What the Westies

Honorable Mention NPR Student Podcast Challenge 2026! What the Westies is a podcast where ENL students at the Manhattan School for Children interview real people from around the world about their lives and work. The Westies interview 7th grader Noam and 5th grader Ronnie, two of our newest English language learners, and their dad, Jonathan Dekel, an Israeli filmmaker. They grew up in Wahat al-Sala...

In this episode the Westies sit down with Dr. Jason Smerdon, a climate scientist and professor from Columbia University, for a conversation about ice cores, tree rings, what humans have done to this planet, and what kids can actually do to help make a difference. Dr. Smerdon talks about everything from college in Minnesota, aliens landing on Earth, and what to do with Taylor Swift's private je...

The Westies are back! This time we’re talking to Dr. Oni Blackstock and asking her everything we’ve ever wanted to know about what it takes to become a doctor. She tells us what it’s like to diagnose patients, go through all those years of school, and handle big responsibilities. She also explains why she started Health Justice, her own company that works to make health care more fair for everyone...

In this episode, our podcasters talk with Jessie, someone who helps keep our school running every day. He shares what it is like supporting students behind the scenes. Students still remember when we didn't have a DJ for the first middle school dance of the year, Jessie stepped in, and everyone had a great time. Thanks, Jessie! The Westies in this episode are: Ibrokhim, Noam, Stella, Salma, Me...