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How can interactive, real-time simulations bring complex STEM concepts like aerodynamics, fluid dynamics, and more to life in the classroom? Today we speak with Andrew Johnson, founder of Digital Rocket Science, to explore how browser-based tools allow students to visualise air flowing over a wing's surface, manipulate wing shapes, and instantly see changes in turbulence, vorticity, and aerodynamic forces! Plus - you can contribute!You can try these interactive simulation tools in your classrooms! Whether you are guiding students through an aerodynamics project or demonstrating complex scientific theories, Digital Rocket Science allows learners to gather and analyse simulation data in real time. Andrew is actively seeking feedback from educators—give the software a run and share how you are using it and what could be improved!Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Andrew Johnson Andrew Johnson is the founder of Digital Rocket Science, where he develops browser-based platforms that help students explore science, engineering, and artificial intelligence through interactive simulation and experimentation. With a background spanning aerospace engineering, visual effects at Industrial Light & Magic, and software development at Roblox, he now focuses on creating educational experiences that make complex computational systems accessible, visual, and intuitive for STEM learners. Featured Video & Resources Watch the simulations in action on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3Q5B3kLPTow?si=iEkxVMHk5Jfit4Xg Links Digital Rocket Science: https://www.digitalrocket.com/ Digital Dynamics Studio: https://www.digitaldynamics.studio/ Digital AI Studio: https://www.digitalai.studio/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@digitalrocketscience Contact Andrew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-a-johnson/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode?  Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can authentic community collaboration transform STEM education and empower local communities across Australia? Today we speak with Luke Steller, NT Regional Leader for Questacon and community engagement specialist, to explore how science education can be used as a tool for community connection, empowerment, and storytelling! Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Luke Steller Luke Steller is an education and community engagement specialist focused on building networks that support and amplify under-represented voices in education. Over the past eight years, he has led innovative projects that bring people together to explore how science education can empower local communities. Luke holds a PhD in geology from the University of New South Wales, where his research explored the environmental setting of the Earth’s oldest fossils in the Pilbara on Nyamal Country in Western Australia. Now based in Mparntwe (Alice Springs), Luke is the Northern Territory Regional Leader for Questacon—the Australian Government’s National Science and Technology Centre—where he builds networks and resources to support teachers and communities across the NT. Churchill Fellowship reporthttps://www.churchilltrust.com.au/fellow/luke-steller-nt-2024/Contacthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-steller/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode?  Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Digital equity makes STEM more accessible! We speak with Heather Gate, Executive Vice President of Digital Transformation at Connected Nation, to learn how digital equity programs such as Teens Teach Tech and more bring together communities and raise digital literacy.Plus, get involved in a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ attempt for the longest internet literacy live stream! Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Heather GateHeather Gate is Executive Vice President of Digital Transformation at Connected Nation, a U.S. nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to broadband, technology, and digital skills. For nearly two decades, she has led national initiatives that help communities bridge the digital divide through education, partnerships, workforce development, and AI readiness.Heather previously served as Chair of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission's Communications Equity and Diversity Council (CEDC), where she led national recommendations to expand digital opportunity. Today, she works with governments, nonprofits, educators, libraries, and technology companies to ensure people of all ages have the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.About Connected NationConnected Nation is a national nonprofit organisation celebrating 25 years of expanding access to broadband, technology, and digital skills. Since its founding in 2001, the organisation has positively impacted more than 21 million people through community planning, research, broadband initiatives, digital skills training, and strategic partnerships that help connect people to education, healthcare, employment, and economic opportunity. Working in all 50 U.S. states and three territories, Connected Nation collaborates with governments, schools, libraries, businesses, and