The Edumyseat Podcast

In this episode, Josh welcomes Sarasina Tuchen, a distinguished tech and transportation professional who is now doing great work at the intersection of STEAM education and advanced air mobility. They discuss the importance of using emerging technologies like electric and autonomous aircraft as the entry point to get young people learning and interested in eventual careers in STEAM disciplines. Sarasina shares her insights on engaging K-5 students through Mighty Tails, an innovative program she created to inspire young minds and create pathways into aviation careers. The broader conversation highlights the need for equitable access to education and the potential for advanced air mobility to transform transportation in California and beyond.

In this episode, Josh welcomes Dr. John Pascarella, an expert in teacher education reform, racial equity, and digital media literacy, to discuss the critical role of mentorship in teacher preparation and retention in California. They explore the disconnect between education professionals and the legislative process, the challenges faced by new teachers, and the need for systemic changes in funding and support for mentorship programs. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing mentor teachers as essential educators and advocates for better policies to support them.

In this episode, Josh hosts Dr. Karen Escalante, an expert on teacher education and preparation, for a discussion on the current state of the educator workforce in California, highlighting the alarming trend of teacher attrition and the challenges faced by both new and veteran teachers. The conversation delves into the complexities of teacher preparation programs, the need for diversity in the teaching profession, and the impact of politics on education. Dr. Escalante emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment for teachers and students alike, while also expressing optimism for the future of education through advocacy and policy engagement.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh welcomes Mike McGuffee, CEO of Unite for Literacy, to discuss the critical importance of early childhood literacy, community involvement, and creating the conditions that foster a lifelong love of reading. The conversation explores the impact of books in homes, community-driven initiatives like book gardens, and the influence of digital environments on reading behaviors.

This week on The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh sits down with Tim Daly, a former classroom teacher, founder of EdNavigator, and author of the Substack The Education Daly. Tim’s latest piece, “Bring Back the Try-Hard,” makes a compelling case that effort isn’t a personality trait or a punishment; rather, it’s the real engine of learning. And when adults remove too much friction, kids don’t rise to the occasion; they simply do less. In this conversation, Josh and Tim dig into why student effort has slipped, how schools and families can rebuild it, and what it looks like to strike the right balance between compassion and challenge. It’s a candid look at expectations, culture, and the simple truth that learning still requires work.

In this episode of the Edumyseat podcast, Josh engages with Dr. Kieran O'Mahony and Jessilyn Barnhurst to explore the critical question of whether we are truly preparing students' brains for learning. They discuss the insights from neuroscience regarding the adolescent brain and how these insights inform the ASCEND program, which aims to help students arrive at school regulated and ready to learn. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding individual differences in students' needs and the role of a supportive environment in fostering learning. Their conversation explores the innovative approaches to education through brain-based learning, emphasizing the importance of creating a co-created environment for students. The discussion highlights the significance of morning routines, understanding sensitivity versus resilience, and the role of the amygdala in emotional regulation. The speakers share insights on engaging students through choice, shifting from extrinsic to intrinsic motivation, and the broader impact on the school environment. They also discuss the integration of teachers into this new educational paradigm and provide resources for further learning.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh welcomes Graham Dugoni, founder of Yondr, a California-based company which could be described as an “anti-tech company,” whose simple mission is to offset the intrusion of personal technology and create vital, distraction-free experiences. Their wide-ranging conversation explores the impact of smartphones on society, education and social development, and the growing consensus on the need for phone-free spaces to restore presence and focus in classrooms.

In this episode of the Edge of My Seat podcast, Josh welcomes Dr. Timothy Shanahan, a leading literacy scholar, to discuss the current state of literacy in America, the implications of the science of reading, and effective teaching strategies. They discuss the challenges faced by educators and students, the importance of quality instruction, and the need for a rigorous learning environment. Dr. Shanahan emphasizes the value of literacy in society and offers his insights on fostering a love for reading among young learners.

In this episode, Josh welcomes Dr. Janice Myck-Wane for a discussion of the complexities of special education in California, focusing on the challenges faced by teachers, students, and families. They explore the role of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), the impact of chronic underfunding, and the teacher shortages in the field. The conversation also delves into the credentialing process for educators and the potential innovations that could shape the future of special education, including the use of AI.

