In today’s conversation, Rowan Baptiste and Keith Thomson share their experiences working with supporting at-risk youth. Drawing from personal experiences and professional insights, Rowan and Keith shed light on the multifaceted nature of this challenge, emphasizing the need for genuine understanding and engagement. We explore strategies for motivating and empowering young people, as well as the role of exposure and reintegration in shaping their futures. From creative resource utilization to th...
Apr 11, 2024•1 hr 10 min
In today’s conversation, Dr. George Yancy and I navigate the intersections of race, safety, and education, grappling with systemic structures and dominant cultural narratives. We attempt to challenge conventional frameworks and deconstruct hierarchies, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and respecting differences without reinforcing power imbalances. We explore Dr. Yancy’s personal experiences of anti-black racism and the embodied traumas that shape perceptions of identity and belonging. ...
Apr 08, 2024•1 hr 14 min
In today’s conversation Dr. Gordan Lewis and I delve into the intricate concept of race. From its historical and mythological origins in medieval Spain and Portugal to its impact on societies today globally, we explore the evolution of the term 'race.' Unpacking its violent constructs, we discuss how race goes beyond physical attributes, influencing socio-economic status and cultural backgrounds. We then discuss the intertwining of race and tribalism, the circumstances of Columbus's voyage, and ...
Apr 05, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 3Ep. 2
In today’s episode, Jordan Davis reflects on his journey to establish JD Speaks, a platform dedicated to reshaping education and technology for black and Latinx students. This conversation starts with covers Jordan's experiences teaching where he discusses his joy of exposing students to new career paths, and the shift towards critical pedagogy to enhance his educational approach. We then delve into the impact of race in academia, proposing a trauma-informed dialogue as a way forward. The episod...
Apr 04, 2024•56 min•Season 3Ep. 1
In this episode we dive into the world of innovative language learning approaches and explore a language acquisition program inspired by children's experiences in Dharavi, the largest slum in Asia. In this discussion, the team explores the significance of discovery learning and nonverbal cues in language acquisition, the benefits of being multilingual, and strategies for teaching English in non-native schools. We explore the philosophy and methodology behind learning new languages, the effective...
Feb 27, 2024•1 hr 11 min
In today’s conversation, Sangeeta Isvaran shares her personal journey from a dancer to a beacon of social change. In this episode, she opens up about using art as a tool for social transformation, highlighting its therapeutic and educational potential, especially for marginalized communities. We explore the philosophy and purpose of art, delving into concepts like 'rasa' and 'manodharma'. The discussion unfolds to break taboos surrounding women's health, inclusivity, and the importance of creati...
Feb 26, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Season 2Ep. 13
In today’s episode, Karthi Easwaramoorthy shares his experiences in the US leading to the inception of Ticketgo.com in India, commenting on his motivations and challenges that shaped his entrepreneurial path. The discussion explores the beauty and unique aspects of Sivagiri, a village in Tamil Nadu, delving into the landscapes, schools, and connectivity that make it a distinct haven. The conversation then continues forward to explore the intersections of language proficiency, confidence-building...
Feb 26, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Season 2Ep. 12
In this episode, Varsha delves into One All, an organization dedicated to imparting life skills to children in India through the unconventional medium of Ultimate Frisbee. Against the backdrop of the vibrant landscapes of Gulur, Tamil Nadu, Varsha shares the organization's origins and its profound impact on diverse communities. The episode unravels the intricacies of Ultimate Frisbee, highlighting its role in transcending competition to promote equality and unity among players from diverse backg...
Feb 21, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 2Ep. 11
In today’s episode Fabia Postel, an Airbnb host and travel guide from Mumbai, shares her unique journey, travelling the world by hosting international travelers for over a decade. Fabia discusses the power of authentic hospitality, distinguishing it from performative gestures and the genuine connections formed through sharing stories and experiences. We also explores the concept of sharing, love, and trust in relationships, touching on the difficulty of discerning between being taken advantage o...
Feb 21, 2024•55 min•Season 2Ep. 9
In this episode, Suganya shares her first-hand experiences, shedding light on the distinctive challenges faced by Adivasi communities and the profound impact of education as a catalyst for transformation. The conversation transcends traditional education discussions, venturing into the realm of architecture in education. Suganya delves into the innovative design of a school, echoing the open and flexible ethos inspired by Adivasi communities. As the episode progresses, she dives into the complex...
