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Better Learning Podcast

Better Learning Podcast

By: Kay-Twelve
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 The Better Learning Podcast is about improving education at all levels - Schools (public, charter, private, independent), Higher Education, & Corporate/Adult Learning. The major theme is to break down the silos and learn from others doing innovative things in education. We highlight innovative programs & initiatives, lessons learned, improvements to educational space, and real-world tactics while getting a deeper understanding of the people behind the innovation. Our guests include Heads of Schools, Superintendents, Principals, Entrepreneurs, Non-profit leaders and other innovators. Kevin Stoller, CEO of Kay-Twelve & author of Creating Better Learning Environments, is the host.©Copyright 2022
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Episodes
  • 'Napoleon Dynamite' with Brian Parker, Carla Cummins, and Kevin Stoller

    'Napoleon Dynamite' with Brian Parker, Carla Cummins, and Kevin Stoller
    May 14 2025
    In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller is joined by co-host Carla Cummins and guest speaker Brian Parker, AIA, ALEP—Vice President of K-12 at MHTN Architects—for a quirky and insightful conversation centered around the 2004 classic Napoleon Dynamite. As one of only two Accredited Learning Environment Planners in Utah, Brian brings a unique design perspective rooted in empathy, student agency, and unlocking the potential within every learner. Napoleon Dynamite follows the offbeat story of an awkward high schooler navigating friendship, identity, and self-expression in rural Idaho. Through the lens of this oddball comedy, Kevin, Carla, and Brian explore deeper themes of inclusion, overlooked potential, and the importance of designing learning spaces that honor the individuality of each student. They reflect on how schools can be more than institutions—they can be launchpads for confidence, creativity, and quiet greatness, especially for those who don’t always fit the traditional mold. Takeaways: Just like the characters in Napoleon Dynamite, students don’t all fit into a standard mold—and that’s something to celebrate. School environments should support individuality and provide room for students to be unapologetically themselves.When students feel seen, heard, and valued—whether in the classroom or the cafeteria—they’re more likely to engage and thrive. Designing for belonging is just as important as designing for function.Like Napoleon, many students have gifts that aren't always loud or obvious. Educators and designers should look for ways to highlight and support those quiet strengths.A little levity and creativity go a long way in helping students (and educators) feel connected and human. Schools don’t have to be stiff to be successful. About Brian Parker, AIA, ALEP Brian has dedicated his career to designing spaces that support the engagement of students and teachers in the learning process. He is one of roughly 100 Accredited Learning Environment Planners in the United States – and one of two in the State of Utah. His design talent, expertise, and leadership style inspires innovative solutions as he leads the MHTN K-12 team in developing educational facilities. Learn More About Brian Parker, AIA, ALEP: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianparkerarchitect/ Learn More About Co-Host, Carla Cummins LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-cummins-01449659/ Learn More About Kay-Twelve: Website: https://kay-twelve.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/ Connect with host, Kevin Stoller: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/ Episode 232 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/ Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website
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    45 mins
  • 'School of Rock' with Mason Pashia