In this episode of the Edumyseat Podcast, Josh Newman discusses the complexities of English language learning in California with Francesca Sanchez, a seasoned expert in bilingual education. They explore the misconceptions surrounding English learners, the importance of multilingualism, and the need for effective programs that embrace California's diverse linguistic landscape. The conversation also touches on the political dimensions of language education, the misclassification of English learners, and the challenges of teacher recruitment and retention. Ultimately, they advocate for a more inclusive and enriched approach to language education that recognizes the value of all languages and cultures.

In this episode, host Josh Newman speaks with Superintendent Erin O'Neill of the MetroED School District in San Jose about the intersection of California's economy and Career Technical Education (CTE). They discuss the challenges of connecting students to the workforce; the importance of innovative programs and dual enrollment opportunities; the need for better funding and support for CTE initiatives; the importance of integrating career readiness with college preparation; and the future directions for CTE in California.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh Newman and Roman Stearns, the founder and executive director of an organization called “Scaling Student Success” discuss the evolving landscape of education, focusing on student assessment, agency, and the challenges around defining a more coherent vision and framework for California's educational governance. They explore innovative practices from other states, the challenges of legislative change, and the importance of civic education in preparing students for the future.

In this episode, Josh sits down with Sloane Keane, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire, to discuss the pressing crisis confronting boys and young men in California. They explore the critical role of mentorship in addressing academic, social, and emotional challenges faced by boys today, the need for male mentors, and the impact of mentorship on youth development. The conversation also touches on the challenges of engaging volunteers, the influence of technology on youth isolation, and the necessity for public-private partnerships to support mentorship programs like Big Brothers/Big Sisters that can make such a huge difference in the lives of young people.

In this episode of the Edge of My Seat podcast, host Josh Newman speaks with Tess Ulrey and Jonah Stewart from the Coalition for Responsible Home Education (CRHE) about the complexities of homeschooling. They discuss the motivations behind homeschooling, the public perception versus reality, the lack of state oversight, and the implications for child welfare. Both guests share their personal experiences as homeschool alumni and emphasize the need for policy changes to ensure the safety and educational quality for homeschooled children. The conversation highlights the growing trend of homeschooling, especially post-pandemic, and the importance of elevating alumni voices in the ongoing discourse.

In this episode, Miguel Villarreal, co-executive director of the National Farm to School Network, explains the importance of improving school nutrition and the challenges faced in advocating for better food systems. Miguel shares his personal journey from a farm worker to a nutrition advocate, emphasizing the need for community engagement and collaboration between educators and food service programs; emphasizes the impact of funding cuts on school nutrition initiatives; and encourages listeners to get involved in promoting healthier food options for children.

In this episode of the Edumyseat podcast, Josh interviews Erin Volk, Senior Vice President of Workforce and Community Development for the Association of General Contractors of California. They discuss the pressing workforce shortage in the construction industry, the need for better alignment between education and workforce demands, and the importance of engaging Gen Z in skilled trades. Erin also emphasizes the need to break gender stereotypes, improve career technical education (CTE) pathways, and promote entrepreneurship within the construction sector.

In this episode, Josh and Tony Brown discuss the vital role of Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) in providing expanded learning opportunities for youth in underserved communities. They explore the importance of creating safe spaces for children, the challenges of funding and resource allocation, and the need for comprehensive support systems that extend beyond traditional school hours. Tony shares insights from his long tenure at HOLA, emphasizing the impact of community engagement and the necessity of data-driven approaches to measure success. The discussion highlights the systemic challenges faced by educational institutions and the potential for innovative solutions to enhance the educational landscape for all children.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, Joanna McFarland, CEO and founder of HopSkipDrive, discusses the innovative student transportation solution designed to support vulnerable youth. The conversation explores the origins of HopSkipDrive, its partnerships with school districts, the challenges of navigating legislation, and the significant impact of transportation on educational outcomes. Joanna emphasizes the importance of tailored transportation solutions for students, particularly those in foster care or experiencing homelessness, and highlights the need for collaboration between transportation services and educational institutions to improve access and efficiency.

A discussion with Richard Reeves, author of the provocative book, "Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It". Josh and Richard explore the challenges facing boys in modern society, particularly in education, with particular attention to the significant gender gaps in educational achievement, the developmental differences between boys and girls, and the implications of these disparities.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh Newman and Heather Hough delve into the complexities of California's education funding, particularly focusing on the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF). They discuss the historical context leading to LCFF's implementation, the challenges faced in the wake of the pandemic, and the ongoing need for a balance between local control and state leadership in education. The conversation also touches on the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), the importance of mental health in schools, and the potential for learning from other states and countries to improve California's educational system. Finally, they explore the governance structures in place, debating the merits of an appointed versus an elected Secretary of Education.

