Math Therapy

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Summer is officially ON, so it's a great time to hear from YOU in another mailbag episode where Vanessa reads the texts you've sent us! This batch pulls together a few threads from episodes we've released over the last few months - some will make you laugh, and some might make you tear up just as Vanessa did when reading them out.And if you want to send us a message about the podcast or about something you'd like Vanessa to discuss over the summer - just tap the link right above/below!Episodes mentioned:May 2026 - text from an inmate with the Prison Mathematics ProjectMay 2026 - Vanessa's meltdown over tax seasonApril 2026 - our last mailbag episodeContact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Today's episode truly puts the "therapy" in Math Therapy!  Vanessa chats with her friend Amy Johnston, a psychotherapist and empathic deep thinker, to discuss how trauma takes root in us, how it transfers through generations, and how being vulnerable about our own experiences can help us inspire students to rewrite their own narratives.This is a truly heartfelt conversation exploring questions like:Why your own math trauma is actually your greatest teaching superpowerHow to use strategies like narration real-time in the classroomHow intergenerational trauma is like a snowball rolling downhill - and how to finally stop itAbout Amy: (Website, Instagram)Amy Johnston, MSW, is an Integrative Therapist specializing in inner world explorations with her clients.  She lives in a magical forest up in Northern Ontario, Canada.*CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED* This episode is sponsored by Texas Instruments!  Listen to the episode for instructions to enter to win an "Oh My Math" box featuring:the new TI-84 Evo graphing calculator + 4-yr licensean adorable plushie TI calculator keychain!Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Vanessa recently took one step closer to her dream of hosting a Netflix show, recording the first ever live Math Therapy interview!  For her session last week at Leander ISD's annual Math Joy Conference in Texas, she interviewed self-proclaimed "chaos-driven non-compliant educator" Chase Orton - and you can now hear their extremely unfiltered conversation in front of a room full of teachers whose gasps are VERY audible throughout!Chase and Vanessa share a fearlessness in calling out the education as it is, and in this convo they cover hot topics like:how teachers can stay motivated in a broken systemwho standardized testing benefits (hint: not students or teachers!)how to follow the rules while rebelling against the status quoAbout Chase: (Website, YouTube)As an accomplished facilitator of lesson study for K-12 math teachers, Chase Orton partners with districts who are interested in taking a teacher-centered, teacher-directed approach to professional development. Chase is also the author of The Imperfect and Unfinished Teacher of Mathematics.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Exam season is upon us, but NOBODY PANIC!  Today's guest, learning strategist Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer, joined Vanessa to share some simple but game-changing study tips to help you get through exams without breaking a sweat.They discuss:what actually is learning, and what does and does not count as studyingwhy we get trapped trying to perfect to-do lists & how to prioritize betterhow we can all use AI tools ethically to support our learning (not replace it)This episode is for anyone (students, teachers, parents) who find exam season stressful and need a pep talk about practical & effective ways to learn better!About Deena: (Website, Instagram, Facebook)For over 20 years, Dr. Deena has dedicated her career to promoting more equity and justice in learning and enabling the success of more than 5,000 students, educators, and business leaders through learning strategies.  As a keynote speaker, mentor, training facilitator, and founder of Awakened Learning Inc., she looks forward to any opportunity to connect with individuals and organizations who are ready to feel happier, healthier, and more at peace.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Last week Vanessa ended her episode saying the podcast would be taking this week off while she was on vacation, but it might not surprise you that she is not exactly "good" at vacation .. so while she's definitely taking some much needed time off, she also could not resist recording this short episode after receiving a very unexpected and beautiful text from Timothy Jones, an inmate with the Prison Mathematics Project.Our podcast is available through prisons across the US, and Timothy was moved to write in to Vanessa through their messaging system after listening to her recent "tax season meltdown" episode.  He shared some beautiful words of affirmation that we can all tell ourselves daily, which stem from his own journey getting to know his true self and rewriting the false stories he was told about himself in childhood.Links mentioned:Ep: Why smart people still feel out of control (and what to do about it)Ep: How math can help prison inmates turn their lives around w/ Christopher HavensListen to new mini-series Heart Work by Imagine Learning, featuring Vanessa on episode 2!Learn more about the Prison Mathematics Project and ways to get involvedContact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Vanessa reflects on her recent self-described "meltdown episode" in which she talked herself down from a panic spiral.  She was nervous to share something so messy & vulnerable, but the response was incredible - so many of you identified completely with her feelings. (Turns out tax season is a real trigger for us all!)Today, she shares some of her own observations once she had de-escalated, as well as some of the feedback and perspective she received - and most importantly she details what helped her actually get organized as opposed to just spiralling over the fear of being disorganized.Also, we got over 100 entries for last week's Texas Instruments "Oh My Math" Box giveaway!  The winner has already been contacted, but if you didn't hear from us don't despair - we'll be giving away one box every month for the rest of the summer, so stay subscribed to Math Therapy so you don't miss your next chance to win.Links mentioned:Ep: Why smart people still feel out of control (and what to do about it)Ep: This will change the way you think about calculators w/ Curtis BrownImagine Learning's podcast series "Heart Work" featuring Vanessa (Pt 1 available now)Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Everyone's finally talking about math anxiety - in students, parents, and anyone that goes into a panic at the mere mention of the word "math".  