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In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Ishan Shivanand, founder of Yoga of Immortals and author of the international bestseller The Practice of Immortality. Together, we explore why resilience training and inner work are becoming essential supports for students and educators navigating rising levels of stress, burnout, and disconnection. Ishan shares how his research-backed, non-pharmaceutical approach blends breathwork, meditation, and cognitive awareness to improve mental health and overall well-being. Our conversation digs into what resilience training actually looks like in practice and why even small, consistent moments of awareness can make a measurable difference in learning environments. We also discuss how schools can integrate these tools in culturally respectful, non-theological ways that support both students and teachers. Join us to explore how building resilient minds can reshape the future of learning. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: The growing mental health challenges facing students and educators  Research-backed resilience training and its impact on learning  Burnout, anxiety, and sleep issues in high-performing students  Practical ways to integrate mindfulness into classrooms  Why inner work is a lifelong skill, not an add-on   Resources: The Practice of Immortality by Ishan ShivanandYoga of Immortals – Learn more about the research-backed mental health program and its applications in education  Peer-reviewed research in Frontiers in Psychiatry Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re reconnecting with returning guest and “serial school starter” Nathan Gorsch, executive director and principal of the Colorado Springs School of Technology. Nathan shares how his experience launching Village High School shaped the vision for this new, industry-driven high school designed around immersive, future-focused learning. We explore how a powerful coalition of district leaders, higher education, and local industry came together to create a tech-focused ecosystem serving both students and the regional workforce. We also dig into what school actually looks and feels like for students: flexible, workplace-inspired spaces, pathway-based coursework in aerospace, cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, and leadership, and short, high-impact industry sprints led by professionals. Nathan reflects on why ethical leadership matters just as much as technical skills—especially in fields like AI—and hints at what’s coming next in the broader innovation zone. Join us to explore how schools can truly partner with the community to prepare students for emerging careers. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Launching the Colorado Springs School of Technology as an industry-driven innovation high school  Lessons learned from Village High School and applying them in a new context  Designing flexible, workplace-inspired learning spaces and student-centered pathways  Monday “industry sprints” with professionals in branding, ethics, design thinking, and rocketry  Embedding ethical leadership and social responsibility into high-tech career preparation  Envisioning an innovation zone with future medical, public service, and middle school models Resources: Colorado Springs School of Technology – Explore the school’s pathways in aerospace, cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, and leadership to see how an innovation high school can partner with industry.  Village High School – Look into Nathan’s first school startup to understand the blended, learner-agency model that inspired this next chapter.  Colorado Springs School District 11 – Learn more about the district context and its commitment to a school of innovation and a broader innovation zone.  Challenger Learning Center – Check out their 3D printing, rocketry, and aerospace experiences that support hands-on learning for CSSOT students.  DECA– Discover how student participation in business and marketing competitions builds real-world skills and confidence.  Portfolio School (NYC) – Explore other innovative school models experimenting with short, intensive projects and student-centered design.Follow Nathan Gorsch on LinkedIn Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Sean Geraghty, founder of Reset Coaching and co-founder of the Center for Teen Flourishing, to explore what today’s teens truly need to thrive. Sean walks us through the research behind how young people spend their time from 3 PM to 3 AM, highlighting the growing displacement of in-person connection, hobbies, work, and other meaningful activities by passive screen use. Together, we dig into why this shift matters and what opportunity costs families often overlook. We also unpack the misconceptions around motivation and executive function—especially for teens with ADHD or chronic overwhelm—and how small, personalized strategies can lead to big wins. Sean shares practical insights from coaching, research, and behavioral science that help teens re-engage with life in authentic, sustainable ways. Join us to learn more about building healthier habits, supporting agency, and helping young people flourish. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How teens’ after-school hours have shifted from real-life engagement to digital distraction  The opportunity costs of screen time and why time-use matters  What motivation and executive function actually look like for ADHD and overwhelmed teens  Why personalized systems outperform one-size-fits-all strategies   Resources: I’ll Do It Later: Surviving School and Renewing With Love With Your ADHD Son by Sean Geraghty & Mike Goldstein — A practical guide for parents supporting ADHD learners.The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt — Explore the research shaping national conversations around teens, mental health, and technology. Center for Teen Flourishing — Learn more about ongoing research into teens’ daily habits and wellbeing.Reset Coaching — Discover executive function strategies and coaching support for teens and young adults.American Time Use Survey (ATUS) — A national data source on how Americans spend their time, including trends among teens. Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Lisa Huffman, Dean of the University of Cincinnati’s College of Education, Criminal Justice, Human Services, and Information Technology. Together, we explore the university’s long-standing Early IT program and the powerful new Microschool partnership designed to bring multiple districts, diverse learners, and shared resources into one collaborative ecosystem. Lisa unpacks why higher education is leaning in so deeply to rethink the K–12 pipeline and how this joint endeavor creates a win-win for students, universities, and future employers alike. We also discuss how early college credit, real-world problem-based learning, and multi-district collaboration offer students a transformative pathway into high-demand IT careers. Lisa highlights the economic benefits of accelerated degree completion, the value of divergent perspectives, and why microschools may hold the key to scalable, future-ready learning experiences across communities. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why post-secondary institutions are rethinking partnerships with K–12The design and purpose of the Early IT Microschool modelMulti-district collaboration as an engine for divergent thinking and problem solvingHow early college credit accelerates economic mobility for studentsWhat it takes to scale microschool models across different contexts Resources: University of Cincinnati Early IT Program Produced by NOVA

What does it look like to build a truly learner-centered school from the ground up—and do it by activating the full power of the surrounding community? In this episode, we welcome Coi Marie Morefield, founder of the Lab School of Memphis, a PK–8 learner-centered environment blending Waldorf, Montessori, unschooling, and constructivist approaches. Coi shares how her journey began with her own children and grew into a thriving school grounded in exploration, agency, and real-world learning. We explore how the Lab School’s ecosystem model emerged out of necessity and evolved into a powerful framework for engaging local partners—from art museums and farms to restaurants, tennis programs, and even the Chamber of Commerce. Coi also reflects on growth, transitions, and what a flexible, a la carte future for high school could look like. This is an inspiring conversation about community-driven learning, bold leadership, and creating spaces where every learner is truly seen.   To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: The origins of the Lab School of Memphis and its learner-centered philosophy  How community partnerships fuel real-world learning experiences  Building an ecosystem that supports both learners and educators  Navigating school growth, transitions, and evolving student needs  Rethinking high school through flexible, a la carte learning pathways Resources: Lab School of MemphisCoi Marie Morefield on LinkedInFollow Coi Marie Morefield on Instagram: @poimorefieldPAST FoundationEducation Reimagined Produced by NOVA

What if we taught math facts through understanding instead of memorization? In this episode, we welcome Mike Kenny—Vermont fifth-grade math teacher and creator of MathFactLab—who shares how strategy-based practice grounded in number sense transforms fluency and confidence. Inspired by the Vermont Mathematics Initiative, Mike reframed "flashcards" into visual, model-rich experiences that help students construct new facts from previously mastered ones. We dive into how MathFactLab shifts classroom culture—helping students rediscover joy, confidence, and agency in math through reasoning rather than rote recall. Mike also shares how teachers can use progress tracking and conceptual tools to build genuine understanding and long-term success. This is a conversation about turning math from memorization into meaning. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Strategy-based fluency vs. rote memorizationUsing visual models to reduce cognitive loadConstructing new fact knowledge from mastered factsProgress monitoring and impartial data collectionBuilding student agency, confidence, and joy in mathResources: MathFactLab"Fluency Without Fear" by Jo Boaler (YouCubed)

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, I’m joined by Jefferson Pestronk, Executive Director at Modern States, to discuss how their free online courses and College Board’s CLEP exams make college credit accessible to everyone. Learners can take self-paced courses, earn vouchers, and bring passing CLEP scores to nearly 3,000 colleges—no tuition required on the Modern States side. Jefferson shares how this model supports high schoolers, college students, and adult learners alike through flexible, scalable pathways. We also talk about AI tutoring, virtual cohorts, and statewide programs like Ohio’s new policy recognizing CLEP in diploma metrics. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How Modern States + CLEP unlocks free, transcripted college credit for learners anywhere.Who it serves—from teens to comebackers—and flexible ways schools embed it.Funding the path: philanthropic support, employer benefits, and state policies.New supports for self-paced success: AI tutoring and virtual cohorts.Ohio’s policy shift elevating CLEP in accountability and diploma seals. Resources: Modern States — Create a free account and browse the full course library; look for the green “Sign Up” buttons.College Board CLEP — Check which colleges accept which exams and the score needed to earn credit.Connect with Jefferson Pestronk on LinkedIn Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Danny Bauer, host of the Better Leaders, Better Schools podcast and a champion for reimagining education through leadership. Danny shares how his journey from assistant principal to leading a global community of “ruckus makers” has been fueled by a belief that leadership is service and schools must evolve beyond the status quo. His perspective challenges us to think differently about what school is for and how leaders can inspire students and educators alike. We explore the importance of creating schools that kids actually want to show up for, the role of curiosity in shaping the future of learning, and why agency and authenticity are essential in leadership. From transforming abandoned spaces into learning labs to helping principals embrace bold, creative choices, Danny illustrates how disruption can open doors to new possibilities. This conversation dives into leadership, agency, AI in education, and reimagining what makes school meaningful for both learners and leaders. Join us as we unpack how to build communities of growth, create irresistible learning environments, and embrace the power of disruption in education. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Leadership as service in transforming educationCreating schools that inspire students to “opt in”How curiosity and agency drive meaningful learning Resources: Better Leaders, Better SchoolsLearning Unboxed PodcastFollow Danny Bauer on Instagram: @betterleadersbetterschools Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, I’m joined by Craig Randall, author of Trust-Based Observations, to explore how great teaching thrives when educators feel psychologically safe. We look at why traditional evaluation systems—rubrics, ratings, and high-stakes observations—stifle innovation, and how Craig’s trust-first model creates space for teachers to take risks and grow. Craig shares his three-part approach: short, unannounced, strengths-based classroom visits; reflective conversations that begin with questions rather than judgments; and concrete, teacher-chosen support. From asking permission before offering suggestions to co-teaching or modeling strategies, each step builds trust so educators feel safe to experiment. We also talk about scaling impact—aligning professional learning to core pedagogy, tapping in-house expertise, and working within mandated systems without losing sight of trust. The result is what John Hattie calls “collective teacher efficacy in action”—a culture where teachers share wins, iterate openly, and drive stronger student learning. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why ratings of pedagogy erode trust—and how mindset-focused feedback changes the game.The mechanics of a strengths-based observation cycle (short, unannounced, reflective, supportive).“Marbles in the jar”: lowering vulnerability to unlock risk-taking and innovation.Turning observations into ongoing PD and collective teacher efficacy.Practical ways to work within evaluation mandates while centering trust. Resources: Learn more at TrustBased.comRead Trust-Based Observations by Craig RandallConnect with Craig on LinkedIn Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we dive into reading skills development with Tim Waldron, CEO of Readable English. We explore why so many students—especially in upper elementary, middle, and high school—are still reading below grade level and what it takes to close that gap quickly. The stakes are high: student confidence, classroom participation, and long-term success in college, career, and beyond. Tim explains how English’s irregular spelling makes decoding harder than in phonetic languages. Readable English offers a research-backed approach—adding syllable breaks, grayed-out silent letters, and 21 glyphs tied to English phonemes—to reduce cognitive load and speed fluency and comprehension. This method supports the science of reading and Scarborough’s Rope by freeing up brainpower for meaning-making. We also look at implementation: browser-based tools that mark up any digital text, short daily “reading power-ups” aligned to CTE pathways, and a light lift for teachers through two virtual trainings. Tim shows how schools can help students make up to two years of growth in a semester. Getting kids reading at grade level opens doors to deeper learning, authentic participation, and real opportunity. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: The decoding problem: why English spelling slows fluency—and how glyphs reduce cognitive load.A multi-sensory, research-backed approach that accelerates accuracy, rate, and comprehension.Practical school rollout: minimal PD, browser tools, and daily practice that scales.Supporting multilingual learners and older struggling readers without derailing core instruction.Career-connected literacy: CTE-aligned reading “power-ups” to build relevance and motivation. Resources: Readable English — Explore the methodology, research, and request a demoClassroom Browser Extension — Let students double-click any word for markup, pronunciation, definitions, and L1 translation; pilot it with a small group to see immediate impact Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we welcome David Solomon, CEO of Lightspeed Technologies, to unpack “instructional audio”—low-volume, high-clarity sound that makes the teacher’s voice equally intelligible in every seat. We explore why clarity beats volume for attention, language development, and early learners, and how speaking in a natural tone calms the room and boosts comprehension. We also dig into real-world use: integrating classroom audio with displays, computers, PA, and security so pages and emergencies cut through, and teachers can route any audio evenly across the room. David shares quick-win adoption tips—from simple in-class demos to funding paths like bond measures, Title I, and local foundations—and how Lightspeed’s Activate tool supports small-group instruction by letting teachers listen in and jump in at the right moment. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: What “instructional audio” is and why clarity beats volume for K–12 learning.How to integrate classroom audio with displays, computers, PA, security, and phones.Funding routes: bond measures, Title I, and school foundations.Avoiding sound bleed and creating an even sound field in every seat.Small‑group instruction with Activate and boosting student agency. Resources: Learn more: Lightspeed TechnologiesConnect with David on LinkedIn Produced by NOVA

