Fresh Perspectives Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/learn-fresh-podcast Dive into Fresh Perspectives: Conversations with All-Star Innovators in Education, a podcast dedicated to connecting with the visionaries and organizations driving change in education through disruptive and innovative approaches. Join Learn Fresh’s Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert as they explore a range of topics—from racial and gender equity to social-emotional learning and the evolving educational landscape. Discover more about our work at learnfresh.org. ©2023 LEARN FRESH, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 763d0e87-934a-5108-96bb-9fc8d1d7ee7a yes Fresh Perspectives Podcast Trailer en Thu, 19 Feb 2026 09:14:42 -0800 Thu, 19 Feb 2026 09:15:06 -0800 https://learnfresh.org/ https://img.transistorcdn.com/c8bzq_32kYcYKPX9P5XE82X3EywH6VbtGJ9l1NXTUAc/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9kNTU2/NGNjMWU5MWVkZWIy/YmU4YjZiZWRhN2I2/ZTIxMi5qcGc.jpg Fresh Perspectives https://learnfresh.org/ episodic Learn Fresh Dive into Fresh Perspectives: Conversations with All-Star Innovators in Education, a podcast dedicated to connecting with the visionaries and organizations driving change in education through disruptive and innovative approaches. Join Learn Fresh’s Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert as they explore a range of topics—from racial and gender equity to social-emotional learning and the evolving educational landscape. Discover more about our work at learnfresh.org. Dive into Fresh Perspectives: Conversations with All-Star Innovators in Education, a podcast dedicated to connecting with the visionaries and organizations driving change in education through disruptive and innovative approaches. education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI LEARN FRESH EDUCATION CO. No No S6: E6 Creativity, Advocacy, and Lessons from Public Schools with Monica Rowley 37 37 S6: E6 Creativity, Advocacy, and Lessons from Public Schools with Monica Rowley full 5604132e-5d6c-4dff-a08f-0beab3a84c3e https://share.transistor.fm/s/ec3c937b In the season finale of our podcast, hosts Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert are joined by Monica Rowley, an award-winning educator, poet, and lifelong learner whose journey offers an inspiring lens on the evolving purpose of education. From teaching neurodiverse students in Hawaii to leading classrooms in New York City and now Philadelphia, Monica shares what it means to truly meet children where they are and build communities with curiosity and care. She opens up about her life as a writer and how it has served as a powerful tool for reflection and advocacy. The conversation dives deep into the ever-changing learning landscape, discusses how we can reimagine academic spaces to adapt to these changes, and talks about the future. 

]]> In the season finale of our podcast, hosts Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert are joined by Monica Rowley, an award-winning educator, poet, and lifelong learner whose journey offers an inspiring lens on the evolving purpose of education. From teaching neurodiverse students in Hawaii to leading classrooms in New York City and now Philadelphia, Monica shares what it means to truly meet children where they are and build communities with curiosity and care. She opens up about her life as a writer and how it has served as a powerful tool for reflection and advocacy. The conversation dives deep into the ever-changing learning landscape, discusses how we can reimagine academic spaces to adapt to these changes, and talks about the future. 

]]> Thu, 19 Feb 2026 09:14:40 -0800 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2163 In the season finale of our podcast, hosts Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert are joined by Monica Rowley, an award-winning educator, poet, and lifelong learner whose journey offers an inspiring lens on the evolving purpose of education. From teaching neurodiverse students in Hawaii to leading classrooms in New York City and now Philadelphia, Monica shares what it means to truly meet children where they are and build communities with curiosity and care. She opens up about her life as a writer and how it has served as a powerful tool for reflection and advocacy. The conversation dives deep into the ever-changing learning landscape, discusses how we can reimagine academic spaces to adapt to these changes, and talks about the future. 

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S6: E5 Diana Leon on Supporting Students Beyond the Classroom 36 36 S6: E5 Diana Leon on Supporting Students Beyond the Classroom full e12bf331-af14-4c4e-a2c3-4d0a23d08a98 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cd8d25b4 In this episode of Fresh Perspectives, Diana Leon joins host Calvin Sibert to explore the importance of empathy and community within education. A first-generation Mexican American, Diana shares how her background in mental health and child welfare shaped her desire to help young people succeed, both in and beyond the classroom. Diana brings her personal experiences, creating a way to connect and understand challenges firsthand. This fuels her passion to find meaningful programs and tools that open doors - creating spaces where children can grow, thrive, and feel seen and supported.

]]> In this episode of Fresh Perspectives, Diana Leon joins host Calvin Sibert to explore the importance of empathy and community within education. A first-generation Mexican American, Diana shares how her background in mental health and child welfare shaped her desire to help young people succeed, both in and beyond the classroom. Diana brings her personal experiences, creating a way to connect and understand challenges firsthand. This fuels her passion to find meaningful programs and tools that open doors - creating spaces where children can grow, thrive, and feel seen and supported.

]]> Thu, 19 Feb 2026 09:13:19 -0800 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2669 In this episode of Fresh Perspectives, Diana Leon joins host Calvin Sibert to explore the importance of empathy and community within education. A first-generation Mexican American, Diana shares how her background in mental health and child welfare shaped her desire to help young people succeed, both in and beyond the classroom. Diana brings her personal experiences, creating a way to connect and understand challenges firsthand. This fuels her passion to find meaningful programs and tools that open doors - creating spaces where children can grow, thrive, and feel seen and supported.

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S6: E4 Aimee Katz on The Power of Project-Based Learning 35 35 S6: E4 Aimee Katz on The Power of Project-Based Learning full 6e96a079-e647-4e38-85dc-c3e8511f711e https://share.transistor.fm/s/5a508429 Joining the conversation this week is Aimee Katz, an inspiring educator whose lifelong curiosity has shaped her career in the classroom. From teachers who pushed her to be her best self to meaningful school experiences, Aimee now strives to create those opportunities for her own students every day. They discuss the lasting impact of COVID-19 on academics and relationships, the need to rebalance subject focus, and how project-based learning can spark creativity and address gaps. Aimee reflects on the realities of teacher burnout and the ever-growing to-do lists, while celebrating the joy of watching children grow, flourish, and find their voices.

]]> Joining the conversation this week is Aimee Katz, an inspiring educator whose lifelong curiosity has shaped her career in the classroom. From teachers who pushed her to be her best self to meaningful school experiences, Aimee now strives to create those opportunities for her own students every day. They discuss the lasting impact of COVID-19 on academics and relationships, the need to rebalance subject focus, and how project-based learning can spark creativity and address gaps. Aimee reflects on the realities of teacher burnout and the ever-growing to-do lists, while celebrating the joy of watching children grow, flourish, and find their voices.

]]> Mon, 02 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0800 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1996 Joining the conversation this week is Aimee Katz, an inspiring educator whose lifelong curiosity has shaped her career in the classroom. From teachers who pushed her to be her best self to meaningful school experiences, Aimee now strives to create those opportunities for her own students every day. They discuss the lasting impact of COVID-19 on academics and relationships, the need to rebalance subject focus, and how project-based learning can spark creativity and address gaps. Aimee reflects on the realities of teacher burnout and the ever-growing to-do lists, while celebrating the joy of watching children grow, flourish, and find their voices.

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S6: E3 From Student to Educator: George Lee on Teaching in the Neighborhood You Call Home 34 34 S6: E3 From Student to Educator: George Lee on Teaching in the Neighborhood You Call Home full 0c61575b-fb77-45cf-beea-69971ff7fcd0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d8c4f7a9 In this episode of Fresh Perspectives, hosts Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert sit down with George Lee, an energetic Los Angeles educator who’s transforming his community through his enthusiasm, empathy, and purpose. George opens up about his own struggles in school and how these experiences shaped his mission to make a difference. From the challenges of burnout and turnover to the joy of seeing realized potential, this heartfelt conversation highlights what it means to lead with intention and the role neighborhoods can play for teachers and students alike.

]]> In this episode of Fresh Perspectives, hosts Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert sit down with George Lee, an energetic Los Angeles educator who’s transforming his community through his enthusiasm, empathy, and purpose. George opens up about his own struggles in school and how these experiences shaped his mission to make a difference. From the challenges of burnout and turnover to the joy of seeing realized potential, this heartfelt conversation highlights what it means to lead with intention and the role neighborhoods can play for teachers and students alike.

]]> Sun, 25 Jan 2026 23:00:00 -0800 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 3503 In this episode of Fresh Perspectives, hosts Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert sit down with George Lee, an energetic Los Angeles educator who’s transforming his community through his enthusiasm, empathy, and purpose. George opens up about his own struggles in school and how these experiences shaped his mission to make a difference. From the challenges of burnout and turnover to the joy of seeing realized potential, this heartfelt conversation highlights what it means to lead with intention and the role neighborhoods can play for teachers and students alike.

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S6: E2 Brian Scott on Connecting Classrooms to Communities 33 33 S6: E2 Brian Scott on Connecting Classrooms to Communities full e66ce858-847a-468b-96f7-515f78045da9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/14c3e24b Brian Scott, a dedicated science educator from Minnesota, joins the conversation to discuss the power of experiential learning. Brian shares his journey into the classroom, from a baseball coach to a teacher, channeling his passion for uplifting the youth. Swapping anecdotes, Brian discusses how his personal life guided his own teaching style by leveraging real-world experiences to engage students. From tackling stormwater pollution through art projects to empowering young scientists with field experiences and community engagement, Brian talks about the challenges in education and how creativity and collaboration can overcome them.

]]> Brian Scott, a dedicated science educator from Minnesota, joins the conversation to discuss the power of experiential learning. Brian shares his journey into the classroom, from a baseball coach to a teacher, channeling his passion for uplifting the youth. Swapping anecdotes, Brian discusses how his personal life guided his own teaching style by leveraging real-world experiences to engage students. From tackling stormwater pollution through art projects to empowering young scientists with field experiences and community engagement, Brian talks about the challenges in education and how creativity and collaboration can overcome them.