But one group is often overlooked: math teachers!Many teachers find themselves having to teach math whether they planned to or not, and often without even being trained on the material themselves.  But don't panic!  Today's guest, teaching coach Heidi Sabnani, has a step by step process to turn that math anxiety into a classroom strength.  She joined Vanessa to discuss:Is math anxiety contagious?Consistency - the secret to longterm changeHow to overcome math anxiety at any ageAbout Heidi: (Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube)Heidi Sabnani, EdD, has been an educator in math and literacy for over 25 years. She regularly presents at regional and national conferences in the United States and has been invited to speak at conferences in Guatemala and Ecuador. She is the co-host and co-author, with Molly Vokey, of the Math 4 All Show and Math Activators for Reasoning about Fractions, Decimals and Integers.*CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED* This episode is sponsored by Texas Instruments!  Listen to the episode for instructions to enter to win an "Oh My Math" box featuring:the new TI-84 Evo graphing calculator + 4-yr licensean adorable plushie TI calculator keychain!Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Ever feel like you don't know how to take your own advice?  Like you've learned all the strategies but can't seem to actually use them?  Like no matter how hard you try to get your life in order, it just seems to get more complicated?!Well Vanessa certainly does, and (at the encouragement of her producer) she hopped on the mic and let it all out in one of her most honest and vulnerable episodes yet.With the help of her calculator stuffie and her trademark stream of consciousness outer processing, she talks herself down from a panicked state and explores:what an anxiety spiral looks like and what's actually behind itnegativity bias + confirmation bias = catastrophization!how therapy tools like a gratitude practice can helpwhat this all has to do with math educationIf you can relate, or just want to give Vanessa a pep talk, send us a text!  And share this episode with a friend who needs to hear it.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)500 BC: Pythagoras may not have even existed, but a number-worshipping / bean-hating (yet vegetarian?!) cult definitely did.1600 AD: Johannes Kepler lays the mathematical foundation for Newton's theory of gravity while innovating in both astronomy and astrology (and also inventing the genre of sci-fi in his spare time).April 2026: Vanessa learns these stories and more watching Dr Edward Doolittle deliver a fascinating keynote in Saskatoon and impulsively convinces him to be on Math Therapy!  So they sat down the next day to discuss topics like:how spirituality (in any form) can help us bring our whole selves to mathwhat the whole world can learn from Indigenous understandings of maththe power of storytelling in learningAbout Edward:Dr. Edward Doolittle, (Kanyenkehake [Flint Nation = Mohawk] from Six Nations in southern Ontario) is Associate Professor of Mathematics at First Nations University of Canada, a federated college of the University of Regina.  His interests range from probability (particularly in relation to partial differential operators) to Indigenous mathematics and the educational possibilities afforded by those different views of mathematics.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Ever since we introduced the above link to text the podcast, Vanessa has been obsessed with getting listeners to do so.  And guess what - tons of you have!  So today she reads a bunch of them on a range of topics like:the problem with labels like "gifted"gaining math confidence later in lifeneuroplasticity and thinking processeswho is Sister Beth?! (seriously, we need to send her a book)Also, you can now not only text us but leave us a voicenote!  Just hit the link at the top of this description and we may include your text/voicenote on a future episode.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)We cover many hot button topics in math education, but today we're taking on the most literal one ... calculators! Why are they so controversial? When are they helpful and when should we use other tools?On today's episode, Vanessa chats with Curtis Brown from Texas Instruments about those questions and more:How students can take ownership of their learningThe relationship between cognitive load and math anxietyHow handheld tools can fuel learning (and focus!)Have you got strong feelings on calculators or know someone who does?  Let us know below and share this episode!Episode links:Connect with TI Calculators on Instagram or FacebookListen to Curtis's podcast Room To GrowAbout Curtis:Curtis Brown is a former high school math and AP Statistics teacher who spent five years with the National Math and Science Initiative as a Statistics Curriculum Coordinator. He’s now the Math Segment Manager at Texas Instruments, where he leads content development and serves as a voice for educators in product design. Curtis is a frequent speaker at math conferences and co‑hosts the education podcast Room to Grow. Outside of work, he enjoys kayak fishing, mountaineering with his sons, and spending time with his family.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)If you listen to this podcast, chances are you believe not only that we can fix math education but that we know how to do it.  So WHY haven't we yet?!Today's guest Steve Leinwand is a true legend in this space, known for his radical honesty and authenticity in fighting for a better system for all.  He joined Vanessa from his vacation (because he can never resist a good rant!) to discuss:accepting people's full selves in math so they don't have to code-switchhow to make PD truly effective for teachers and supervisorshow students can learn from each other as much as from teachersAbout Steve: (Website)Steven Leinwand has been a driving force in math education for nearly 50 years, shaping policy, curriculum, and teaching practices at the highest levels. He's held major leadership roles with organizations like NCTM (National Council for Teachers of Mathematics), and NCSM (National Council for Supervisors of Mathematics). He has advised on national initiatives like the National Assessment of Educational Progress, and worked with organizations like the American Institute for Research, earning multiple national awards along the way.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Leadership.  Feedback.  Professional Development. Terms that get thrown around a lot - but what do they actually mean?  