so excited that DrawBridge is this year's Community Partner for The Gather for Good, which takes place on April 15 this year.

We all need help committing to the long view as we parent; it’s easy to let anxiety and social comparison hijack our highest ideals and goals for our children. Enter Jessica Lahey, author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed.  In this podcast episode, Sam Shapiro, Head of Marin Montessori School, speaks with Jessica about her top suggestions for parents for helping their kids develop robust independence, inner motivation to learn, and self-possession.

Key topics in the podcast include:

• A helpful parenting hack in the form of a question that will guide us when we’re deciding whether to step in to take over for our child
• The value of focusing on process over product, especially for anxious kids
• The difference between competence and confidence
• The counterbalance parents can provide to the more harmful messages our children receive about the source of their worth
• The value of strengths-based parenting

We're living in the middle of the revolution that has reshaped our world. In this episode, Tom Preston-Werner, MMS parent and founder and former CEO of GitHub, joins for a wide-ranging conversation about the role technology plays in modern life, what we should do about exposing our kids to it, and how we should go about preparing them to be agile, creators, not passive consumers. Parents sometimes wonder whether they're disadvantaging future coders by sending them to a low-tech school.  Tom's answer might surprise you.

In this episode, we dive into a topic that most parents wrestle with because it’s essential and really, really hard. Communication or perhaps more accurately – healthy communication – is critical for a human being at any age to express feelings, preferences, needs and to receive those messages from others.

The question is how do we as parents help our kids build strong communication skills? – always a challenge but never more so than in today’s digital world.

Siri Panday, Director of Education for Toddler and Primary at Marin Montessori School, joins to share her insights and a few helpful tips for parents. 

This fall, David Brooks published an essay in The New York Times called "The Crisis of Boys and Men." Among his provocative arguments based on some pretty sobering data points: "Many men are like what Dean Acheson said about Britain after World War II. They have lost an empire but not yet found a role." 

When it comes to raising healthy boys today, parents and educators alike are called to wrestle with some troubling and uncomfortable byproducts of seismic shifts in our culture, economy, and society. The news isn't all bad, though, because parents and schools can do a lot to meet the needs of boys.  

To paint a picture of the issue and the way forward, we spoke with Dr. Warren Farrell, author of The Boy Crisis: Why our Sons are Struggling--and What We Can Do About It. It's a complex and worthy topic. As always, we'd love your feedback. Just a note that this episode addresses some adult topics, so it may be best to listen without the kids in the car. 

What if our education system prioritized deep learning over competition? In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, host Terry Dubow speaks with Scott Looney, Head of Hawken School and founder of the Mastery Transcript Consortium, and Bill Sneed, Director of Marin Montessori’s Junior High, to explore how Montessori and Mastery-based learning offer a compelling alternative to the traditional sorting machine of grades, GPAs, and standardized tests.

Inspired by David Brooks’ viral Atlantic article, How the Ivy League Broke America, this conversation dives into the flaws of traditional academic systems and highlights real-world, skills-based approaches that foster true intellectual growth.

💡 Why does the mastery movement matter now more than ever?
💡 How do Montessori and Mastery-based schools prepare students for an uncertain future?
💡 What can parents do to redefine success for their children?

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of learning.

When your kids are young, high school may seem like a distant worry, but it comes faster than anyone would like. That's why it's good to have help, which is what Jamie Moffett provides students in Marin Montessori's Junior High School. Jamie joins the podcast to discuss the transition to high school and to share her experiences with MMS students who apply to and attend independent and public high schools. She also offers a bit of practical advice for what families can do to support their adolescents. 

For those who aren’t accustomed to Montessori classrooms, it might seem a bit curious that children cook, clean, sew, and more. There’s actually a lot behind all the cupcakes the students are baking. 

In this first episode of the Grounded and Soaring podcast, we take a few minutes to explore how practical life routines and activities help children build skills, confidence, understanding, and knowledge -- from complicated math to complex collaboration. 

What this world really needs is another podcast...

We're doing it anyway though because we're looking for ways to connect with parents and educators about the stakes and opportunities we all face as we teach and raise children today. On this episode, we introduce the thinking behind Grounded and Soaring and what we're trying to achieve. As always, we welcome feedback. Just email us here!

In this episode, Sam Shapiro welcomes Dr. Devorah Heitner, author of Growing Up in Public and Screenwise, to explore parenting strategies for today’s digital natives.

Together, they discuss:

📱 Teaching kids digital etiquette and fostering empathy online.

