STEMtastic Stories with Stanberry

Welcome to STEMtastic Stories with Stanberry SEASON 2 —where we spotlight the voices that shape better teaching. In this episode, Missy Widmann shares her journey into neuroscience and why understanding the brain isn’t just for researchers—it’s for every classroom. We dig into the science behind movement and learning (inspired by John Ratey’s Spark ), practical entry points for teachers who are ne...

What does it really take to climb from small-town Friday-night lights to the roar of a Division One stadium? In this episode of STEMtastic Stories with Stanberry , I sit down with former player—and now fellow coach—Ryan Arredondo to unpack the work ethic and mindset that carried him to college baseball’s biggest stage. Together we tackle today’s “me-first” culture in youth sports, sharing candid l...

Swipe‑through dances? Sure. Lip‑sync comedy? Absolutely. But calculus proofs at a hundreds of thousands of views? That’s the specialty of our guest—an energetic college professor who’s transforming social media into the world’s biggest math classroom. Join host Mitchell Stanberry as we trace this educator’s journey from chalk‑dust lectures to flipped‑classroom livestreams, explore how just‑in‑time...

Step into the world of STEMtastic Stories with Stanberry , a show dedicated to the power of genuine teacher–student connections in shaping lives and inspiring new generations of educators. In this episode, Jeff and Sharee Mullin join their former student Myrella Gasca —now a fellow educator—to explore how early impressions, inclusive classrooms, and unwavering support can spark a lifelong passion...

Join me as I share stories of overcoming obstacles, shifting mindsets, and the pivotal moments that challenged and expanded my perspective about the community I teach in. In this episode, I’ll dive deep into the diverse experiences I had with a student and player at my school. From a rural school district to a community college Robert discusses the discoveries, challanges, and invaluable lessons f...

In this episode of STEMtastic Stories with Stanberry , we sit down with a passionate educator whose journey spans from rural communities in Eastern Oregon to immersive musical collaborations in Ecuador. Together, we explore why the Arts are a vital addition to STEM—expanding creativity, fostering empathy, and enriching life both inside and outside the classroom. Our guest shares how music educatio...

Join us as we explore the extraordinary story behind Royal Football—one of the nation’s winningest small-school programs and the first in Washington state history to capture five consecutive state titles. In this in-depth conversation, we sit down with the coach at the center of it all to uncover the keys to building not just a perennial powerhouse on the field, but a life-changing experience for...

Join me as I interview CWU Chemestry Professor Tim Sorey a longtime friend I wendt to college with as we explore questions such as: What does it take to embark on a college journey later in life—and even earn a Ph. D.? How can we guide learners to pursue genuine research interests? Why is place-based pedagogy so powerful, particularly when supporting Native populations and celebrating cultural sto...

Join host Cinco Delgado in this inspiring episode of STEMtastic Stories as we explore what it truly means to stay current and innovative in education—no matter how many years you’ve been in the classroom. Our guest, a veteran teacher with two decades of experience, shares practical insights on balancing tried-and-true teaching methods with cutting-edge technology like AI and interactive tools. Fro...

Listen in as I chat with long time English/EL teacher Laurie Lafser of Royal School District. We focus on how she connects with students, specifically Multilingual Learners and their parents, and her work to create student voice for change. Her experience in a variety of roles gives her a unique perspective on school and the supports students and teachers need for academic success.

Connecting with Sarah Preister a professor of English at South Carolina State University discussing her thoughts on using Culturally Relevant Teaching and Funds of Knowledge to help students overcome trauma through Authentic Relationships with their Teachers. Such strong powerful words that are inspiring, what an amazing story teller!

Join me as I sit down with Bill Bakamus—Mark Morris Hall of Fame high school basketball coach and dedicated math teacher—whose four-decade career has been defined by discipline, unwavering team values, and an authentic commitment to his students’ success. Discover how Coach Bakamus inspired his players to excel both on the court and in the classroom, culminating in notable achievements like a visi...