    'School of Rock' with Mason Pashia
    May 7 2025
    In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller is joined by co-host Matt Rogers and guest speaker Mason Pashia, Partner (Storytelling) at Getting Smart Collective, for an energetic and thought-provoking conversation centered around the 2003 cult classic School of Rock. Known for his work amplifying the voices of educators and change-makers through storytelling, Mason brings a fresh and imaginative lens to how we think about student engagement, creative expression, and nontraditional learning paths. School of Rock follows the story of Dewey Finn, a struggling musician who finds unexpected purpose—and unleashes unexpected potential—when he poses as a substitute teacher and transforms a class of rule-following prep school kids into a rock band. Together, Matt and Mason explore the film’s deeper themes of passion, authenticity, and belonging in education. They reflect on how schools can create space for students to discover their identities, pursue what excites them, and challenge conventional measures of success—all while staying grounded in a mission to serve and empower every learner. Takeaways: School of Rock highlights how stepping outside traditional curriculum and teaching methods can unlock student potential and engagement in surprising ways.Dewey Finn's enthusiasm for music becomes the bridge that allows students to connect with their interests—and with each other. Educators can harness this same power by leading with passion.The film underscores the importance of allowing students to have a say in their learning journey. When students are given autonomy, they rise to the occasion and take ownership of their growth.Matt and Mason explore how School of Rock challenges rigid definitions of success and encourages schools to recognize diverse forms of excellence—not just academic achievement. About Mason Pashia: Mason Pashia is a Partner (Storytelling) at Getting Smart Collective. Through publications, blogs, podcasts, town halls, newsletters, and more, he helps drive the perspective and focus of GettingSmart.com. He advocates for data and collective imagination and uses this combination to launch campaigns that amplify voices, organizations, and missions. With over a decade in the storytelling sector (including brand strategy, marketing and communications, and the arts), Mason is always striving to inspire as well as inform. Learn More About Mason Pashia: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/masonpashia/ Mason's Substack: Featuring Weekly Original Music and Poetry Learn More About The Getting Smart Podcast: Website: https://www.gettingsmart.com/podcast/ Catching Up: A New Podcast from Getting Smart The Third Horizon of Learning Flipping the Script: Hollywood’s Role in Changing Depictions of Learning Environments About Matt Rogers: Matt Rogers is a dynamic professional deeply committed to advancing the education industry through innovative strategies and impactful initiatives. As the Communications Manager at Kay-Twelve, he leads transformative efforts in education by revolutionizing physical learning environments and improving education through the use of media. His dedication has earned him recognition as Kay-Twelve’s Core Values Employee of the Year in both 2021 and 2022, and also positioned him as one of the inaugural winners of the NexGen Awards in 2023. Matt joined the Kay-Twelve team in 2019 as an intern while attending Fisher College of Business at The Ohio State University. Matt’s multifaceted approach extends beyond his role at Kay-Twelve; he serves as the lead Producer for the Better Learning Podcast where they facilitate enlightening discussions that break down the silos of physical space, leadership, and culture in education. Learn More About Matt Rogers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-rogers-profile/ Learn More About Kay-Twelve: Website: https://kay-twelve.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/ Connect with host, Kevin Stoller: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/ Episode 231 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/ Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website
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    59 mins
  • What Are Green Schools and Why They Matter

    What Are Green Schools and Why They Matter
    Apr 30 2025

    What is a Green School?

    When people hear “Green School,” they often picture solar panels, school gardens, or maybe a greenhouse out back. While those are pieces of the puzzle, the full picture is much more powerful.

    A Green School integrates sustainability into every aspect of the learning experience: from the design of its physical space to its curriculum, culture, and community impact. It’s a school that not only teaches sustainability but lives it, showing students, educators, and families what a healthier, more equitable future can look like—and empowering them to lead the way.

    In our latest episode of the Better Learning Podcast, we dive into why Green Schools matter now more than ever. With nearly 100,000 public schools across the U.S., the stakes are high. School facilities don’t just house students—they influence how well they learn, how healthy they are, and how connected their communities feel.

    We explore the current challenges in school infrastructure, including the startling reality that many buildings still lack basics like proper ventilation or air conditioning. These gaps disproportionately affect underserved communities and create barriers to learning and well-being.

    A Green School aims to change that. By reducing environmental impact, improving health and performance, and delivering sustainability education, these schools set the standard for how we treat each other and the planet. They become catalysts for change—transforming not just students, but entire communities.

    Takeaways:

    • Green Schools go beyond solar panels and gardens. They integrate sustainability into curriculum, culture, and community.
    • Millions of students attend outdated schools every day — with nearly 100,000 public schools across the U.S. and over 7.5 billion square feet in need of modernization, the learning environment is failing to keep pace with student needs.
    • School leaders play a critical role in long-term sustainability. Partnering with experts who prioritize healthy, future-ready design ensures that new school buildings serve students and communities for decades to come, not just on day one.
    • Schools can take advantage of available tax credits and funding by prioritizing sustainable building practices.

    About The Guest Panelists:

    Jana Silsby, DLR Group

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jana-silsby-450b7a13/

    Phoebe Beierle, U.S. Green Building Council:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phoebebeierle/

    Sara Ross, UnDauntedK12:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarajross/

    Connect with episode host, Carla Cummins:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-cummins-01449659/

    The Energy, Carbon, and Sustainability in K-12 Education Symposium

    When: June 24th-25th

    Where: Washington DC

    Register & Learn More Here!

    Episode 230 of the Better Learning Podcast


    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    For more information on our partners:

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

    Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/


    Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website
    Show More Show Less
    34 mins

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