Explore every episode of the podcast On The Subject with Mike Vilardo

Is youth baseball developing better players—or just better highlight reels? Mike Vilardo welcomes Jason Ferber, Bobby Minor, and former Wake Forest and Penn State standout Adam Cecere for the first-ever On The Subject baseball roundtable.

The group debates the business of travel baseball, recruiting myths, chasing velocity over winning games, and how social media is changing the sport. They also dive into NIL, college baseball programs they’d choose for their own kids, and where confidence crosses into showboating. From youth ball to the big leagues, expect honest advice, strong opinions, and plenty of friendly trash talk.

Should you play college baseball or go straight to the pros? Baseball creator Marc Luino, better known as Giraffe Neck Marc, joins Mike Vilardo to break down the paths to the MLB, share his picks for the best college baseball programs, and reveal which players young athletes should study. Plus, Marc shares how he turned MLB The Show videos into a full-time career in baseball media, what actually makes money on YouTube, and his favorite MLB ballparks.

What does it actually take to get recruited by Brown baseball—and is a 4.0 GPA enough? Brown head baseball coach Frank Holbrook joins Mike Vilardo on On The Subject to break down Ivy League recruiting, from grades, test scores, and course rigor to what gets a player on his recruiting board. He shares what makes a recruiting email stand out, why he prefers full-game film over highlights, and how families should prioritize spending on instruction, strength training, and showcases. Plus, they discuss the transfer portal, the biggest misconception in travel baseball, and building a program that matches Brown’s academic reputation.

Is travel baseball helping your kid or just draining your wallet? On this episode of On The Subject, Mike Vilardo sits down with Bobby Minor, the voice behind Chasing Baseball Dreams, for an honest conversation about youth baseball. Drawing on decades of experience as a player, coach, and parent, Bobby breaks down what families should actually spend money on, why chasing exposure too early can backfire, and how to navigate college recruiting without getting caught up in the D1 dream. They discuss overlooked opportunities in JUCO and NAIA, the pressure that drives kids away from the game, and why your son needs a dad—not an agent. It’s a candid look at developing better players, protecting family relationships, and keeping baseball fun.

What does it really take to play Division I hockey at an Ivy League school? Brown University head coach Thomas Upton joins Mike Vilardo to break down the path from youth hockey to juniors to college recruiting. He explains what coaches look for at the rink, which recruiting emails get a response, and why players shouldn’t panic if they aren’t being contacted early. They also unpack Ivy League admissions and financial aid, the changing college hockey landscape, and Upton’s plans to build a new culture at Brown.

Former D1 Forward Todd Goehring joins Mike Vilardo to reveal what it really costs to raise a hockey player and chase the dream of playing professionally. Todd left home at 16, lived with billet families, played more than 100 junior games, and spent five seasons at Sacred Heart before continuing his career in the ECHL and SPHL. He breaks down where the money in youth hockey actually goes, what minor-league players really earn, and what happens to a young athlete’s education along the way. Todd also shares how he graduated magna cum laude with degrees in finance and economics, built a business while playing professionally, and prepared for life after his final shift. It’s an honest look at the sacrifices behind the hockey dream—and the reality most hockey families are actually living.

Hosted by Subject, a K12 curriculum company. Visit www.subject.com for more information.

Eleven months into the job he calls a homecoming, MIT men's basketball head coach BJ Dunn sits down with Subject co-founder and CEO Michael Vilardo in Cambridge to talk about building a program where the recruiting pitch isn't a scholarship — it's a career. Dunne walks through what MIT admissions actually looks for, why his staff can't offer a pre-read or a likely letter and how they build trust with families anyway, and what it means to coach players who never had a standard lowered for them. He also gets specific about the parts recruits rarely hear straight: how to write an email a coach will open, what the first clip of your film should be, when to start lifting, why camps beat skills trainers, and what parents should and shouldn't do. Along the way he tells the story behind the 2012 Final Four team where four of five starters went on to found unicorn companies, explains why he thinks that's no coincidence, and makes the case that at MIT it was never about balancing school and basketball — it's a blend.