⏳ Managing screen time while encouraging independence.🤝 Building trust and resilience in a hyper-connected world.💡 Helping children navigate social media pressures and self-worth.

Tune in for relatable advice and expert insights to guide your family through the digital age.

Winter break can be magical—but also overwhelming for young kids and parents alike. In this episode, host Terry Dubow talks with Siri Panday, Marin Montessori’s Director of Education for Toddler and Primary, about creating a joyful, enriching holiday experience.

Discover expert-backed tips on:

• Maintaining comforting routines while embracing holiday spontaneity
• Traveling with young children and creating familiar spaces on the go
• Managing family gatherings and setting social expectations gracefully
• Planning meaningful, Montessori-inspired activities at home or away
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Whether you’re traveling, hosting, or keeping it low-key, this episode offers practical advice for a peaceful, joyful winter break with your family.

In today’s divided world, how can parents raise kids who listen with empathy, think critically, and engage in meaningful dialogue—even when faced with opposing views?

In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, host Terry Dubow sits down with educators Minnie Wales and Bill Sneed to explore:

🎙️ Fostering Compassion: Helping kids develop empathy through everyday acts of kindness.

🎙️ Breaking the Echo Chamber: Teaching respectful disagreement without the need to “win.”

🎙️ Balancing Values and Independence: Encouraging kids to form their own beliefs while staying connected to family values.

🎙️ Managing Parent Anxieties: Creating a home environment that promotes thoughtful dialogue and emotional resilience.

Discover expert-backed strategies to help your family navigate today’s complex, divided world.

In this special Thanksgiving episode of Grounded and Soaring, Sam Shapiro speaks with Gregg Krech, author and expert on Japanese psychology, about creating a family culture of gratitude. Explore how Naikan reflection—a method of structured self-reflection—can help families counteract negativity bias and develop meaningful habits of appreciation.

Episode Highlights:

• The Naikan Reflection Practice: Three powerful questions to operationalize gratitude.
• The Impact of Gratitude: How shifting focus from complaints to appreciation transforms relationships and family dynamics.
• Cultural Differences in Gratitude: Why Japanese practices like Naikan emphasize facts over fleeting feelings.
• Practical Tips for Parents: Daily routines and holiday traditions to inspire gratitude in children.

• Overcoming Complaints: Strategies to honor children’s emotions while guiding them toward problem-solving and noticing support.

This conversation is packed with actionable insights for parents and educators. Discover how gratitude can be a life-changing practice for your family. In that spirit, here and on ⁠groundedandsoaring.org⁠ is a holiday reflection exercise for you to use with your family! ⁠

In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, Marin Montessori’s Siri Panday speaks with Gabrielle Perelmuter, occupational therapist and founder of Little Hands, and Cierra Crowe, speech and language pathologist, about the transformative power of early intervention. Discover how occupational and speech therapy can empower children under five to overcome developmental challenges and thrive.

Episode Highlights:

• The difference between speech, language, and occupational therapy, and how each supports your child’s growth.
• Why early intervention is crucial and how it prevents future skill gaps.
• How to identify signs that your child might benefit from extra support in fine motor, speech, or social skills.
• The real impact of these therapies on a child’s self-esteem, social connections, and academic readiness.
• What to expect during therapy sessions at Little Hands, from play-based approaches to goal setting.

Whether you're already considering therapy or just curious, this episode offers valuable insights into supporting your child’s unique journey with confidence and compassion.

In an era of immediate gratification and digital noise, how do we help teenagers find their footing? Terry Dubow walks down Marin Montessori’s Creekside Farm with Farm Manager Jeff Gossett to talk about why "real work" is the ultimate antidote to a screen-centered culture.

From the precision of planting peas to the "slow dopamine" of a three-year harvest, Jeff and Terry explore how the land teaches adolescents the difference between good work and bad work. Discover how caretaking for goats and chickens builds a profound sense of agency, and why the farm acts as a "grand rehearsal space" for the critical thinkers of tomorrow.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The concept of "Slow Dopamine" vs. the immediate gratification of screens.

• How physical, tangible labor creates a visible feedback loop for personal growth.

• Inviting adolescents to meet the "standard of work of an adult."

The farm as a bridge between holistic Montessori education and traditional high school environments.

We’ve inherited an industrial model of schooling that treats children like products on an assembly line, spitting them out into massive high schools the moment they hit age 14.

But does the calendar actually reflect a child’s readiness for adult-sized pressures?

In this episode, Terry Dubow sits down with Tree Sturman, Director of the Junior High at Marin Montessori, to poke at the assumptions behind the traditional 9–12 high school structure.

