KindlED | The Prenda Podcast

This week, Kaity and Adriane discuss a new approach to understanding and addressing kids' behavior.  Their conversation dives deep into the developmental expectations placed on children and the need for age-appropriate support. Plus, they introduce a problem-solving approach that empowers children to find solutions and build critical thinking skills.  Episode 35 also explores:  🔥 parenting c...

This week, Kaity and Adriane chat with Peter Gray, research professor of psychology and neuroscience at Boston College and renowned author of "Free to Learn." This episode is all about the power of play in learning, shedding light on how self-directed exploration can ignite children's natural curiosity and shape their futures. Peter shares his journey into the field of education and...

This week, Kaity and Adriane chat with Caleb Collier, co-founder of The Forest School and director at The Institute for Self-Directed Learning. This episode is all about self-directed education, where learners take control, and the classroom becomes a place for personal growth and intrinsic motivation. Caleb explains the role of educators and parents in this innovative learning landscape and share...

This week, Kaity and Adriane chat with KJ Althoff,  Director of Content for Big Life Journal. This episode is all about navigating a child's emotions and how it can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves. KJ shares her insights into gentle parenting and fostering emotional literacy in children. This episode also explores: 🔥 the challenges of regulating our own emotions while teaching ou...

This week, Kaity and Adriane chat with Seth Perler, an executive function coach who overcame his academic struggles and now offers hope to children facing similar challenges. They discuss learning differences, emphasizing the importance of advocating for each child's unique strengths and addressing the systemic roadblocks that can hinder their progress. This episode also explores:  🔥 the dou...

This week, Kaity & Adriane chat with Lenore Skenazy, author of "Free-Range Kids." You might have heard her called "America's Worst Mom." But don't let that moniker fool you! Lenore's journey from her kid's controversial subway ride to becoming a leading voice in child independence is nothing short of remarkable. In Episode 30 of The KindlED Podcast, we d...

On Episode 29 of The KindlED Podcast, Kaity and Adriane do a deep dive into their favorite books!  These reads aren't just for parents and educators—they're for anyone on a quest to grow alongside the children in their lives, fostering empathy and understanding in a world that often forgets the value of emotional health. Tune in and embark on a path of discovery that promises to enrich n...

On Episode 28 of The KindlED Podcast, Kaity and Adriane chat with Kelly Smith, CEO and founder of Prenda and author of "A Fire to be Kindled."  This episode dives into what it means to empower learners and Prenda's origin story. We journey through Kelly's formative experiences, how he fell in love with learning and wanted the same for his kids, and when he started to think abou...

On Episode 27 of The KindlED Podcast, Kaity and Adriane chat with Amir Nathoo, CEO of Outschool. We talk about inquiry-based learning, and Amir shares his inspiring journey to creating Outschool and offers insights about the power of out-of-school learning.  This episode also explores: 🔥 how we can equip our children with the skills they need to thrive 🔥 the rise of alternative education movemen...

On Episode 26 of The KindlED Podcast, Kaity and Adriane chat with Ana Lorena Fabrega, author of "The Learning Game" and chief evangelist at Synthesis,  In this episode, Ana — drawing from her acclaimed book and her own global educational experiences — provides a striking critique of the traditional schooling system and offers practical strategies to help children combat negativity and vi...

On Episode 25 of The KindlED Podcast, Kaity and Adriane chat with Todd Rose, co-founder and CEO of Populace. They delve into the myth of the "average person" and the power of personalized learning. This episode also explores: 🔥 the evolution of the "average" concept in education; 🔥 the challenges posed by conventional teaching methods; 🔥 insights into Benjamin Bloom's w...

On Episode 24 of The KindlED Podcast, Kaity and Adriane deep dive into understanding aggression in kids. They share some of their own stories of dealing with aggression in kids and give practical tips for dealing with these tough situations. The episode focuses on fostering understanding, curiosity, and awareness when dealing with kids' complex emotions. This episode also covers:  🔥 the diff...