Eric Jones Jr. is the Savannah Bananas' all-time home run leader, a former MLB bullpen catcher, and a veteran of affiliated and indy ball. He's played every version of this sport, so we asked him the question the next generation is starting to ask: if you're good enough to keep playing after college, is grinding through the minors still the obvious path, or is Banana Ball a legitimate alternative? We get into the tryouts, the eleven rules, the buses, the clubhouses, and the money — plus straight advice for the kid and the parent watching at home.

Daniel “Diamond Hands” Amesbury walked away from professional hockey at 23 and spent eight years away from the game—including years working on tugboats in British Columbia. Then, at 31, he entered the first-ever Ice Wars fighting tournament, won three fights in one night, and suddenly found himself with pro teams calling again.

On this episode of On the Subject, Mike Vilardo sits down with one of hockey’s last true enforcers to talk about one of the wildest comeback stories in professional sports.

Daniel breaks down the reality of life as a hockey fighter, what goes through his mind before dropping the gloves, why fighting can actually make teammates play with more confidence, and how he learned to turn toughness into a tool for moving up the professional ranks. He also opens up about returning from retirement, racking up 298 penalty minutes, building an audience through content, and receiving an indefinite suspension he still doesn’t fully understand.

Now back with Adirondack and still chasing the AHL, Diamond Hands isn’t finished yet. Eight years away. More than 200 fights. One remarkable comeback—and a story about toughness, family, loyalty, and refusing to believe your window has closed.

Gary Roberts Performance is the most quietly influential address in hockey — the Toronto program where the best players in the world spend their summers, and where more than 200 NHL-drafted players have trained in the last decade alone.

In this episode, Gary breaks down how that garage gym became the off-season home for NHL stars, and where fuel, training, and recovery actually rank in terms of what moves the needle. He walks us through the 12-week off-season program week by week, sets the record straight on the legendary "Gary Roberts diet" — what held up and what he's changed his mind about — and explains why cutting carbs is one of the worst things a hockey player can do. We separate real recovery from recovery theater, sorting cold plunge, sauna, and red light into what earns its place and what doesn't. Gary shares what 200-plus drafted players have in common, three things a fifteen-year-old can start this week for free, and his honest take on the combine, draft stock, and the biggest lie being sold to hockey families right now.

Follow along: @mikefromsubject @onthesubjectpodcast @trysubject

In this episode of On the Subject, DSARM sits down with Mike Vilardo to talk about the decision to bet on content, how he found his lane in a crowded baseball world, and what it actually takes to turn videos into a career.

Dan Sarmiento, better known as DSARM, went from a left-handed pitcher at Exeter High and Bridgton Academy to one of the most-followed independent baseball creators online. Instead of chasing a college roster spot, he picked up a camera and built an audience of hundreds of thousands across YouTube and social media.

For young athletes, baseball doesn't have to end when the playing career does. DSARM's story shows just how many ways there are to build a career around the game.

This week, Mike sits down with Ariel "Tarzan" Sexton—ONE Championship veteran, The Ultimate Fighter competitor, and one of the pioneers of MMA in Costa Rica. From moving to Costa Rica with nothing but a suitcase to competing against some of the world's best, Ariel shares the highs, the setbacks, and everything people don't see behind a career in professional fighting.

They talk about fighting through devastating injuries, what it's actually like getting paid as a professional fighter outside the UFC, why jiu-jitsu can change a kid's life, and the mentality it takes to keep chasing a dream long after everyone else would've quit.

Whether you're a fighter, a parent thinking about martial arts for your child, or someone chasing a goal that doesn't make sense to anyone else, this episode is packed with lessons on resilience, discipline, and betting on yourself.

Follow along: @mikefromsubject @onthesubjectpodcast @trysubject

Former first-round MLB Draft pick Jacob Turner joins Mike Vilardo on On the Subject to share what really happens after your name is called on draft day. From signing a multi-million dollar bonus out of high school to spending eight seasons in Major League Baseball, Jacob breaks down the realities of professional baseball that most players and families never hear about.