Feb 21, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 2Ep. 9
In today’s episode Parth, the founder of Srot, shares the challenges rural communities face amid progress and urbanization. The conversation delves into the delicate balance between efficiency and chaos, emphasizing the significance of recognizing emotions, fostering discourse, and nurturing critical thinking in education. Parth's critique of the competitive education system unfolds into a compelling proposal for an intervention program, focusing on inspiring curiosity and essential life skills....
Feb 21, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Season 2Ep. 8
In today’s episode, we travel to the Western Ghats in Pune, India, where Shrinidhi Mahishi shares the transformative education approach at Sayadri School. Nestled atop a hill and surrounded by rich biodiversity, this school is not just a place of learning but a sanctuary where education transcends conventional boundaries. Guided by the Krishnamurthi philosophy, The Sayadri School embraces a fear-free, comparison-free environment, encouraging students to explore intrinsic motivation over competit...
Feb 21, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Season 2Ep. 7
In this episode, we dive into the heart of educational innovation with the founder of Project DEFY (Design Education For Yourself). Project DEFY challenges traditional education models by creating 'Nooks' - self-designed learning spaces where individuals, irrespective of their age or background, can learn anything by leveraging the internet, community resources, and peer collaboration. Originating in Bangalore, India, DEFY's model has since expanded across India and into countries in Africa, bri...
Feb 12, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 2Ep. 6
Hello! In today's episode, we delve into the months of November and December, a period during which I collaborated with a rural school in Sivagiri, Tamil Nadu. We explore the challenges encountered by numerous students in this area, and the essential role of a functional economy alongside the schooling system, and we'll summarize the key lessons learned throughout the trip. I hope you find it engaging, and I'm excited to take back my role as the host. It's significantly easier on that side. Site...
Feb 09, 2024•59 min•Season 2Ep. 5
In this episode, we delve into the impactful work of the SROT organization, which collaborates with students in the Himalayan region to nurture critical thinking skills. We explore the unique educational landscape of this area, discussing both the traditional schooling methods and the transformative philosophy SROT introduces within these mountain communities. Link: https://www.srot.in/story
Feb 06, 2024•59 min•Season 2Ep. 4
Hi! In today's episode, my friend Kumar Nadhan steps into the hosting spotlight. We dive into my experiences at the Sahyadri Krishnamurti Foundation School in Pune, Maharashtra, which stands out as one of the most unique and impactful schools I've ever worked with. Following that, we shifted our focus to the educational public policy landscape, particularly discussing the Corporate Social Responsibility policy, around which I had the opportunity to attend a national conference in Delhi. I'm look...
Feb 02, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In today's episode, my good friend Aditya Choksi steps in as host to explore my time working with tribal communities in Gudalur, Tamil Nadu, located in southern India. My journey involved collaborating with two organizations: initially, I worked with the Vidhodaya school, followed by working with the One All Ultimate Frisbee organization. I'm so eager to share the work both these amazing organizations do. I hope you enjoy this conversation!
Feb 02, 2024•52 min•Season 2Ep. 2
Hi! It's great to be back, and I hope you're all having an amazing 2024 so far. In the opening five episodes of season 2, I've brought on some of my close friends to take over the hosting duties. We'll be covering my adventures across India, focusing on both my travel experiences and my time teaching. This episode kicks off with the initial month and a half of my trip, a period I spent time with family and immersed myself in our religion, traditions, and culture. I'm thrilled to share this journ...
Feb 02, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Season 2Ep. 1
In today's conversation with Dr. Richard Stephens, we explore the psychological aspects of cursing. Dr. Stephens breaks down his research, delving into the benefits of swearing for pain tolerance and performing physical tasks. We then explore the different methodologies for understanding and teaching the complexities of swearing. This is a continuation of our cursing series, starting with episode 39, with Dr. Kristy Beers Fagersten. Hope you enjoy!