]]> Tue, 20 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0800 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2386 Brian Scott, a dedicated science educator from Minnesota, joins the conversation to discuss the power of experiential learning. Brian shares his journey into the classroom, from a baseball coach to a teacher, channeling his passion for uplifting the youth. Swapping anecdotes, Brian discusses how his personal life guided his own teaching style by leveraging real-world experiences to engage students. From tackling stormwater pollution through art projects to empowering young scientists with field experiences and community engagement, Brian talks about the challenges in education and how creativity and collaboration can overcome them.

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S6: E1 The Superpower of Showing Up with Tania Vallejo 32 32 S6: E1 The Superpower of Showing Up with Tania Vallejo full ea66da16-c953-4632-a57a-961c5a354a4e https://share.transistor.fm/s/45fdb12f In the season premiere, hosts Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert sit down with Tania Vellejo, a passionate program specialist with Communities In Schools, whose journey has been driven by one mission - to be the person she needed when she was younger. Tania shares her journey from a high school volunteer to growing into a leader who now supports students, families, and educators across 20 campuses through the ACE after-school program. She shares how these types of services play a crucial role in providing support and structure. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities of today’s education landscape, from technology to social media, the lasting impact of mentorship, and a reminder that being present can change a life.

]]> In the season premiere, hosts Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert sit down with Tania Vellejo, a passionate program specialist with Communities In Schools, whose journey has been driven by one mission - to be the person she needed when she was younger. Tania shares her journey from a high school volunteer to growing into a leader who now supports students, families, and educators across 20 campuses through the ACE after-school program. She shares how these types of services play a crucial role in providing support and structure. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities of today’s education landscape, from technology to social media, the lasting impact of mentorship, and a reminder that being present can change a life.

]]> Mon, 12 Jan 2026 09:31:01 -0800 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1880 In the season premiere, hosts Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert sit down with Tania Vellejo, a passionate program specialist with Communities In Schools, whose journey has been driven by one mission - to be the person she needed when she was younger. Tania shares her journey from a high school volunteer to growing into a leader who now supports students, families, and educators across 20 campuses through the ACE after-school program. She shares how these types of services play a crucial role in providing support and structure. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities of today’s education landscape, from technology to social media, the lasting impact of mentorship, and a reminder that being present can change a life.

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S5:E5 Jordan Thew & Joshua McQuillan on the Power of Purpose in Youth Programs 31 31 S5:E5 Jordan Thew & Joshua McQuillan on the Power of Purpose in Youth Programs full da46d4b2-fb44-403b-9e97-9d7782f2cc99 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7987a150 In this season finale, Nick and Calvin sit down with Jordan Thew and Josh McQuillan from the Boys & Girls Club of Fox Valley to explore how out-of-school-time (OST) programs are transforming student outcomes across Wisconsin. Jordan and Josh share their personal journeys into youth work, how leading with purpose brought them to the Boys & Girls Club, and what keeps them dedicated. They discuss how OST programs fill important gaps left by the school day—offering everything from educational support to enrichment activities, sports, and exposure to the arts—and how expanding that impact without losing community trust requires meaningful relationships and leadership rooted in care. Along the way, they highlight the real-world challenges OST providers face, from funding to transportation, and why personal relationships remain at the heart of educational success. Find a club near you: https://www.bgca.org/

]]> In this season finale, Nick and Calvin sit down with Jordan Thew and Josh McQuillan from the Boys & Girls Club of Fox Valley to explore how out-of-school-time (OST) programs are transforming student outcomes across Wisconsin. Jordan and Josh share their personal journeys into youth work, how leading with purpose brought them to the Boys & Girls Club, and what keeps them dedicated. They discuss how OST programs fill important gaps left by the school day—offering everything from educational support to enrichment activities, sports, and exposure to the arts—and how expanding that impact without losing community trust requires meaningful relationships and leadership rooted in care. Along the way, they highlight the real-world challenges OST providers face, from funding to transportation, and why personal relationships remain at the heart of educational success. Find a club near you: https://www.bgca.org/

]]> Thu, 28 Aug 2025 07:27:23 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2800 In this season finale, Nick and Calvin sit down with Jordan Thew and Josh McQuillan from the Boys & Girls Club of Fox Valley to explore how out-of-school-time (OST) programs are transforming student outcomes across Wisconsin. Jordan and Josh share their personal journeys into youth work, how leading with purpose brought them to the Boys & Girls Club, and what keeps them dedicated. They discuss how OST programs fill important gaps left by the school day—offering everything from educational support to enrichment activities, sports, and exposure to the arts—and how expanding that impact without losing community trust requires meaningful relationships and leadership rooted in care. Along the way, they highlight the real-world challenges OST providers face, from funding to transportation, and why personal relationships remain at the heart of educational success. Find a club near you: https://www.bgca.org/

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S5:E4 Ron Ottinger on Out-of-School STEM and a Mission to Reach 20 Million Learners 30 30 S5:E4 Ron Ottinger on Out-of-School STEM and a Mission to Reach 20 Million Learners full fe412b5d-5733-4300-b42b-89e24b6b5a35 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f968ee1e Ron Ottinger, a pioneer in out-of-school STEM education and Executive Director of STEM Next Opportunity Fund, joins the hosts to discuss the untapped potential of afterschool programs and summer learning. From the success of the Million Girls Moonshot to the creation of community-driven ambassador programs like Flight Crew, Ron emphasizes the importance of creating environments where students can experiment, fail, and discover what makes them tick. With the launch of STEM Ready America, the conversation highlights why shifting the STEM narrative matters, especially for students historically excluded from the STEM pipeline, and how out-of-school programs are uniquely positioned to do just that. Learn more at: https://stemnext.org

]]> Ron Ottinger, a pioneer in out-of-school STEM education and Executive Director of STEM Next Opportunity Fund, joins the hosts to discuss the untapped potential of afterschool programs and summer learning. From the success of the Million Girls Moonshot to the creation of community-driven ambassador programs like Flight Crew, Ron emphasizes the importance of creating environments where students can experiment, fail, and discover what makes them tick. With the launch of STEM Ready America, the conversation highlights why shifting the STEM narrative matters, especially for students historically excluded from the STEM pipeline, and how out-of-school programs are uniquely positioned to do just that. Learn more at: https://stemnext.org

]]> Wed, 20 Aug 2025 07:14:18 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2227 Ron Ottinger, a pioneer in out-of-school STEM education and Executive Director of STEM Next Opportunity Fund, joins the hosts to discuss the untapped potential of afterschool programs and summer learning. From the success of the Million Girls Moonshot to the creation of community-driven ambassador programs like Flight Crew, Ron emphasizes the importance of creating environments where students can experiment, fail, and discover what makes them tick. With the launch of STEM Ready America, the conversation highlights why shifting the STEM narrative matters, especially for students historically excluded from the STEM pipeline, and how out-of-school programs are uniquely positioned to do just that. Learn more at: https://stemnext.org

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S5: E3 Emily Ong on Equity, AI, and the Future of Girls Who Code 29 29 S5: E3 Emily Ong on Equity, AI, and the Future of Girls Who Code full d6bd9d1b-2189-4fda-a0e7-fc611fc32d0a https://share.transistor.fm/s/6c01f880 S5: E3 – Emily Ong on Equity, AI, and the Future of Girls Who Code

Emily Ong, Director of Partner Development at Girls Who Code, joins us for a powerful conversation about community, culture, and coding. Rooted in her background in organizing and a deep belief in doing “good work with good people”, Emily shares how Girls Who Code is evolving its strategy to meet the moment and the importance of inclusion in building a future where technology works for everyone. It’s not just about teaching the essential skills; it’s creating a community of support that extends beyond graduation, providing access and pathways for success in tech. Emily reminds us: saving one student isn’t enough. To learn more about their work, visit: https://girlswhocode.com/


]]> S5: E3 – Emily Ong on Equity, AI, and the Future of Girls Who Code

Emily Ong, Director of Partner Development at Girls Who Code, joins us for a powerful conversation about community, culture, and coding. Rooted in her background in organizing and a deep belief in doing “good work with good people”, Emily shares how Girls Who Code is evolving its strategy to meet the moment and the importance of inclusion in building a future where technology works for everyone. It’s not just about teaching the essential skills; it’s creating a community of support that extends beyond graduation, providing access and pathways for success in tech. Emily reminds us: saving one student isn’t enough. To learn more about their work, visit: https://girlswhocode.com/


]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2025 15:00:00 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2515 S5: E3 – Emily Ong on Equity, AI, and the Future of Girls Who Code

Emily Ong, Director of Partner Development at Girls Who Code, joins us for a powerful conversation about community, culture, and coding. Rooted in her background in organizing and a deep belief in doing “good work with good people”, Emily shares how Girls Who Code is evolving its strategy to meet the moment and the importance of inclusion in building a future where technology works for everyone. It’s not just about teaching the essential skills; it’s creating a community of support that extends beyond graduation, providing access and pathways for success in tech. Emily reminds us: saving one student isn’t enough. To learn more about their work, visit: https://girlswhocode.com/


]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S5: E2 Veronne Clark on Launching a WNBA Team and the Power of Community in Sports 28 28 S5: E2 Veronne Clark on Launching a WNBA Team and the Power of Community in Sports full 63a6bf88-c4d6-4a5d-909a-bff2ed85c6a7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1414a8b6 What does it take to launch a professional sports team and embed purpose into every play? Veronne Clark, the first Director of Community for the Golden State Valkyries, joins our hosts to reflect on her path through the NFL, NBA, and more—and the question that’s guided her throughout it all: what am I good at? This episode dives into how sports and education can team up for real change. Check out the Valkyries at https://valkyries.wnba.com/