More importantly, how do we develop those tools so they actually make a difference in the classroom?!Thankfully, educator Alison Mello is an expert on leadership in math education, and she joined Vanessa to discuss:why PD often fails teachers and what to do about ithow to be a great leader - both for teachers and administratorshow to give and receive effective feedbackAnd as mentioned in the episode, you can still register for Alison's Get Your Workshop On 2026 (early bird pricing ends March 31st so don't wait!)About Alison: (Website, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook)Alison J. Mello has been in education for 30 years as a classroom teacher, author, national speaker, and math consultant. Alison enjoys developing practical strategies to address issues that districts and teachers face in their schools and classrooms every day. She uses her understanding of leadership, curriculum and best practices to inspire and assist leaders and teachers in elevating and transforming math instruction.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Back in 2020, math teacher (with math trauma) Kylie Fraser found herself in Vanessa's Math Therapy session at the Mighty Peace Teachers Convention in Grand Prairie, Alberta and was stunned how much she saw of herself in Vanessa's story.Flash forward to earlier this month when Vanessa returned to Grand Prairie to deliver the keynote, and 30 minutes before hitting the stage they reunited and impulsively decided to record this convo about what Kylie has been up to in her math journey in the last 6 years!They discussed:the math trauma Kylie saw in herself and her students and what she did about ithow language around math influences our self-worthhow to heal from math trauma through shared storiesOn that note - if you know someone that should hear this story, share it!Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)The Oscars are this Sunday, and to be completely transparent, Vanessa hasn't seen any of the nominations.  BUT, she is always ready to hand out an award to anyone blending pop culture and math, so today we are bringing you our 2022 interview with Ben Zauzmer, who has been using statistical analysis every awards season to predict the Oscar winners with math!  Ben is also Assistant General Manager for the NY Mets baseball team after spending years in MLB baseball analytics - that's right, he is Moneyball IRL!  You can check out his predictions for this year below, and you can try to send Vanessa movie recommendations but we all know if they aren't Christmas romcoms they probably won't make her top 10.Ben's 2026 Oscars predictions for Hollywood ReporterBen's 2026 nominee predictions - see how he did!Buy Ben’s Book: “Oscarmetrics: The Math Behind the Biggest Night in Hollywood”Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Vanessa's mentor and friend, Dr. Imogen Coe, holds many distinctions: Professor of Critical Thinking in Biomedical Sciences, award-winning scholar-activist, former Dean of Science, STEM thought leader, and all-around academic badass.  But her finest achievement yet?  Being the first returning guest on Math Therapy!Imogen joined us in 2020 to talk about breaking systemic barriers in STEM fields, and she returns today to explore pressing topics like:how our "math identity" impacts our entire self-worthhow our sense of belonging relates to representationshould scientists be emotional or creative?how questioning one's beliefs is actually very scientificAbout Imogen: (Website, Instagram, LinkedIn)Dr. Imogen Coe is a scientist, advocate, and founding dean of the Faculty of Science at Toronto Metropolitan University. She is internationally recognized for her research in cell biology and for her leadership in equity, diversity, and inclusion in STEM.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)For the last month, Vanessa and Math Therapy producer David have been in the studio working on their band's next album, and Vanessa couldn't help observing many parallels between making music in the studio and learning math.  If you're reading this like "huh?!" ... then today's episode is a must listen!After a day in the studio with our good friend & producer Devon Lougheed, Vanessa sat down with him to discuss:what risk-taking in the studio can teach us about learning maththe difference between process and outcomeimposter syndrome - we all feel it!the secret to progress - celebrate the wins, no matter the sizeAbout Devon: (Instagram, Website)Devon Lougheed is a JUNO-winning songwriter, producer, multi-instrumentalist, creative mad scientist and musical schemer, and co-founder of alt-rock band Altered By Mom.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Today's episode is about storytelling.  So much of our self-worth and perceived ability come from internal narratives that have been shaped by stories we've either been told or that we tell ourselves - but we have the power to change them!Gorav Menon joins Vanessa to discuss the impact these stories have on our lives, and offers three simple steps to take control of them and unlock our full potential - both in and out of the classroom.  They cover topics like:What makes someone a great storyteller?How storytelling connects to therapyHow labels affect usHow we can change our storiesAbout Gorav: (LinkedIn)Gorav Menon is a tech strategist and co-host of Linen Suit & Plastic Tie, a podcast that explores the power of storytelling in all corners of our lives.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Everyone’s always ranting and raving about why student math scores are dropping, but are they focusing on the wrong reasons?  In today's episode, Vanessa details some factors that often get overlooked:Kids are raised differently nowKids are more distracted nowMath anxiety has never been strongerMental health challenges are more commonMath feels irrelevantThe value of grades has changedLearned helplessnessAdults are more anxious tooSchool hasn't caught up to realityDid she miss any? Let us know below!Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Christopher Havens is a mathematician with published research in number theory, but what makes him unique among fellow scholars is his entire career in math has taken place in prison where he is serving a 25-year murder sentence.  Math was the catalyst and ongoing foundation for his rehabilitation, and along the way he founded the Prison Mathematics Project which provides resources to inmates across the US.In recognition of his years of rehabilitation, mathematical research, and community building, the Washington State Pardons & Clemency board unanimously recommended his sentence be reduced last year, but last month the request was denied by the state governor.  