In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we explore the transformative power of internships with Aya Belouadah, a college student at The Ohio State University and PAST Foundation Intern. Aya shares her journey from early high school internships to her current college experiences, highlighting how hands-on opportunities have shaped her approach to learning and professional growth.

We dive into the importance of authentic, work-based learning and how it builds not just technical skills but also confidence, communication, and agency. Aya reflects on the differences between high school and collegiate environments, emphasizing why building community, embracing critique, and advocating for yourself are essential for both personal and professional development.

Together, we discuss strategies educators can use to create meaningful internship experiences and foster collaborative, well-rounded teams. Aya’s insights are a compelling reminder of why early, real-world experiences matter—and how students can harness them to chart their own unique paths.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• The impact of internships on student agency and career direction
• The value of authentic, work-based learning over traditional classroom assignments
• Building community and communication skills within internship programs
• Navigating team dynamics and the challenges of collaborative work
• Strategies for educators to foster student growth, agency, and resilience

Resources:

• Read Hacking School: Five Strategies to Link Learning to Life by Annalies Corbin

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we welcome Marshall Escamilla, co-host and music creator for the Tumble Podcast, a show that brings the wonders of science directly to kids and families. Marshall shares how Tumble was born out of a desire to make science accessible, fun, and genuinely engaging—not just for future scientists, but for every curious young mind, even those who might think science isn’t “for them.”

We dive into how Tumble crafts episodes that spark curiosity by focusing on the stories behind real scientific discoveries. Marshall explains their process of sourcing wild and wonderful questions from kids—everything from “Why is underwear funny?” to “Can robots think like humans?”—and connecting those questions with active researchers to show that scientists are, at their core, just people trying to figure things out. He also highlights their efforts to support inclusive science education, including tools and curriculum to help students create their own podcasts and build scientific literacy in creative, accessible ways.

Tune in as we explore the impact of inviting kids to see themselves as scientists, no matter their background or career path, and why nurturing curiosity and scientific thinking is essential for preparing thoughtful citizens for the future.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• How Tumble Podcast uses real stories to spark scientific curiosity in kids
• The process of turning children’s questions into episodes with scientists
• Supporting blind and low-vision students through accessible podcasting
• Empowering students and classrooms to create their own podcasts
• Why building scientific literacy matters for all, not just future scientists

Resources:

• Tumble Podcast: Listen to stories of discovery and curiosity-driven science.
• MakeClassroomPodcast.com: Explore Tumble’s podcast creator tool and curriculum for classrooms.
• Brains On! Podcast: Another leading science podcast for kids mentioned by Marshall.

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Dr. Lisa Strohman, founder of Digital Citizen Academy and author of Unplugged: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and Digital Distress: Growing Up Online. Dr. Strohman brings a wealth of expertise as a clinical psychologist, sharing her journey from hands-on clinical practice to building research-based programs that empower students to navigate technology with confidence.

We dive into the real-world impacts of technology overuse in classrooms and at home, exploring why conversations around digital citizenship have never been more urgent. Dr. Strohman walks us through the creation and success of Digital Citizen Academy, highlighting how intentional, scaffolded programs can reduce technology-related infractions and help students become leaders and decision-makers in their digital lives.

Together, we discuss the physiological and social effects of constant connectivity, the importance of critical thinking in the age of AI, and what it looks like to equip young people—and their parents—with the tools to define their own “brand” and values as they move through a digital world. Dr. Strohman shares both professional insights and personal experiences, emphasizing agency, self-trust, and the need to help students shape their futures with intention.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• The urgent need for digital citizenship education and why it matters now more than ever
• How Digital Citizen Academy’s research-based programs are transforming school culture and student behavior
• The impact of personal devices and social media on learning, mental health, and self-image
• Preparing students for a tech-driven world without losing critical thinking and self-regulation skills
• The role of parents and educators in helping kids define their own values and navigate digital challenges

Resources:

• Digital Citizen Academy: Learn more and bring programming to your school or community at dcakids.org
• Get free copies of Dr. Lisa Strogman’s books at https://drlisastrohman.com/free-ebooks/

Produced by NOVA