Together they discuss the MLB Draft process, signing bonus negotiations, taxes, agents, arbitration, the minor leagues, financial mistakes athletes make, and how to prepare for life after sports. Now as the co-founder of Moment Private Wealth, Jacob helps professional athletes build lasting financial security—and shares the lessons he wishes every young player knew before turning pro.

What does it really take to make it to the NHL—and even harder, build a lasting professional career? On this episode of On the Subject, Mike Vilardo sits down with NHL player agent Dominic Boily for an inside look at the business of professional hockey. Drawing from years of representing elite players, Dom explains what NHL organizations are actually looking for beyond raw talent, how the draft and free agency process works, and what the relationship between a player and their agent really looks like. He also shares how he helps athletes navigate contracts, roster decisions, career transitions, and the challenges that come with competing at the highest level. Whether you're a young player chasing the NHL, a parent trying to understand the path to professional hockey, or a coach preparing athletes for the next level, this conversation offers practical insights into what separates the players who make it from those who don't.

Atlanta native and MLB veteran Kyle Farmer joins On the Subject for an honest conversation from his childhood home about what it really takes to last nearly 10 years in Major League Baseball. After making his MLB debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Kyle has built a career spanning more than 800 MLB games, recording over 500 career hits, 60+ home runs, and earning a reputation as one of baseball's most dependable utility players.

In this episode, we discuss his journey from Georgia to winning a College World Series championship and reaching the big leagues, the setbacks that nearly ended his career, what it means to return home and play for the Atlanta Braves, and how versatility has helped him stay in the majors for nearly a decade. Kyle also shares untold clubhouse stories, the realities of life in professional baseball, and his advice for parents, coaches, and young athletes chasing their dreams.

Whether you're a baseball fan, aspiring athlete, or simply looking to learn what it takes to build a long, successful career, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

Podcast Description

Adam Cecere joins us on On the Subject to talk about what it takes to build a successful life beyond sports. A former Division I baseball standout at Wake Forest and Penn State, Adam hit 49 career home runs, played in more than 140 collegiate games, and served as team captain. But while competing at the highest level, he was also building something bigger—founding Celo Nutrition, a sports performance company dedicated to helping athletes optimize their recovery and performance.

In this episode, we dive into the recruiting process at elite academic-athletic programs, the realities of balancing Division I athletics with entrepreneurship, and whether NIL is creating more business-minded athletes or simply more distractions. Adam shares the biggest nutrition mistakes college athletes make, why athletes need an identity beyond their sport, what college coaches actually value during recruiting, and how AI, NIL, and the transfer portal are reshaping the future of athletics. Whether you're a student-athlete, parent, coach, or aspiring entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with insights on building success both on and off the field.

Coach Ballgame, also known as James Lowe, joins us on On the Subject for an honest conversation about youth baseball, player development, and the realities of the recruiting process. As the Youth Ambassador for Major League Baseball's Play Ball Program and a Brown University graduate, James has spent more than two decades helping young athletes and their families navigate the game the right way. From running camps and clinics for kids ages 3–12 to taking his message to the White House, Cooperstown, MLB All-Star Games, and the World Series, Coach Ballgame has built a movement centered around one belief: youth sports should develop better people, not just better athletes. In this episode, we discuss the dangers of the win-at-all-costs mentality, when families should start thinking about recruiting, what college coaches are really looking for, whether showcases and travel ball are worth the investment, and how baseball can become a vehicle for academic opportunity and long-term success. If you're a parent, coach, or student-athlete trying to understand how sports can open doors beyond the field, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Coach Ferber joins us on On the Subject to break down player development, recruiting, and what it really takes to make it in baseball - from someone who built his reputation from the ground up in Coney Island and became the most followed baseball coaching voice on social media.

