STEMtastic Stories with Stanberry

Welcome to STEMtastic Stories with Stanberry SEASON 2—where we spotlight the voices that shape better teaching. In this episode, Missy Widmann shares her journey into neuroscience and why understanding the brain isn’t just for researchers—it’s for every classroom. We dig into the science behind movement and learning (inspired by John Ratey’s Spark), practical entry points for teachers who are new to brain science, and how to make SEL feel less “touchy-feely” and more like durable skill-building. We also explore how disequilibrium, funds of knowledge, and culturally relevant hooks (from K-Pop to gaming) can keep learning rigorous and relational. Missy closes with resources from her nonprofit and a roadmap for bringing open, brain-based strategies to your students—because illuminating others never detracts from your own light.How Missy’s path into neuroscience informs day-to-day teaching movesWhy fitness and movement prime cognition, memory, and mood in classFirst steps for teachers: simple brain-aligned routines you can start tomorrowMaking SEL measurable: from vibes to viable, transferable skillsUsing student interests + scaffolds to create productive disequilibrium and deeper learningWhere to find Missy’s nonprofit resources and OER you can adopt immediatelyWhat you’ll learn

What does it really take to climb from small-town Friday-night lights to the roar of a Division One stadium? In this episode of STEMtastic Stories with Stanberry, I sit down with former player—and now fellow coach—Ryan Arredondo to unpack the work ethic and mindset that carried him to college baseball’s biggest stage. Together we tackle today’s “me-first” culture in youth sports, sharing candid locker-room stories and coaching insights on rebuilding a team mentality, demanding accountability, and translating athletic discipline into life success. Whether you’re a coach trying to rally a roster or an athlete chasing elite performance, Ryan’s hard-won lessons on grit, being a team guy, and relentless preparation will fire up your next practice/classroom—and maybe your next chapter. Tune in and get ready to work!

Swipe‑through dances? Sure. Lip‑sync comedy? Absolutely. But calculus proofs at a hundreds of thousands of views? That’s the specialty of our guest—an energetic college professor who’s transforming social media into the world’s biggest math classroom. Join host Mitchell Stanberry as we trace this educator’s journey from chalk‑dust lectures to flipped‑classroom livestreams, explore how just‑in‑time remediation turns “math as a gatekeeper” into “math as an open door,” and peek at why data‑science careers are exploding for today’s students. We dig into perseverance, college‑level grit, and the truth that illuminating others never dims your own light. If you’ve ever wondered whether TikTok can teach derivatives—or why your students can’t stop talking about “the math guy on Insta”—hit play and find out!

Step into the world of STEMtastic Stories with Stanberry, a show dedicated to the power of genuine teacher–student connections in shaping lives and inspiring new generations of educators. In this episode, Jeff and Sharee Mullin join their former student Myrella Gasca —now a fellow educator—to explore how early impressions, inclusive classrooms, and unwavering support can spark a lifelong passion for teaching. Discover how uplifting others never dims your own light, hear firsthand accounts of overcoming challenges to pursue higher education, and learn valuable strategies for staying motivated in the face of burnout. Whether you’re an aspiring teacher or a seasoned veteran in the field, this conversation offers insights and inspiration for cultivating empowering, student-centered environments that make a lasting impact.

Join me as I share stories of overcoming obstacles, shifting mindsets, and the pivotal moments that challenged and expanded my perspective about the community I teach in. In this episode, I’ll dive deep into the diverse experiences I had with a student and player at my school. From a rural school district to a community college Robert discusses the discoveries, challanges, and invaluable lessons from coaches and extracurricular activities he has learned throughout his education, this podcast highlights the power of education, personal growth, and supporting others to reach their fullest potential. Tune in for a journey that discusses hardships, community challanges, but helps empower, and celebrates the transformative impact of education!