On Episode 23 of The KindlED Podcast,  Kaity and Adriane chat with Joanna Lovejoy, an education technology innovator and founding member of Alpha and Kinjo. Get ready to be inspired by Joanna's amazing experiences with adaptive technology, where she helps students improve their academic skills in revolutionary ways, and discover the possibilities of how we can make screen time more effective...

On Episode 22 of The KindlED Podcast,  Kaity and Adriane chat with Audrey Wisch, founder of Curious Cardinals. We take a deep dive into the pivotal role of consistency and trust in a mentor-student relationship and how it helps students realize their full potential. We also shine a light on the transformative power of passion-based learning and how it can lead students to meaningful careers.  This...

On Episode 21 of The KindlED Podcast, Kaity and Adriane sit down with Josh Dahn,  executive director of Astra Nova School and co-founder of Synthesis. Their conversation sheds light on how to create an engaging school culture and a unique educational experience that fosters curiosity and joy in young minds. This insightful episode also covers: 🔥 student involvement and decision-making; 🔥 the oft...

On Episode 20 of The KindlED Podcast, Kaity and Adriane do a deep dive into the intricate world of brain diversity and neurodivergence, exploring how children and individuals process the world around them uniquely. Their conversation sheds light on the importance of positive language, understanding different brain structures, and advocating for an inclusive education system. This insightful episod...

On Episode 19 of The KindlED Podcast, Kaity and Adriane are joined by Janine Halloran, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has been working with children, teens, and their families for over 20 years. They discuss the need for coping skills in our rapidly evolving world and the importance of introducing coping strategies when children are calm, emphasizing patience and consistency.  This episode...

On Episode 18 of The KindlED Podcast, hosts Kaity and Adriane are joined by Garrett Smiley, co-founder of Sora Schools. Garrett shares his journey into education, driven by a desire to revolutionize traditional education methods. They delve into how to help students discover their passions and develop a deeper sense of purpose over time. They also talk about intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, emp...

On Episode 17 of The KindlED Podcast,' hosts Kaity and Adriane are joined by Lael Stone, co-author of 'Raising Resilient and Compassionate Children' and co-creator of Woodline Primary School. The episode explores Lael's journey into education and her mission to foster family wellness through connection and communication. The conversation delves into patterns and conditioning in...

 On Episode 16 of The KindlED Podcast, hosts Kaity and Adriane delve into the issue of illiteracy in the country and what to do about it. They also discuss the relevance of literacy in today's society, citing troubling statistics regarding reading difficulties in schools. They also touch on The 'Reading Wars' debate, whole language vs. phonics, and the importance of early exposure t...

In Episode 15 of The KindlED Podcast, hosts Kaity and Adriane are joined by Michael Strong. They discuss Michael’s pioneering work in the education world, specifically around the Socratic Method. The way we interact with kids matters deeply. Both research and experience show that using Socratic questioning encourages kids to learn how to think. In today’s modern world, helping kids develop analyti...

In Episode 14 of The KindlED Podcast, hosts Kaity and Adriane are joined by Kerry McDonald. Dive deep into the world of alternative education as they discuss the impactful transition from traditional schooling to individualized, entrepreneurial models. This episode underscores the significance of the school choice movement. Tune in to understand the evolution towards decentralized, personalized ed...

In Episode 13 of The KindlED Podcast, hosts Kaity and Adriane are joined by Andee Martineau. They talk about all things attachment and self-regulation, the importance of staying connected even during challenging moments, and the beauty of maintaining deep, meaningful relationships with our children. Plus, you'll find out how Andee's Connect Method Parenting can transform your relationshi...

In Episode 12 of The KindlED Podcast, hosts Kaity and Adriane dive deep into the secret to healthy brain development and why kids need strong relationships with the adults in their lives! They tackle the neuroscience and psychology behind what scientists call “attachment theory” and outline how you can start improving relationships with the young people in your life.  🔗 RELEVANT LINKS 🔗 📓 The M...

In Episode 11 of The KindlED Podcast, hosts Kaity and Adriane welcome author and educational expert Ian Rowe. Ian, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, co-founder of Vertex Partnership Academies, and CEO of Public Prep, shares his inspiring story of personal 'coming of agency.' ABOUT THE GUEST: Ian Rowe is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he fo...