So we thought we'd bring you Vanessa's 2021 interview with Christopher which remains just as thought-provoking and inspiring today.Links:More about the Prison Mathematics Project (including how to volunteer/mentor inmates)March 2023 episode of Math Therapy about our visit to prison for Pi DayChristopher's Jan 13th, 2026 statement after being denied clemencyOct 27th, 2025 interview with Christopher after a positive recommendation from the state Pardons & Clemency boardPetition on Change.org to grant Christopher clemencyArticle on Christopher's research in Scientific AmericanArticle on Christopher's story in Popular MechanicsContact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)A lot of brain-related questions often come up on this podcast, like:Is there a difference in math ability between genders?Is there even such a thing as a "math brain"?What about the left brain right brain / math vs creativity debate?And every time, Vanessa says "I need to speak to an expert about this!" Well, when she heard today's guest on the Mel Robbins Podcast talking about brain science and gender, she knew she had found her neuroscientist.Dr. Sarah McKay joins Math Therapy to debunk some common myths around our brains and math abilities, and offers science-backed advice on how to amplify the message that everyone has equal potential to learn math.Links mentioned:Sarah McKay on the Mel Robbins PodcastWatch her TedTalk  "Indulge your neurobiology"Cimpian Cognitive Development LabAbout Sarah: (Website, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook)Dr. Sarah McKay is an Oxford-educated neuroscientist, author, and science communicator specializing in women’s brain health, hormones, and lifespan brain development. She’s the author of The Women’s Brain Book and founder of The Neuroscience Academy. She’s passionate about debunking popular myths about the brain—especially when it comes to gender and intelligence.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Have you ever been so convinced you were bad at something that you didn’t even question it anymore? Not just as an insecurity, but like it was your full identity: “I’m not a math person.” End of conversation.Well, this episode is about what happens when that story gets completely rewritten.Sue Besant was a directionless student who was literally & repeatedly told that she would amount to nothing, and math was ground zero for this crushing message.But one day a new teacher walked into her math class - none other than Jo Boaler.  Yes, before teaching at Stanford & writing bestsellers about growth mindset and neuroplasticity, Jo Boaler had her first day in class too!Jo gave Sue and her classmates something they'd never had before - a teacher who believed in them and told them so.  The rest of the story spans decades and time zones, so join Vanessa today as Sue shares how finally learning math gave her the confidence to believe that she was capable of anything she dreamed of.Related episode:Jo Boaler on Math Therapy: Embracing your limitless mind (2023)Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Whenever Vanessa talks to math educator and coach Shelby Strong, they end up saying "why didn't we record that, it was basically a podcast!"  So today we bring you an actual podcast with Shelby, exploring an absolutely bonkers range of provocative questions like:What’s the danger of defining your self-worth by being good at one thing?When does enthusiasm/passion cross the line into gatekeeping?Why are we vilifying algorithms right now?Why do we shame teachers for just trying their best?Why is systemic change so hard to enact and adapt to?What does rock star Dave Grohl teach us about math?And finally, is a hot dog a sandwich?!If these question spark something in you, let us know below - and share this episode with someone else that needs to hear it!Things mentioned:A Mathematician's Lament by Paul LockhartErdős number (the "6 degrees of Kevin Bacon" of math)About Shelby: (Website, Bluesky, Facebook, LinkedIn)Shelby Strong (Stronger Math) is a math educator and coach who believes math belongs to everyone. She has presented at school districts, regional organizations, and national conferences, including delivering an IGNITE at NCTM in 2024 called "Professional Development Doesn't Have to Suck".Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)As you may know, Vanessa and producer David are in a band together, and they're currently writing songs for a new album. The path through writer’s block and their ups and downs as a collaborative team led to some unexpected debates about the creative process that share surprising parallels with the greater discussion around mathematical thinking.So they hopped on the mic to debate a range of topics like:When do tools help vs. hinder?Does process matter if the outcome is good?Are mathematical and creative thinking similar?What is the ultimate core purpose of education?Is AI making us more productive or more lazy?Finally, Vanessa calls up friend and tech-forward educator Jamie Mitchell (without warning to either him or David) to have him chime in on the debate, and it actually was the most coherent part of the episode.  Enjoy and let us know if you want to hear a part 2!Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Happy new year!  To get in the mindset for a great 2026, here's a motivating episode about one of last year's hottest topics in math ed: student engagement. Why is it so hard to get students to really engage in the classroom?  What does engagement even mean?  What can we try differently this year?In this episode, Vanessa explores four reasons students might not engage in class (and offers tips for each):They don't feel heard (democratize engagement)They don't know how to engage (explain what it is)They think there's no point (create more entry points)Their needs aren't met (don't take it personally)Let us know if these resonate with you or if there are any that we missed, and most importantly have a great start to the school year!Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Five years ago, Vanessa fell head over heels in love with a Christmas movie.  The plot twist? This wasn't one of the countless Hallmark romcoms she actually consumes throughout the year - this was a movie about a little girl who literally saves Christmas with math!Back then she interviewed Producer Lyn Sisson-Talbert and Writer/Director David E. Talbert about their groundbreaking Netflix film Jingle Jangle, so we’re resharing the conversation today as Christmas approaches.On that note, we'll be taking a break next week but will be back in your feed Jan 1st to give you some inspiration to make 2026 a great year in the classroom.  Until then, happy holidays!!Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Getting students to think is a hot topic - but what does it actually mean?  When kids are asked to "show their thinking", can we really blame them for being like "WTF?!?!"Today on Math Therapy, Vanessa explores the surprising number of ways we can define & interpret "thinking", and shares 5 strategies to demystify it in the classroom:Explain what thinking actually meansNormalize that the thought process isn't always quickGive prompts that invite students into a conversationOuter process - talk it out before writing it downModel your own thinking as a teacherHow do YOU define thinking?  Let us know below!Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Since our humble (and as you'll find out, quite disorganized) start in 2019, Math Therapy has come a long way ... and today we celebrate our 100th episode!Join host Vanessa Vakharia and producer David Kochberg (with a cameo from OG MT producer Sabina Wex) as they reminisce and argue about:The (mostly) true origin story of Math TherapyWhere the “final 2 questions” came fromFave past episodesDream future guestsIf ChatGPT listens to our showWhether you've been listening from the start or just finding this show now, thank you for listening and being part of the change we all want to see in math education.And please please please SHARE this podcast with someone that needs to hear it, and let US know what you want to hear in the next 100 episodes!Past episodes mentioned:What the Blue Jays taught us about math education (Nov 2025)Pi Day in Prison (Seriously) (Mar 2023)“Dude Walls” & the lost women of science w/ Katie Hafner (May 2022)Dancing on the moon w/ Dr. Merritt Moore (Apr 2022)Can math predict the Oscars? w/ Ben Zauzmer (Mar 2022)How math rehabilitated a murderer w/ Christopher Havens (Jun 2021)I’m not a math person, don’t @ me w/ Bex (Jun 2021)Recalculating your destiny w/ Miguel Escobar (Jun 2020)A mathemagical crisis w/ Jonah Babins (Oct 2019)Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Today we follow-up last week's episode with unfiltered celeb moms Cat and Nat (listen here) by interviewing Nat's daughter Taylor!  Currently in Grade 11, she's a wealth of hard-earned wisdom, having taken her education into her own hands to overcome a system that literally told her not to bother even trying.This ep is overflowing with real lessons right from a student who's been through it all.  Taylor describes:how being "bad" at math really felt & how she decided to rewrite her narrativesmall supports that made a huge difference, like teachers/tutors talking to her like a real person or literally getting down to her level instead of standing over her in classhow she wished it hadn't taken so long in her educational journey for adults to simply tell her they believed in herTeachers, parents, and students can all learn so much from Taylor's story, so share this ep with someone who needs to hear it and get in touch below to let us know how it resonated with you!About Taylor: (Instagram, TikTok)Taylor Telfer-Thompson is a high school student who has faced significant struggles with math throughout her education, but has never given up.  Her story shows what it looks like to persevere in the face of difficulty, to wrestle with identity, and to keep trying even when math feels impossible.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)From the moment Vanessa met bestselling authors/podcasters Cat and Nat on Breakfast Television, where the 2 moms proudly professed to hate math ... she knew she had to have them on Math Therapy to dig deeper and find out why.  They are the definition of unfiltered, so they are a perfect fit!This interview may be uncomfortable for teachers to hear - honestly, it was difficult for Vanessa at times to not be defensive.  But the fact is, we need to know what students and parents are really going through; not just in the classroom but in their entire, completely chaotic modern lives.About Cat and Nat: (Website, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube)Between the two of them, bestselling authors & podcasters Cat & Nat have seven kids, zero down time, and an unshakable belief that motherhood shouldn’t feel like solitary confinement. Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)*call-out before we get into today's ep* - If you or a colleague/parent/student has a story about incorporating the absurd 6-7 phenomenon into actual learning, we need you!  Seriously, send us a brief text or a voicenote via Instagram DM or email.  We've heard some stories and want to do an episode about enhancing learning by reaching kids through their interests (no matter how ridiculous we think they are...)On today's episode w/ Rob Baier:Vanessa often goes into our interviews with a thorough plan, and then as soon as we hit record she instead asks the first random thing that pops into her mind and never looks at the outline again.  Well, today's episode with trailblazer Rob Baier is one of those rollercoasters!  Some of the rabbit holes they end up in include:how our assessment systems contribute to math anxiety/traumawhy we actually became so obsessed with getting every student into calculuswhat student learning has in common with binging an entire season of Ginny and Georgia (spoiler alert: we have it all backwards)About Rob: (LinkedIn)Rob is passionate about inspiring the next generation of math enthusiasts! As a Growth Lead at Innovamat, Rob is dedicated to bringing innovative math education solutions to schools across three states. With a diverse background in education, including roles as a math teacher, curriculum director, and professional development leader, he is committed to empowering educators and students. He is also a co-host of the #DebateMath podcast and a frequent presenter at national and regional conferences.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)This past weekend, hearts across North America shattered as the plucky underdog Toronto Blue Jays lost to the LA Dodgers in extra innings of the deciding Game 7 of the Major League Baseball World Series.  And if none of those words matter to you at all - then you and Vanessa have much in common!However, as a self-admitted bandwagon jumper, even though she was down in the US on a math ed conference tour, she was all in on this series and sucked a bunch of colleagues into her orbit along the way.  While this is obviously not a sports podcast, she and her teacher friends couldn't help observe parallels between what they saw on the field & went through together as new fans, compared with what they see day to day in their students' journeys through the education system.So Vanessa and David jumped on to discuss some of these parallels, share some voice memos from her teachers-turned-superfans group chat, and even call in a pinch hitter (a term she learned last week) to share the inside scoop on what might actually be going through these pro athletes' minds in the most high pressure situations imaginable and how a student can approach a math test the same way.The dream team: (aka teachers Vanessa literally forced to watch the games)Jenna Laib (Website, Bluesky)Alison Mello (Website, Instagram)Kim Montague (Instagram, Bluesky)Shelby Strong (Website, Bluesky)Guest "analyst": (aka ex-Olympic athlete / current math ed rock star)Peter Liljedahl (Website, Instagram)Past ep: Teaching students to ... think?! w/ Peter LiljedahlContact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Most episodes, Vanessa is chatting with colleagues about the root causes of math anxiety/trauma and exploring how math education can change to avoid causing them.But as long as math remains a 4-letter word for some, we need some practical coping strategies!  