Inside the Episode:

• The 1990s Pivot: How globalization, not developmental science, created the "massive high school" model.

• Wet Concrete: Why building on a soft foundation in 9th grade can lead to cracks later in life.

• Flipping the Pyramid: The power of being a leader in 9th grade vs. starting at the bottom of the social ladder.

• The Root System: A gardener’s metaphor for why "going slow to go fast" produces the sturdiest adults.

  
  

  Be sure to read Tree's article that inspired this episode.

Wonder is not a luxury; it is essential for raising curious, resilient, and joyful children. In this episode, Terry Dubow, Director of Communications and Strategic Initiatives at Marin Montessori School, talks with Tree Sturman, Director of the Junior High, about how modern childhood can crowd out wonder and how Montessori education creates space for children to stay curious and connected.

Key Takeaways

• How modern childhood squeezes out wonder
• Why Montessori intentionally protects curiosity
• The connection between wonder, resilience, and learning
• Practical ways parents can nurture wonder at home
• Why protecting wonder matters in an anxious world

About Tree Sturman

Tree has spent his career in passionate pursuit of a better world. After a decade leading environmental nonprofits, he co-founded Compass Montessori Junior High in Michigan and guided its growth for 11 years. A lifelong learner with a gift for connecting with adolescents, Tree brings deep experience, curiosity, and a love of hands-on learning to his work at Marin Montessori School.

While artificial Intelligence is changing schools, the most important work remains human. In this episode, Marin Montessori Head of School, Sam Shapiro, talks with Jenny Elliott, Head of Student and Academic Life at Choate Rosemary Hall, about what one of the nation’s most respected boarding schools has learned after a year of experimenting with generative AI.

Key takeaways from this conversation:

• Why Choate chose to engage with AI rather than ignore or ban it.

• How student-facing guidelines clarified expectations and built integrity.

• Ways schools can protect creativity and ethical reasoning in an AI era.

• Why “friction” in learning still matters and how to preserve it.

• How educators can model discernment and intentionality with AI use.

• Practical steps schools can take to engage parents and students in the conversation.

This episode offers insights and encouragement for parents, educators, and leaders seeking to keep learning meaningful in a rapidly changing world.

For more about Choate's approach to AI, click here!

If AI can do the homework, what happens to the student? In this episode, Sam Shapiro sits down with Eric Hudson, a strategic advisor who has helped hundreds of schools navigate the intersection of technology and humanity. Together, they explore how to raise kids who are "AI-literate" but—more importantly—human-centered.

We discuss:

• The "Do Hard Things" Thesis: Why the struggle of learning is the ultimate hedge against an unhealthy, shortcut-obsessed world.

• Literacy vs. Policy: Why building a child’s internal "BS detector" is more protective than any school ban.

• Augmentation over Automation: How to use technology to extend human capability rather than replace it.

In a world where AI can answer every question, how do we teach our children to keep asking them? Tech veteran and artist, Jonathan Arena, joins Sam Shapiro to discuss the "Thinking Hand"—the vital connection between physical making and cognitive growth.

Inside the Episode:

• The Garden Experiment: Using ChatGPT as a "consultant" for a family project.
• Assistant vs. Replacement: Keeping AI in its place as a tool, not a director.
• The Power of Friction: Why the "messy" parts of learning are where the growth happens.
• Intuition: Why human "sensibility" is the one thing AI can't replicate.

“How do I know they’re actually learning? And what happens when they hit the 'real world'?”

Most of us grew up in traditional systems, navigating our days through the lens of grades and standardized tests. When parents choose a Montessori path, they often hold questions to themselves about the pedagogy, the outcomes, and much more.

Because we understand the stakes of this investment, we’ve stepped aside to facilitate a direct conversation between parents. In this special episode, veteran parents Courtney Smith and Jeannette Schar—who both began this journey as traditional school kids themselves—take over the microphones. Joined by fellow parent Lee Burgess, they answer anonymous questions from our community with the perspective that only comes after 14 years on the path.

Episode highlights:

• The Transition to High School: How students who grew up without letter grades adapt and lead in traditional academic settings.

• New Indicators of Growth: How to recognize the building of "Montessori muscles" like agency, accountability, and self-possession.

• Navigating the "Marin Bubble": An honest talk on diversity, social dynamics, and preparing kids for the world beyond our gates.

• The 2:00 A.M. Doubt: Practical wisdom for staying grounded when your child’s educational experience looks nothing like your own.

Listen in for an honest window into the life of our school and the lasting impact of the Montessori path.