In this episode, Josh welcomes Dr. Karen Anderson to discuss her role in leading Alabama's Office of Mathematics Improvement, focusing on the transformative efforts under the Alabama Numeracy Act. She shares insights on the importance of engaging teachers and students in mathematics, overcoming resistance to educational reform, and the significance of professional development. Dr. Anderson emphasizes the use of data to drive instructional improvement and the pivotal role of math coaches. She also highlights the need for a positive mindset towards math, the state's progress in math scores, and the future initiatives aimed at enhancing math education. The conversation touches on the integration of technology and AI in education, as well as the real-world applications of math skills.

In this episode of the Edumyseat podcast, host Josh Newman welcomes Dan DeJager, an award-winning physical education teacher, to discuss the critical role of physical education (PE) in the educational framework. They explore the importance of PE in promoting mental health, the challenges faced in the post-COVID era, and the need for a balanced approach to structured and unstructured play. Dan shares insights on the impact of PE on students' lives, the debate surrounding dodgeball, and the significance of fitness testing. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of keeping physical activity enjoyable and accessible for all students, particularly against the backdrop of intensifying youth sports specialization.

In this episode, Tim Ranzetta, founder of NextGen Personal Finance, discusses his journey in advocating for financial literacy education in California. He shares insights on the challenges faced in implementing a financial literacy curriculum, the importance of teacher training, and the successful ballot initiative that led to a new graduation requirement. Tim emphasizes the need for engaging students and teachers in the conversation about personal finance, highlighting the positive impact it can have on families and communities.

This week, Josh sits down with Dr. Debbie Rhea to explore how structured recess and whole-child education can transform school culture, student behavior, and academic outcomes. They dive into the origins of the Liink Project, the neuroscience behind movement and attention, and the policy implications for California’s K–12 system. It’s a timely conversation for educators, parents, and policymakers alike.

In this episode, Elizabeth Cushing, CEO of Playworks, discusses the critical role of unstructured play and recess in children's development and education. She emphasizes the benefits of play, including social skills, conflict resolution, and leadership development. The conversation also touches on legislative efforts to ensure recess is mandated in schools, highlighting the importance of creating a supportive environment for both students and teachers.

This week on The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh sits down with Nick Melvoin, a member of the Board of Education for the Los Angeles Unified School District. From his early days as a classroom teacher to his current role shaping policy for more than a half million students, Nick brings a reformer’s lens to the challenges of public education in LA. Nick and Josh discuss the complexities of district governance, the role of data and transparency, and what it takes to drive real change in the nation’s second-largest school system. Whether you're an educator, policymaker, or parent, this conversation offers sharp insights and candid reflections on the current state and the future of public schools.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, host Josh Newman speaks with Dr. Amy Alzina, Superintendent/Principal of Cold Spring Elementary School District and 2024 ACSA Superintendent/Principal of the Year, about how artificial intelligence is reshaping the possibilities for public education—even in California’s smallest districts. Dr. Alzina shares how she’s using AI-integrated planning tools to personalize instruction, streamline operations, and expand access to STEAM learning. From disaster recovery to data-driven decision-making, she offers a compelling vision for how small districts can lead big on innovation. The conversation dives into the ethics of AI in schools, the importance of human-centered design, and how urgency and access must guide every tech-forward solution. Whether you're an educator, a policymaker, or a parent, this episode offers a grounded look at how AI can serve—not replace—the people at the heart of public education.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh sits down with Hedy Chang, founder and executive director of Attendance Works, to explore the urgent issue of chronic absenteeism in America’s schools. With millions of students missing 10% or more of the school year, Hedy breaks down how attendance is more than just a roll call—it’s a reflection of systemic barriers, family challenges, and school climate. Together, they unpack the data, the policy gaps, and the human stories behind the numbers. From post-pandemic recovery to actionable strategies for educators and lawmakers, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the root causes of student success.

In this, the debut episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, host Josh Newman sits down with Renata Simril, President and CEO of the LA 84 Foundation and the Play Equity Fund, to explore why play, sports, and movement are essential—not optional—for California’s kids. They dive into the Foundation’s mission, its impact on youth development, and their support for SB 291 (2023), a bill championing statewide recess standards. Renata also shares insights on AB 715, a new initiative to study access to sports across California. It’s a conversation about access, urgency, and the power of play to transform education and kids’ lives.