]]> What does it take to launch a professional sports team and embed purpose into every play? Veronne Clark, the first Director of Community for the Golden State Valkyries, joins our hosts to reflect on her path through the NFL, NBA, and more—and the question that’s guided her throughout it all: what am I good at? This episode dives into how sports and education can team up for real change. Check out the Valkyries at https://valkyries.wnba.com/

]]> Thu, 07 Aug 2025 07:01:36 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2436 What does it take to launch a professional sports team and embed purpose into every play? Veronne Clark, the first Director of Community for the Golden State Valkyries, joins our hosts to reflect on her path through the NFL, NBA, and more—and the question that’s guided her throughout it all: what am I good at? This episode dives into how sports and education can team up for real change. Check out the Valkyries at https://valkyries.wnba.com/

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S5:E1 Jordan Toma on Turning Struggle into Strength and Supporting the Students in the Back 27 27 S5:E1 Jordan Toma on Turning Struggle into Strength and Supporting the Students in the Back full 8d217ee8-bf61-405a-baf8-13293a6326b4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b1656c51 In this season’s debut episode, Nick and Calvin sit down with Jordan Toma, motivational speaker and author of "I’m Just a Kid with an IEP,” for an inspiring conversation. Jordan shares his personal journey through school, what social-emotional learning (SEL) truly means for students, and why educators must meet students where they are. Jordan brings lived experience and heartfelt insight into building confidence, self-worth, and hope—especially for those who feel unseen. To learn more about Jordan's story, visit: https://www.jordantoma.com/

]]> In this season’s debut episode, Nick and Calvin sit down with Jordan Toma, motivational speaker and author of "I’m Just a Kid with an IEP,” for an inspiring conversation. Jordan shares his personal journey through school, what social-emotional learning (SEL) truly means for students, and why educators must meet students where they are. Jordan brings lived experience and heartfelt insight into building confidence, self-worth, and hope—especially for those who feel unseen. To learn more about Jordan's story, visit: https://www.jordantoma.com/

]]> Thu, 31 Jul 2025 08:05:26 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 3707 In this season’s debut episode, Nick and Calvin sit down with Jordan Toma, motivational speaker and author of "I’m Just a Kid with an IEP,” for an inspiring conversation. Jordan shares his personal journey through school, what social-emotional learning (SEL) truly means for students, and why educators must meet students where they are. Jordan brings lived experience and heartfelt insight into building confidence, self-worth, and hope—especially for those who feel unseen. To learn more about Jordan's story, visit: https://www.jordantoma.com/

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S4:E5 Rico Francis gets real on all things nonprofit 26 26 S4:E5 Rico Francis gets real on all things nonprofit full fd9ec016-4911-4519-887e-af019d1662bc https://share.transistor.fm/s/d4f10b09 In our season finale, Nick and Calvin are joined by Rico Francis, the first Social Impact Director at the Pacers Foundation, the public charity founded by Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Rico shares his journey from attending after-school programs to leading them in college, ultimately shaping his career in youth services. The conversation dives deep into the realities of nonprofit work, strategies for creating sustainable programs, and the critical importance of mental health in supporting youth. Don't miss this powerful exploration of impact and resilience!  Check out their work at: https://pacersfoundation.org/


CW: 43:00 - 44:00

]]> In our season finale, Nick and Calvin are joined by Rico Francis, the first Social Impact Director at the Pacers Foundation, the public charity founded by Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Rico shares his journey from attending after-school programs to leading them in college, ultimately shaping his career in youth services. The conversation dives deep into the realities of nonprofit work, strategies for creating sustainable programs, and the critical importance of mental health in supporting youth. Don't miss this powerful exploration of impact and resilience!  Check out their work at: https://pacersfoundation.org/


CW: 43:00 - 44:00

]]> Tue, 29 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2949 In our season finale, Nick and Calvin are joined by Rico Francis, the first Social Impact Director at the Pacers Foundation, the public charity founded by Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Rico shares his journey from attending after-school programs to leading them in college, ultimately shaping his career in youth services. The conversation dives deep into the realities of nonprofit work, strategies for creating sustainable programs, and the critical importance of mental health in supporting youth. Don't miss this powerful exploration of impact and resilience!  Check out their work at: https://pacersfoundation.org/


CW: 43:00 - 44:00

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S4:E4 Ebony Grace and the untapped potential of the out-of-school time space 25 25 S4:E4 Ebony Grace and the untapped potential of the out-of-school time space full c7a4cc98-7fe9-4a1e-9f70-9d88170b9c83 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1f51bf61 Nick and Calvin talk with Ebony Grace, CEO of New Jersey's Afterschool & Out-of-School Time Professional Network, to explore the significance of non-traditional educational spaces. Ebony shares the innovative tools her organization employs to uplift students and service providers alike, showcasing the power of building strong networks from the ground up. Through personal anecdotes, they discuss how their backgrounds led to their current roles in supporting students towards brighter futures. Learn more about their work at: https://www.njsacc.org/

]]> Nick and Calvin talk with Ebony Grace, CEO of New Jersey's Afterschool & Out-of-School Time Professional Network, to explore the significance of non-traditional educational spaces. Ebony shares the innovative tools her organization employs to uplift students and service providers alike, showcasing the power of building strong networks from the ground up. Through personal anecdotes, they discuss how their backgrounds led to their current roles in supporting students towards brighter futures. Learn more about their work at: https://www.njsacc.org/

]]> Tue, 22 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 3179 Nick and Calvin talk with Ebony Grace, CEO of New Jersey's Afterschool & Out-of-School Time Professional Network, to explore the significance of non-traditional educational spaces. Ebony shares the innovative tools her organization employs to uplift students and service providers alike, showcasing the power of building strong networks from the ground up. Through personal anecdotes, they discuss how their backgrounds led to their current roles in supporting students towards brighter futures. Learn more about their work at: https://www.njsacc.org/

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S4:E3 Featured: Mizzen Meets with Carlos Santini and Nick Monzi 24 24 S4:E3 Featured: Mizzen Meets with Carlos Santini and Nick Monzi full ba541b11-6e4e-4005-a2d2-34fa8c2e34a6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/57bb176e Join us for a special feature of the Mizzen Meets webinar hosted by Carlos Santini, CEO of Mizzen, a nonprofit providing free resources to educators across the country, featuring our host Nick Monzi. The two reflect on their professional journeys since first connecting in 2015, sharing insights on creating impactful learning experiences and the critical importance of STEM equity in education. As Carlos says, “Attention + Intention = Retention,” their discussion delves into strategies to engage and inspire both educators and students to create successful programs. https://www.mizzen.org/

]]> Join us for a special feature of the Mizzen Meets webinar hosted by Carlos Santini, CEO of Mizzen, a nonprofit providing free resources to educators across the country, featuring our host Nick Monzi. The two reflect on their professional journeys since first connecting in 2015, sharing insights on creating impactful learning experiences and the critical importance of STEM equity in education. As Carlos says, “Attention + Intention = Retention,” their discussion delves into strategies to engage and inspire both educators and students to create successful programs. https://www.mizzen.org/

]]> Tue, 15 Oct 2024 06:10:22 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 3598 Join us for a special feature of the Mizzen Meets webinar hosted by Carlos Santini, CEO of Mizzen, a nonprofit providing free resources to educators across the country, featuring our host Nick Monzi. The two reflect on their professional journeys since first connecting in 2015, sharing insights on creating impactful learning experiences and the critical importance of STEM equity in education. As Carlos says, “Attention + Intention = Retention,” their discussion delves into strategies to engage and inspire both educators and students to create successful programs. https://www.mizzen.org/

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S4:E2 Henry Donahue on the power of music education, from outlet to springboard 23 23 S4:E2 Henry Donahue on the power of music education, from outlet to springboard full a92f0ee5-76b8-48e0-b7e4-2ba58b4a2f39 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5c5113c7 In this episode, Nick and Calvin welcome Henry Donahue, Executive Director of Save The Music, a nonprofit dedicated to providing equitable music education across the U.S. through access to instruments and programs. Henry opens up about the life-changing power of music in the classroom and its role in shaping his own career. Together, they discuss how music empowers youth, fosters creativity, and strengthens communities, as well as the innovative J Dilla Music Tech Grant that bridges technology and art. Tune in to explore how music is a vital tool for self-expression and empowerment! https://www.savethemusic.org/

]]> In this episode, Nick and Calvin welcome Henry Donahue, Executive Director of Save The Music, a nonprofit dedicated to providing equitable music education across the U.S. through access to instruments and programs. Henry opens up about the life-changing power of music in the classroom and its role in shaping his own career. Together, they discuss how music empowers youth, fosters creativity, and strengthens communities, as well as the innovative J Dilla Music Tech Grant that bridges technology and art. Tune in to explore how music is a vital tool for self-expression and empowerment! https://www.savethemusic.org/

]]> Tue, 08 Oct 2024 06:50:07 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 3391 In this episode, Nick and Calvin welcome Henry Donahue, Executive Director of Save The Music, a nonprofit dedicated to providing equitable music education across the U.S. through access to instruments and programs. Henry opens up about the life-changing power of music in the classroom and its role in shaping his own career. Together, they discuss how music empowers youth, fosters creativity, and strengthens communities, as well as the innovative J Dilla Music Tech Grant that bridges technology and art. Tune in to explore how music is a vital tool for self-expression and empowerment! https://www.savethemusic.org/

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S4:E1 Lessons from the Global Basketball Community with Leigh Ellis 22 22 S4:E1 Lessons from the Global Basketball Community with Leigh Ellis full 96222d82-8f83-4045-b910-2c525436c5be https://share.transistor.fm/s/b3cdd849 In this season premiere, Nick and Calvin talk with former NBA TV personality and podcaster, Leigh Ellis. He takes us through the moment he turned his career around, leaving the booth in search of pick-up games around the world and the stories in between – like the infamous shoot-out with Steph Curry. Tune in as they discuss career exploration, the life lessons travel teaches you, and the beauty of cross-cultural exchange from playing 3x3 pick-up basketball. To learn more about Leigh's work, visit: https://basketballpassport.net/