Dec 01, 2023•37 min
Dr.Doka is a Professor Emeritus at the Graduate School of The College of New Rochelle and is a senior Vice-President for Grief Programs for the Hospice Foundation of America. He has written When We Die: Extraordinary Experiences at Life’s End, Living with Grief since COVID-19, Intimacy and Aging America: Coping with loss, dying, and death in later life. I n this conversation we delve in vulnerable topics, discussing methodologies to teaching about grief in schools, the intersection of religion a...
Nov 29, 2023•39 min
After a long hiatus due to a cross country road trip from D.C to S.F and a flight to Chennai, Tamil Nadu, I finally have some time to start recording again. I'm so excited to be back. In this week's conversation, Dr. Fägersten shares her insights into the history and sociology of swearing and its complex history. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. Dr. Fägersten's Website: https://www.sh.se/english/sodertorn-university/contact/researchers/kristy-beers-fagersten...
Jun 21, 2023•41 min
I'm about to graduate in one week and I can't tell you how excited I am for my next adventure. In today's episode Dr. NaLette Brodnax and I start by discussing the intersection of data science and public policy, moving on to talking about some of the shortcomings of the current climate of academia. We then move on to discussing her research studying discipline in schools, and how race plays a role in the type of correction a student receives. I found this conversation to be really insightful, an...
May 03, 2023•49 min
In today's episode Dr. Jennings and I discuss the philosophy of SEL, several critiques of its principles, current issues in the public educational system, innovative solutions, and the purpose of education. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. Dr. Jennings' Website: https://education.virginia.edu/about/directory/patricia-jennings
Apr 19, 2023•54 min
In this week's episode we discuss the reasons humans communicate, how effective communication differs from manipulation, whether thoughts precede language, why slang develops, and the limitations of languages. I hope you enjoy this conversation! Dr. Vangelisti's Website: https://commstudies.utexas.edu/faculty/anita-vangelisti
Apr 12, 2023•40 min
I'm so excited to share this episode to add to our discourse on the difference between training and education. Dr. Carnevale currently serves as research Professor and Director of the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce. He served as Vice President for Public Leadership at the Education Testing Service (ETS), and was appointed by President George Bush to serve on the White House Commision on Technology and Adult Education. He was also appointed to Chair the National Commi...
Apr 05, 2023•42 min
It's our final episode on the ChatGPT installment and I am so pleased to bring back Dr. Monte Johnson. Today we begin by attempting to define the concepts of artificial, intelligence, and knowledge. We then move on to discussing various methodologies to integrating AI into our learning processes. I really hope you enjoy this conversation. Dr. Johnson's Website: https://philpeople.org/profiles/monte-ransome-johnson
Mar 23, 2023•55 min
I am so excited to share the fourth and final episode on the ChatGPT installment. On this episode Dr. Johnson, the person who helped me find my passion for philosophy, and I discuss his unique grading policy, the importance of failure, the purpose of knowledge and the role of education for both the society and the individual. We take a deep dive into Greco-Roman and ancient Eastern philosophies regarding education and knowledge. I really hope you enjoy this conversation! Dr. Johnson's Website: h...
Mar 17, 2023•52 min
This week's episode is the third episode in the ChatGPT installment. In today's conversation we discuss the innovative ways in which some educators are implementing the AI tool into their classroom, the shortcomings of assessments, the future of ed-tech, and developing media literacy. If you would like to connect/learn more about Rachelle here is her website: https://rdene915.com/. I hope you enjoy!
Mar 08, 2023•32 min
It's the Valentine's Week episode in which we discuss Dr. Marche’s piece on The Atlantic called ‘The College Essay Is Dead.’ We discuss the importance of writing, and its elements that are inherently human, making it difficult for computers to model. Transitioning into more abstract concepts covering the limits of AI, and the future of education. We then discuss the divergence of the humanities from the hard sciences in universities, and the impacts this form of education can have on its student...
Feb 15, 2023•41 min
I'm so happy to present the first episode of many of 2023! This week we focus on ChatGPT and its impact on education. We discuss a new framework to understand cheating with artificial intelligence and break down how schools can develop a technology plan/vision to implement new innovations to improve their educational models. I hope you enjoy! Guest Victoria Thompson's Website: https://sites.google.com/view/victoriathetech/home
Feb 08, 2023•46 min
