MindShift Podcast

Host Ki Sung takes listeners inside some of the public libraries that have made significant transformations to better serve community needs. Inspired by Chicago’s pioneering YOUmedia model, similar teen-centered library programs are now thriving in cities like New York and San Francisco.  These teen spaces support not just digital learning and creativity, but also emotional well-being and community-building after the isolation of the pandemic. Listeners will hear directly from students, and librarians about how these innovative programs are helping teens flourish, proving that libraries can be much more than just places for books—they can be places to belong.

Interacting with people from different generations has been shown to accelerate students’ social skills, improve literacy, and provide valuable lessons about history and culture. However, many students have limited opportunities to engage with older generations. And when these interactions do happen, they often remain one-sided or surface-level. In this episode, MindShift explores intergenerational programs at two schools, highlighting their benefits and uncovering research-backed strategies for creating impactful and enriching experiences for all involved.

Do you remember the sting of not being invited to a birthday party or watching your friend sit at a different lunch table? Most adults can recall a falling out with a friend—also known as a friendship breakup. While romantic relationships and their endings get plenty of attention, friendship breakups are often overlooked, despite being just as painful and impactful. For adolescents, whose brains are wired for social connection, these rifts can feel world-ending. Parents and counselors play a crucial role in helping students navigate these experiences while also teaching them what it takes to build healthy, reciprocal friendships. In this episode, MindShift explores the science of friendship with journalist Lydia Denworth and hears from students, parents, and counselors about their experiences in the messy, meaningful world of adolescent friendships.

There is a common perception that Asian Americans don’t get involved with civic life, but a closer read of AAPI history proves that to be false.

When you think of debate, you might picture presidential candidates interrupting each other, pointing fingers, and undermining their opponents. It often feels like a reflection of today’s fractured and tense civic discourse. But in high school debate clubs, students are learning a different approach. These clubs provide a rare space where young people can engage with current events, articulate their ideas, and—perhaps most importantly—practice active listening. At a time when algorithms often reinforce a single perspective and fewer young people engage with the news, that’s no small thing. A 2022 RAND report found that only 37% of schools have debate clubs. What are these clubs doing right, and should that number be higher?

A teacher discovers that her students light up when sharing personal stories rather than writing traditional prompts. Inspired by The Moth Radio Hour, she implements a storytelling approach to boost engagement and creativity. This method not only transforms writing experiences but helps build a strong classroom community. By creating a safe space for students to express themselves, she fosters empathy and personal connections, igniting a love for storytelling that enhances their overall learning journey.

Mindshift returns with Season 10. We’re exploring how to help kids find their voice, balance their identity, and just be kids. Hear practical tips and expert insights on how to better show up for young people in the classroom and beyond. Follow Mindshift wherever you get your podcasts or visit https://www.kqed.org/podcasts/mindshift .

This month MindShift is sharing an excerpt of an episode from our friends at KQED's Forum. Forum tells remarkable and true stories about who we are and where we live. KQED's Grace Won talks to linguist and author Michael Erard.  In his new book, Bye Bye I Love You: The Story of Our First and Last Words, Erard compiles stories from medical archives and ancient texts as well as first-hand accounts by doctors and doulas to examine why these particular words mean so much to us. Listen to the full episode here: https://www.kqed.org/forum/2010101909002/the-stories-behind-our-first-and-last-words

Tanner Higgin, a senior educational technology researcher, Kira Bettis, a digital teaching specialist, and Steve Saltwick from Braver Angels share strategies to improve media literacy amid rising misinformation. They discuss how fostering dialogue can bridge political divides and strengthen democracy. The conversation highlights the evolving nature of media education in schools and the importance of incorporating diverse perspectives. They also explore fostering understanding in difficult conversations and the role of identity in media interpretation.

Vietnamese children’s book illustrator Minnie Phan talks to KQED's Ki Sung about using art to process events and heal wounds in the Vietnamese diaspora.