nonprofits to ensure every community has the opportunity to thrive in an increasingly digital world.Connected Nation Overview Videohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJwQKxjKJNkSpotlight: Teens Teach TechTeens Teach Tech, powered by AT&T, is Connected Nation's nationally recognised intergenerational digital skills program. The initiative empowers high school students to become digital skills instructors, teaching older adults and community members essential technology skills such as internet safety, AI basics, email, videoconferencing, smartphones, and computer fundamentals. Since launching in 2022, Teens Teach Tech has helped nearly 50,000 people build essential digital skills through hundreds of teen-led teams across the United States. The program develops leadership, communication, and workforce skills in young people while helping adults gain the confidence to participate fully in today's digital world through schools, libraries, nonprofits, and community organisations.Teens Teach Tech Success Storyhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYJyRsQWL4ISpotlight: 25 Hours. One Connected WorldTo celebrate Connected Nation's 25th anniversary, the organisation is leading 25 Hours. One Connected World — a global attempt to set the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the longest internet literacy live stream. Broadcast live from Louisville, Kentucky, USA, on September 24-25, 2026, the event will feature 25 consecutive hours of free digital skills training delivered by educators and experts from around the world. The livestream will cover topics including artificial intelligence, online safety, digital wellness, workforce skills, accessibility, financial literacy, and more, demonstrating how digital knowledge can connect people across borders, cultures, and generations.Get Involved: 25 Hours. One Connected WorldListeners don't just have to watch from the sidelines. Connected Nation is inviting educators, community organisations, businesses, and individuals across six continents to be part of the record attempt: Tune in and watch — the livestream is free and open to everyone, September 24-25, 2026, from Louisville, Kentucky. With 25 hours of programming, you can pick and choose the sessions most relevant to you, whether that's AI, online safety, digital wellness, workforce skills, accessibility, or financial literacy. Host a watch site — schools, libraries, and community organisations can register as a local host site to bring the event to their community. Spread the word — awareness partners can help share the event with their networks to grow the reach of this global record attempt. Partner or sponsor — businesses interested in supporting the record attempt can connect with the Connected Nation team. Learn more and sign up to participate: https://connectednation.org/25-hours-one-connected-worldRelevant LinksConnected Nationhttps://connectednation.orgAbout Connected Nationhttps://connectednation.org/aboutTeens Teach Techhttps://teensteachtech.org25 Hours. One Connected Worldhttps://connectednation.org/25-hours-one-connected-worldHeather Gate on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/heathergate Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode?  Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do we inspire the next generation to explore diverse career pathways and discover the massive opportunities within Vocational Education and Training (VET)? Today we speak with Cassie Sanki, Project Officer for Training Services at the NSW Department of Education, to find out how VET is shaping the future of STEM, science, and industry! We dive into how real-world success stories are changing perceptions around vocational pathways, how VET connects students directly to emerging technologies, and how schools and communities can engage with passionate industry ambassadors.Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Cassie SankiCassie is a dedicated Project Officer within Training Services at the NSW Department of Education. Passionate about expanding student horizons, Cassie works at the heart of the VET Ambassador program, helping to connect skilled industry professionals with schools, parents, and employers. Through her work, she plays a vital role in showcasing VET as a premium, high-tech, and incredibly rewarding pathway for modern learners. About Training Services VET AmbassadorsTraining Services VET Ambassadors are passionate, skilled individuals from various industries throughout New South Wales. By sharing their own diverse personal and professional journeys, these ambassadors bring vital awareness to VET options and their benefits. They serve as real-world examples of success, providing relatable information and mentoring to students, parents, employers, training providers, and educators alike. The Power of VET in STEM and ScienceVET is no longer just about traditional trades—it is a critical launchpad for cutting-edge careers. VET Ambassadors help spark vital conversations about the sheer breadth of modern industries and technologies available to students. The program highlights how vocational pathways offer: Direct Pathways to STEM Hands-on training in rapidly evolving technical sectors, including science, advanced manufacturing, and