]]> In this season premiere, Nick and Calvin talk with former NBA TV personality and podcaster, Leigh Ellis. He takes us through the moment he turned his career around, leaving the booth in search of pick-up games around the world and the stories in between – like the infamous shoot-out with Steph Curry. Tune in as they discuss career exploration, the life lessons travel teaches you, and the beauty of cross-cultural exchange from playing 3x3 pick-up basketball. To learn more about Leigh's work, visit: https://basketballpassport.net/

]]> Wed, 02 Oct 2024 07:19:45 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 3567 In this season premiere, Nick and Calvin talk with former NBA TV personality and podcaster, Leigh Ellis. He takes us through the moment he turned his career around, leaving the booth in search of pick-up games around the world and the stories in between – like the infamous shoot-out with Steph Curry. Tune in as they discuss career exploration, the life lessons travel teaches you, and the beauty of cross-cultural exchange from playing 3x3 pick-up basketball. To learn more about Leigh's work, visit: https://basketballpassport.net/

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No Fresh Perspectives Podcast Trailer 1 1 Fresh Perspectives Podcast Trailer trailer de73ff1b-1973-43c8-81bf-4843c6b72ce0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2b1d96e4 Tue, 01 Oct 2024 10:45:20 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 51 education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S3:E5 Reflecting on the 2017 NBA Math Hoops National Championship 21 21 S3:E5 Reflecting on the 2017 NBA Math Hoops National Championship full 9be55fed-38c8-49e4-9f6a-568c9734bf8e https://share.transistor.fm/s/90beac75 In this week’s episode, Nick and Calvin sit down with Mariana Rivera, an educator from San Francisco, California. Mariana is a longtime NBA Math Hoops program educator at Bay Area Community Resources, and in 2017, her students Angela and Patricia Rodas attended and won the inaugural NBA Math Hoops National Championship. Throughout the conversation, the group recaps the memorable 2017 season and the experience of the first National Championship event.

]]> In this week’s episode, Nick and Calvin sit down with Mariana Rivera, an educator from San Francisco, California. Mariana is a longtime NBA Math Hoops program educator at Bay Area Community Resources, and in 2017, her students Angela and Patricia Rodas attended and won the inaugural NBA Math Hoops National Championship. Throughout the conversation, the group recaps the memorable 2017 season and the experience of the first National Championship event.

]]> Thu, 20 Jul 2023 09:50:46 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 3601 In this week’s episode, Nick and Calvin sit down with Mariana Rivera, an educator from San Francisco, California. Mariana is a longtime NBA Math Hoops program educator at Bay Area Community Resources, and in 2017, her students Angela and Patricia Rodas attended and won the inaugural NBA Math Hoops National Championship. Throughout the conversation, the group recaps the memorable 2017 season and the experience of the first National Championship event.

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S3:E4 Pro Basketball Player Kayla Alexander on Education, Sports, and Creative Pursuits 20 20 S3:E4 Pro Basketball Player Kayla Alexander on Education, Sports, and Creative Pursuits full 3e0eb051-8f6c-4634-8e5c-8d62b5a29ccb https://share.transistor.fm/s/b8e2c385 Join Nick and Calvin in this week's episode as they sit down with Kayla Alexander, professional basketball player, author, and Learn Fresh board member. Kayla shares her passion for education and her inspiring journey as a division 1 athlete, and also speaks about her children's book, The Magic of Basketball. Tune in to gain insights into Kayla's multifaceted career and her dedication to achieving equity in education.


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu


]]> Join Nick and Calvin in this week's episode as they sit down with Kayla Alexander, professional basketball player, author, and Learn Fresh board member. Kayla shares her passion for education and her inspiring journey as a division 1 athlete, and also speaks about her children's book, The Magic of Basketball. Tune in to gain insights into Kayla's multifaceted career and her dedication to achieving equity in education.


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu


]]> Fri, 05 May 2023 08:19:00 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1357 Join Nick and Calvin in this week's episode as they sit down with Kayla Alexander, professional basketball player, author, and Learn Fresh board member. Kayla shares her passion for education and her inspiring journey as a division 1 athlete, and also speaks about her children's book, The Magic of Basketball. Tune in to gain insights into Kayla's multifaceted career and her dedication to achieving equity in education.


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu


]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S3:E3 Digital Game Development and STEM Education with Clevyr 19 19 S3:E3 Digital Game Development and STEM Education with Clevyr full 7a3ebc48-2867-4c0b-b543-a670de4fc77c https://share.transistor.fm/s/637342dc In this week’s episode, Nick and Calvin sit down with a group from Clevyr, an application and development firm from Oklahoma City, OK. Clevyr is the developer of the NBA Math Hoops apps and the NBA Math Hoops digital game, and we have worked closely with them to build out Learn Fresh digital tools for students and educators. Nick and Calvin are joined by Kelli Matthews, Strategic Account Manager, Tim Giddens, Senior Software Developer, and Nick Duttwyler, Senior Software Developer. All three have worked extensively on Learn Fresh projects in the past. The group explores how each got into game development and design, key features of the NBA Math Hoops App, the game development process, and visions for STEM education and pipeline development. 

]]> In this week’s episode, Nick and Calvin sit down with a group from Clevyr, an application and development firm from Oklahoma City, OK. Clevyr is the developer of the NBA Math Hoops apps and the NBA Math Hoops digital game, and we have worked closely with them to build out Learn Fresh digital tools for students and educators. Nick and Calvin are joined by Kelli Matthews, Strategic Account Manager, Tim Giddens, Senior Software Developer, and Nick Duttwyler, Senior Software Developer. All three have worked extensively on Learn Fresh projects in the past. The group explores how each got into game development and design, key features of the NBA Math Hoops App, the game development process, and visions for STEM education and pipeline development. 

]]> Mon, 10 Apr 2023 11:25:26 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2859 In this week’s episode, Nick and Calvin sit down with a group from Clevyr, an application and development firm from Oklahoma City, OK. Clevyr is the developer of the NBA Math Hoops apps and the NBA Math Hoops digital game, and we have worked closely with them to build out Learn Fresh digital tools for students and educators. Nick and Calvin are joined by Kelli Matthews, Strategic Account Manager, Tim Giddens, Senior Software Developer, and Nick Duttwyler, Senior Software Developer. All three have worked extensively on Learn Fresh projects in the past. The group explores how each got into game development and design, key features of the NBA Math Hoops App, the game development process, and visions for STEM education and pipeline development. 

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S3:E2 STEM Education and Sports Careers With Jesse Smith Thomas 18 18 S3:E2 STEM Education and Sports Careers With Jesse Smith Thomas full f7fb4ab0-1bff-439a-99be-0e1a6a1736cb https://share.transistor.fm/s/109cdb05 In this week’s episode, Nick and Calvin sit down with Jesse Smith Thomas, Partnership Marketing Manager at the Los Angeles Rams and formerly at the New Orleans Pelicans and New Orleans Saints. Jess shares her transition from a career in STEM to a career in professional sports in her late 20s, and how her STEM education benefited her in this career shift. The three discuss the role of partnership marketing within professional sports teams and how cross industry partnerships have the ability to make a meaningful difference in communities. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu


]]> In this week’s episode, Nick and Calvin sit down with Jesse Smith Thomas, Partnership Marketing Manager at the Los Angeles Rams and formerly at the New Orleans Pelicans and New Orleans Saints. Jess shares her transition from a career in STEM to a career in professional sports in her late 20s, and how her STEM education benefited her in this career shift. The three discuss the role of partnership marketing within professional sports teams and how cross industry partnerships have the ability to make a meaningful difference in communities. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu


]]> Wed, 08 Mar 2023 07:35:59 -0800 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2155 In this week’s episode, Nick and Calvin sit down with Jesse Smith Thomas, Partnership Marketing Manager at the Los Angeles Rams and formerly at the New Orleans Pelicans and New Orleans Saints. Jess shares her transition from a career in STEM to a career in professional sports in her late 20s, and how her STEM education benefited her in this career shift. The three discuss the role of partnership marketing within professional sports teams and how cross industry partnerships have the ability to make a meaningful difference in communities. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu


]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S3:E1 Colleen Serafini, Learn Fresh Chief Program Officer 17 17 S3:E1 Colleen Serafini, Learn Fresh Chief Program Officer full 1ca2a934-c0a1-4eeb-b9e6-9652f7ef570b https://share.transistor.fm/s/8db6c0cf Meet Learn Fresh’s Chief Program Officer, Colleen Serafini! In this episode, Colleen sits down with Nick and Calvin to share discuss her career in education, her journey to joining Learn Fresh, and reflections on Learn Fresh's work and mission. Colleen was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area and attended University of California Berkeley. Her first position after graduation was with AmeriCorps VISTA at a middle school in Berkeley, CA supporting youth as an Academic Coordinator. This began her career working with low-income communities in Bay Area schools, where she focused on guiding the implementation of STEM curricula. Colleen joined the Learn Fresh team from Bay Area Community Resources, a longtime Learn Fresh implementation partner in the region. As Chief Program Officer at Learn Fresh, she remains dedicated to providing all students a fun, engaging way to learn. 


If you are interested in bringing Learn Fresh programming to your school or organization, Colleen can be reached at colleen@learnfresh.org 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> Meet Learn Fresh’s Chief Program Officer, Colleen Serafini! In this episode, Colleen sits down with Nick and Calvin to share discuss her career in education, her journey to joining Learn Fresh, and reflections on Learn Fresh's work and mission. Colleen was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area and attended University of California Berkeley. Her first position after graduation was with AmeriCorps VISTA at a middle school in Berkeley, CA supporting youth as an Academic Coordinator. This began her career working with low-income communities in Bay Area schools, where she focused on guiding the implementation of STEM curricula. Colleen joined the Learn Fresh team from Bay Area Community Resources, a longtime Learn Fresh implementation partner in the region. As Chief Program Officer at Learn Fresh, she remains dedicated to providing all students a fun, engaging way to learn. 


