After tragedy struck a Michigan school community, teacher Matt Hamilton turned loss into legacy through the creation of the Shoe Club—a student-led initiative fostering empathy, connection, and purpose. With national attention and contributions from figures like Jane Goodall and Michael Jordan, the club empowers students to share their stories, serve others, and “walk in each other’s shoes.” Joined by two inspiring student members, this episode explores how one teacher’s vision sparked a movement—and how others can bring it to their own schools.

Meet Adrian Macklin, the Tennessee high school music teacher honored as Music Educator of the Year at the 2025 Grammys. In this episode, you’ll hear the extraordinary music from his students that earned him this prestigious award.

You’ll learn how Adrian fosters a caring and creative environment where students flourish, both musically and personally. You’ll also hear Adrian describe his methods for connecting with students, empowering student leadership, and tapping into the emotional core of the words they sing. Hear touching reflections from one of Adrian's students and a school counselor who attest to his dedication.

Chris Flores, Keisha Orozco, and Tracy Baynes share how an outdoor leadership program in the Alaska wilderness transformed their perspectives on confidence, self-trust, and teamwork. Through three weeks of hiking and kayaking with STEP, a program for low-income students, they learned valuable life lessons beyond the traditional classroom. This episode explores how stepping away from technology and into nature fosters personal growth and leadership in unexpected ways.

Author Bob Katz shares the extraordinary story of a gifted 4th-grade teacher named Elaine Moore, the central character of his book Elaine’s Circle: A Teacher, a Student, a Classroom, and One Unforgettable Year. One reviewer writes, “There are books that you read that stay with you all your life—Elaine’s Circle will be one of them.”

Clarence Page reflects on 50+ years in journalism, inspired by his high school teacher and life lessons from his grandmother.

Amid America’s culture wars, award-winning teacher Willie Carver shares why he left the classroom and the impact on his students.

How does inequitable school funding threaten democracy? Experts explore the impact on civic participation and solutions for change.

Bruce Stewart, a champion for social justice and education, hears a heartfelt tribute from a former student on his transformative legacy.

Detroit teacher Peter Boykin shares his ancestor's journey from slavery to education, inspiring a legacy that lives on through teaching.

Three Teachers of the Year share how teacher leadership shapes policy, strengthens schools, and ensures equitable education for all.

Musician and psychologist Malik Boykin shares how two transformational teachers shaped his path and inspired his unique teaching style.

How should teachers address events like the January 6th insurrection? Three educators share their approaches to navigating controversy in the classroom.

Once a struggling student, Don Dumas found purpose through a teacher who believed in him. Now a celebrated educator, he pays it forward by inspiring his own students to rise above their circumstances.

Eleven-year-old Kaia Bali, host of Through a Gen-Z's Eyes, shares her passion for politics, podcasting, and the teacher who inspired her.

After 22 years, "Minister of Fun" Tom Courtney finds his stride by building authentic family connections. Hear how he and his student teacher creatively overcame the pandemic’s challenges to keep the magic alive.

Four Black college students share their school experiences, confronting racism and advocating for equity through diverse, culturally responsive teaching.

Dr. Micia Mosely and her former student, now teacher Belinda Bellinger, reunite decades later to reflect on their journeys, collaborate as colleagues, and discuss the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement in education.

Dr. Sharon Tettegah reflects on her journey through education, from segregated schools to confronting racism, and calls on educators to challenge systemic biases in the era of Black Lives Matter.

Josh Gaston shares his journey teaching English abroad, navigating cultural norms, and empowering students while adapting to diverse practices.

History teacher Tracy Barnett focuses on ideas over dates, inspiring students to connect the past to today's issues, including Black Lives Matter.