Edvolution Podcast

Επεισόδια

• 
  Rethinking Education in a Changing World (featuring Simon Lightman) 15.06.2026 33λ

  For our last episode of the season, we are reflecting on where education needs to go next. In this thought-provoking conversation, we sit down with educator, writer, and public philosopher of education Simon Lightman to explore some of the biggest questions facing schools today. Together, we examine the purpose of education in a time of uncertainty, what meaningful student agency really looks like, and how schools can move beyond compliance-driven approaches toward more ethical, future-focused learning. We discuss: What it means to think deeply about the purpose of education How schools can unintentionally prioritize compliance over genuine learning The difference between student voice and authentic youth agency Creating opportunities for responsibility and ethical leadership Why schools need to focus on educational futures, not just immediate outcomes As we approach the end of the school year, this episode is a timely invitation to zoom out, reflect on the bigger picture, and consider an important question: What are we really preparing young people for? Learn about Simon's work here: LinkedIn Website We'll be back in September with a whole new season, but until then, don't hesitate to connect with us at edvolution.services@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn!
• 
  Student Agency, Trust & Regenerative Learning (featuring Dr. Benjamin Freud) 07.06.2026 35λ

  What happens when schools move beyond student voice and create genuine opportunities for students to shape decisions, policies, and learning? In this episode, we speak with Dr. Benjamin Freud, Head of Upper School and Strategic Lead for Regenerative Education at Green School Bali. Benjamin challenges traditional assumptions about education, leadership, and the role of young people in creating positive change. Together, we explore: What regenerative education looks like in practice Why student agency must go beyond symbolic participation The power of flattening hierarchies in schools Building trust between students, educators, and leaders Preparing young people for uncertainty rather than a predetermined future The opportunities and challenges of AI in education Engaging parents as partners in learning and change This conversation offers a thought-provoking look at how schools can become communities where advocacy, collaboration, and meaningful participation thrive. As we approach the end of another school year, this conversation also invites us to pause and reflect on the bigger picture. Beyond the day-to-day demands of school life, what kind of learners, leaders, and communities are we hoping to cultivate? And how can we create the conditions for young people to play a meaningful role in shaping the future? Follow Benjamin's work here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminfreud/  Connect with us at edvolution.services@gmail.com to share ideas, feedback, or topics you’d like explored in future episodes.
• 
  Positive Persistance: Purposeful Action with Young Learners (featuring Heather Semon and Daniel Shrewsbury) 25.05.2026 33λ

  In this episode, we sit down with Heather Semon and Daniel Shrewsbury from the International School of Paris to explore how sustainability, service learning, and student voice can transform school culture. Heather and Daniel share their journeys into international education and describe how their shared passion for environmental stewardship led to the growth of the “Action Cubs,” a student-led initiative empowering young learners to take meaningful action around issues they care about most. From composting systems and urban gardening to food systems education and global sustainability conferences like ChangeNOW, this conversation is filled with practical ideas, inspiring stories, and thoughtful reflections for educators looking to create purposeful, student-centered learning experiences. Together, we discuss: Building student agency through sustainability and service learning Creating systems that support meaningful student action The power of collaboration and finding aligned partners Urban gardening and food systems education in schools Bringing real-world sustainability connections into the classroom How schools can start small and grow authentic sustainability initiatives over time Check out some of Heather and Daniel's favorite resources here: Compass Education Climate Fresk Eco-Schools ChangeNOW Connect with us at edvolution.services@gmail.com to share ideas, feedback, or topics you’d like explored in future episodes.
• 
  Purposeful Practice: Leadership & Learning in International Schools (featuring Teresa Tung) 11.05.2026 33λ

  In this episode, we sit down with Teresa Tung, Director of Curricular Programs at Hong Kong International School, for a thoughtful conversation about purpose, systems thinking, sustainability, and what it truly means to create flourishing school communities. Teresa shares her journey from growing up in Taiwan and immigrating to the United States, to becoming an international educator and leader across schools in Asia. Along the way, she reflects on identity, belonging, leadership, and how sustainability education transformed her understanding of the true purpose of schooling. Together, we explore: How educators can reconnect daily teaching to deeper purpose Why systems thinking matters for every teacher, not just sustainability educators The tension between curriculum demands and meaningful learning The importance of human flourishing, compassion, and wellbeing in schools What service learning can look like when students are trusted with authentic responsibility How becoming a parent reshapes our understanding of education Why young people are capable of far deeper systems thinking than we often assume Check out some of Teresa's favorite resources here: Compass Education Amala Education: Education with and for refugee youth Melbourne Metrics: New Metrics International Schools Program Connect with us for future topics and guests through LinkedIn or edvolution.services@gmail.com!
• 
  Global Service with Integrity: Accountability in Travel Experiences (featuring Mike Lee) 27.04.2026 29λ

