Esports is more than gaming—it’s a fast-growing global industry creating pathways in technology, design, broadcasting, analytics, and business.
In this episode, we explore how Confluence Academies is using Esports to build real-world skills and open new career doors for students.

Orlando highlights the innovation and workforce opportunities emerging in today’s Esports economy, while Coach Arnett shares how the program at Confluence Preparatory Academy develops teamwork, leadership, and career readiness. A student guest also reflects on how Esports has shaped their learning experience and post-graduation goals.

Saint Louis University’s School of Education is deepening its commitment to preparing impactful urban educators through the new StayTeachLead Scholarship Program. This episode explores how the initiative strengthens the local teacher pipeline by partnering directly with St. Louis area schools to identify and support future educators.

Through StayTeachLead, partner schools nominate promising students to receive half-tuition scholarships—valued at more than $28,000 per year, with opportunities for additional aid. Over four years, each recipient may receive more than $100,000 in scholarship support, creating a powerful pathway into the teaching profession.

Led by Dean Gary Ritter and Ryan Wilson, the program reflects SLU’s mission to uplift communities, inspire the next generation of educators, and elevate teaching as a pathway to leadership and equity. This conversation breaks down the vision, impact, and promise of this transformational effort.

Overview:
In this episode of Confluence Conversations, host Haley Brueck sits down with Dr. Ava Smith, an influential educator and community advocate, to discuss her journey in shaping equitable opportunities for students. Dr. Smith shares her perspective on leadership in education, the importance of mentorship, and the power of creating learning environments where every student can thrive.

What Listeners Can Expect:

• Insightful discussion about the evolving role of educators in today’s schools.
• Dr. Smith’s personal story and her approach to fostering inclusion and student success.
• Inspiration for educators, parents, and community members who are passionate about transforming learning experiences.

About the Podcast:
Confluence Conversations explores real stories of innovation, collaboration, and impact in education. Hosted by Haley Brueck, each episode highlights the voices of educators, partners, and community leaders who are making a difference across the St. Louis region.

In 2022, educators across St. Louis launched Educators for Gun Safety (EGS) in response to rising youth gun violence. Supported by the Mayor’s Office, the St. Louis Board of Mental Health, SLMPD, and Women’s Voices Raised for Social Justice, EGS focuses on proactive education, awareness, and free gun lock distribution to help save lives.

At the center of the work are the EGS Student Ambassadors—leaders from Confluence Preparatory Academy and Grand Center Arts Academy—recognized with the “What’s Right With the Region” Award for community impact. Their efforts extend beyond gun safety through service projects, disaster relief, and their student-run podcast, Titan Talks.

What started within Confluence has grown across the region, with districts like Normandy, Lift for Life Academy, and Cardinal Ritter joining the movement and participating in The Movement, Not the Moment march.

In this episode, student leaders from Confluence Academies, Lift for Life Academy, and Normandy High School share how they’re advocating for safety and change in their schools. Joining them is Ryan Bronner, Junior Class Ambassador and Titan Talks representative, helping lead the conversation.

This episode spotlights Ready Readers, a St. Louis nonprofit dedicated to inspiring a love of reading and strengthening early literacy through classroom read-alouds, high-quality books, educator support, and family engagement.

Guests Maggie Strube, Lauren Campbell, and Erin Fisher share how Ready Readers partners with early childhood centers and elementary schools, mobilizes trained volunteers, and collaborates with educators and families to build strong reading foundations.

We’ll explore how joyful, consistent read-aloud experiences, culturally responsive books, and community partnerships help close opportunity gaps and set children up for long-term success in school and life.

This episode features Dr. Terrance Peterson, an experienced educator, certified administrator, and life coach with over 30 years of experience helping individuals and organizations set and achieve positive goals for change. Dr. Peterson’s work spans trauma recovery, stress management, team building, equity practices, family dynamics, and conflict resolution. He has presented both locally and nationally on creating institutional change and empowering individuals to embrace their self-worth as a catalyst for growth.

In this conversation, Dr. Peterson will share his insights on supporting teenagers and families, overcoming trauma, and fostering environments—both in schools and workplaces—that encourage equity, resilience, and personal development.

This episode explores how Ranken Technical College prepares students for high-demand, high-wage careers through hands-on learning, industry-aligned programs, and comprehensive student support. We’ll highlight the pathways Ranken creates—from dual credit and early college to apprenticeships and employer partnerships—and how Student Success initiatives help learners persist, complete, and thrive.

Crystal Herron, Vice President for Student Success, will share how her team advances equity, belonging, and career readiness, along with how Ranken collaborates with K–12 schools, families, and employers to expand opportunity.

This episode explores how 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis goes beyond hospitality to serve as a cultural and community hub in the heart of downtown. With a contemporary art museum, locally inspired dining, and inclusive community programming, 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis is redefining what a hotel can be.

Joining us is Christopher Randall, Director of Community Impact for 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis, to discuss how the hotel fosters partnerships, supports local artists, and engages with the broader St. Louis community to create meaningful connections that extend far beyond its walls.