So today, Vanessa details 5 ways you can flip anxious math moments into empowering ones - for teachers, parents, and students.Learn how to:Trade control for curiosityAdmit what you don't knowNot be afraid to follow tangents in classCoregulate before you educateHeal your own math traumaOther episodes mentioned:How to find the "why" in math class w/ Mike FlynnWhy 1 + 1 isn't always 2 w/ Eugenia Cheng5 simple Math Therapy strategies for your classroomContact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Sometimes an interview fires us up so much here at Math Therapy HQ, that we end up debriefing and debating it long after the guest has signed off - at which point producer David says to host Vanessa "we should have recorded THAT too!"So today, we actually did!  We kept the mics rolling after interviewing last week's guest, Dr. Raj Shah, resulting in a discussion on the mechanics of memory & aptitude and a spirited debate as David pushed back against Vanessa's war on the words "natural ability".  We would LOVE to have an expert in this field on the podcast, so if you have any suggestions let us know!And we want to know what you think as well - are some people born better at some things than others?!  Let us know below!Episodes referenced:Why math sucks and how to fix it w/ Raj ShahMath ed needs more conversations like this w/ Pam HarrisContact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)What is memory? Are different brains good at memorizing different things (like math vs music)? Is memorization even a good way to learn? Why don’t we teach math like we teach reading? Why do we love puzzles and escape rooms but hate math class? Is it possible to make math learning fun?? Will Vanessa ever learn how to explain how to text the podcast?!?! How does this all relate to math trauma?!?!?!Ok.  Deep breaths.  Today's ep with Dr. Raj Shah was a rollercoaster, as every question spawned 10 more!  Connecting the big thorny debates of math education with the humanity and complexity of what students are actually experiencing in their minds and bodies, Vanessa and Raj laughed, cried, and one of them even broke out into song (probably not the one you expected!)If you need a triple shot of inspiration, hope, and laughter today, this episode is for you.Show notes:Raj’s TED Talk "Using Video Game Principles to Improve Math Scores"Ted Lasso scene "Be curious, not judgmental"All of Me by John LegendGood Inside by Becky KennedyAnnie Fetter “Notice and Wonder”Math Therapy S5E06: Redefining Success Send us your 3 superpowers!About Raj: (Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook)Dr. Raj Shah is the founder of Math Plus Academy, a founding member of the Global Math Project, and a leading voice in making math irresistible. Raj is passionate about creating math experiences that feel joyful and accessible, drawing inspiration from everything from video game design to human psychology. Beyond math, Raj is deeply interested in spirituality and therapy, seeing connections between how we approach math, how we heal shame, and how we make sense of the world.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Today's ep ended up in a different place than Vanessa expected when she first sat down to chat with Pam Harris, founder of Math Is Figureoutable. Their first real interaction was on the DebateMath Podcast; Pam insisted that learning algorithms/shortcuts can actually hold students back from true learning, while Vanessa advocated for kids to learn however works for them.Often, that's where it ends.  Worse, especially in the "everyone yell at each other" media landscape, the conversation never begins!  Which makes today's episode so refreshing - a debate that was more philosophical than ideological. Pam and Vanessa had the time to really go into depth about what they disagree on and where they see eye to eye ... spoiler alert, they're actually pretty aligned!Links discussed:Math Is Figureoutable PodcastFree resource download: mathisfigureoutable/big#MathStratChatVanessa & Pam debate algorithms on the DebateMath PodcastOutliers by Malcolm GladwellAbout Pam: (Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook)Pam Harris is a leading math educator, author, and speaker best known for her work on making math figure-out-able. Through her books, podcast, and teaching, she helps classrooms move away from rote memorization and answer-getting, and toward math as something students can sense-make, reason through, and truly understand. She’s passionate about showing that math isn’t about tricks or steps—it’s about thinking, starting with the knowledge students already bring to the table.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)We're trying something new this week!  Last week's ep with Mike Flynn dove into some very murky debate waters: do students need to know the "why" of what their learning in order to truly understand material, or is it fine for them to just memorize things as long as they get the answers?  (If you missed, scroll back in your feed or click here to catch up.)But the real drama took place over on TikTok, where Vanessa posted a clip from the ep and some viewers engaged in very polite and erudite discussion in the comments ... jk, people LOST THEIR MINDS.  But there were also a ton of great points that are often debated in math ed, so we invited Mike back on this week to respond to some comments real-time and clarify some of what he and Vanessa meant last week.  Enjoy - and either way, you know where to let us know what you think ;) Links discussed:How to find the "why" in math class w/ Mike Flynn (last week's ep)The TikTok that started it allLost S2E01 - *why* was Desmond typing the numbers?!Connect with Mike Flynn: Website, TikTok, InstagramContact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)When Mike Flynn started teaching, math was just one of many subjects he had to guide his students through.  The problem was, the way he was taught math made him hate it!  But when a new career opportunity gave him the chance at a much deeper understanding of the concepts and a reason "why" they mattered in the real world, Mike realized that he wasn't confined to just teaching the way he was taught - he could give students and teachers the chance to value math right from the jump.On today's episode he joins Vanessa to discuss:Why making mistakes is essential to deep mathematical understandingHow shifting from “right answer” thinking to a focus on reasoning and flexible thinking can transform the way we approach math problemsStrategies for helping students (and adults!) overcome math anxiety and see themselves as capable, creative problem solversLinks discussed:Open Middle - for encouraging flexible thinkingVanessa's interview with co-founder Robert KaplinskyBooks mentioned:Beyond Answers: Exploring Mathematical Practices with Young Children by Mike Flynn5 Practices for Orchestrating Productive Mathematics Discussions by Peg Smith and Mary Kay SteinNix the Tricks: A guide to avoiding shortcuts that cut out math concept development by Tina CardoneAbout Mike Flynn: (Website, Twitter, Instagram)Mike Flynn is an internationally recognized math educator, Director of Math Programs at Mount Holyoke College, and founder of Flynn Education. He has led professional development for teachers around the world, authored Beyond Answers: Exploring Mathematical Practices with Young Children, and served on the NCTM Board. His work focuses on helping teachers move beyond rigid instruction to curiosity-driven, identity-building math learning.