  In this episode, we sit down with Michael Lee, founder and director of the Centre for Global Citizenship Studies (CGCS), to explore how service learning can move beyond good intentions toward meaningful, measurable impact. Mike's work focuses on making education more accessible while embedding real-world experiences into accredited learning pathways. We dive into what’s often missing in traditional service learning, and how better preparation, structured reflection, and a shift in mindset can transform these experiences for students and communities alike. Learn about Mike's work using the following links: Centre for Global Citizenship Studies LinkedIn Reach out to us at edvolution.services@gmail.com and tell us what you think!
• 
  Learning Through Tension: Why Struggle Matters in Education (featuring Dr. Jay Goodman) 12.04.2026 38λ

  In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jay Goodman, consultant with Goodman Learning Partners, to explore what it really takes to implement problem-based learning (PBL) in schools. From his early days teaching in Honduras with Mel, to launching innovative programs in Shanghai and Santiago, Jay shares a powerful journey that challenges how we think about learning, leadership, and school transformation. But this episode isn’t just about PBL. It’s about why so many well-intentioned programs fail… and what schools must build first to make them succeed. To connect with Jay and learn about his work, don't miss this great opportunity on April 20 at 7pm EST: The PBL Pre-Launch Checklist Webinar.  Looking for more information about Jay's "PBL Roadmap for Innovative Educators" online course? Email Jay at jay@goodmanlearning.com or book a call here.  And connect with us anytime through LinkedIn or edvolution.services@gmail.com!  
• 
  Learning That Transfers: Bridging Classrooms and the "Real World" (featuring Julie Stern) 30.03.2026 35λ

  This episode explores a big question: how do we prepare young people for a future we can’t predict? We’re joined by bestselling author and education consultant Julie Stern, whose work focuses on helping educators and families empower young people to navigate complexity, think critically, and apply their learning in meaningful ways. Julie shares her journey from school leadership to global consulting, and how her work has evolved to focus on one essential goal: helping learning transfer beyond the classroom. We dive into the idea of pattern seeking to help students connect prior knowledge to new and unfamiliar situations. Through real-world examples, Julie illustrates how concepts like ratios, resilience, and systems thinking can help students better understand the world around them and make more informed, ethical decisions. Learn more about Julie's amazing work using these links. Education to Change the World Conceptual Transfer LinkedIn Instagram  Connect with us anytime through LinkedIn or edvolution.services@gmail.com!
• 
  Teaching for Humanity in Uncertain Times (featuring Cathryn Berger Kaye) 16.03.2026 35λ

  Today’s episode is a little different. As we sat down to record, our team here in the UAE had been navigating difficult days in the region. Like many people around the world, we found ourselves feeling reflective, grateful for our communities, and reminded of why the work we do in education matters so much. So it felt especially meaningful to welcome international education consultant, author, and service learning pioneer Cathryn Berger Kaye to the podcast. Cathy has been shaping the field of service learning for decades, working with educators around the world to connect classroom learning with real-world purpose. She shares how her journey in education led her to champion service learning as a powerful way to connect classrooms with real community needs. We discuss why purpose, listening, and civic engagement matter more than ever, and how meaningful learning happens when students apply their knowledge to the world around them. In this episode, we reference the poem To Be of Use, which reflects on the value of meaningful work and contributing to something larger than ourselves. The poem resonates deeply with the purpose behind service learning and community engagement. Cathy consults in person and virtually with schools around the world. Mel highly recommends her Service Learning Specialist Course! Learn more about Cathy and her work on her website or reach out to her directly at cathy@cbkassociates.com. Connect with us! We’d love to hear your thoughts on this conversation. Reach out anytime at edvolution.services@gmail.com.
• 
  Making Field Trips Meaningful: Curriculum, Connection and Student Voice 02.03.2026 32λ

  This episode was supposed to be short… but once we started talking about field trips, we couldn’t stop. After Mel returned from a field trip, we decided to pivot and unpack a big question: What makes a field trip truly meaningful? We explore the spectrum of real-world learning experiences from schools that rarely leave campus to fully student-directed trips. Along the way, we talk honestly about the very real points of resistance: Cost, logistics, and time Safety, supervision, and behavior concerns Administrative pressure about “instructional time” The overwhelm teachers feel when planning But instead of stopping there, we reframe those challenges as opportunities. We also share examples of interdisciplinary field trips that blend social studies, science, math, language, and sustainability, discussing how the best trips are never built in isolation. And maybe most importantly, we remind ourselves: If we want real-world learning… we actually have to go into the real world. Or at the very least, intentionally bring it in! We want to hear from you: What are your field trip hacks? How are you navigating resistance? How are you making experiences meaningful and curriculum-connected? Our Edvolution newsletter comes out every other Monday (on non-podcast weeks), and we have a submission section just for educators like you. Use this form to send us: 250 words A photo of yourself Your field trip insight, strategy, or story We’d love to feature you. Connect with us any time on LinkedIn or email us at edvolution.services@gmail.com. 
• 
  From Passion to Practice: Building Systems for Sustainability in Schools (Featuring Clare Garey) 16.02.2026 30λ

