The FutureCurrent Podcast with Dr. Stefan Bean, Orange County Superintendent of Schools

Perception is often the first barrier to inclusion in the arts. It can also be the first thing that changes. Marleena Barber, Executive Director of Orange County Arts and Disability, joins FutureCurrent to share how the arts open doors to expression, belonging, and possibility for people of all abilities. Drawing from her own experience as a person with a disability and years of advocacy work, Mar...

For some children, the arts are more than enrichment. They are a way to feel safe, seen, and connected. Debora Wondercheck, Founder and CEO of Arts & Learning Conservatory, joins FutureCurrent for a moving conversation about the role of the arts in the lives of young people. Drawing from her own family's story and more than two decades of work serving students across Orange County, Debora...

Innovation in education often begins when someone is willing to do things differently. David Blair, Executive Director of Orange County Schools Bright Futures Foundation, joins FutureCurrent to share how a foundation built to serve all 28 school districts in Orange County is acting as a catalyst for change. From the new Future Innovators Initiative with Hyundai to the creative classroom solutions...

Mentorship can begin with one person who sees something in a young person before they fully see it in themselves. Sloane Keane, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire, joins FutureCurrent for a conversation about mentorship, social capital, and the power of helping young people feel seen, heard, and supported. The discussion explores how trusted relationships can st...

Adán Correa brings humor, honesty, and heart to a conversation about autism, advocacy, creativity, and what it means to be seen for our strengths. A proud graduate of Santa Ana High School and cast member of Love on the Spectrum, Adán reflects on the educators, coaches, counselors, and family members who helped him keep going. From wrestling and choir to voice acting, 3D printing, speaking, and ad...

The arts play a powerful role in how young people see themselves and the world around them. Casey Reitz, President and CEO of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, joins FutureCurrent for a conversation about the importance of arts access, youth engagement, and community partnerships. The discussion explores how meaningful arts experiences support creativity, confidence, and connection for students...

Feeling valued is not a small thing. It shapes how people show up, how they grow, and whether they can do their best work. Allyson Apsey joins FutureCurrent for a thoughtful conversation about coaching, feedback, and what it takes to create cultures where people feel safe, seen, and supported. The discussion explores emotional intelligence, adult leadership, and why coaching is often one of the mo...

In this episode of FutureCurrent, Dr. Stefan Bean is joined by Ambassador Gaddi Vasquez for a conversation about mentorship, representation, and the responsibility that comes with leadership. From growing up in a migrant farmworker family to serving at the local, state, federal, and international levels, Ambassador Vasquez reflects on the power of seeing what is possible and being that example for...

Literacy sits at the center of learning, opportunity, and long-term success. In this conversation, Dr. Sandra Lee reflects on what the science of reading has made clear and why translating that knowledge into consistent experiences for children remains a challenge. The discussion explores how coherence, shared understanding, and follow-through shape reading instruction across classrooms, schools,...

Leadership looks different when systems are shifting and the stakes are high. Jerry Almendarez joins FutureCurrent for a candid conversation about leading through change, listening closely to communities, and navigating the realities facing public education today. From enrollment and workforce challenges to the expanding influence of artificial intelligence, the discussion centers on what thoughtf...

Susan Parks, President and CEO of United Way of Orange County, joins FutureCurrent to explore community, connection, and what it means to truly show up for families. Susan shares how her own giving story began, why local support matters, and how United Way partners with schools, nonprofits, and businesses to stabilize families and create opportunity. The conversation brings forward the power of co...

In this episode of FutureCurrent , Dr. Stefan Bean talks with Eric Goodman about the realities of resilience, leadership, and service. Eric reflects on the experiences that shaped his mindset, the weight leaders carry, and why giving back is not about scale but intention. The conversation surfaces what it looks like to lead through adversity and remain anchored in purpose. Watch on YouTube or list...

In the inaugural episode of FutureCurrent, host Dr. Stefan Bean, Orange County Superintendent of Schools, shares why this podcast exists and what listeners can expect. Dr. Bean reflects on his early life as a Vietnamese orphan airlifted to the United States during Operation Babylift, the educators and caregivers who shaped his path, and how those experiences inform his leadership today. He outline...

FutureCurrent is a podcast from the Orange County Department of Education hosted by Dr. Stefan Bean, Orange County Superintendent of Schools. In this series, we explore today’s most pressing challenges while spotlighting the people, programs, and partnerships creating solutions for a stronger future across Orange County. New episodes released regularly. Spotlighting innovators who empower individu...