Coach Jason Ferber has over 225,000 Instagram followers and has developed some of the top young players in the country. His philosophy is simple: know your players, coach their strengths as much as their weaknesses, and tell them the truth - even when it's hard to hear.

In this episode, we unpack the biggest challenges and misconceptions in the college recruiting process, from travel baseball and showcases to the transfer portal and choosing the right school. We also discuss what college coaches are really looking for, how learning disabilities can impact recruiting, and the common mistakes that hold athletes back.

If you're a high school player, parent, or coach trying to navigate recruiting and development — this episode is a must-watch.

Crazy Carl joins Mike Vilardo on On The Subject to talk golf, social media, college athletics, and their journey from childhood baseball teammates to content creators. Carl shares how he built a loyal following through authentic golf content, what it's really like to go viral, and the lessons he's learned from sports, business, and life along the way.

This week on On The Subject Podcast, Michael Vilardo sits down with veteran MLB agent Mark Leinweaver, who has represented over 75 professional baseball players and worked with all 30 MLB organizations. From what it really takes to get drafted, to the biggest mistakes athletes and parents make in recruiting, Mark shares an unfiltered look at the business of baseball. The two dive into D1 vs mid-major schools, when to go pro, handling pressure and social media, life after sports, and what separates athletes who make it from those who don’t.

In this episode of On The Subject, Michael Vilardo heads to Yale University to sit down with Yale Baseball Assistant Coach Corey Keane and standout student-athletes Garrett Larson and Colin Sloane for an inside look at what it really takes to compete at one of the most prestigious universities in the world. From recruiting myths and what Ivy League coaches actually look for, to balancing mechanical engineering with Division I baseball, the group breaks down how academics, character, and self-motivation open doors far beyond the field. They also dive into NIL, the transfer portal, internships, recruiting advice for families, and why Yale still offers one of the last true college athletic experiences. Whether you’re a student-athlete, parent, coach, or simply curious about life at an elite academic institution, this episode is packed with practical advice and perspective.

IIn this episode of On the Subject, we sit down with Barrett Serrato, Purdue Assistant Coach, Recruiting Coordinator, and former Boilermaker standout, at his alma mater. Barrett opens up about his journey from West Chicago, Illinois to Purdue, why he chose college over the pros out of high school, and what it was like playing on one of the greatest teams in Purdue baseball history (the 2012 squad that hosted a regional). He breaks down how college baseball has evolved into one of the best development environments in the sport, the resources that make Purdue special, and how the expanded Big Ten is reshaping the game.

Barrett also shares candid recruiting insights: the myths that need to die, the mistakes families make, and what separates the players who thrive from the ones who don't. From rapid-fire recruiting questions (Twitter DMs over email, multi-sport athletes over specialists) to his vision for building the proudest alumni base in college baseball, this conversation is a must-listen for any student-athlete, parent, or fan who wants an inside look at what makes Purdue Baseball tick.

Plus: why getting coached hard is a privilege, the one thing parents need to stop doing, and Barrett's 60-second pitch to recruits.

On this episode of On The Subject, we’re on campus at Yale University with the leader of one of college baseball’s most respected programs, Brian Hamm, to break down what makes Yale Baseball such a unique opportunity for elite student-athletes.

In this episode, we dive into recruiting at the Ivy League level, why more top prospects are considering Yale than ever before, and what separates players who thrive here from those who don’t. We also unpack the realities of college baseball today — NIL, the transfer portal, development, academics, leadership, and why choosing the right school matters more than chasing a logo.

Coach shares incredible insight on what he looks for in recruits, how parents can help (or hurt) the process, why Yale develops leaders, and the truth about Ivy League baseball talent. If you’re a player, parent, or coach navigating recruiting, this is a must-watch conversation. 

On this episode of On The Subject, we’re on campus at Harvard University with Associate Head Coach and Head of Recruiting Nate Cole to break down what it really takes to become a Division I baseball player at one of the most prestigious schools in the world.

From what Harvard looks for in recruits to why they prioritize well-rounded student-athletes, this episode goes beyond baseball. We dive into the recruiting process, academic expectations, and how players can position themselves to succeed both on the field and long after the game ends.