  In this episode, we’re joined by Claire Gary, founder of Sustainability at School, for a timely and grounded conversation about what it truly means for schools to “get serious” about sustainability. Claire shares her non-traditional journey from the nonprofit sector into education and explains why sustainability can’t live in one-off eco days or isolated initiatives. Instead, it needs to be woven into a school’s culture, operations, curriculum, and decision-making.   To learn more about how Sustainability at School can help your school reduce its footprint and develop sustainability leadership, visit https://www.sustainabilityatschool.org/ or directly download an action plan and get started today! You can contact Clare directly at clare@sustainabilityatschool.org or www.linkedin.com/in/clare-garey As always, we’d love to hear from educators doing this work on the ground. If you’re involved in sustainability, service learning, or systems change at your school, reach out and share your story with us!
• 
  Teaching Global Citizenship: What does it mean to be a good person? (featuring D'Arcy Lunn) 02.02.2026 23λ

  In this episode, we’re joined by D'Arcy Lunn, founder of Teaspoons of Change and Group Head of Sustainability and Global Citizenship at Education in Motion. D'Arcy shares his journey from teaching in remote Aboriginal communities in Australia to leading global citizenship work across an international network of schools. Together, we explore what global citizenship really means (beyond travel, language learning, and buzzwords) and how it shows up in everyday school culture, classrooms, and personal choices. We talk about: Why global citizenship starts with belonging and being a good person The power of small, intentional actions (“teaspoons of change”) How sustainability, wellbeing, and learning are deeply connected Moving from sustainability toward regenerative thinking What schools can look for when global citizenship is truly alive, not just written in a mission statement This conversation is grounding, hopeful, and full of practical wisdom for educators who want to help students (and themselves) feel connected to something bigger...without burning out or trying to be perfect. Learn about D'Arcy's work here: Teaspoons of Change. As always, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out at edvolution.services@gmail.com or connect with us on LinkedIn and let us know your definition of global citizenship or regeneration.
• 
  More Than Winning: How PE & Athletics Can Shape Changemakers (featuring Dr. Gesa Beecken) 20.01.2026 32λ

  In this episode of the Edvolution Podcast, we explore a powerful and often overlooked connection: how athletics and physical education can be a catalyst for service learning, sustainability, global citizenship, and edible education. We’re joined by Dr. Gesa Beecken, Athletic Director and PE Lead at the International School of Ulm in Germany. Gesa brings a fresh and thoughtful perspective on how movement, play, and competition can support deeper learning and social impact. Together, we discuss: How athletics can move beyond winning and losing to build character, empathy, and agency The natural links between nutrition, edible education, and athletic performance Embedding service learning and inclusion directly into PE and sports programs Rethinking tournaments, gear, travel, and events through a sustainability lens Using play and game-based learning to engage students with the UN Sustainable Development Goals This episode invites educators and school leaders to rethink spaces we don’t always associate with service learning, and to see athletics as a powerful platform for connection, purpose, and real-world learning. Here are Gesa's resource recommendations: Transforming Basketball Soccer Drive & Ray Power Global Goals Festival Day 1 and Day 2 As always, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to edvolution.services@gmail.com to share what’s happening in your school community or to continue the conversation. Join us next time for more stories and strategies at the intersection of learning, sustainability, global citizenship, and edible education.
• 
  Systems not Superheroes: Making Service Learning Sustainable (featuring Crystal Pottebaum) 05.01.2026 22λ

  We’re kicking off the new year with inspiration and practical ideas for building sustainable service learning systems in schools! In this episode, we’re joined by Crystal Pottebaum, Service Learning and Sustainability Coordinator at the International School of Debrecen, Hungary. Crystal shares her journey from classroom teacher to K–12 coordinator and reflects on what it really takes to design programs that last. Together, we explore: Why human connection is essential in education today How to move from mission statements to meaningful action Building service learning systems that don’t rely on one person Creating buy-in, celebrating small wins, and sustaining change over time The joy found in real-world learning from community partnerships to school gardens. This conversation is especially valuable for educators and leaders who are starting the year ready to rethink service learning, sustainability, and how schools can live their values through purposeful programming. Check out Crystal’s Padlet for building service learning programs here and her children's books below: Laney's Little Lamb - Amazon or USA-based distribution. Pass it to Rizwana (Amazon) As always, we’d love to hear from more educators doing meaningful work. If you have experiences to share, reach out and join the conversation!
• 
  How Growing & Cooking Cultivate Real World Skills Across Curriculum 08.12.2025 30λ