If you are interested in bringing Learn Fresh programming to your school or organization, Colleen can be reached at colleen@learnfresh.org 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> Sun, 12 Feb 2023 08:57:42 -0800 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2431 Meet Learn Fresh’s Chief Program Officer, Colleen Serafini! In this episode, Colleen sits down with Nick and Calvin to share discuss her career in education, her journey to joining Learn Fresh, and reflections on Learn Fresh's work and mission. Colleen was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area and attended University of California Berkeley. Her first position after graduation was with AmeriCorps VISTA at a middle school in Berkeley, CA supporting youth as an Academic Coordinator. This began her career working with low-income communities in Bay Area schools, where she focused on guiding the implementation of STEM curricula. Colleen joined the Learn Fresh team from Bay Area Community Resources, a longtime Learn Fresh implementation partner in the region. As Chief Program Officer at Learn Fresh, she remains dedicated to providing all students a fun, engaging way to learn. 


If you are interested in bringing Learn Fresh programming to your school or organization, Colleen can be reached at colleen@learnfresh.org 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S2:E4 Sports Journalism and Community in Detroit with Eric Woodyard 16 16 S2:E4 Sports Journalism and Community in Detroit with Eric Woodyard full 7c66443b-3967-4b96-9189-628d6aa5d2ae https://share.transistor.fm/s/21400bee In Episode 16, Nick and Calvin chop it up with Eric Woodyard, an award-winning journalist and author from Flint, Michigan. Eric is currently the NFL Nation reporter for the Detroit Lions at ESPN, where he also covers basketball and boxing. Eric has appeared on ESPN’s “The Jump,” “E:60”, and “Outside the Lines”, and was awarded first place for Best Sports Story and Best Sports Feature categories in 2012 and 2015 by the Michigan Associated Press. Throughout the conversation, Eric shares stories from early in his career covering the NBA, and talks about his path into journalism, the importance of mentorship in education, and his Flint roots. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> In Episode 16, Nick and Calvin chop it up with Eric Woodyard, an award-winning journalist and author from Flint, Michigan. Eric is currently the NFL Nation reporter for the Detroit Lions at ESPN, where he also covers basketball and boxing. Eric has appeared on ESPN’s “The Jump,” “E:60”, and “Outside the Lines”, and was awarded first place for Best Sports Story and Best Sports Feature categories in 2012 and 2015 by the Michigan Associated Press. Throughout the conversation, Eric shares stories from early in his career covering the NBA, and talks about his path into journalism, the importance of mentorship in education, and his Flint roots. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> Mon, 11 Jul 2022 11:39:20 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1298 In Episode 16, Nick and Calvin chop it up with Eric Woodyard, an award-winning journalist and author from Flint, Michigan. Eric is currently the NFL Nation reporter for the Detroit Lions at ESPN, where he also covers basketball and boxing. Eric has appeared on ESPN’s “The Jump,” “E:60”, and “Outside the Lines”, and was awarded first place for Best Sports Story and Best Sports Feature categories in 2012 and 2015 by the Michigan Associated Press. Throughout the conversation, Eric shares stories from early in his career covering the NBA, and talks about his path into journalism, the importance of mentorship in education, and his Flint roots. To learn more about Learn Fresh visit learnfresh.org or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh. In Episode 16, Nick and Calvin chop it up with Eric Woodyard, an award-winning journalist and author from Flint, Michigan. Eric is currently the NFL Nation reporter for the Detroit Lions at ESPN, where he also covers basketball and boxing. Eric has appear education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S2:E3 Expanding Access to STEM learning with Gemma Lenowitz and Uchenna Ezibe 15 15 S2:E3 Expanding Access to STEM learning with Gemma Lenowitz and Uchenna Ezibe full a6f1bddb-0be8-43f1-8333-f2cbd4807df3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7645befe In Episode 15, Nick and Calvin welcome Gemma Lenowitz, Program Officer, and Uchenna Ezibe, Program Analysts with the Overdeck Family Foundation’s Inspired Minds portfolio.

The Inspired Minds portfolio supports direct impact and ecosystem organizations that expand access to high-quality out-of-school STEM learning experiences that deepen family engagement, build STEM mindsets, and inspire students with joyful and rigorous learning. Learn Fresh has been a grantee of the Inspired Minds portfolio since 2019. 

Gemma and Uchenna share their personal journeys to Overdeck Family Foundation and their shared passion for education. The conversation explores the landscape of STEM education in the afterschool space and the critical importance of funding exceptional learning opportunities for students. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> In Episode 15, Nick and Calvin welcome Gemma Lenowitz, Program Officer, and Uchenna Ezibe, Program Analysts with the Overdeck Family Foundation’s Inspired Minds portfolio.

The Inspired Minds portfolio supports direct impact and ecosystem organizations that expand access to high-quality out-of-school STEM learning experiences that deepen family engagement, build STEM mindsets, and inspire students with joyful and rigorous learning. Learn Fresh has been a grantee of the Inspired Minds portfolio since 2019. 

Gemma and Uchenna share their personal journeys to Overdeck Family Foundation and their shared passion for education. The conversation explores the landscape of STEM education in the afterschool space and the critical importance of funding exceptional learning opportunities for students. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> Tue, 05 Jul 2022 12:44:57 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2540 In Episode 15, Nick and Calvin welcome Gemma Lenowitz, Program Officer, and Uchenna Ezibe, Program Analyst with Overdeck Family Foundation’s Inspired Minds portfolio. The Inspired Minds portfolio supports direct impact and ecosystem organizations that expand access to high-quality out-of-school STEM learning experiences that deepen family engagement, build STEM mindsets, and inspire students with joyful and rigorous learning. Learn Fresh has been a grantee of the Inspired Minds portfolio since 2019. Gemma and Uchenna share their personal journeys to Overdeck Family Foundation and their shared passion for education. The conversation explores the landscape of STEM education in the afterschool space and the critical importance of funding exceptional learning opportunities for students. To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh. In Episode 15, Nick and Calvin welcome Gemma Lenowitz, Program Officer, and Uchenna Ezibe, Program Analyst with Overdeck Family Foundation’s Inspired Minds portfolio. The Inspired Minds portfolio supports direct impact and ecosystem organizations that education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S2:E2 NBA Math Hoops Alum Daivion Smith 14 14 S2:E2 NBA Math Hoops Alum Daivion Smith full da6db353-51af-4214-94e5-fd100bc351b9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c8470427 Nick and Calvin speak with Calvin’s former student and NBA Math Hoops alumnus Daivion Smith. Daivion shares his experience participating in the first NBA Math Hoops National Championship, and how his journey through the program helped shape the student and person he is today. Daivion’s experience in the first annual NBA Math Hoops National Championship was featured in ‘An NBA Math Hoops Story’, a mini-doc available to view on the Learn Fresh Youtube Channel. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> Nick and Calvin speak with Calvin’s former student and NBA Math Hoops alumnus Daivion Smith. Daivion shares his experience participating in the first NBA Math Hoops National Championship, and how his journey through the program helped shape the student and person he is today. Daivion’s experience in the first annual NBA Math Hoops National Championship was featured in ‘An NBA Math Hoops Story’, a mini-doc available to view on the Learn Fresh Youtube Channel. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> Mon, 06 Jun 2022 12:26:14 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2385 Nick and Calvin speak with Calvin’s former student and NBA Math Hoops alumnus, Daivion Smith. Daivion shares his experience participating in the first NBA Math Hoops National Championship, and how his journey through the program helped shape the student and person he is today. Daivion’s experience in the first annual NBA Math Hoops National Championship was featured in ‘An NBA Math Hoops Story’, a mini-doc available to view on the Learn Fresh Youtube Channel. To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh. Nick and Calvin speak with Calvin’s former student and NBA Math Hoops alumnus, Daivion Smith. Daivion shares his experience participating in the first NBA Math Hoops National Championship, and how his journey through the program helped shape the student a education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S2:E1 Meet the Game Changer of Education: Calvin Sibert 13 13 S2:E1 Meet the Game Changer of Education: Calvin Sibert full 0bc50538-56b6-455a-be43-4009a515a620 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7b67126f In this episode, Calvin shares his journey as an educator, from a young man with aspirations for the NBA to the ‘Game Changer of Education’. Calvin and Nick discuss the importance of identity representation in education, and how Calvin leveraged culture and fashion to position himself as a positive role model for his students. The discussion then turns to a critical look at the education system: how educators' enthusiasm and creativity are often stifled to the detriment of students, and the importance of real world lessons in the classroom. Calvin shares why he chose to leave the classroom to join the Learn Fresh team, and examines why so many educators are now choosing to pursue alternative careers in education.

To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> In this episode, Calvin shares his journey as an educator, from a young man with aspirations for the NBA to the ‘Game Changer of Education’. Calvin and Nick discuss the importance of identity representation in education, and how Calvin leveraged culture and fashion to position himself as a positive role model for his students. The discussion then turns to a critical look at the education system: how educators' enthusiasm and creativity are often stifled to the detriment of students, and the importance of real world lessons in the classroom. Calvin shares why he chose to leave the classroom to join the Learn Fresh team, and examines why so many educators are now choosing to pursue alternative careers in education.

