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  • 'Metal Lords' with Peter Sharma and Kevin Stoller

    'Metal Lords' with Peter Sharma and Kevin Stoller
    2025/09/03
    Sometimes the best lessons don’t come from textbooks or classrooms... they come from the stories we see on screen. In Metal Lords, a coming-of-age Netflix film, two high school outsiders form a heavy metal band in hopes of competing in the “Battle of the Bands.” What starts as a quest to play loud music quickly turns into a journey of self-discovery, belonging, and resilience. So how does a movie about teens rocking out connect to education? At its core, Metal Lords highlights what we talk about so often on the Better Learning Podcast: that schools are not just about content, but about creating spaces where students can express themselves, collaborate, and feel valued. The characters in the film struggle with identity, acceptance, and confidence — the same challenges many of our students face every day. When schools provide flexible environments and opportunities for students to pursue their passions, they’re not just teaching academics, they’re helping students discover their voice. In our podcast, we often ask school leaders, educators, and designers: What should students feel when they walk into a learning space? Metal Lords gives us one answer: students should feel like they belong. Whether through music, art, or academics, the best school experiences help students connect with something bigger than themselves. And maybe that’s the real message for all of us in education: sometimes the path to “better learning” starts when we let students turn up the volume on who they really are. Takeaways: Connection and acceptance are critical for motivation. When students feel seen and valued, they’re more likely to take risks and fully engage in learning.The power of teamwork in the movie mirrors what happens in classrooms: collaborative projects help students develop creativity, problem-solving, and communication skills.Just as the concert venues and rehearsal spaces impact the band’s journey, school design and classroom setup can support or hinder student engagement and creativity—a core idea we explore on the Better Learning Podcast. About Peter Sharma: Peter Sharma is a senior sustainability consultant and Carbon Lead for Stantec’s Education sector, where he champions holistic sustainability, embodied carbon reduction, and health and wellbeing in learning environments. With over a decade of experience in the building industry —including numerous K-12 projects—Peter brings a deep understanding of how sustainable design can shape healthier, more inspiring spaces for students and educators alike. Peter is driven by a deep commitment to leaving behind a healthier, more resilient world for his daughter and future generations. He believes that thoughtful design must serve both people and the planet, and that true sustainability is built through collaboration—creating learning environments that uplift communities, foster connection, and stand the test of time. A recognized leader in the building industry, he was honored with the Emerging Green Leader award by the Alberta chapter of Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC) in 2018 for his commitment to advocating, educating, and practicing green buildings. Peter joins the podcast to explore how sustainability and wellbeing aren’t just about buildings—they’re about the people inside them, and the bold ideas that can rock the system. Learn More About Peter Sharma: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prateekat/ Learn More About Stantec: Website: https://www.stantec.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/stantec Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StantecInc Twitter: https://x.com/Stantec Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stantec/ Connect with host, Kevin Stoller: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/ Learn More About Kay-Twelve: Website: https://kay-twelve.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/ Episode 246 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/ Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website
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    46 分
  • 'The Great Debaters' with Jeff Johnson and Kevin Stoller

    'The Great Debaters' with Jeff Johnson and Kevin Stoller
    2025/08/20

    Released in 2007 and inspired by true events, The Great Debaters tells the story of Wiley College’s debate team in the 1930s, led by Professor Melvin B. Tolson. At a time when segregation and systemic injustice were defining forces, this small but determined team rose to national prominence, even going head-to-head with Harvard University. More than a story about competition, the film highlights the role education plays in empowerment, resilience, and giving students the courage to use their voice.

    We dive into the plot and memorable moments, then run through a series of award-style categories that let us talk about teachers, iconic scenes, and even one-liners. And of course, we wrap up with the big question: what real-world lessons can educators, leaders, and communities take from the movie?

    Takeaways:

    • Professor Tolson shows how a teacher or mentor can push students beyond their perceived limits, instill belief, and prepare them for opportunities they may never have imagined possible.
    • Winning debates required the team to challenge, support, and trust each other. Education at its best fosters collaboration, preparing students for the challenges of the real world.

    About Jeff Johnson:

    Jeff Johnson brings over 30 years of experience in Pre-K–12 and Higher Education design, serving as a trusted voice in shaping impactful learning environments. His expertise spans referendum planning, educational programming, design, project management, and construction administration.

