The Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast

In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin talks with Fred Hilgers, principal of Madison High School in San Diego, about what it means to lead with deep listening, trust, and a commitment to continuous learning. Drawing from more than three decades in education, Fred shares the experiences that shaped his approach to leadership and his belief that meaningful change starts by listening to students, educator...

In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin talks with Stephanie Malia Krauss about what it means to truly “rehuman” education in a rapidly changing and increasingly overwhelming world. Drawing from her work across education, youth development, workforce development, and human services, Stephanie explores how schools can move beyond simply preparing students academically to creating the conditions for young...

In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin sits down with high school chemistry teacher and college instructor Matt Martin to explore what it really takes to create meaningful, authentic learning experiences in today’s classrooms. Drawing from his journey across traditional and project-based environments, Matt shares how hands-on projects, student curiosity, and supportive leadership can transform both tea...

In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin talks with Dr. Jason Van Heukelum about redesigning success in public education and creating learning environments that honor student agency, purpose, and real-world relevance. Jason shares stories from his own journey—from teaching math to leading district-wide innovation—and reflects on how schools can move beyond compliance-driven models toward experiences that...

In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin talks with David Cook, CEO of Learning Ecosystems Design, about what it truly takes to t ransform education systems so every learner experiences meaningful, human-centered learning. Drawing from decades of leadership in Kentucky and across the country, David shares how community-driven visioning, local accountability, and aligned policy can pave the way for learne...

In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin talks with Mike Yates about reimagining education and what it means to create learning experiences rooted in agency, creativity, and care . Drawing on his journey from classroom teacher and coach to education innovator, Mike shares how his early experiences shaped his belief in trust, risk-taking, and the power of real-world learning. Together, Katie and Mike disc...

In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin speaks with Michelle Culver, founder of  The Rithm Project  and longtime education leader, about what it means to stay human in an age shaped by artificial intelligence. Rooted in her experiences as a parent, educator, and leader, Michelle reflects on what it means to navigate the evolving relationship between human connection and technology—and how we might imagi...

In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin sits down with Babak Mostaghimi—educator, systems leader, and founding partner at Learner Studio—to explore how we can prepare young people for their future in an age of AI, complexity, and rapid change. From his early days as a fifth-grade teacher in rural Mississippi to leading future-ready work in one of the largest school districts in the country, Dr. Mostaghi...

Season 7 kicks off with a powerful conversation between co-founders and co-CEOs Katie Martin and Devin Vodicka. Together, they reflect on their unique co-leadership model, current trends in education, and the future of school redesign. From rebuilding trust in public education to the promise and perils of AI, this episode explores what it takes to reimagine schools, re-center learners, and evolve...

What happens when students lead their own learning about AI and ethics? In episode 44 of the Learner-Centered Podcast, Dr. Katie Martin speaks with Lexi and Reese, high school seniors from Avonworth High School in Pittsburgh, PA, about their experience in a student-driven English class on AI, ethics, and human flourishing. Given the freedom to explore topics they cared about, from early childhood...

Katie Martin sits down with Dr. Katie Novak, bestselling author, UDL expert, and powerhouse educator. They unpack what Universal Design for Learning (UDL) really means, how systems need to evolve to support educators, and why learner agency and inclusive design are non-negotiable. With relatable metaphors (hello, buffet dinners and iPhones), heartfelt moments, and practical insights, this episode...

In this episode, host Katie Martin shares the audio from a recent webinar. Four members of the Learner-Centered Collaborative team discuss the importance of leadership in driving effective, learner-centered transformation . With 75+ years of education experience from the classroom to district administration, this all-star group explores strategies that enable leaders to create environments where s...

Allie Wong's journey is a testament to the power of student voice, ownership, and meaningful learning experiences. From her transformation at High Tech High to her work as a teacher, school leader, and now consultant, she has dedicated her career to creating learner-centered environments . In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin and Allie discuss the impact of project-based learning, the role of stu...

What if school was a place where every student woke up excited to go each morning? In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin sits down with George Philhower, Superintendent of Eastern Hancock Schools in Indiana, to explore how joy, connection, growth, and success are transforming the student experience. George shares how his personal struggles in school shaped his leadership and why he believes in rethink...

Innovating Public Education: A Conversation with Dr. Justin Terry In this episode of the Learner Centered Collaborative Podcast, host Katie Martin speaks with Dr. Justin Terry, Superintendent of Forney ISD and a noteworthy leader in education. Dr. Terry shares key experiences and insights from his more than two decades in education, emphasizing the importance of innovative approaches and consisten...

Dr. Katie Martin takes a reflective journey to close out the season and 2024. Revisiting her insights from a 2020 blog post, Katie explores how 10 key themes about change in education hold up five years later. From the role of educators and AI to the power of learners' voices and celebrating bright spots, Katie offers a thoughtful analysis of what’s changed, what remains the same, and what it mean...

In this episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast, host Katie Martin dives deep with Dr. Cesar Morales, an inspiring leader in learner-centered education . Dr. Morales shares his personal journey from overcoming a 1.87 high school GPA to earning his Ed. D., opening a pioneering high school, and working with schools nationwide to transform education . Together, they discuss strategies f...

In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin sits down with Ruby and Everest, two inspiring students from Clark Street Community School , live at the Aurora Institute Symposium 2024 in New Orleans. Ruby and Everest were excited to share how learner-centered education has fueled their growth, allowing them to pursue passions through self-directed projects, community engagement, and real-world experiences . Fr...

In this episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast, host Katie Martin speaks with Dr. Jill Siler, Deputy Executive Director for Professional Learning at the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA). Dr. Siler reflects on her leadership journey, sharing how thoughtful design fosters belonging and drives meaningful impact in schools and communities. Drawing from her experience as...

In this episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast, host Katie Martin sits down with Sandy Cima , Director of People and Business Operations at Learner-Centered Collaborative and mom of two. Sandy shares her unique perspective as a parent navigating the education system, the importance of fostering curiosity in children, and her hopes for the future of education. They also explore the c...

In this episode, Katie Martin sits down with Greg Behr, executive director of the Grable Foundation, to explore how intentional design can transform learning environments and foster meaningful community connections . They discuss lessons from Fred Rogers and the impact of Remake Learning in shaping education for the future. Greg Behr is the executive director of the Grable Foundation and co-author...

In this episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative podcast, host Katie Martin speaks with Dr. Lilia Náñez, Associate Superintendent of Ector County ISD in Odessa, Texas. Dr. Nanez shares her 30-year journey in education, emphasizing the importance of creating a sense of belonging for every student and educator. Topics discussed include the impact of teacher-student connections, the role of joy...

In this episode, Katie talks with Dr. Rebecca Kim about creating coherence across school systems and aligning strategic priorities to support all students. They delve into the importance of co-constructing educational goals with the community, the role of mentorship in developing strong leadership, and how being an impact-driven leader can transform school culture and student outcomes. Join the co...

Meg Parry and Miguel Gonzalez, former leaders at Embark, a learner-centered micro-school embedded in a small business in North Denver, share their experiences and insights into creating learning environments grounded in trust, authentic challenges, and the development of learner agency. Meg and Miguel discuss their personal journeys into education. Meg was motivated by her father's work as a t...

George Couros, an innovative teaching, learning, and leadership expert, shares his insights on what makes a great principal. The discussion revolves around the five key pillars outlined in his book "What Makes a Great Principal," co-authored with Allyson Apsey. The conversation delves into the following topics: 👥 Relationship Builder: George emphasizes the importance of building meaning...