“You can take all of my belongings. You can make me carry my life in a trash bag. I can be homeless. You can even take my family from me if that's what you must do, but you can't take Monica from Monica.”

Those are the words of Monica Juliana, a high school student from West Virginia who endured an especially challenging upbringing, the kind that would have prevented most children from succeeding in school…

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.

Catherine Borek is a 29-year veteran English and Theatre Arts teacher at Dominguez High School in Compton, California, and a California Teacher of the Year in 2023. As Ms. Borek describes her approach to teaching, host Ken Futernick asks what it’s like when former students come back and offer words of appreciation. Unbeknownst to Ms. Borek, one such student, Mariela Rojas, is waiting in the wings to do just that.

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

Meet Grammy-winning educator Pamela Dawson, who transforms lives through music, proving its power to connect and inspire.

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

A former student’s surprise tribute to her teacher ignites a movement of gratitude for educators’ life-changing impact.

Na'im Madyun shares a heartfelt tale of a teacher who changed everything, offering a touching ode to educators everywhere.

Julie shares an inspiring story about her own teacher, Mrs. Russell, who, Julie says, laid the foundation for everything she has achieved. 

Should teachers tackle controversial issues in class? Civic education expert Diana Hess makes the case for balanced, democratic dialogue.

What should civics education look like in a democracy? Guests from diverse perspectives tackle controversial laws, teaching, and real-world civics.

How can character education save democracy? Experts share why building moral, democratic children is key to our nation's future.

How can educators help students navigate fake news and motivated reasoning? Experts share strategies to foster evidence-based thinking.

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

Architect Geoff Prentiss reflects on the lasting impact of his enigmatic professor, Leslie Laskey, and the creative lessons he left behind.

How do laws like Texas's HB 3979 impact student learning and democracy? Experts discuss the effects of restricting classroom discussions.

Can real-world civic engagement in schools save democracy? Experts share strategies to prepare students for meaningful participation.

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.