To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> Wed, 25 May 2022 15:34:07 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 4146 In this episode, Calvin shares his journey as an educator, from a young man with aspirations for the NBA to the ‘Game Changer of Education’. Calvin and Nick discuss the importance of identity representation in education, and how Calvin leveraged culture and fashion to position himself as a positive role model for his students. The discussion then turns to a critical look at the education system: how educators' enthusiasm and creativity are often stifled to the detriment of students, and the importance of real world lessons in the classroom. Calvin shares why he chose to leave the classroom to join the Learn Fresh team, and examines why so many educators are now choosing to pursue alternative careers in education. In this episode, Calvin shares his journey as an educator, from a young man with aspirations for the NBA to the ‘Game Changer of Education’. Calvin and Nick discuss the importance of identity representation in education, and how Calvin leveraged culture a education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E12 Basketball, Education, and Equity in Philadelphia 12 12 S1:E12 Basketball, Education, and Equity in Philadelphia full cdb302bf-20b9-4f0f-b0bc-15499a47267f https://share.transistor.fm/s/6d6e469a Tue, 10 Aug 2021 10:00:19 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2429 In this episode, Calvin and Nick are joined by David Gould, Chief Diversity and Impact Officer at Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the ownership group of the Philadelphia 76ers. Throughout the conversation, recorded in January of 2021, the group explores how the Sixers and HBSE think about engaging the community, and the specific programs that they’re using to achieve impact. David shares his background growing up in a poor part of Philadelphia, having the opportunity to attend an elite private school, and the impact of his schooling on his academic and career trajectory. The conversation touches on themes including racial and educational equity, code switching as a cultural and professional tool, supporting black-owned businesses in the community, and the importance of research funding. To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu In this episode, Calvin and Nick are joined by David Gould, Chief Diversity and Impact Officer at Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the ownership group of the Philadelphia 76ers. Throughout the conversation, recorded in January of 2021, the group education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E11 Gender Equity in K-12 Education 11 11 S1:E11 Gender Equity in K-12 Education full d8be56bd-6528-427f-ab78-64413fd0bcee https://share.transistor.fm/s/9a403b58 Gender Equity in K-12 Education


In this episode, Calvin and Nick are joined by Delphi Cleaveland, Special Assistant in the Office of Global Women's Issues at U.S. Department of State, for a conversation about gender equity within American education. Throughout the conversation, recorded in December of 2020, the group explores the international and domestic context for gender equity within K-12 education, including issues like gendering of academic topics and activities, representation in school systems and STEM fields, and gender-related challenges during the pandemic. Please note that all statements made in this episode were given in a personal capacity and do not reflect the views of the United States Government.


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> Gender Equity in K-12 Education


In this episode, Calvin and Nick are joined by Delphi Cleaveland, Special Assistant in the Office of Global Women's Issues at U.S. Department of State, for a conversation about gender equity within American education. Throughout the conversation, recorded in December of 2020, the group explores the international and domestic context for gender equity within K-12 education, including issues like gendering of academic topics and activities, representation in school systems and STEM fields, and gender-related challenges during the pandemic. Please note that all statements made in this episode were given in a personal capacity and do not reflect the views of the United States Government.


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org. 

Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. 

Follow Learn Fresh on Instagram and Twitter @Learn_Fresh and Facebook @learnfreshedu

]]> Wed, 21 Jul 2021 10:45:31 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2076 Gender Equity in K-12 Education In this episode, Calvin and Nick are joined by Delphi Cleaveland, Special Assistant in the Office of Global Women's Issues at U.S. Department of State, for a conversation about gender equity within American education. Throughout the conversation, recorded in December of 2020, the group explores the international and domestic context for gender equity within K-12 education, including issues like gendering of academic topics and activities, representation in school systems and STEM fields, and gender-related education challenges during the pandemic. Please note that all statements made in this episode were given in a personal capacity and do not reflect the views of the United States Government. To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh. Gender Equity in K-12 Education In this episode, Calvin and Nick are joined by Delphi Cleaveland, Special Assistant in the Office of Global Women's Issues at U.S. Department of State, for a conversation about gender equity within American education. Th education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E10 Meet the Learn Fresh Fellows: Melanie Young 10 10 S1:E10 Meet the Learn Fresh Fellows: Melanie Young full 694116ac-982b-4bc6-b5c1-4143a0ae9594 https://share.transistor.fm/s/22da69cf In the final episode of our “Meet the Learn Fresh Fellows” series, we hear from Learn Fresh Fellow Melanie Young. Melanie is the founder of Infinite Mind Tutors, a Black-owned tutoring agency with the mission to use the collective power of Black minds to transform America's educational landscape. 


Melanie's passion is to make high-quality education accessible to all children. Before launching Infinite Mind Tutors, Melanie was a teacher and tutor working in Philadelphia's public schools for over nine years. During this time, Melanie taught at Central High School, coached two NBA Math Hoops National Championship participants across two consecutive years, was awarded the Sixers Youth Foundation Game Changer Award in 2018, Philadelphia Superintendent’s Award in 2016, Woodrow Wilson Rockefeller Brothers Fund Fellowship in 2015, and the University of Pennsylvania Woman of Color Award in 2014. Melanie Young is a two-time graduate of the University of Pennsylvania. 


In this episode, Melanie shares her personal journey to becoming an educator and the powerful influence her parents had over her passion for education. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.

]]> In the final episode of our “Meet the Learn Fresh Fellows” series, we hear from Learn Fresh Fellow Melanie Young. Melanie is the founder of Infinite Mind Tutors, a Black-owned tutoring agency with the mission to use the collective power of Black minds to transform America's educational landscape. 


Melanie's passion is to make high-quality education accessible to all children. Before launching Infinite Mind Tutors, Melanie was a teacher and tutor working in Philadelphia's public schools for over nine years. During this time, Melanie taught at Central High School, coached two NBA Math Hoops National Championship participants across two consecutive years, was awarded the Sixers Youth Foundation Game Changer Award in 2018, Philadelphia Superintendent’s Award in 2016, Woodrow Wilson Rockefeller Brothers Fund Fellowship in 2015, and the University of Pennsylvania Woman of Color Award in 2014. Melanie Young is a two-time graduate of the University of Pennsylvania. 


In this episode, Melanie shares her personal journey to becoming an educator and the powerful influence her parents had over her passion for education. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.

]]> Wed, 14 Jul 2021 17:51:49 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1841 In the final episode of our “Meet the Learn Fresh Fellows” series, we hear from Learn Fresh Fellow Melanie Young. Melanie is the founder of Infinite Mind Tutors, a Black-owned tutoring agency with the mission to use the collective power of Black minds to transform America's educational landscape. 


Melanie's passion is to make high-quality education accessible to all children. Before launching Infinite Mind Tutors, Melanie was a teacher and tutor working in Philadelphia's public schools for over nine years. During this time, Melanie taught at Central High School, coached two NBA Math Hoops National Championship participants across two consecutive years, was awarded the Sixers Youth Foundation Game Changer Award in 2018, Philadelphia Superintendent’s Award in 2016, Woodrow Wilson Rockefeller Brothers Fund Fellowship in 2015, and the University of Pennsylvania Woman of Color Award in 2014. Melanie Young is a two-time graduate of the University of Pennsylvania. 


In this episode, Melanie shares her personal journey to becoming an educator and the powerful influence her parents had over her passion for education. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.

]]> education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E9 Meet the Learn Fresh Fellows: Francene Garrett 9 9 S1:E9 Meet the Learn Fresh Fellows: Francene Garrett full 46c7d9f7-8e54-4127-92ac-7eaa357505ac https://share.transistor.fm/s/8b4b931b In Part III of this series, we hear from Learn Fresh Fellow Dr. Francene Garrett. Francene holds a Bachelors of Arts degree with a specialization in Vocal Performance, a Masters of Science degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology, and an Educational Doctoral degree in Administrative Leadership for Teaching and Learning. 


Currently, Francene serves as an Instruction and Personalized Learning Lead in the metropolitan area of Atlanta. She is a mother of one, an avid reader, and enjoys traveling and listening to music. Francene prides herself on being a change agent in the field of education through the use of practical, relevant, and engaging professional development, consulting, and coaching. 


In this episode, Francene shares her journey as an educator and the impact her own teachers had on her life. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.

]]> In Part III of this series, we hear from Learn Fresh Fellow Dr. Francene Garrett. Francene holds a Bachelors of Arts degree with a specialization in Vocal Performance, a Masters of Science degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology, and an Educational Doctoral degree in Administrative Leadership for Teaching and Learning. 


Currently, Francene serves as an Instruction and Personalized Learning Lead in the metropolitan area of Atlanta. She is a mother of one, an avid reader, and enjoys traveling and listening to music. Francene prides herself on being a change agent in the field of education through the use of practical, relevant, and engaging professional development, consulting, and coaching. 


In this episode, Francene shares her journey as an educator and the impact her own teachers had on her life. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.

]]> Wed, 14 Jul 2021 17:45:43 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1387 In Part III of this series, we hear from Learn Fresh Fellow Dr. Francene Garrett. Francene holds a Bachelors of Arts degree with a specialization in Vocal Performance, a Masters of Science degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology, and an Educational Doctoral degree in Administrative Leadership for Teaching and Learning. Currently, Francene serves as an Instruction and Personalized Learning Lead in the metropolitan area of Atlanta. She is a mother of one, an avid reader, and enjoys traveling and listening to music. Francene prides herself on being a change agent in the field of education through the use of practical, relevant, and engaging professional development, consulting, and coaching. In this episode, Francene shares her journey as an educator and the impact her own teachers had on her life. In Part III of this series, we hear from Learn Fresh Fellow Dr. Francene Garrett. Francene holds a Bachelors of Arts degree with a specialization in Vocal Performance, a Masters of Science degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology, and an Educatio education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E8 Meet the Learn Fresh Fellows: Chris Robinson 8 8 S1:E8 Meet the Learn Fresh Fellows: Chris Robinson full 4748484e-0156-4b62-85b4-6c24aef93462 https://share.transistor.fm/s/81d0265d In Part II of this series, you will hear from Learn Fresh Fellow, Chris Robinson. Chris is a special education teacher and the athletic director at his neighborhood middle school, McAuliffe International School in Denver, Colorado. 