  In this episode, Laurence interviews Sandy and Mel about how edible education can transform learning. We unpack why it’s more powerful than food tech, how to build meaningful programs in real schools, and how food-based learning enhances rigor, even in AP and high school courses! Perfect for educators, school leaders, and anyone curious about sustainability, real-world learning, and reconnecting students with the natural world. Check out the Center for Ecoliteracy and their guide for getting started with a school garden!
• 
  The Ethics of Global Service (featuring Kimberly Haley Coleman) 24.11.2025 30λ

  In this episode of the Edvolution Podcast, we dive into the world of ethical global service learning with Kimberly Haley Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware. With more than 25 years in the field, Kimberly shares how community-driven partnerships, ethical frameworks, and deep cultural engagement create meaningful experiences for both volunteers and host communities. We unpack the myths of “voluntourism,” discuss the importance of community-led project design, and explore what schools must consider when sending students abroad. Kimberly also shares powerful examples from Globe Aware’s programs in places like Guatemala, Cambodia, Costa Rica, and Ghana — and reflects on the joy, learning, and transformation that come from serving alongside local partners. Whether you're a teacher, school leader, parent, or student travel coordinator, this episode offers a grounded, ethical perspective on what responsible global service should look like. Learn more about Globe Aware here!
• 
  Project Based Learning Meets Global Citizenship (featuring Tristan Reynolds) 10.11.2025 28λ

  This week we’re chatting with Tristan Reynolds, educator, writer, and Dean of Academics at VIS@betterworld lab in Taipei. We dive into what it means to build a school as a prototype, connect global citizenship to authentic community learning, and create student-centered systems for both project-based learning and AI use. Take a look at the fantastic resources Tristan has to share: Project Based Learning Study  Tristan's Chapter on AI in Schools  Global Schools Program Institute for Humane Education PennGSE PBL for Global Climate Justice Knowles Teacher Initiative VIS Website Tristan's Website
• 
  Beyond PD Days: How We Help Educators and Schools Deepen Learning 27.10.2025 25λ

  In this episode, we dive into the many ways educators continue to grow both inside and outside the classroom. From Sandy’s unique journey to Italy for a Honey Sommelier certification to Mel’s deep dive into coaching and professional learning, and Laurence’s work with schools around the world, this conversation is all about how authentic learning experiences keep us curious, connected, and inspired. We explore how personal passions can spark new ideas for teaching and how schools can reimagine professional development as something meaningful, not mandatory. Learn more about the work that we do and how we can support educators by checking out our website here!
• 
  Beyond the Photo Op: Rethinking Service Learning Trips 13.10.2025 21λ

  Service learning experiences can be deeply meaningful for both students and teachers, but when they’re not thoughtfully planned, they can also lead to unintended consequences. In this episode, we dive into the behind-the-scenes of those big “Week Without Walls” trips and other school-led service projects. Together, we reflect on how schools can design service learning programs that foster meaningful connections, responsible action, and real learning for everyone involved. Check out the Complete Guide to Service Learning by our friend Cathy Berger Kaye for an A-Z guide to help you get started, review, or refine your service learning approaches. If you already have it, keep an eye out for the 3rd edition coming out soon!  
• 
  What Schools Miss About Sustainability...and How to Do Better 29.09.2025 23λ

  In this episode, we dig into why so many schools struggle to truly embrace sustainability and what it takes to move beyond surface-level efforts. We explore: Why schools often see themselves as separate from “real life,” avoiding their ethical responsibility to lead by example. How traditional school structures, teacher practices, and admin mindsets can unintentionally block curiosity and authentic learning. The missed opportunity when schools fail to train and model sustainability for teachers, staff, parents, and students alike. But it’s not all challenges! We highlight schools that do great things and share some resources that we hope will be helpful: Education in Motion ESG Report Chinese International School Carbon Report Edvolution's Zero-Waste Classroom Guide  We would love to learn more about any other great examples out there. Get in touch with us at edvolution.services@gmail.com.
• 
  The Stories We Tell: Starting the Year with Purpose and Partnerships (featuring LeeAnne Lavender) 15.09.2025 29λ

  In this conversation, we sit down with the fabulous LeeAnne Lavender, a global citizenship and community engagement consultant who brings a passion for storytelling to every project. Together, we unpack some of the common challenges schools face when building service learning programs and explore strategies for creating strong, lasting community partnerships. We also discuss how storytelling can be a powerful tool to kick off the school year, helping educators set the tone, inspire students, and connect purpose with action. Learn more about LeeAnne and how she supports educators here!  Check out her new course, Authentic Global Citizenship & Community Engagement here.