digital technologies. Industry Connections Bridging the gap between school and the workforce by learning directly from professionals embedded in the field. Flexible Success Empowering students to further their education and achieve long-term success in future-focused careers. Invite an Ambassador to Your Next EventVET Ambassadors support a wide variety of engagement activities to promote local opportunities and inspire communities. Whether you are hosting a school career day, an industry night, or a community workshop, you can engage with the program to bring a real-world success story to your audience. Email the program [email protected] Learn more onlineVisit the official NSW Department of Education page to see the ambassadors in action and explore the NSW Training Awards.https://education.nsw.gov.au/skills-nsw/nsw-training-awards/training-services-vet-ambassadors See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do we prepare the next generation to navigate the rapidly changing world of transport, from e-mobility to autonomous vehicles? Today we speak with Kristine Luszczynski, Senior Manager of Community and Education at the NRMA, to find out how they are driving STEM education and road safety across Australian schools! We dive into how students can think like entrepreneurs to solve real-world transit problems, the critical new safety challenges facing teens today, and how schools can access free, curriculum-linked incursions and virtual programs.Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Kristine Luszczynski Kristine is the Senior Manager of Community and Education at the NRMA, where she leads the design and delivery of impactful educational initiatives that reach hundreds of thousands of children. With a deep commitment to community well-being, Kristine and her team focus on equipping young people—from early learners to graduating high schoolers—with the critical thinking skills and safety knowledge they need to navigate the future of transport confidently and responsibly. About NRMA Education Programs The NRMA believes every child deserves the knowledge to travel safely. Their road safety and STEM programs support students from early childhood through to their teenage years, bridging the gap between practical life skills and modern curriculum outcomes. https://www.mynrma.com.au/about/community/education Spotlight: The NRMA Future of Transport Challenge The NRMA Future of Transport Challenge encourages young people to follow their natural curiosity to solve real-world transit issues by innovating and thinking like entrepreneurs. Designed for students in years 5–10 (Stages 3, 4, and 5) working in groups of 2–5, the challenge guides participants through a unique 4-step process: Deep DiveExplore the real-world transport issues faced by Australian cities as well as regional and rural areas. DesignIdentify a specific need and apply human-centred design to create a solution product or service. PitchThink like an entrepreneur to create and deliver a product pitch to a panel of experts. EducateExcite and inspire an audience of their peers with their innovation. Find out more and get your students involved: https://nrmafuturetransport.com.au/ Explore more of NRMA's School Programs Science and Road Safety Incursion (Primary)A free program collaborating with Fizzics Education, delivered to schools across Sydney, the ACT, and regional NSW. Since 2014, it has visited over 800 schools and educated over 450,000 children. Free Movers (Years 7–8)An online program helping Stage 4 students manage independent travel, peer influence, and modern challenges like e-mobility (e-bikes, e-scooters), smartphone distraction, and lithium-ion battery safety. Young Driver (Years 9–12)A virtual program featuring six 20-minute units covering critical topics like the "Fatal Five," learning to drive, and buying a safe first car—complete with interactive video content and school quizzes. Early Years ResourcesPractical online materials to support early childhood safety education. Access Resources & Learn More Discover the NRMA's complete range of online road safety modules, curriculum-mapped activities, and early childhood resources. https://www.mynrma.com.au/about/community/education Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode?  Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do we inspire the next generation of aerospace innovators and connect them with the global space industry? Today we speak with Lisa Vitaris, Strategic Advisor for the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) in the Indo-Pacific, and Dr. Paddy Neumann, Chief Scientist at Neumann Space, to find out! We dive into how students can showcase their research on a global stage, why the regional space economy is booming, and everything you need to know about the upcoming 2026 AIAA Region VII Student Conference in Adelaide. About Lisa VitarisLisa is a prominent leader in the aerospace sector, dedicated to elevating and growing the space industry across the Indo-Pacific region. As the Founder and CEO of Indo-Pacific Space, she provides high-level advisory and business consulting services to expand the region's cosmic footprint. Lisa brings a wealth of governance and major project expertise to the table, currently serving as