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)If you follow Vanessa on Instagram, you know the rollercoaster she went on to record the audiobook version of Math Therapy ... well, the hard work / literal sweat & tears paid off because it is now out!  You can find it on Audible/Amazon right now, and if you have never used Audible you can likely get it for a free credit with their new trial offer. (It will be on Spotify soon as well, let us know if there's any other platform it should be added to.)We wanted to share an exclusive sample with our listeners, so this week's episode features the entire preface, which is also a great introduction to Vanessa's story and how she came up with Math Therapy in the first place!  And if you do end up getting the full audiobook please leave a rating/review and share it with a friend ❤️Shop the Math Therapy collection:paperback/ebookaudiobook (US, Can, UK, Aus, Germany, or global)merch storeContact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Have you ever felt like it's impossible to win an argument with someone, or even simply see eye to eye on anything?  On today's episode, mathematician Eugenia Cheng joins Vanessa to challenge the black-and-white thinking that often defines our world - especially in math class.3 Key Topics Discussed:Why seemingly silly questions like "is math real?" or "when does 1 + 1 not equal 2?" are both valid and valuableHow Eugenia works to help people overcome math trauma the way she overcame ... sports trauma!How emphasizing context, creativity, and nuance - not just right or wrong answers - can help students develop more flexible and creative thinkingShow notes:Eugenia on The Late Show with Stephen ColbertEugenia discussing viral "Is Math Real" TikTok on CBC RadioAbout Eugenia Cheng: (Website, Twitter)Dr Eugenia Cheng is a mathematician, educator, author, public speaker, columnist, concert pianist, composer and artist. Alongside her research and undergraduate teaching, her aim is to rid the world of “math phobia”.  Her first popular math book, How to Bake Pi, was published by Profile (UK)/Basic Books (US) in 2015 to widespread acclaim including from the New York Times, National Geographic, Scientific American, and she was interviewed around the world including on the BBC, NPR and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Today we celebrate back to school week with ... the official launch of Math Therapy as a weekly podcast!  On today's episode, Vanessa catches you up on everything going on in Math Therapy-land, and shares 5 very simple and quick strategies that teachers can employ to make this year's classroom more empowering - both for students and themselves.5 low-lift Math Therapy strategies for the new school year:Watch your facial expressionsWatch your languageAsk students about their thinking processGet on your student's level - literallyAsk students about their "math story"Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)As long as Charizma Laughton can remember, her entire life was defined by a singular identity: she's bad at math, because she's not smart.  This self-image was rooted in deeply traumatic math class experiences that completely dismantled her self-confidence and made her feel like she was simply not capable of ... anything.BUT THEN: she and Vanessa met after a yoga class in Bali recently, and after a mere two weeks of math therapy sessions together, Charizma had done a complete 180 (see what we did there?) and now has an entirely new outlook on not just math but on her entire life!  And she was brave and courageous enough to come on the podcast to tell the whole story.Charizma's turbulent relationship with math will sound familiar, but what makes this episode one of a kind is her openness to rewriting her narratives, her commitment to confronting her fears, and the joy in her voice as she triumphantly declares herself not just a math person but a full-on mathematician!Send this episode to the anyone in your life that recoils in fear at the word "math" - if Charizma can rewrite her story, anyone can.Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)First of all, big news: as of this fall, Math Therapy will be a weekly podcast!  This has long been a goal, so after 6 glorious 10-episode seasons and a bunch of bonus eps along the way, we'll be hitting your feed every single Thursday starting September.For now, we are back this month with 2 special interviews we recorded earlier in the year with some friends we made in Bali, Indonesia. (Next week's episode will legit blow your mind!!) Today, Vanessa explores the power of intuition and its role in math education with Rebecca McLeod, an artist/designer, yogi/meditator, and all around chill vibe.  Rebecca shares how discovering sacred geometry as an adult led her to reconnect with math and examine the idea of a deep and inner sense of knowing.  They discuss how this kind of intuitive thinking can help students engage with math on a more personal (and, dare we say, spiritual!) level, and how that can help them build real confidence in their learning. They also share practical tips for both teachers and students to tap into their intuition, and highlight the importance of creating a loving and curiosity-driven math classroom.If you've ever struggled with math anxiety or felt disconnected from math, this episode offers a fresh, grounded, and empowering outlook.Show notes:The Ancient Secret of the Flower of Life, Vol 1 by Drunvalo MelchizedekThe Flower of Life (google image search)Wikipedia article on Sacred GeometryConnect with Rebecca on Instagram @rebxxartContact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Given how much Vanessa talks about astrology on the podcast, what do you think her success rate was for guessing the star signs of all the guests last season?  Today's episode (guest "hosted" by producer David) reveals all ... and also drops some hints about what to expect from this podcast in the coming months!Show notes:Math Therapy the book - buy from Corwin Press or AmazonS5 outtakes: The Awkward GoodbyeContact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)If you're a fan of the podcast, you've often heard Vanessa mention our producer "David" in reference to him getting mad at her for yelling into the mic or hitting the mic or generally doing things that impact the quality of this AUDIO medium.  