    As Director of Educational Planning at PBK Architects, Jeff leads with a deep commitment to understanding each district’s mission and vision. He collaborates closely with stakeholders to develop next-generation learning environments that are innovative, functional, and community-focused. From concept through construction, Jeff ensures that every project aligns with both educational goals and budget realities.

    Learn More About PBK Architects:

    Website: https://pbk.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pbk-1/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pbkarchitects/

    Twitter: https://x.com/PBKArchitects

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pbkarchitects/

    Connect with host, Kevin Stoller:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

    Learn More About Kay-Twelve:

    Website: https://kay-twelve.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/

    Episode 245 of the Better Learning Podcast


    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    For more information on our partners:

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

    Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/


    Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website
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    34 分
  • 'Miracle' with Bryan Benway and Kevin Stoller

    'Miracle' with Bryan Benway and Kevin Stoller
    2025/08/06
    What does it take to bring out the best in a group of individuals and transform them into something greater than the sum of their parts? In this episode of our school-related movie review series, we dive into Miracle (2004), the powerful retelling of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team's unbelievable upset over the Soviet Union. It’s a story of vision, discipline, belief, and building a culture of excellence—all themes that deeply resonate in the world of education today. Joining us for this conversation is Bryan Benway, someone who brings a unique and dynamic perspective to the table. Bryan grew up near Lake Placid, the very town where this historic miracle on ice took place. He spent years as a hockey broadcaster in the Central Hockey League and now serves as Director of Marketing at Bartlett Cocke General Contractors—one of the most respected education-focused construction firms in Texas. But before transitioning into construction, Bryan spent several impactful years in public education as the Director of Communications for Boerne ISD, where his leadership earned the district nearly 50 statewide awards. With a career that has spanned storytelling, school communications, sports broadcasting, and educational construction, Bryan is the perfect guest to help us explore the parallels between Miracle and the everyday work of school leaders and educators. From coaching a team to believe in themselves, to navigating doubt, adversity, and pressure with resilience—Miracle is more than just a sports film. It’s a reflection of what great educational leadership looks like: setting a clear vision, building trust, and pushing students and teams to achieve more than they ever thought possible. Takeaways: Coach Herb Brooks wasn’t looking for the best players—he was looking for the right ones. In schools, it's not always about the top-performing individuals, but about how the team works together to support every student.Brooks had a bold and unconventional vision, and he never wavered from it. Strong educational leaders similarly need to set a clear direction, especially when leading change or overcoming obstacles.The infamous “Again!” scene shows how accountability and pushing through discomfort can prepare teams for real-world pressure. In classrooms and school systems, structure and consistent expectations help students and staff thrive.Brooks told his players, “Great moments are born from great opportunity.” Educators create those moments every day—when they believe in students, when they champion a struggling learner, or when they stand up for what’s right.The miracle happened in Lake Placid—a town with deep personal roots for our guest, Bryan Benway. It’s a reminder that the spaces we create (in schools, stadiums, or communities) can hold meaning and inspire greatness when people feel connected to them. About Bryan Benway: Bryan Benway brings nearly 20 years of award-winning experience in communications to his role as Director of Marketing at Bartlett Cocke General Contractors. Since joining the company in October 2024, he has led the Marketing Department to earn the SMPS San Antonio People’s Choice Award for the 2024 holiday card design. Prior to Bartlett Cocke, Bryan served as Director of Communications for Boerne ISD, where his leadership earned the district nearly 50 awards from the Texas School Public Relations Association (TSPRA). His individual accolades include being named a 2020 Hill Country 40 Under 40 honoree by the Economic Development Corporation and receiving the Schreiner University Rising Star Award in 2016. Bryan’s diverse background also includes serving as District Director for Texas State Representative Kyle Biedermann and as a National Host for Yahoo! Sports Radio, where he hosted a nightly talk show broadcast on more than 800 stations nationwide, including SiriusXM. Learn More About Bryan Benway: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-benway-50b8b073/ Learn More About Bartlett Cocke General Contractors: Website: https://www.bartlettcocke.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bartlett-cocke-general-contractors/ Connect with host, Kevin Stoller: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/ Learn More About Kay-Twelve: Website: https://kay-twelve.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/ Episode 244 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - ...
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    53 分
  • 'Rich Hill' with Dr. Julie Williams and Kevin Stoller

    'Rich Hill' with Dr. Julie Williams and Kevin Stoller
    2025/07/31

    What happens when the challenges students face outside the classroom overshadow everything happening within it?