Growing up, his family put a high standard on education, but it’s something that he took for granted until he transferred to a private school in 8th grade. Immediately, he understood that education was not the same for everyone and as one of the only Black students at his new school, the inequity felt personal. From then on, becoming a teacher was always in the back of his mind.  


In this episode, Chris discusses his journey as an educator and the importance of creating relevant curriculum for students. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.

]]> In Part II of this series, you will hear from Learn Fresh Fellow, Chris Robinson. Chris is a special education teacher and the athletic director at his neighborhood middle school, McAuliffe International School in Denver, Colorado. 


Growing up, his family put a high standard on education, but it’s something that he took for granted until he transferred to a private school in 8th grade. Immediately, he understood that education was not the same for everyone and as one of the only Black students at his new school, the inequity felt personal. From then on, becoming a teacher was always in the back of his mind.  


In this episode, Chris discusses his journey as an educator and the importance of creating relevant curriculum for students. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.

]]> Mon, 28 Jun 2021 08:40:37 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1261 In Part II of this series, you will hear from Learn Fresh Fellow, Chris Robinson. Chris is a special education teacher and the athletic director at his neighborhood middle school, McAuliffe International School in Denver, Colorado. In Part II of this series, you will hear from Learn Fresh Fellow, Chris Robinson. Chris is a special education teacher and the athletic director at his neighborhood middle school, McAuliffe International School in Denver, Colorado. education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E7 Meet the Learn Fresh Fellows: Ashley Barnett 7 7 S1:E7 Meet the Learn Fresh Fellows: Ashley Barnett full 08f649cb-0245-4f80-bda1-bc097251d889 https://share.transistor.fm/s/173e281c Meet the inaugural class of Learn Fresh Fellows! Launched in Fall 2020, the Learn Fresh Fellowship for Culturally Inclusive Education invites educators and curriculum writers of color to create and broadly share standards-aligned curricula that authentically represent the cultural, ethnic, and racial identities of their communities. After a rigorous review process, four fellows from across the country were selected as a part of the inaugural class.


Over the next four episodes, you will have the opportunity to hear from each of these incredible educators. In this episode, we meet Ashley Barnett, an elementary educator working in a private school in Baltimore. Ashley graduated from St. John’s University with a master’s degree in childhood education. She has been teaching for over 10 years in Washington D.C., New York City, and Baltimore. Ashley has taught K-4th grade students and art to middle school students as an elective. Her favorite age to teach is 1st grade and her favorite subject to teach is reading. 


Throughout this episode, Ashley shares her journey to the Fellowship and her vision for change in the classroom. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.


]]> Meet the inaugural class of Learn Fresh Fellows! Launched in Fall 2020, the Learn Fresh Fellowship for Culturally Inclusive Education invites educators and curriculum writers of color to create and broadly share standards-aligned curricula that authentically represent the cultural, ethnic, and racial identities of their communities. After a rigorous review process, four fellows from across the country were selected as a part of the inaugural class.


Over the next four episodes, you will have the opportunity to hear from each of these incredible educators. In this episode, we meet Ashley Barnett, an elementary educator working in a private school in Baltimore. Ashley graduated from St. John’s University with a master’s degree in childhood education. She has been teaching for over 10 years in Washington D.C., New York City, and Baltimore. Ashley has taught K-4th grade students and art to middle school students as an elective. Her favorite age to teach is 1st grade and her favorite subject to teach is reading. 


Throughout this episode, Ashley shares her journey to the Fellowship and her vision for change in the classroom. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.


]]> Fri, 25 Jun 2021 10:00:49 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1503 Meet the inaugural class of Learn Fresh Fellows! Launched in Fall 2020, the Learn Fresh Fellowship for Culturally Inclusive Education invites educators and curriculum writers of color to create and broadly share standards-aligned curricula that authentically represent the cultural, ethnic, and racial identities of their communities. After a rigorous review process, four fellows from across the country were selected as a part of the inaugural class. Meet the inaugural class of Learn Fresh Fellows! Launched in Fall 2020, the Learn Fresh Fellowship for Culturally Inclusive Education invites educators and curriculum writers of color to create and broadly share standards-aligned curricula that authentica education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E6 Part 2, Education and the Racial Justice Movement 6 6 S1:E6 Part 2, Education and the Racial Justice Movement full 6e9f19dd-54dc-4e65-a361-3e8f4df6e15c https://share.transistor.fm/s/0a9eaf68 Calvin and Nick share reflections on the role and importance of education in the racial justice movement in a two-part episode recorded in December 2020. Throughout the conversation, they talk about how they’ve seen these themes play out in our own lives, in the classroom, and through our work with Learn Fresh.

In Part 2, the pair talk about representation in the classroom, culture, and curricula, and what it means for building racial acceptance and the pursuit of social justice.


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.


]]> Calvin and Nick share reflections on the role and importance of education in the racial justice movement in a two-part episode recorded in December 2020. Throughout the conversation, they talk about how they’ve seen these themes play out in our own lives, in the classroom, and through our work with Learn Fresh.

In Part 2, the pair talk about representation in the classroom, culture, and curricula, and what it means for building racial acceptance and the pursuit of social justice.


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.


]]> Wed, 19 May 2021 22:14:55 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1550 Calvin and Nick share reflections on the role and importance of education in the racial justice movement in a two-part episode recorded in December 2020. Throughout the conversation, they talk about how they’ve seen these themes play out in our own lives, in the classroom, and through our work with Learn Fresh. Calvin and Nick share reflections on the role and importance of education in the racial justice movement in a two-part episode recorded in December 2020. Throughout the conversation, they talk about how they’ve seen these themes play out in our own lives, education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E6 Part 1, Education and the Racial Justice Movement 6 6 S1:E6 Part 1, Education and the Racial Justice Movement full 19abec64-c494-470c-952a-a55ecd571d2d https://share.transistor.fm/s/b0ada427 Calvin and Nick share reflections on the role and importance of education in the racial justice movement in a two-part episode recorded in December 2020. Throughout the conversation, they talk about how they’ve seen these themes play out in our own lives, in the classroom, and through our work with Learn Fresh.


In Part 1, Calvin and Nick explore how the American education system approaches Black history and U.S. history more generally, and how teaching, technology, and pedagogy can contribute to combating racism and building racial equity. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.

]]> Calvin and Nick share reflections on the role and importance of education in the racial justice movement in a two-part episode recorded in December 2020. Throughout the conversation, they talk about how they’ve seen these themes play out in our own lives, in the classroom, and through our work with Learn Fresh.


In Part 1, Calvin and Nick explore how the American education system approaches Black history and U.S. history more generally, and how teaching, technology, and pedagogy can contribute to combating racism and building racial equity. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.

]]> Wed, 19 May 2021 22:10:20 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1535 Calvin and Nick share reflections on the role and importance of education in the racial justice movement in a two-part episode recorded in December 2020. Throughout the conversation, they talk about how they’ve seen these themes play out in our own lives, in the classroom, and through our work with Learn Fresh. Calvin and Nick share reflections on the role and importance of education in the racial justice movement in a two-part episode recorded in December 2020. Throughout the conversation, they talk about how they’ve seen these themes play out in our own lives, education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E5 A Conversation with NBA Math Hoops Educators 5 5 S1:E5 A Conversation with NBA Math Hoops Educators full 8ad2b3bf-24f1-40da-ab2d-4a403723a3a7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/449cec32 Today we’re talking again with three long standing educators from the Learn Fresh community about their experiences with the NBA Math Hoops program. In Episode 2, we spoke with Denzel Smith, Robin Seelye, and Sean Patterson about teaching during the pandemic. In this episode, we’re sharing more from that conversation, with a focus on what NBA Math Hoops has meant to them, their students, and their teaching. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.


]]> Today we’re talking again with three long standing educators from the Learn Fresh community about their experiences with the NBA Math Hoops program. In Episode 2, we spoke with Denzel Smith, Robin Seelye, and Sean Patterson about teaching during the pandemic. In this episode, we’re sharing more from that conversation, with a focus on what NBA Math Hoops has meant to them, their students, and their teaching. 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.


]]> Wed, 12 May 2021 11:05:23 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1564 Today we’re talking again with three long standing educators from the Learn Fresh community about their experiences with the NBA Math Hoops program. In Episode 2, we spoke with Denzel Smith, Robin Seelye, and Sean Patterson about teaching during the pandemic. In this episode, we’re sharing more from that conversation, with a focus on what NBA Math Hoops has meant to them, their students, and their teaching. To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh. Today we’re talking again with three long standing educators from the Learn Fresh community about their experiences with the NBA Math Hoops program. In Episode 2, we spoke with Denzel Smith, Robin Seelye, and Sean Patterson about teaching during the pande education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E4 Sport for Good in the Australian Football League 4 4 S1:E4 Sport for Good in the Australian Football League full 68d209bb-f9fb-41af-a04c-9bed53f3edbe https://share.transistor.fm/s/0476c807 Continuing themes from last week around sport and community, this week’s episode explores the case study of The Huddle, an organization leveraging the power of sport to create positive outcomes for youth in Australia. Nick and Calvin are joined by Emma Kearney, captain and star player of the North Melbourne Football Club and Head of Education and Careers at The Huddle. Cam McLeod serves as CEO of The Huddle and also joins the conversation to discuss his vision for the organization’s scale. The group discusses The Huddle’s True North program, which is building a new model for professional sports organizations and community engagement across Australia.


To learn more about True North and The Huddle, visit:

https://www.nmfc.com.au/huddle 

https://truenorthportal.com.au/ 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.