Coach Cole shares why Harvard values multi-sport athletes, how players can stand out in a crowded recruiting landscape, and what separates good players from Harvard-level talent. Plus, we unpack the reality of balancing elite academics with Division I athletics and why this path might be the ultimate long-term investment in your future.

If you're serious about playing college baseball and building a career beyond it, this is a must-listen.

On this episode of On the Subject, Purdue Baseball head coach Greg Goff joins us for a deep dive into what it actually takes to compete at the highest level of college baseball. From recruiting philosophies to player development, Coach Goff breaks down how Purdue Boilermakers baseball has become one of the most competitive programs in the Big Ten Conference.

We get into what coaches are really evaluating in recruits today, how the transfer portal is reshaping roster building, and which metrics actually matter when projecting talent. Coach Goff also shares how Purdue develops players from day one to draft day, what daily life looks like inside a Big Ten program, and the culture he’s building in West Lafayette.

Whether you're a player chasing the next level, a parent navigating recruiting, or a coach looking for insight — this is a real look inside high-level college baseball.

In this episode of On the Subject, host Michael Vilardo sits down with Adam Ewing, Chief Academic Officer at TPH Academy, to unpack the powerful intersection of athletics and education. Adam shares his raw, honest journey — from growing up in South Florida without access to organized sports, to walking onto a brand-new Division I football program in Rhode Island, to building a 17-year career in non-traditional education. Together, they dive into why sports is one of the greatest levers a student athlete can pull, the real value of grit and staying power in an era of transfer portals and NIL, the debate around sport specialization, and how TPH Academy's model across 21 locations and 3 countries is giving student athletes the time, agency, and flexibility to thrive both on and off the field.

In this episode of On The Subject, Mike Vilardo sits down with TPH founder Nathan Bowen to explore the future of student-athlete development and education. Nathan shares his journey building TPH into a global academy model, how AI and personalized learning are transforming the classroom, and why systems that prioritize sleep, structure, and flexibility are changing outcomes for today’s students. From junior hockey pathways to scaling impact across sports, this conversation dives into what it really takes to develop the next generation of athletes and leaders.

On this episode of On the Subject, Michael Vilardo travels to Kennesaw, Georgia to meet Chance Beam - founder and CEO of Titan Sports Academy and one of the most respected leaders in travel baseball. Chance breaks down the five core principles that run Titans (accountability, responsibility, attitude, effort, and integrity), how he bet on himself leaving the East Cobb brand to build a 30+ team powerhouse, and why culture and attention to detail beat hype every time. Then the conversation turns into a real-time debate: travel ball vs. high school baseball, Ivy League vs. SEC, showcases vs. camps, and what families consistently get wrong about recruiting. If you’re a player, parent, or coach trying to navigate the process with clarity—and build a long-term plan beyond the jersey—this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode of On The Subject, Michael Vilardo sits down with Amanda Goodson, Co-Founder and COO of Edlink—an Austin-based EdTech infrastructure company and trusted Subject partner—to talk about what it really takes to build and scale a startup in today’s education landscape. Amanda shares her journey from growing up in a small town in East Texas to launching Edlink during COVID, building one of the first venture-backed EdTech infrastructure companies in Austin. Together, they dive into the realities behind founder life—the product vs. sales debate, shutting down a company and starting again, co-founder trust, radical candor, and the emotional weight of leadership. They also explore Austin’s rise as a venture capital hub, why in-person culture still matters, and how conferences became a secret weapon for growth. As two Austin-based companies celebrating five years in business, Subject and Edlink reflect on partnership, grit, and building with purpose in EdTech. This conversation is a candid look at entrepreneurship beyond the highlight reel—and why trust, clarity, and resilience are the real competitive advantages.

