Host: Haley Brueck
Guest: Dr. Ava Smith

Overview:
In this episode of Confluence Conversations, host Haley Brueck speaks with Dr. Ava Smith, an educational leader and innovator, about how podcasts are transforming classroom engagement and student learning. Dr. Smith shares how educators can integrate podcasting into the curriculum to inspire creativity, develop communication skills, and connect lessons to real-world experiences.

What Listeners Can Expect:

• Insight into how podcasts can serve as dynamic learning tools across subjects.
• Examples of how student-created podcasts build confidence and critical thinking.
• Strategies for educators looking to innovate instruction and make learning more interactive.
• Reflections on how storytelling and technology can help students find their voice.

About the Podcast:
Confluence Conversations highlights innovative ideas, inspiring educators, and powerful partnerships shaping education today. Hosted by Haley Brueck, each episode spotlights authentic voices and success stories from schools and communities dedicated to empowering students.

Columbia Public Schools (CPS) is committed to providing students with transformative learning experiences—both inside and outside the classroom. Through CPS Online and MOCAP, students have access to flexible, personalized learning opportunities that meet diverse needs and prepare them for success. In this episode, we highlight CPS as an expert voice on online education, exploring both the advantages and the challenges of virtual learning.

At Confluence Academies, we share this commitment to removing barriers through online learning. By offering digital coursework, we create more equitable access to education, support different learning styles, and expand opportunities for all of our students.

The Fabulous Fox Theatre is proud to offer Educational Encores, a signature post-show opportunity designed to deepen the theatrical experience for student groups. These sessions provide students the unique chance to engage directly with members of the cast and crew from Broadway touring productions. Through thoughtful dialogue and behind-the-scenes insights, students gain a greater appreciation for the performing arts and the work that brings each show to life.

Mr. Lennox Forrester leads the O’Fallon Park Rec Complex YMCA and has played a vital role in expanding youth access to swimming, fitness, and life-saving skills across the St. Louis community.

For several years, Confluence Academy’s Old North and South City students have participated in swimming lessons through the Summer Journey program at this YMCA location. These lessons are more than recreational—they teach critical safety skills and build confidence in and out of the water.

This expanded partnership was made possible in part thanks to Caroline Mitchell, whose leadership and advocacy were instrumental in bringing Confluence Academy into the YMCA Summer Swim Outreach Program. Her efforts helped ensure that more students across the association gain access to safe, inclusive swim education and community-centered support.

This episode highlights The Black Rep and its dynamic impact on students through arts education. As a national leader in African-American theatre, The Black Rep engages youth through programs that blend cultural storytelling with creative expression—helping students develop confidence, purpose, and a strong sense of identity.

Miranda Walker Jones, President & CEO of The Little Bit Foundation, joins us to discuss how this leading St. Louis nonprofit supports under-resourced students by providing clothing, meals, mental health services, mentorship, and academic tools—helping them thrive from early education through graduation.

In this powerful episode of Confluence Conversations, host Haley Brueck sits down with Julius B. Anthony, Founder of The Believe Projects™, to explore how joyful and inclusive literacy experiences can radically transform a child’s relationship with reading.

Recorded in person at Confluence Academy, this conversation unpacks how culturally responsive books, music, art, and media can empower children—especially those from marginalized communities—to become confident, competent readers by third grade.

Together, Haley and Julius discuss the critical importance of identity-affirming spaces and how The Believe Projects™ are shaping a future where every child sees themselves as capable, valued, and inspired to learn.

This episode explores The Sophia Project, a transformative initiative dedicated to empowering girls through a holistic, trauma-informed model that fosters academic achievement, emotional wellness, and leadership development. The Sophia Project provides a safe and nurturing space for girls to thrive through consistent mentorship, restorative practices, and community-based support system.

Our guest will share how the organization is equipping young women with the tools to overcome adversity, build self-worth, and become agents of change in their communities.