]]> Continuing themes from last week around sport and community, this week’s episode explores the case study of The Huddle, an organization leveraging the power of sport to create positive outcomes for youth in Australia. Nick and Calvin are joined by Emma Kearney, captain and star player of the North Melbourne Football Club and Head of Education and Careers at The Huddle. Cam McLeod serves as CEO of The Huddle and also joins the conversation to discuss his vision for the organization’s scale. The group discusses The Huddle’s True North program, which is building a new model for professional sports organizations and community engagement across Australia.


To learn more about True North and The Huddle, visit:

https://www.nmfc.com.au/huddle 

https://truenorthportal.com.au/ 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.


]]> Tue, 20 Apr 2021 13:38:00 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2312 Continuing themes from last week around sport and community, this week’s episode explores the case study of The Huddle, an organization leveraging the power of sport to create positive outcomes for youth in Australia. Nick and Calvin are joined by Emma Kearney, captain and star player of the North Melbourne Football Club and Head of Education and Careers at The Huddle. Cam McLeod serves as CEO of The Huddle and also joins the conversation to discuss his vision for the organization’s scale. The group discusses The Huddle’s True North program, which is building a new model for professional sports organizations and community engagement across Australia. Continuing themes from last week around sport and community, this week’s episode explores the case study of The Huddle, an organization leveraging the power of sport to create positive outcomes for youth in Australia. Nick and Calvin are joined by Emma Ke education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E3 Connecting Sport and Community: A Conversation with Harrison Barnes and Kirk Walters 3 3 S1:E3 Connecting Sport and Community: A Conversation with Harrison Barnes and Kirk Walters full 5532fcf8-e023-4f20-ae25-65fb813bb4a9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5d37c7eb Can professional sports inspire student learning and social impact? How can sports organizations leverage data to evaluate community outcomes? Do professional athletes and leagues have a responsibility to the community? In today’s episode, Nick and Calvin welcome Sacramento Kings star Harrison Barnes, a leading activist in the NBA community, and Kirk Walters, Director of Math Research at WestEd. The group discusses the links between sports and education, and explores the powerful platform athletes have to drive change and progress in their communities.


Sources for this episode include:

2019-20 End-of-Season Community Assist Award: Harrison Barnes 


WNBA Announces A 2020 Season Dedicated To Social Justice


NBA details All-Star support for HBCUs, communities impacted by COVID-19


More than $3M to be donated in initial support as part of NBA All-Star 2021


Colin Kaepernick kneeling timeline: How protests during the national anthem started a movement in the NFL


The WNBA’s Black Lives Matter Protest Has Set a New Standard for Sports Activism


The WNBA Made the NBA Strike Possible


‘Black Lives Matter, people’: How the NBA’s social justice efforts dominated the season


At the W.N.B.A., the Fight for Racial Justice Goes Way Back


Harrison Barnes’ approval ratings through the roof


For Harrison Barnes, the Desire to Make a Difference Is Unceasing


Harrison and Brittany Barnes focusing on change inside and outside of NBA bubble


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit: www.learnfresh.org


Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org


Follow Learn Fresh on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/learnfresh

https://www.instagram.com/learn_fresh

https://twitter.com/learn_fresh

https://linkedin.com/company/learnfresh


]]> Can professional sports inspire student learning and social impact? How can sports organizations leverage data to evaluate community outcomes? Do professional athletes and leagues have a responsibility to the community? In today’s episode, Nick and Calvin welcome Sacramento Kings star Harrison Barnes, a leading activist in the NBA community, and Kirk Walters, Director of Math Research at WestEd. The group discusses the links between sports and education, and explores the powerful platform athletes have to drive change and progress in their communities.


Sources for this episode include:

2019-20 End-of-Season Community Assist Award: Harrison Barnes 


WNBA Announces A 2020 Season Dedicated To Social Justice


NBA details All-Star support for HBCUs, communities impacted by COVID-19


More than $3M to be donated in initial support as part of NBA All-Star 2021


Colin Kaepernick kneeling timeline: How protests during the national anthem started a movement in the NFL


The WNBA’s Black Lives Matter Protest Has Set a New Standard for Sports Activism


The WNBA Made the NBA Strike Possible


‘Black Lives Matter, people’: How the NBA’s social justice efforts dominated the season


At the W.N.B.A., the Fight for Racial Justice Goes Way Back


Harrison Barnes’ approval ratings through the roof


For Harrison Barnes, the Desire to Make a Difference Is Unceasing


Harrison and Brittany Barnes focusing on change inside and outside of NBA bubble


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit: www.learnfresh.org


Email us at podcast@learnfresh.org


Follow Learn Fresh on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/learnfresh

https://www.instagram.com/learn_fresh

https://twitter.com/learn_fresh

https://linkedin.com/company/learnfresh


]]> Tue, 06 Apr 2021 10:02:41 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 2052 Can professional sports inspire student learning and social impact? How can sports organizations leverage data to evaluate community outcomes? Do professional athletes and leagues have a responsibility to the community? In today’s episode, Nick and Calvin welcome Sacramento Kings star Harrison Barnes, a leading activist in the NBA community, and Kirk Walters, Director of Math Research at WestEd. The group discusses the links between sports and education, and explores the powerful platform athletes have to drive change and progress in their communities. Can professional sports inspire student learning and social impact? How can sports organizations leverage data to evaluate community outcomes? Do professional athletes and leagues have a responsibility to the community? In today’s episode, Nick and Calvin education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E2 Challenges and Silver Linings: Teaching During the Pandemic 2 2 S1:E2 Challenges and Silver Linings: Teaching During the Pandemic full 29df544a-3f96-4043-905b-bdbacc8346f5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ab57fa55 K-12 education and the importance of schools have been at the forefront of the national discourse since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode, Nick and Calvin are joined by three educators from across the United States to discuss their experience teaching through this unprecedented time. Their discussion highlights the challenges of remote learning, the importance of adaptability, and the resilience of students. 


Thank you to our guests: Denzel Smith from Camden, NJ; Sean Patterson from Milwaukee, WI; and Robyn Seelye from Lansing, MI!


Sources for this episode include: 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.


]]> K-12 education and the importance of schools have been at the forefront of the national discourse since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode, Nick and Calvin are joined by three educators from across the United States to discuss their experience teaching through this unprecedented time. Their discussion highlights the challenges of remote learning, the importance of adaptability, and the resilience of students. 


Thank you to our guests: Denzel Smith from Camden, NJ; Sean Patterson from Milwaukee, WI; and Robyn Seelye from Lansing, MI!


Sources for this episode include: 


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.


]]> Tue, 23 Mar 2021 07:42:00 -0700 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1924 K-12 education and the importance of schools have been at the forefront of the national discourse since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode, Nick and Calvin are joined by three educators from across the United States to discuss their experience teaching through this unprecedented time. Their discussion highlights the challenges of remote learning, the importance of adaptability, and the resilience of students. K-12 education and the importance of schools have been at the forefront of the national discourse since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode, Nick and Calvin are joined by three educators from across the United States to discuss their exper education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No S1:E1 Game Changers in Education 1 1 S1:E1 Game Changers in Education full 123392c4-8217-423f-be75-fa62b0fbca44 https://share.transistor.fm/s/788acdee Learn Fresh is a nonprofit organization, dedicated to providing innovative STEM learning experiences that empower educators and inspire students. By bringing students’ genuine interests into the classroom, Learn Fresh programs foster a lifelong enthusiasm for learning. Nick is the CEO and Co-Founder of the organization and Calvin serves as the Chief Academic Officer. Throughout the episode, Nick and Calvin discuss Learn Fresh and the organization’s founding program, NBA Math Hoops. 


NBA Math Hoops, engages students with fundamental math and social-emotional learning through a physical and digital game, integrated curriculum, and community program structure. The NBA Math Hoops game simulates the real game of basketball: students complete core math operations and analyze the real stats of NBA and WNBA players. The program is implemented across school-day classrooms, out-of-school programs, and in students’  homes. Learn Fresh partners with community organizations including districts, Boys & Girls Clubs, and state afterschool networks to deliver programming at no cost. Students participate in community-based events and experiences including end-of-season Regional Championships and the NBA Math Hoops National Championship. Learn Fresh has partnered with the NBA and 25 NBA/WNBA teams to deliver this program to over 350,000 students nationwide.


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.


 


]]> Learn Fresh is a nonprofit organization, dedicated to providing innovative STEM learning experiences that empower educators and inspire students. By bringing students’ genuine interests into the classroom, Learn Fresh programs foster a lifelong enthusiasm for learning. Nick is the CEO and Co-Founder of the organization and Calvin serves as the Chief Academic Officer. Throughout the episode, Nick and Calvin discuss Learn Fresh and the organization’s founding program, NBA Math Hoops. 


NBA Math Hoops, engages students with fundamental math and social-emotional learning through a physical and digital game, integrated curriculum, and community program structure. The NBA Math Hoops game simulates the real game of basketball: students complete core math operations and analyze the real stats of NBA and WNBA players. The program is implemented across school-day classrooms, out-of-school programs, and in students’  homes. Learn Fresh partners with community organizations including districts, Boys & Girls Clubs, and state afterschool networks to deliver programming at no cost. Students participate in community-based events and experiences including end-of-season Regional Championships and the NBA Math Hoops National Championship. Learn Fresh has partnered with the NBA and 25 NBA/WNBA teams to deliver this program to over 350,000 students nationwide.


To learn more about Learn Fresh, visit learnfresh.org, or email us at podcast@learnfresh.org. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram @Learn_Fresh.


 


]]> Tue, 09 Mar 2021 08:57:11 -0800 Learn Fresh Learn Fresh 1787 Meet hosts Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert (aka “The Game Changer of Education”). In this episode, Nick and Calvin share the personal journeys that led them to become educators. Meet hosts Nick Monzi and Calvin Sibert (aka “The Game Changer of Education”). In this episode, Nick and Calvin share the personal journeys that led them to become educators. education, STEM, stem education, nba math hoops, social impact, STEAM, social emotional learning, DEI No