    In this episode of our school-focused movie review series, we dive into Rich Hill—the 2014 Sundance Grand Jury Prize-winning documentary that offers an unfiltered look into the lives of three teenage boys growing up in rural Missouri. The film captures the challenges they face in poverty-stricken homes, unstable environments, and a school system struggling to support them.

    Joining us to break down the themes and realities of Rich Hill is a special guest - Dr. Julie Williams, a school superintendent at Fayetteville Public Schools who brings invaluable insight into how schools are navigating similar struggles across the country. Together, we explore what the film gets right, what educators can learn from it, and how it pushes us to think differently about the role schools play in students' lives beyond academics.

    Takeaways:

    • Rich Hill shows how hunger, housing insecurity, and mental health challenges often come before homework. For schools, this underscores the need for trauma-informed practices and wraparound services.
    • The boys in the film don’t just struggle in school—they struggle to show up, to stay focused, to feel safe. Educators are reminded that consistency, structure, and relationships are just as essential as curriculum.
    • The film highlights how cycles of poverty are perpetuated by factors outside any one school’s control—but it also shows the power of local leadership and community partnerships in starting to break those cycles.

    Learn More About Julie Williams:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjulierwilliams/

    Connect with host, Kevin Stoller:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

    Learn More About Kay-Twelve:

    Website: https://kay-twelve.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/

    Episode 243 of the Better Learning Podcast


    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    For more information on our partners:

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

    Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/


    Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website
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    42 分
  • 'Annie' with Olivia Graf, Matt Rogers, and Carla Cummins

    'Annie' with Olivia Graf, Matt Rogers, and Carla Cummins
    2025/07/23
    It’s easy to remember Annie for its catchy tunes and iconic optimism. But what if we told you this classic musical also offers a surprising amount of insight into our education system? In our latest episode of the Better Learning Podcast, we take a fresh look at the 1982 film adaptation of Annie through the eyes of school designers and changemakers. From the harsh institutional feel of Miss Hannigan’s orphanage to Daddy Warbucks’s transformative environment where Annie’s potential flourishes, the movie mirrors a central truth we see in schools every day: the physical and emotional environment matters. We break down key scenes like the group routines, the classroom-like discipline, and the contrasting settings Annie experiences to explore how learning environments shape behavior, engagement, and opportunity. Whether you're an educator, school leader, architect, or just a fan of classic cinema, this conversation is a reminder that when we create spaces and systems built on care, flexibility, and belief in kids’ potential, anything, even the impossible, becomes possible. Takeaways: The stark contrast between the cold, institutional orphanage and the warm, opportunity-filled mansion mirrors how learning environments affect student mindset, behavior, and engagement. Just like Annie, students thrive in spaces where they feel valued and safe.Miss Hannigan’s rigid, top-down approach reflects outdated models of control in education. In contrast, the trust and autonomy Annie gains in Warbucks’s world show how empowerment fosters confidence, creativity, and curiosity—traits every modern classroom should support.Annie's story reminds us that students often just need one adult to believe in them. Teachers, principals, and support staff can play this vital role—especially for students facing adversity. About Olivia Graf: As the design visionary and thought leader responsible for conceptualizing innovative learning environments at A4E, Olivia leads the practice in planning, programming and the overall design direction of the firm through an interactive and collaborative process. She believes that outstanding projects begin with a clear concept and should balance aesthetics with curriculum-based innovations to create expressive and functional 21st century educational environments that feature hands-on/ minds-on maker spaces, transdisciplinary settings, and project-based learning. Her commitment and involvement extend through every phase of the design process. Olivia is also on the Leadership Group of the American Institute of Architects’ Committee on Architecture for Education (AIA-CAE) and is a frequent speaker at education-focused conferences, including the California STEAM Symposium, California School Business Expo (CASBO), EDspaces, NSTA, and AIA-CAE. Learn More About Olivia Graf: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-graf-7a0a8065/ Learn More About Architecture for Education (A4E): Website: https://architecture4e.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/architecture-for-education-incorporated/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Architecture4e/ Connect with host, Carla Cummins: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-cummins-01449659/ Connect with co-host, Matt Rogers: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-rogers-profile/ Learn More About Kay-Twelve: Website: https://kay-twelve.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/ Episode 242 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/ Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website
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    47 分
  • 'Accepted' with Emily Wright, Laura Smyles, and Kevin Stoller

