In this episode, hosts Danica and Giselline introduce JusticeFest , the annual showcase of student-led projects that address everything from racial justice to mental health and educational equity. You’ll hear how this powerful event has fueled change in Louisville and beyond, including projects like the Justice Express Bus and Future Ancestors. Through personal stories and student interviews, we explore how JusticeFest empowers young people to lead, innovate, and advocate for their communities —...
Jun 02, 2025•6 min
Today, 13 Firsts hosts Emilia and Evelyn dive deep into the effect banned books have on a state level through data and sitting down with local Manual staff, students from around the city, and citywide librarians. Collaborators: Evelyn, Stephanie, Aunetra, Emilia, Cameron, Katie, Addison, and Viet.
May 12, 2025•13 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this episode of 13 Firsts, Evelyn and Emilia dive into the ways students utilize social media and how these decisions affect them. Hear them uncover if social media is always the one to blame for its “effects”, or if people are drawn in by more than meets the eye. We talked to three students and University of Louisville professor Dr. Danovitch about their experiences using social media, the things they see on it, screen time, and answers as to why we resort to social media for a venting outle...
Dec 10, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 2
In the 13 Firsts' first episode of the season, Maddie dives into the alternative school options in the Jefferson County Public Schools system in Louisville, KY. She explores Pathfinder, Georgia Chaffee, Minor Daniels, and Girls and Boys Haven and their importance in promoting equity for all students. She also explores different ways that students learn in areas across the country. Collborators: Maddie L, Viet P.
Nov 25, 2024•6 min•Season 2Ep. 1
Our democracy is under threat. So why don’t we teach it? In this episode of 13 Firsts , hosts Stephanie and Hser Htte discuss the lack and underdevelopment of civics education in Kentucky and the nation, with insights from guests including Louisville Congressman Morgan McGarvey and Civics Unplugged Program Director Adiah Price-Tucker. Listen to discover how this educational oversight affects us, our communities, and our country as a whole. Collaborators: Stephanie N. , Hser Htte S., Maggie S., D...
Apr 29, 2024•11 min•Season 1Ep. 11
In this episode of 13 Firsts, Addison and Viet explore the life and legacy of Lyman T. Johnson, a Kentucky resident, pioneering educator, and civil rights activist. From breaking down racial barriers at the university level to fostering inclusivity in the classroom, Johnson's impact continues to inspire. Collaborators: Addison L, Viet P, Ellie M. Publisher of Interview: Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, University of Kentucky Libraries Rights Statement: All rights to the interviews\, includ...
Feb 13, 2024•8 min•Season 1Ep. 10
In this episode of 13 Firsts, Addison and Jordyn explore the complexities and history behind the holiday of Juneteenth. Together, they discusses the myths and truths surrounding the holiday and emphasize the importance of knowing your history. Collaborators: Addison L. & Jordyn S.
Feb 06, 2024•8 min•Season 1Ep. 9
Performance and visual arts have been hailed as safe places for expression and creative experimentation for thousands of years. However, the institutions, including in an educational setting, that foster these spaces are not immune to bias and exclusion, and the artists who wish to participate in them are frequently subjected to unfair discrimination. In this episode, Jewel will examine how young performers in Louisville are being impacted by discriminatory practices, as well as how they are wor...
Jan 30, 2024•10 min•Season 1Ep. 8
In this episode, Viet and Giselline dive into the complexities of JCPS' revamped transportation system, featuring interviews with a student from duPont Manual High and a JCPS bus driver. From weeks of cancelled school to unforeseen delays, the podcast sheds light on the impact of these changes on the everyday lives of JCPS students and those responsible for their transportation. Collaborators: Viet P. + Giselline P.D.
Jan 29, 2024•11 min•Season 1Ep. 7
In this episodes, Maddie and Danica dive into the history and traditions of Jewish holidays, along with its lack of accommodations in school systems. Collaborators: Maddie L. + Danica G.
Dec 11, 2023•7 min•Season 1Ep. 6
In this episode, Maddie dives into the history of duPont Manual High School's history with the fourth floor and its inaccessibility. For further reading, we recommend reading this article. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/22/us/ada-disabilities-act-history.html Sole Collaborator: Maddie L.
Oct 24, 2023•4 min•Season 1Ep. 5
In this episode, Addison explores 13 Firsts' initial relationship prior to their San Diego trip. This episode is part one of more to come; stay tuned to hear how the trip took a dramatic turn. Collaborators: Addison L. & Kennedy M.
Oct 17, 2023•9 min•Season 1Ep. 4
In this episode of 13 Firsts, Ellie delves into the history and study of summer learning loss throughout the years, and how students can take action to prevent it. Music Credits: “Mr. Smith” Sole Collaborator: Ellie M.
Sep 12, 2023•12 min•Season 1Ep. 3
In this episode, Danica and Maddie explore the differences between girls and boys throughout childhood. Do the struggles of growing up a girl come from society or from the parents that raise them? Collaborators: Danica G. + Maddie L.
Sep 04, 2023•17 min•Season 1Ep. 2
In 13 Firsts' episode premiere, Viet Pham interviews 1887 First's members to discuss the city of Eatonville's history as a city, as well as their fight in reclaiming educational land. Collaborators: Viet P. + Ellie. M Learn more about 1887 First here: https://linktr.ee/1887first
Aug 29, 2023•10 min•Season 1Ep. 1