When it comes to student behavior, punishment often gets mistaken for progress. In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Nicholas Bradford, founder of the National Center for Restorative Justice, to explore a better path: restorative practices that build relationships, invite accountability, and strengthen school communities. Nicholas shares why “punishing our way to good behavior” doesn’t work—and how restorative approaches help students understand impact, repair harm, and reintegrate with dignity. We unpack what real implementation looks like, from relationship-building circles to conferences scaled to the level of harm. Nicholas also highlights how schools can transform detention into a space for reflection and repair, and why accountability must go beyond a private apology to include the larger community. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why punitive systems fail—and what it means to center relationships and repairHow to design restorative responses that scale from low-level conflicts to serious harmThe power of peer voice and student social capital in changing behaviorTurning detention into development: reflection, mentoring, and accountable next stepsTrue accountability vs. coercion, and making repair visible so communities learn Resources: National Center for Restorative JusticeConnect with Nicholas Bradford on LinkedIn Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we welcome Dr. Aimee E. Ketchum and Dr. Crystal Corle Loose, co-authors of The Early Childhood Promise. With a wealth of experience in pediatrics, occupational therapy, early education, and community outreach, they guide us through the transformative power of early childhood through evidence-backed strategies and a commitment to equity. Throughout our conversation, Aimee and Crystal shed light on how play shapes children's brain development, language, and emotional resilience—and why high-stakes accountability and underfunded early childhood systems have eroded these critical opportunities. They also offer inspiring solutions for educators, parents, and policymakers to restore play, support vulnerable communities, and revitalize early learning ecosystems. Join us as we explore tangible, research-informed steps—from engaging families at birth to nurturing play-based environments—that champion every child’s potential to thrive. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: The science behind play and its role in brain development, language, and problem-solvingHow federal policies and high-stakes testing pushed play out of classrooms—and why it must returnThe undervaluing of early childhood educators and its impact on children’s futuresWhy risky play and unstructured time are critical for building resiliencePractical steps for schools and communities to engage families from birth and support early learning Resources: Read: The Early Childhood Promise: Sparking Change for Parents, Early Childhood Professionals, and PolicymakersLearn more at developingchild.harvard.edu Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Christie McKelvie, co-founder and director of Rooted & Free Nature School, to talk about the transformative potential of place-based education. Christie shares her journey from classroom teacher to nature school founder, explaining how hands-on outdoor learning can nurture children’s confidence, agency, and love of nature. We explore how Rooted & Free uses nature as its primary teacher, the benefits of “risky play,” and the unique way the school blends free exploration with guided learning. Christie also offers practical tips for traditional educators who want to bring more outdoor experiences into their own classrooms, even with limited resources. If you’re curious about creating more meaningful and connected learning opportunities for kids, you’ll be inspired by Christie’s insights and her vision for education rooted in community and nature. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: The philosophy and mission behind Rooted & Free Nature SchoolHow place-based, experiential education fosters agency and environmental stewardshipThe value of risk and “risky play” in children’s developmentPractical strategies for bringing outdoor learning into traditional classroomsBuilding community partnerships and increasing access to nature-based programs Resources: Learn more at Rooted and Free Nature SchoolFollow Rooted & Free on Instagram: @rootedandfreenatureschool Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, I’m joined by Jeff Utecht, co-host of the Shifting Schools podcast and a consultant focused on generational change and AI in education. We explore how different generations—Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, and even Gen Alpha—bring unique values and expectations to both learning and work, and why understanding these differences is crucial for educators navigating today’s evolving classroom and workforce. Jeff shares practical insights on adapting to digitally native students who expect gamified, collaborative experiences and discusses how tools like generative AI can help educators meet these changing needs. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How generational experiences shape learning styles and valuesNavigating the challenges of four generations in the workplace and classroomWhy Gen Z and Alpha learners expect gamification and collaborationThe importance of authenticity and embracing failure in educationLeveraging AI to bridge generational gaps and support new approaches to teaching Resources: Listen to the Shifting Schools Podcast – Weekly conversations on modern schooling, leadership, and educational innovation.Connect with Jeff Utecht for consulting or speaking via his website or on LinkedInRead: Generations by William Strauss and Neil Howe Produced by NOVA