In this episode of STEMtastic Stories with Stanberry, we sit down with a passionate educator whose journey spans from rural communities in Eastern Oregon to immersive musical collaborations in Ecuador. Together, we explore why the Arts are a vital addition to STEM—expanding creativity, fostering empathy, and enriching life both inside and outside the classroom. Our guest shares how music education can profoundly shape personal development for students of all backgrounds, and how serving as a Fulbright scholar in Ecuador offered unforgettable cultural exchanges that reframed their teaching philosophy. We also dive into the importance of building authentic connections through servant leadership, grounded in the belief that “illuminating others never detracts from your own light.” Finally, our guest provides heartfelt advice for educators eager to cultivate cultural awareness, genuine relationships, and transformative learning experiences—showing how faith, compassion, and global perspectives can be seamlessly woven into any curriculum.

Join us as we explore the extraordinary story behind Royal Football—one of the nation’s winningest small-school programs and the first in Washington state history to capture five consecutive state titles. In this in-depth conversation, we sit down with the coach at the center of it all to uncover the keys to building not just a perennial powerhouse on the field, but a life-changing experience for young men in a tight-knit community.From the evolution of Knight football and its core coaching philosophies to a unique youth development approach that spreads talent across multiple teams, you'll discover the blueprint behind Royal’s remarkable success. We delve into leadership councils, personal connections between coaches and players, and a coaching culture grounded in positivity, respect for the game, and the value of “illuminating others.” Learn how Royal’s staff prepares players to compete with unwavering confidence and how Friday night football unites an entire town, shaping students’ lives long after the final whistle.Whether you’re a coach, a parent, or someone who believes in the transformative power of sports done right, this podcast offers insights on cultivating leadership, fostering a sense of community, and leaving a lasting legacy—on and off the field. Tune in to find out how honoring each individual’s light ultimately fuels a championship tradition unlike any other.

Join me as I interview CWU Chemestry Professor Tim Sorey a longtime friend I wendt to college with as we explore questions such as: What does it take to embark on a college journey later in life—and even earn a Ph.D.? How can we guide learners to pursue genuine research interests? Why is place-based pedagogy so powerful, particularly when supporting Native populations and celebrating cultural stories alongside cutting-edge science? And how do we open the doors to STEM careers for every student by fostering equity, representation, and agency?Bringing perspectives togetherBy spotlighting authenticity, cultural respect, and diverse STEM insights, the podcast weaves together enlightening conversations that span advocating equitable STEM access to celebrating Indigenous and Hispanic goals, dreams, and insites. To promote an education system that serves all learners.

Join host Cinco Delgado in this inspiring episode ofSTEMtastic Stories as we explore what it truly means to stay current and innovative in education—no matter how many years you’ve been in the classroom. Our guest, a veteran teacher with two decades of experience, shares practical insights on balancing tried-and-true teaching methods with cutting-edge technology like AI and interactive tools. From leveraging data-driven strategies to amplifying student voice, this conversation dives deep into how educators can adapt to evolving needs while still honoring foundational practices. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just starting out, you’ll walk away with fresh ideas and renewed motivation to elevate your teaching and maximize every student’s potential.

Listen in as I chat with long time English/EL teacher Laurie Lafser of Royal School District. We focus on how she connects with students, specifically Multilingual Learners and their parents, and her work to create student voice for change. Her experience in a variety of roles gives her a unique perspective on school and the supports students and teachers need for academic success.

Connecting with Sarah Preister a professor of English at South Carolina State University discussing her thoughts on using Culturally Relevant Teaching and Funds of Knowledge to help students overcome trauma through Authentic Relationships with their Teachers. Such strong powerful words that are inspiring, what an amazing story teller!

Join me as I sit down with Bill Bakamus—Mark Morris Hall of Fame high school basketball coach and dedicated math teacher—whose four-decade career has been defined by discipline, unwavering team values, and an authentic commitment to his students’ success. Discover how Coach Bakamus inspired his players to excel both on the court and in the classroom, culminating in notable achievements like a visit from Governor Jay Inslee, the naming of his school’s gym in his honor, and a feature celebrating his retirement in High School SI.Through stories of perseverance, community, and genuine care, Coach Bakamus illustrates how educators can leave a lasting mark on the hearts and minds of young people. Tune in to learn his strategies for nurturing academic and athletic growth, and walk away with ideas for helping every student realize their full potential.