And if it isn't apparent, this is actually David typing, because I also handle publishing the episodes, so I'll stop referring to myself in the 3rd person because it's weird!In September we released an episode in which I interviewed Vanessa about her career and about her new book Math Therapy, a resource for teachers to bring strategies in the classroom to help students build a better relationship with math.  (After a little digitial mix-up, it is now shipping on Amazon/Kindle so go grab it!)Afterwards, she decided to interview me about my own math journey, what I enjoy about working on the pod, and what I really think as an outsider about how intense the "math wars" debate has gotten.About David:In addition to producing/editing this podcast, I work as a mechanical engineer (3D CAD modelling and drafting) and play guitar & sing in the band Vanessa and I started in 2011, Goodnight Sunrise.  I don't have any personal social media links but I'm usually the snarky one behind our Twitter, so connect with Vanessa at the usual places below!Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Having attended and presented at the annual NCTM (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics) conference, Vanessa reached out to "famously nice guy" Kevin Dykema, the organization's President, to learn more about his journey to the top.  Along the way she was surprised to learn that even he battles imposter syndrome, and the way he's learned to deal with it is by "learning what he doesn't know" and not being afraid to reach out for help.Today's conversation covered the pros and cons of professional development, advice on how teachers can adapt to changing education systems, and how perspectives on math anxiety have shifted in recent years.  Kevin has an incredibly inspiring and optimistic outlook on education and you're going to love this convo!About Kevin: (Twitter)Kevin Dykema is President of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), an international mathematics education organization with more than 30,000 members.  He has taught 8th grade mathematics for over 25 years and is currently at Mattawan Middle School in southwest Michigan. Kevin is a frequent speaker before mathematics education audiences and has co-authored Productive Math Struggle. Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)HUGE news - Math Therapy is now a book!  Vanessa has taken everything she's learned in her career helping students overcome math trauma, and all the insights from the 6 seasons of this podcast, and formulated a 5-step process to bring math therapy into classrooms and help all students develop a better relationship with math.To celebrate, Math Therapy producer David Kochberg turned the mic around and interviewed Vanessa about how Math Therapy started in the first place, what gives her hope about the future of math education, and how she really feels about the provocative term "edu celeb"...Show notes:Math Therapy the book is out now - buy from Corwin Press or AmazonS3E09: I’m not a math person, don’t @ me w/ BexVanessa's master's thesis "Imagining a World Where Paris Hilton Loves Math"Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Dan Finkel is an author/educator who believes that humans are wired to be curious from birth, and that play is the secret to maintaining that joy of learning throughout childhood.  On today’s season 6 finale, he and Vanessa discuss how teaching kids about math can be so much more fun than we think; it can mean playing board games, counting on their fingers, anything that helps them develop an intuitive sense that there are patterns and structures in the world for them to discover. They also discuss how play-based approaches can even help grown-ups heal from math trauma!About Dan (Website, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn)Dan Finkel is the Founder and Director of Operations of Math for Love, a Seattle-based organization devoted to transforming how math is taught and learned. Dan is an author and game designer, develops curriculum, leads teacher workshops, and gives talks on mathematics and education. He contributes regularly to the New York Times Numberplay blog and hosts Seattle’s Julia Robinson Math Festival annually.Show notes:Dan’s TED Talk: Five Principles of Extraordinary Math TeachingMartin Gardner’s “Mathematical Games” column in Scientific Americanearlyfamilymath.orgDan’s book: Pattern BreakersUpscale pattern blocksContact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Dr. India White learned grit and resilience the hard way: facing down obstacles throughout her life and deciding she wouldn’t back down.  Now she coaches teachers and students on developing their own gritty superpowers, and she joins Vanessa today for wide-ranging and inspiring conversation. They discuss her journey from a homeless shelter to a college dorm, how equity is about so much more than just race, and the power of lifting each other up as an antidote to fear.About India:(Website, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn)As a TEDx speaker, I motivate students who are disadvantaged and at-risk of dropping out! As an educational consultant,  I help teachers understand equity and grit in a math classroom! As a speaker coach, I help leaders grow their speaking business! As a co-author for Big Ideas Learning, I provide a diverse lens on teaching math for all learners! As a #1 best-selling Published Author, I help aspiring authors thrive and finish writing their book!Show notes:India’s TEDx Talk “The Power of Grit”Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)What if the secret to winning a debate was actually listening to your opponent? What if you could build confidence and overcome anxiety through the practice of public speaking?  And HOW does someone go from dreams of Broadway fame to teaching debate in math class?!  Find out today as Vanessa chats with math educator/coach Chris Luzniak, host of The DebateMath Podcast!About Chris (Website, Twitter, Instagram)Chris Luzniak is an international math consultant and instructional coach. While teaching in New York City public schools he founded the Speech and Debate team, and through this combination of teaching and coaching Chris has developed debate routines that bring student voice and discussion into the math classroom. He coaches teachers in both math and science to develop real-world debate activities for students, hosts The DebateMath Podcast (Subscribe, Twitter, YouTube), and explores these themes further in his book Up for Debate!Contact us:Vanessa Vakharia: Instagram, TikTok, EmailMath Therapy: Text the PodcastMore Math Therapy:Get the book: Corwin, AmazonAudiobook: Audible, SpotifyMerch store: Shop here