Join Jenny Anderson, an award-winning journalist and author, along with Rebecca Winthrop, a renowned education authority, as they tackle the pressing issue of teen disengagement. They discuss their new book, which offers actionable strategies for parents and educators. Key topics include the disconnect between educational experiences and reality, the transformative power of student agency, and the vital role of parental support. Together, they advocate for educational reform to better prepare youths for the future.

In this enlightening discussion, Professor Susan D. Blum, a renowned anthropologist from Notre Dame University, explores the concept of 'schoolishness' and its impact on education. She critiques conventional schooling's rigidity and alienation, advocating for more culturally responsive and flexible approaches. The conversation touches on the importance of emotional connections in learning, the rise of unschooling as an alternative, and innovative community-driven projects like the Bowman Creek initiative that inspire authentic learning experiences.

In a compelling conversation with Karima Kadaoui, co-founder of the Tamkeen Community Foundation in Morocco, the discussion delves into the vital role of trust in education and community development. Karima emphasizes a transformative vision that shifts mindsets and nurtures growth, likening education to gardening. She explores how societal narratives impact self-worth and the need for collective action. By grounding human development in heartfelt intent, she advocates for an education that harmonizes essence and purpose, fostering connection and compassion in challenging times.

Ginie Servant-Miklos, an Assistant Professor and author, joins fellow guests Raïsa Mirza, a social entrepreneur; Will Richardson, co-founder of The Big Questions Institute; and Manda Scott, an award-winning novelist, to tackle the complexities of education amidst societal collapse. They discuss the importance of radical systemic change in education, the balance between fear and hope, and innovative approaches for climate resilience. The conversation also highlights youth empowerment in reshaping their educational journeys and the critical need for funding in community-driven initiatives.

Sir Geoff Mulgan, a Professor at University College London and former Chief Executive of Nesta, shares insights on the pressing need for educational reform. He discusses the challenges formal education faces, particularly in adapting to modern demands like AI and the pandemic. Mulgan critiques current structures and advocates for a collaborative approach, emphasizing the roles of intermediaries in fostering innovation. He also calls for designing more flexible institutions that prioritize human relationships and local contexts, paving the way for impactful change.

One of the things that I enjoy doing on the podcast is problematising various ’school subjects’. In previous episodes, with various guests we’ve questioned maths, languages, economics, history, physical education. But we haven’t yet taken a critical look at science itself, which is not only a set of disciplines, but also an approach and methodology that underpins a lot of the logic of how many like to imagine that we direct education, through evidence-based practice and the sciences of learning. Apparently it tells us ‘what works’ in inverted commas… doesn’t it? This week, it’s a massive pleasure to be chatting with the delightful and funny Subhadra Das a historian, writer, broadcaster, comedian, curator, researcher and storyteller who looks at the relationship between science and society. She specialises in the history and philosophy of science, particularly the history of scientific racism and eugenics, and for nine years, was Curator of the Science Collections at University College London. She was also Researcher in Critical Eugenics at the Sarah Parker Remond Centre for the Study of Racism and Racialisation. Subhadra has also appeared on radio and TV as a stand-up comedian. In this conversation we talk about her fantastic   recent book, Uncivilised: Ten Lies that Made the West. Subhadra Das (https://www.subhadradas.com/) is a historian, writer, broadcaster, comedian, curator, researcher and storyteller who looks at the relationship between science and society.  She specialises in the history and philosophy of science, particularly the history of scientific racism and eugenics, and what those histories mean for our lives today. For nine years, Subhadra was Curator of the Science Collections at University College London, where she was also Researcher in Critical Eugenics at the Sarah Parker Remond Centre for the Study of Racism and Racialisation.  She’s also a prolific writer, broadcaster on radio and TV and stand-up comedian. In this conversation we talk about her recent book, Uncivilised: Ten Lies that Made the West In which she brings the lens of the history of science to bear on Western tropes such as ‘knowledge is power’, ‘time is money’ and ’justice is blind’.

Charles Fadel, a global education thought leader and founder of the Center for Curriculum Redesign, dives into the transformative impact of AI on education. He discusses the importance of adapting educational systems to technological advancements and navigating the relationship between humans and machines. Fadel advocates for holistic education, balancing knowledge with character development. He highlights the significance of experiential learning and meta-learning, while addressing AI's environmental consequences, urging for cleaner technologies in education.

Zoe Weil, co-founder of the Institute for Humane Education and author of 'The Solutionary Way,' teams up with Julie Meltzer, education advocate and author, for an insightful conversation. They delve into the transformative power of humane education in fostering empathy and activism among students. Discussing the MOGO principle, they emphasize making choices that do the most good with the least harm. Their Solutionary Framework empowers learners to engage with real-world challenges, inspiring a new generation of solutionaries committed to social change.

Dr. Helen Street, a seasoned social psychologist and educator, champions holistic well-being in education. She emphasizes that living well isn't about quick happiness fixes but understanding the importance of context. Dr. Street critiques traditional views, advocating for educational frameworks that prioritize emotional needs, social connections, and resilience. She also highlights the role of unanswerable questions in learning and the necessity of psychological safety for fostering deeper exploration. Join her as she navigates risks, equity, and the transformative power of storytelling in schools.

Kevin Belin, Director of the Diné Bizaad Institute and a Navajo Language teacher, shares his passion for preserving the Navajo language and culture. He emphasizes how language shapes identity and community ties. The conversation dives into the complexities of Navajo verbs and their significance in modern communication. Belin also discusses the challenges alumni face in retaining their linguistic roots post-graduation, underscoring the vital role of education and community in nurturing cultural heritage for future generations.