Episode 3: Why Arts? - STEAM and the Power of Tinkering with Ryan Jenkins

In the third episode of Why Arts?, I’m joined by Ryan Jenkins—co-founder of Wonderful Idea Co. and a longtime educator, tinkerer, and designer working at the intersection of art, science, and making.Ryan’s work grows out of years spent at places like the Exploratorium and Tinkering 0School in San Francisco, where curiosity, experimentation, and hands-on learning are at the center. He has designed and prototyped projects for Maker Faires, science museums, schools, and libraries around the world, creating playful entry points into STEAM learning for learners of all ages.In this conversation, we talk about Ryan’s own journey—from feeling intimidated by science to finding joy and confidence through making—and how art can open up new ways into science and technology. We explore tinkering as a way of thinking, why hands-on learning matters, and how setting thoughtful constraints can actually deepen creativity and innovation.Why Arts? is a podcast that looks at the arts not as a separate subject, but as a way of thinking—one that helps people explore ideas, take risks, and make meaning across disciplines.Image credits: Emil Steixner, Sebastian Funk and Oak School🎧 Listen on YouTube and Spotify📲 Follow along on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whyarts_wnanvi?igsh=aHRkYWhuMHB2MWVz&utm_source=qr