We are live in Durham with one of the fastest-rising leaders in college baseball, Duke Blue Devils head coach Cory Mascara. From being named 2023 Assistant Coach of the Year to taking over one of the premier programs in the country, Coach Mascara shares what it really takes to build a national championship contender and why winning goes far beyond the scoreboard. He walks through his journey from overlooked player to elite collegiate coach, his philosophy of growth, grit, and gratitude, and how Duke balances high academic standards with championship-level athletics. We dive into the realities of modern recruiting and the transfer portal, how he evaluates players, and why culture is not something you talk about but something you live every day. Coach Mascara also reflects on being part of the No. 1 team in the country, how adversity shapes championship DNA, and why his mission is bigger than baseball. For players, parents, and competitors chasing greatness in any arena, this conversation is a masterclass in leadership, accountability, and building men who dominate life, not just the game.

In this week’s episode of On the Subject, host Michael Vilardo, co-founder and CEO of Subject.com and Subject.ai, sits down with former Division I football player and former educator Tim Clary, a fellow McHenry County native now making waves in Austin. Together, they dive into everything from MLB salary caps and college football’s Heisman race to NIL, transfer portal chaos, coaching politics, and what it really takes to build (or rebuild) a winning program—on the field and in business.

It’s part sports talk, part life talk, part comedy, and fully aligned with the heart of this show: real people, real conversation, and a whole lot of insight into how education, athletics, and society shape each other.

Stay for the Chicago nostalgia, the hot takes, the Heisman predictions, and the candid behind-the-scenes look at college athlete life.

On this episode of On the Subject, CEO and co-founder Michael Vilardo welcomes repeat guest back Ana Romero (Chief of Staff, Subject AI) for a fast, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt convo. They finally explain the inside joke about “coastal elites,” talk candidly about Subject’s LA roots and upcoming Austin move, and debate sports vs. arts culture in schools. Michael shares the origin story of teaming up with co-founder Felix, a few hard-won hiring/leadership lessons (including the “pay for peace” mantra), and yes—the infamous Target chips & salsa saga. Plus, a genuine shoutout to the teachers and coaches who shape lives. Should Ana be a permanent co-host for Season 3? Drop a comment and let us know. Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and IG: @onthesubjectpodcast.

On this episode of On The Subject, host Michael Vilardo sits down with longtime friend and first-time guest Hayden Grant—aka CarSpex. Hayden’s a former D1 athlete turned solopreneur who built a faceless car-content brand and is now stepping in front of the camera. We get into the creator playbook: why consistency beats perfection, how a quick Kylie & Travis Bugatti clip went from 200 views to viral after a smart rebrand, why he shifted growth from TikTok to Facebook Reels, and how he uses AI to speed up captions, specs, and hashtags. They also debate what really counts as a “foreign” (and whether rappers define it), LA vs. San Diego vs. Austin for creators, the case for YouTube long-form, and why keeping content a **passion—not a paycheck—**still matters.

In this episode of On This Subject, host Michael Vilardo welcomes back returning guest Ana Romero—this time jokingly as the “backup plan.” What follows is anything but second-string: a candid, funny, and eye-opening conversation about the realities of teaching, the shift from education to startup life, why so many people live as “weekend warriors,” and the bigger systemic issues holding students and teachers back. From debates on books vs. video to the true value of Ivy League logos, Michael and Ana challenge traditional thinking, share personal stories, and spark a discussion about what it really means to disrupt education in 2024.

In this episode of On the Subject, host Michael Vilardo, co-founder and CEO of Subject, sits down with Jamie Crandall, the youngest guest in the show’s history. From his roots in Madera to his pursuit of music at University High School, Jamie shares how his passion for the clarinet led him to county honor bands and a thriving academic path. He opens up about his dreams of attending an Ivy League university, becoming a cardiologist, and making an impact on the world—all while balancing rigorous academics and music. This inspiring conversation highlights the big vision, discipline, and gratitude of a remarkable student who is just getting started.