a Board Director for Engineers Australia—the peak professional body representing over 130,000 members globally. Additionally, she acts as a strategic advisor for the AIAA and is leading the United States' bid to host the prestigious International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Houston for 2029.https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisavitaris/ About Dr. Paddy NeumannPaddy is a pioneer in aerospace propulsion technology and a passionate advocate for student development. He is the Chief Scientist and co-founder of Neumann Space, an Australian company developing cutting-edge electric propulsion systems for spacecraft. Deeply involved in the aerospace community, Paddy also serves as the Chair of the Adelaide Section Council for the AIAA, working to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial space operations.https://www.linkedin.com/in/paddy-neumann-b7b6aa40/ About the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)AIAA is the world’s largest aerospace technical society, dedicated to igniting the imagination, advancing engineering excellence, and fostering a global community of aerospace professionals and students.https://aiaa.org/https://aiaa.org/get-involved/ Spotlight: 2026 Region VII Student ConferenceThere are massive opportunities waiting for students at the 2026 AIAA Region VII Student Conference. Hosted by the Adelaide University Student Branch, this hybrid event welcomes high schoolers (grades 9–12), undergraduate, and graduate students of all majors from around the world (excluding Canada and Mexico, which participate in North American regions). When30 November – 1 December 2026 WhereAdelaide University, Adelaide, Australia & Online (Hybrid format) WhatA technical paper and oral presentation competition where students can pitch their work, win cash prizes, receive expert industry feedback, and network with leading aerospace professionals. Abstract Deadline: 31 July 2026 Registration Opens: August 2026 Submit Your Abstract & RegisterVisit the official AIAA events page to get involved and review eligibility guidelines.https://aiaa.org/events/2026-region-vii-student-conference/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do we bridge the gap between the classroom and the cockpit? Today we speak with Natalie Allen, Project Manager for the Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools Program, to discover how students are finding non-linear pathways into the rapidly expanding world of flight and space technology. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics EducationAbout Natalie Allen Natalie is a people-focused leader who believes that meaningful connections are the foundation of both personal growth and professional success. With over 20 years of experience in the aviation industry, she is deeply passionate about creating engaging, impactful experiences that deliver tangible results. As a Project Manager, Natalie oversees internal and external initiatives that bring industry and education together. She is dedicated to showing students and teachers that career pathways are rarely linear, helping them navigate the diverse opportunities available in modern aerospace. About the Gateway to Industry Schools Program (GISP) for Aerospace The Aerospace GISP provides a unique platform for the education sector and industry to collaborate. The program exposes students and teachers to real-world learning experiences, assisting them in making informed career choices and identifying direct pathways to employment. Through stakeholder engagement, steering committees, and industry partnerships, the program ensures the next generation is ready to lead in a high-tech workforce. Why Aerospace Matters Now The aerospace industry is reaching new heights, with Queensland already serving as a hub for half of the world’s top 10 aerospace companies. The sector is currently focused on the research, design, and development of a wide array of flight vehicles, including: Aeroplanes and rotorcraft Uncrewed aircraft (drones) Rockets and spacecraft, such as satellites Benefits for Students With the industry’s rapid growth, there is a critical need for young people to enter roles in maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) to ensure aircraft safety and airworthiness. Furthermore, the rise of space-enabled services is driving demand for rocket testing and launch operations, creating cutting-edge career opportunities for students ready to look toward the stars. Connect with the Aerospace Gateway Schools: Website: aerospacegatewayschools.com.au LinkedIn: Aerospace Gateway Schools FB/Insta: @AerospaceGISP Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode?  Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How might we teach STEM effectively with the materials we have at hand? Today we speak with Shane Dryden, STEM Project Officer for the Hunter Academy of STEM Excellence & Teacher for the NSW Virtual STEM Academy to learn how!Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Shane Dryden Shane is passionate about making a difference to education in both the primary and secondary sectors through the embedding of STEM & the design thinking processes within schools by engaging teachers, learners, industry and higher education to create holistic school-based learning that builds 21st-century skills with students.He is the STEM Project Officer for the Hunter Academy of STEM Excellence & a teacher for the NSW Virtual STEM Academy.About the Hunter Academy of STEM ExcellenceThe Hunter Academy of STEM Excellence (HASE) operates in the Hunter region, a dynamic area known for its strong industrial heritage in mining, manufacturing, and energy production. The region is undergoing significant economic transformation, particularly in renewable energy, health, and advanced technology sectors.https://sispprogram.schools.nsw.gov.au/ase/hunterase.htmlSee also the Academies of STEM Excellence under the NSW Department of Educationhttps://sispprogram.schools.nsw.gov.au/ase.html About the NSW Virtual STEM AcademyFounded in 2021, the NSW Virtual STEM Academy (NSWVSA) is a STEM Enrichment program initiative designed to provide innovative and high-impact STEM learning opportunities for students across NSW. This initiative, is based at Murrumbidgee Regional High School – Griffith and is coordinated through the Murrumbidgee Academy of STEM Excellence (MASE). The NSWVSA connects students with advanced STEM programs, industry partnerships, and cutting-edge research, expanding access to high-quality STEM education regardless of location.https://sispprogram.schools.nsw.gov.au/nswvsa.html Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode?  Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Understanding how students perceive concepts is the first step towards helping students understand the concepts themselves! We speak with Dr Kristy Osborne, Discipline Lead of STEM and Educational Data Science at La Trobe University, as we unpack her thoughts on how to teach science effectively.Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Dr Kristy Osborne Dr Kristy Osborne (Vernon) is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Education at La Trobe University. She is a physicist, secondary and tertiary physics and mathematics teacher, and a STEM education specialist. She is passionate about STEM education outreach and an active member of the Consortium for Mathematics and its Applications (COMAP) and the Australian Institute of Physics. Her current research interests are student use of AI for mathematical problem-solving, and physical science pedagogy. Learn more LaTrobe University profile Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode?  Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From pioneering robotics in India to launching global lunar missions from Sydney, Sukruti Narayanan is redefining what it means to be a leader in the digital age. Discover how she is bridging the gap between access and ability, ensuring that the next generation of innovators doesn't just use technology, but masters it.Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics EducationAbout the Sukruti Narayanan Sukruti Narayanan is the Founder and President of the AIMERS Foundation and a formidable expert in communication and robotics. With a career dedicated to democratising high-tech education, Sukruti co-founded the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Foundation (RAAIF) in India in 2012 before expanding her visionary work to Australia. Her mission is rooted in the belief that while talent is universal, opportunity is not. This dedication was officially recognised in a New South Wales Parliamentary motion in February 2026, highlighting her transformative impact on the AI and robotics landscape. Key Highlights Sukruti’s work sits at the intersection of emerging tech and social equity: Mission ShakthiSATLeading a bold, all-female-led lunar space mission designed to empower 12,000 girls from 108 nations through real-time satellite projects. The AIMERS VisionThrough AI, Media, Emerging Fields, Robotics, and STEAM, she creates pathways for students to secure patents, publish academic work, and launch startups. Global Innovation HubWorking to position Australia as a world leader in technology by 2050 through mentorship and real-world scientific exposure. Links AIMERS FoundationExplore how AIMERS is developing the thinkers and storytellers of tomorrow.aimersfoundation.org  Mission ShakthiSATLearn more about the global journey to ignite a passion for space exploration in young women worldwide.shakthisat.org  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From building LEGO interferometers to launching rockets in the New England Highlands, Matt Dodds is proof that "abstract" doesn't have to mean "out of reach." Discover how the 2025 Prime Minister’s Prize winner uses immersive student engagement and bridges the STEM gap for regional learners.Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education Matt Dodds is the recipient of the 2025 Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools and a transformative force at Glen Innes High School. With an unwavering commitment to equity in education, Matt specialises in bringing high-level STEM concepts to life for students in rural and low-socioeconomic communities.  