    'Accepted' with Emily Wright, Laura Smyles, and Kevin Stoller
    2025/07/16
    What if a group of students created their own college because no one else would accept them? That’s exactly what happens in the 2006 movie Accepted, where a handful of students—rejected by every school they applied to—decide to take matters into their own hands. They invent a fake university, build a website, rent a building, and unknowingly attract hundreds of other students who also felt pushed out by the traditional system. What starts as a lie quickly transforms into something surprisingly real: a student-led, curiosity-driven learning environment where everyone is accepted for who they are. On the surface, it’s a comedy. But underneath the jokes and wild antics is a powerful question that feels more relevant today than it did nearly 20 years ago: Is college really necessary for every student—or has the system become more about tradition and conformity than about helping kids thrive? In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, we explore the message behind Accepted and how it mirrors a growing sentiment in education: that we need to rethink what success looks like, who gets to define it, and how we create learning environments that put students first. Whether you're an educator, parent, school leader, or just someone who’s ever asked “Why do we do it this way?”, this episode is for you. Takeaways: While the movie delivers plenty of laughs, it also challenges the rigid, one-size-fits-all structure of traditional higher education. It asks: What happens to students who don’t fit the mold?With rising tuition costs, student debt, and alternative career paths, many students today are questioning the traditional college route. Accepted sparks conversations about whether higher education is serving students—or just serving the system.The fictional South Harmon Institute of Technology thrives because students have control over their learning. This aligns directly with modern education movements that prioritize student agency, passion-based learning, and flexible pathways to success.At its core, Accepted is about belonging. When students feel safe, supported, and seen, they’re more likely to engage, take risks, and grow. That’s a message that transcends comedy and it’s the foundation of good education. References from the Episode: Malcolm Gladwell – Why You Shouldn’t Go to Harvard Differing Minds: Considering Neurodiversity in Educational Spaces About Emily Wright: Emily J. Wright is a registered architect with over 15 years of experience, an undergraduate degree in biochemistry, a background in clinical psychology, and experience teaching English abroad. Although neurotypical herself, her father, brother, husband, and their three children are neurodivergent. She believes buildings and spaces have a profound impact on our functioning and well-being. Learn More About Emily Wright: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-wright-aia-leed-ap-69a91781/ About Laura Smyles: Laura Smyles has over 12 years of experience as an Architect and Educational Planner with Grimm + Parker. As the daughter of a 25-year-long career public school teacher, she brings her unique perspective to educational design along with her direct experience of working with several school systems across the DMV. Mom to three under 5, she is especially familiar with the importance of creating an environment that improves emotional regulation - for kids and adults alike. Learn More About Laura Smyles: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-smyles-aia-well-ap-251b9945/ Learn More About Grimm + Parker Architects: Website: https://www.grimmandparker.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grimm---parker-architects/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GandPArchitects Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gp_architects/ X: https://x.com/gparchitects Connect with host, Kevin Stoller: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/ Learn More About Kay-Twelve: Website: https://kay-twelve.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/ Episode 241 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/ Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website
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    53 分
  • 'Hoosiers' with Dr. Deb Kerr and Kevin Stoller