In this episode of On the Subject, host Michael Vilardo welcomes the show’s first-ever student guest—Leo Jimesanagnos , a gifted musician, dedicated scholar, and aspiring medical researcher. From performing violin in Fresno State’s youth orchestra and mariachi ensemble to pursuing a future in genetic research inspired by his own health journey, Leo shares how music, discipline, and gratitude have shaped his path. This inspiring conversation is a reminder of why On the Subject was created in the first place—to keep students at the heart of the conversation about innovation in education.

In this episode of On The Subject , CEO Michael Vilardo sits down with Jeffie Esparza Hickman—Superintendent and Principal of University High School in Fresno, CA. Together, they explore the transformative power of arts education, the impact of kindness in school culture, and how AI is reshaping the way teachers work. Plus, for the first time ever, we hear directly from students (following 3 episodes). From a 100% college-going rate to community-driven generosity, this episode showcases what happens when innovation meets heart in education.

In this episode of On the Subject, we sit down with Erin Collins, Director of Alternative Education at Bremen District 228 and proud leader of Delta Academy. From her early inspiration rooted in family to her relentless belief in connection before content, Erin shares what it means to lead with heart, adapt to a rapidly changing world, and show up for students who need it most. She opens up about the challenges and opportunities of teaching Gen Z and Gen Alpha, the role of technology in shaping learning, and why gratitude—and a good burger—go a long way.

In this episode of On the Subject, CEO Michael Vilardo sits down with Chicago native and North Lawndale College Prep (Chicago Public Schools) principal Kyera Bradley to explore how personal experience, community leadership, and raw authenticity shape her mission in education. From her roots in Lincoln Park to her innovative approach to student-first leadership, Kiara shares how representation, gratitude, and realness have helped her build a culture where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. This one is packed with passion—and a few surprise shout-outs.

In this episode of On the Subject, we sit down with Christy Vehe, Director of Mathematics and Science at Valley View School District 365, working to disrupt the way we teach math and science. From her powerful reflections on building a culture of curiosity and productive struggle in the classroom, to her thoughts on engaging Gen Alpha students and embracing their evolving language and identities, Christy brings unmatched passion, wisdom, and humanity. She also shares a moving tribute to the mentor who helped her rethink everything—from grading to growth mindset. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or lifelong learner, this episode will reignite your belief in the power of meaningful learning and bold leadership.

In this episode of On the Subject, we sit down with Ava Gilani Jacobs, Director of Curriculum and Instruction at UCLA Lab School, to explore how students as young as third grade are learning to break down bias, question what they read, and craft arguments rooted in ethos, pathos, and logos. From simulations on EV cars to real-world kindness curriculum, we dig into what it means to raise not just good students—but thoughtful, critically-minded citizens. Plus, we reflect on the teachers who made us feel seen and the future of learning in 2035.

What does it take to raise emotionally intelligent students in a digital-first world? In this episode of On the Subject, we sit down with Dr. Jennifer Chatmon, Director of Curriculum, SEL & JEDI at UCLA Lab School—alongside her incredible team of educators—to explore the power of intentional social-emotional learning. From building conflict resolution skills in 4-year-olds to helping students process digital overstimulation, the UCLA Lab School is proving that SEL isn’t a trend—it’s a foundation.

Dr. Chatmon shares her journey from New Jersey public schools to leading one of the most progressive education environments in the country. 

What’s changed in classrooms between 2005 and 2025? A lot—and educators like Dr. Renata Gusmão-Garcia Williams are the first to notice. In this episode, Subject CEO Michael Vilardo sits down with the inspiring Principal of the UCLA Lab School to talk about how today’s students are navigating anxiety, tech, and emotional growth in a post-pandemic world. From her own journey—working full-time while earning her doctorate and raising a family—to the small classroom moments that changed her forever, Dr. Renata shares what it really takes to lead with heart in education today.

In this episode of On the Subject, host Michael Vilardo sits down with Nathan Bowen—former pro hockey player, co-founder of Total Package Hockey, and Executive Chairman of TPH Academy. From gritty roots on the ice to leading one of the most impactful multi-sport academic academies in North America, Nathan shares how TPH is giving student-athletes back their time, their purpose, and their confidence. They dive into scaling culture, designing education around passion instead of the bell schedule, and what it takes to develop not just champions on the field, but leaders in life. Plus, the moment his mom told him to stop whining about ice time might be the best parenting advice ever recorded.