His teaching philosophy centres on a "real-life" approach, moving beyond textbooks to provide students with professional-grade scientific experiences. This is perhaps best exemplified by his Astronomy and Astrophysics Depth Study Program at Siding Spring Observatory, which has seen hundreds of regional students engage with world-class facilities over the past seven years. Matt’s influence extends far beyond the local classroom: In 2024, he participated in the International Physics & Astronomy Educator Program at LIGO Hanford, where his custom-built LEGO Interferometer is now a permanent fixture in the control centre. Working closely with OzGrav, he co-develops national workshops and outreach programs that translate complex astrophysical data into engaging classroom tools. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode?  Share it! Innovation in assessment, where his students teach the content via video explainers, Matt’s methods focus on tangible mastery. His impact is clearly reflected in the data. Under his leadership, Physics enrolments at Glen Innes High School have more than doubled, and the number of female students pursuing the subject has seen an eightfold increase—proving that with the right mentorship, the sky is no longer the limit. Outside of the classroom, Matt is a dedicated amateur astronomer who captures the beauty of the sun and deep-space nebulae from his own backyard. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get inspired as we hear from Cran Middlecoat, aviator, survivor, and relentless motivator. His story is extraordinary and he now works with students through to boardrooms on helping us overcome our own barriers to perfection & failure and in doing so, build resilience and opportunities for success. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Cran Middlecoat From his earliest days in Brisbane, Australia, Cran's profound connection with the skies was unmistakable, achieving his pilot's license well before most people even learned to drive. This early passion saw him taking his school teachers on flights, a testament to an innate love for aviation that would become deeply ingrained in his life. Cran's journey soared through thousands of hours in the cockpit, an odyssey that spanned the vast and rugged landscapes of outback Australia while serving with the Royal Flying Doctors, to the dynamic environments of international airports where he skillfully piloted massive jet airliners. However, Cran's narrative took a significant turn when confronted with his own mortality, waking up in intensive care with a permanently altered perspective. From this challenging experience emerged a man with a clear purpose: to redefine the concept of failure, dismantle the myth of perfection, and embrace the necessary discomfort of personal growth. Today, Cran's influence extends beyond the cockpit as a highly sought-after motivational keynote speaker. From corporate boardrooms to global auditoriums, his message resonates deeply with those seeking transformation. He powerfully conveys that failure is not a finality but an essential stage in the journey toward success, and that genuine progress requires the resilience developed through practice. Hailing from Brisbane, Cran is also a dedicated father to two young aspiring aviators, nurturing in them the same fervent passion for flight that defines his own life. As Cran travels the world, his core message remains constant: failure should not be feared but embraced, as it holds the potential for remarkable growth. Through his authentic storytelling and unwavering spirit, Cran ignites a sense of resilience in his audiences, reminding everyone that even in the face of adversity, our capacity to rise above is limitless.Learn morehttps://cranmiddlecoat.com/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode?  Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn how Future You aims to inspire children's STEM curiosity. Join Program Ambassador Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith, an award-winning astrophysicist renowned for making the universe accessible as we explore Future You helps kids imagine their future possibilities. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Future You Future You, a UNSW Sydney-led initiative, sparks STEM curiosity in 8-12 year olds through free, engaging resources for students, teachers, and parents. Connecting real-world STEM skills with the Australian Curriculum, the program offers practical activities, diverse role models, and inspiring fiction to make STEM relevant and exciting. Future You empowers families to explore the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics together.Learn morehttps://futureyouaustralia.com.au/ About Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith, Program Ambassador. Lisa is an award-winning astrophysicist and author with a gift for making the universe accessible to all. With over 55 research papers and key roles in the development and operation of radio telescopes globally, her contributions to astronomy are many. Lisa’s passion for sharing knowledge extends beyond research. She’s a best-selling author and an engaging keynote speaker. Her books have received national and international acclaim, and she’s a familiar face from ABC’s Stargazing Live. Lisa has also hosted live events featuring Apollo Moon astronauts Buzz Aldrin, Gene Cernan, and Charlie Duke, captivating audiences in sold-out theatres across the country. On top of all of that, she’s passionate about getting your students excited about the amazing and rewarding career possibilities within STEM. Learn morehttps://www.lisaharveysmith.com/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode?  Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We speak with Daniel Edwards, an award-winning STEM educator from Tasmania, and learn about his innovative programs at Montello Primary and Parklands High Schools. We'll also explore his role as CEO of GreenSTEM Education, highlighting his efforts to bring equitable STEM opportunities to students through projects like Greenpower Tasmania. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About GreenSTEM Education GreenSTEM Education is a registered charity based in NW Tasmania, dedicated to advancing education by providing equitable access to excellence in STEM for all young people and the wider community, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Learn morehttps://greenstem.org.au/ About Daniel Edwards Daniel Edwards is a dedicated STEM educator with the Tasmanian Department for Education, Children and Young People (DECYP). At Montello Primary School, he oversees an acclaimed STEM program, crafting immersive, practical learning experiences that motivate students to delve into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Additionally, Daniel brings his expertise to Parklands High School, embedding STEM education throughout the curriculum to nurture essential skills such as critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and practical application in real-world scenarios. Beyond his school-based roles, Daniel serves as the Founding CEO of GreenSTEM Education, Tasmania's pioneering charity focused on equitable access to STEM education. Through GreenSTEM, he strives to ensure that all young Australians, particularly those from underrepresented groups, have opportunities to participate in high-quality STEM activities. A central project of GreenSTEM is Greenpower Tasmania, developed in partnership with the UK's Greenpower Education Trust. This innovative initiative involves students designing, building, and racing single-seat electric vehicles, effectively blending practical engineering skills with principles of sustainability. Greenpower Tasmania provides young participants with unique, collaborative experiences, equipping them with valuable STEM skills and inspiring them to become future innovators. Daniel’s contributions to education and community projects highlight his unwavering dedication to enhancing STEM education and fostering enduring opportunities for young Australians in a world increasingly shaped by technology. His impactful work has been nationally recognized, earning him the prestigious 2024 Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools.Reach outhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-edwards-155476226/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode?  Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn about AVISTA - AROSE’s Virtual and In-person STEM Training and Awareness Program, which will visit over 200 high schools across Australia face-to-face as well as digitally through STEM challenges to help students learn more about STEM career pathways into the Australian defence industries. We speak with Holly Kershaw, STEM Program Manager at AROSE to learn more. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About AVISTA Supported by the Department of Defence’s School Pathways Program, AVISTA will deliver a range of exciting learning experiences to students, their teachers and families throughout 2025, to help develop Australia’s STEM talent pipeline by providing direct insights into defence industry career pathways. AVISTA is an initiative of AROSE, delivered in partnership with Fizzics Education, Gilmour Space Technologies, Gunggandji Aerospace, IlluminateFNQ, Joseph Banks Secondary College, Nova Systems, and the University of Western Australia Defence and Security Institute. Learn morehttps://avista.org.au/ About AROSE Australian Remote Operations for Space and Earth (AROSE) is a leading, industry-led, not-for-profit organisation that stands at the forefront of knowledge and technology transfer between Australia’s traditional industry sectors and the burgeoning international space sector. AROSE brings these sectors together to collaborate on targeted, industry-led projects with Australia’s world-leading Remote Operations expertise at their core. Learn morehttps://www.arose.org.au/ About Holly Kershaw Holly Kershaw is an experienced program leader skilled in strategic planning, operational management, and team leadership. She excels at scaling operations and managing large program transitions under tight deadlines. She has led STEM initiatives engaging up to 300,000 students annually and produced events attracting tens of thousands. Her experience includes roles at AROSE, Arludo, Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney, Fizzics Education and the University of Sydney. Holly also co-founded TEDxParramatta, emphasizing strategic partnerships and community-focused events.Learn morehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hollykershaw/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode?  Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.