This week we have Laura Mazer on the podcast. Laura, a former surgeon, is now on the leadership team at Guidepost Montessori, the largest network of Montessori schools in the world In this episode, you’ll learn about Maria Montessori, the Montessori method, and how Montessori approaches education and development differently from traditional schools. You’ll learn about the importance Montessori places on children gaining a sense of independence and how Guidepost implements agency at different stages of development. You’ll hear the genesis of Guidepost and how it became the largest network of Montessori schools in the world. You’ll also learn about Laura’s career journey from the medical world to the education world and some of the through lines between the two. This episode is sponsored by John Galt Mortgage Company https://www.johngaltmortgage.com Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 02:00 - What is Montessori and Who Was Maria Montessori? 5:43 - What is Guidepost Montessori? 7:24 - Montessori Teacher Training 14:47 - Creating Curriculum with Real World Results 18:20 - Establishing Values for Montessori Students 26:42 - Planes of Development (Medium?) 38:28 - Sponsor: John Galt Mortgage Company 39:25 - Montessori’s Emphasis on Independence & Agency 43:47 - Humanism 49:07 - External Pressure and Expectations for Children 56:46 - The Virtue of Living a Good Life 1:02:00 - Implementing the Montessori Method for Older Kids 1:14:55 - Laura’s Path from Surgeon to Educator 1:26:23 - The Benefits of Having a Medical Background in Education 1:29:40 - How to Connect with Laura and Guidepost If You Enjoy This Show Please Subscribe and Give Us a 5-Star Rating ★★★★★ and Review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Connect with Guidepost Montessori: Website | https://www.guidepostmontessori.com Parenting Guide | https://theparentingguide.substack.com Connect with Hannah Frankman: Twitter | https://twitter.com/HannahFrankman RebelEducator | https://twitter.com/rebelEducator Website | http://hannahfrankman.com Follow along for conversations on education, lifestyle, personal development, and freedom. All in ardent pursuit of a life well lived.