In this episode of On the Subject, host Michael Vilardo welcomes Kelly Cooper, Chief Secondary Academic Officer at Iredell-Statesville Schools in North Carolina. With roots in both business and education, Kelly brings a unique perspective to curriculum design, rigor, and instructional leadership. She reflects on the shift from recall-based learning to higher-order thinking, the importance of blended learning done right, and how digital tools should serve—not replace—engaged teaching. Kelly also discusses the social-emotional toll of growing up in a hyperconnected world, and how educators can help students navigate that reality. Tune in to hear how her team is building a one-to-one culture with depth, intentionality, and care—and don’t miss her powerful tribute to the mentor who first introduced her to technology and shaped her journey in education.

On the Subject hits a milestone with its first-ever three-person episode, featuring two inspiring leaders from Tustin Unified School District: Diana Gebe and Ali del Castillo. Host Michael Vilardo sits down with these powerhouse educators to explore what it means to lead with empathy, foster innovation, and center education around trust and access for all students. From their early passion for teaching to their current work in credit recovery and instructional leadership, Diana and Ali reflect on how the classroom has changed since 2003—and why the future of learning must focus on risk-taking, skills-based education, and teacher autonomy. Plus, don’t miss their moving tribute to the students who made it all worth it.

In this episode of On the Subject, host Michael Vilardo travels to Chicago for the Subject.com Media & AI Education Conference and sits down with a powerhouse leader from the Southeast—Dr. Norris Williams, Deputy Superintendent of Lancaster County School District, South Carolina. As our first guest from the region, Dr. Williams shares his decades-long perspective on how education is evolving to truly center the student, what Gen Alpha is teaching us about independence, and how AI and entrepreneurship are reshaping the classroom. They also explore what education might look like by 2040—and it’s anything but traditional. Plus, a heartfelt gratitude moment you won’t want to miss.

For our milestone 50th episode of On the Subject, host Michael Vilardo sits down with Dr. Nicole Howard, Assistant Superintendent of Indian Prairie—Illinois’ fourth largest and one of its most diverse school districts. From growing up with a brother underserved by the system to becoming a math teacher and now a district leader, Dr. Howard shares a deeply personal and inspiring journey rooted in equity, innovation, and compassion. She discusses why flexibility in learning pathways matters, how we can empower teachers to bring their full selves to the classroom, and what a truly modern education system could look like by 2035. Plus, hear her give heartfelt shoutouts to the educators who shaped her own path. This conversation is packed with wisdom for anyone committed to designing schools that see all students.

In this episode of On the Subject, host Michael Vilardo sits down with the recently former Superintendent of Clark County School District and a champion for underserved students. From his early days as a 10-year-old immigrant to leading the fifth-largest district in the country, he shares the personal and professional moments that shaped his drive to prove all kids—regardless of background—can succeed at high levels.

He discusses the challenges of leadership, the evolving role of technology in classrooms, and what it takes to individualize education at scale. You’ll hear why he believes zip codes shouldn’t determine student success, how we can rethink seat time in schools, and a deeply personal moment that reminded him why this work matters. This is a can’t-miss conversation about purpose, perseverance, and public education’s future.

In this episode of On the Subject, host Michael Vilardo sits down in Monterey, California, with recently retired acting Superintendent and Chief of Human Resources Dr. Robert Martinez. With over three decades of experience across every level of education—from school psychologist to site leader, HR chief, and superintendent—Robert brings a deep and personal perspective on what’s changed (and what hasn’t) in our school systems since 1987. He shares the story behind his book Recipes for Resilience, opens up about leaving home at 16, and offers insight into how educators can build stronger teams, develop future leaders, and embrace the AI-powered changes coming to classrooms. This is a must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of education.