    'Hoosiers' with Dr. Deb Kerr and Kevin Stoller
    2025/07/09
    If you’ve ever rooted for the underdog, Hoosiers probably lives rent-free in your head. The 1986 classic isn’t just about basketball—it’s about second chances, small-town pride, and what happens when people start believing in themselves and each other. Set in 1950s Indiana, the film follows a high school basketball team no one expects to win… until they do. In this episode, we explore why Hoosiers continues to resonate in classrooms and communities alike. From Coach Norman Dale’s controversial methods to the redemptive arc of Shooter, the town drunk turned assistant coach, there’s no shortage of teachable moments. At its core, Hoosiers is a story about grit, growth, and the undeniable impact of mentorship. Whether you’re an educator, a coach, or just someone who still gets chills watching the final game, this episode breaks down what Hoosiers has to say about leadership, trust, and building belief in unlikely places. Takeaways: Coach Dale’s insistence on fundamentals—and his refusal to compromise—highlights the tension between tradition and transformation in education and leadership. Shooter’s redemption arc is a powerful reminder of the importance of giving people a chance to rise when others have written them off. The tiny gym, the limited roster, the towering opponents—it all reinforces the idea that success isn’t about size, but about heart, unity, and vision. "Don’t get caught up in the size of the arena"—a lesson for educators and students alike. Great things can come from the smallest places when expectations are high and support is strong. About Dr. Deborah Kerr: Dr. Deborah Kerr is proud to serve as Superintendent of St. Francis Public School District, where she is leading a bold vision to become the best version of SFPSD yet. With a deep commitment to student-centered, equity-focused, and future-driven education, Dr. Kerr is focused on building strong partnerships with staff, families, and the community. Through her listening and learning tour, she’s discovered a shared passion for diversity, dedication to student success, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every learner. Her mission: to help every student discover their strengths, passions, and purpose—and prepare them for a future they choose. Learn More About Dr. Deborah Kerr: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-deb-kerr-7b2aaa19/ Learn More About St. Francis Public School District: Website: https://www.stfrancisschools.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StFrancisSDWI/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stfrancissd_wi/ X: https://x.com/StFrancisSDWI Connect with host, Kevin Stoller: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/ Learn More About Kay-Twelve: Website: https://kay-twelve.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/ Episode 240 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/ Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website
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    35 分
  • 'Matilda' with Charlotte Nienhaus, Carla Cummins, and Kevin Stoller

    'Matilda' with Charlotte Nienhaus, Carla Cummins, and Kevin Stoller
    2025/07/02
    If you grew up in the '90s, there’s a good chance Matilda made you believe two things: libraries are magical, and adults DEFINITELY don’t always know best... The 1996 movie, adapted from Roald Dahl’s classic book, gave us a hero who wasn’t loud or flashy - but smart, kind, and quietly powerful. Oh, and she had telekinesis. So yeah, iconic. In this episode, we dive into why Matilda still hits all these years later. From the hilariously awful Wormwoods to the nightmare-fuel that is Miss Trunchbull, it’s a story that balances dark humor with real heart. But beyond the fantasy, there’s something incredibly real about a kid discovering her voice and the courage to use it. Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or just someone who remembers rewinding the chocolate cake scene way too many times, this one’s worth revisiting. Join us as we unpack what Matilda can still teach us about agency, learning, and the power of finding just one person who believes in you. Takeaways: Miss Trunchbull’s classroom is fear-based, while Miss Honey’s is nurturing, and that contrast highlights just how much learning environments shape students’ confidence and curiosity.Miss Honey shows the life-changing impact a caring, attentive educator can have. A single person believing in a student’s potential can rewrite their story.Bruce Bogtrotter vs. the giant chocolate cake is one of the most memorable scenes in Matilda—and not just because it’s grossly hilarious. It’s a perfect metaphor for standing up to power. What starts as a cruel punishment turns into a full-on moment of triumph, as the entire student body silently shifts from fear to cheering him on. About Charlotte Nienhaus, AIA: Charlotte Nienhaus is an architect at ISG based in southern MN with 10 years of experience in the industry. She specializes in education design and enjoys helping school districts maximize student environments through architecture. Through the years, Charlotte has completed projects from small interior renovations all the way up to complete K-12 new builds and has found a niche in working with smaller rural school districts to help bring the same opportunities to those students as larger districts are able to offer. Learn More About Charlotte Nienhaus, AIA: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-nienhaus-aia-848ba8104/ Learn More About ISG: Website: https://www.isginc.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ISGInc1973 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isginc1973/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/isginc/ X: https://x.com/isginc1973 Connect with host, Kevin Stoller: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/ Connect with co-host, Carla Cummins: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-cummins-01449659/ Learn More About Kay-Twelve: Website: https://kay-twelve.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/ Episode 239 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/ Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website
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    38 分