Edutainment Learning

What role does music play in helping students find their voice, build confidence, and succeed in life? In this episode of Edutainment Learning, we sit down with Mike Wasserman, Chief Executive Officer of Music Will, the nation's largest nonprofit music education program. Mike shares his journey in educational leadership, his passion for empowering young people, and how Music Will is working to ensure that millions of students have access to meaningful music education rooted in their cultures, communities, and personal interests. Before joining Music Will, Mike held leadership positions with Bottom Line, the Boston Debate League, and the Constructive...

In this episode of Edutainment Learning, students meet Kevin Hernandez, Consultant at Bain & Company, where he specializes in private equity technology diligences and large-scale AI transformation projects. Kevin shares his journey from Teach For America educator to EdTech leader at Colēgia and ultimately to Bain, offering valuable insights on leadership, technology, consulting, artificial intelligence, and career growth.

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

What does it take to build a career in comedy, acting, writing, and producing? In this special Edutainment Learning interview, students sit down with actor, comedian, writer, producer, and director Jeff Garlin for an inspiring conversation about his journey in entertainment, overcoming challenges, finding your voice, and pursuing your passions. Known for his work in Curb Your Enthusiasm, The Goldbergs, Toy Story 3 & 4, WALL-E, and many other film and television projects, Jeff shares valuable advice for students interested in comedy, acting, storytelling, and the entertainment industry. Whether you dream of performing on stage, working behind the camera, or creating your...

Julián Fernández, CEO and founder of FOSSA Systems, shares his journey from launching his first Spanish picosatellite at age 16 to building a European space technology company with more than 25 satellites in orbit. In this conversation, he discusses entrepreneurship, IoT innovation, satellite communications, and the future of connecting devices directly from space.

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

In this inspiring interview, Miami businessman and Baltimore Orioles minority owner Tony Holland shares his incredible journey from growing up fatherless in a railroad town and living out of a van after early business failures to building nationally recognized companies, coaching championship football teams, and becoming a leader in business and sports ownership. Students will hear valuable lessons on resilience, leadership, entrepreneurship, failure, teamwork, and creating opportunities for others.

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

In this inspiring interview, Miami businessman and Baltimore Orioles minority owner Tony Holland shares his incredible journey from growing up fatherless in a railroad town and living out of a van after early business failures to building nationally recognized companies, coaching championship football teams, and becoming a leader in business and sports ownership. Students will hear valuable lessons on resilience, leadership, entrepreneurship, failure, teamwork, and creating opportunities for others.

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

In this episode of Edutainment Learning, we sit down with Tomasina Ray, a museum professional whose career has spanned some of the world’s most recognized institutions and traveling exhibitions. As President of RMS Titanic, Inc. , Tomasina oversees global programs involving deep-sea expeditions, international exhibitions, and the stewardship of the RMS Titanic wrecksite. She shares insights into the world of museum leadership, exhibition management, preservation, and the responsibility of protecting history for future generations. With more than a decade of experience in museum studies, collections management, and fine art logistics, Tomasina also discusses the many career paths available in th...

In this episode of Edutainment Learning, we sit down with Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and worship leader Tim Timmons to talk about faith, music, purpose, and living with authenticity. After being diagnosed with incurable cancer more than two decades ago, Tim transformed his journey into a message of hope that has impacted people around the world through music, ministry, and storytelling. He shares how his experiences inspired songs centered on practicing life with Jesus every day — not just on Sundays. Tim also discusses his nonprofit and podcast, 10000 MINUTES , which encourages people to live out their faith during the 10,000 minutes of th...

n this episode of Edutainment Learning, we sit down with Kendall Gray — former professional basketball player, NBA G League coach, children’s book author, and motivational speaker. From making history at Delaware State University to playing professional basketball around the world, Kendall shares how perseverance, resilience, and self-belief shaped his journey on and off the court. Now the creator of the “I Can’t Quit” movement and Gray’s Universe, Kendall is inspiring students through storytelling, education, humor, and real-life experiences. His mission is simple but powerful: to remind every young person that they are capable of more than they think...

In this episode of Edutainment Learning, we sit down with Elizabeth Tweedale, the CEO of Coco Coders, to discuss how coding is becoming one of the most important skills for the next generation. Elizabeth shares how Coco Coders is helping students around the world develop creativity, confidence, problem-solving, and critical thinking through live online coding classes. With a background in architecture, AI, and computer science, she explains why learning to code is about more than technology — it’s about teaching students how to think, innovate, and shape the future. From artificial intelligence to digital creativity, this conversation explores how educ...

Gina LaLicata, Principal of Academica International Studies, shares her journey as an educator since 1996 and her leadership in transforming digital learning. With experience across public, private, and charter schools—and at every academic level—Gina has helped grow a global online school serving over 40,000 students in 30+ countries. In this video, she discusses curriculum innovation, online teaching, school leadership, and the future of education in a digital world.

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

In this powerful Edutainment Learning interview, students from around the world sit down with Dr. Charles Krischer, MD, PhD, PE—a Holocaust survivor whose life story is a testament to resilience, education, and purpose. Born in Belgium in 1938, Dr. Krischer and his family survived the Holocaust before immigrating to the United States in 1946. By just 16 years old, he was accepted into the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he completed his undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral studies in physics. His remarkable career spans service as a U.S. Army officer, work as a scientist and engineer, and a tenure as a pr...

In this powerful Edutainment Learning interview, Masako Wada, a survivor of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki in 1945, shares her firsthand experience and lifelong mission for peace. As a Hibakusha and Assistant Secretary General of Nihon Hidankyo, Wada has dedicated decades to educating the world about the devastating human cost of nuclear weapons. In this student-led conversation, she reflects on the physical and emotional aftermath of the bombing, the importance of remembrance, and the urgent need for global cooperation to prevent nuclear catastrophe. Through Edutainment Learning, students from around the world have the opportunity to hear directly from history—gaining in...

In this powerful Edutainment Learning conversation, we sit down with Anthony Mazzocchi, a GRAMMY®-nominated music educator, accomplished trombonist, and visionary leader in the world of music and performance. As Director of the John J. Cali School of Music at Montclair State University and Executive Director of the Kinhaven Music School, Mazzocchi has led groundbreaking initiatives to expand access, innovation, and collaboration in music education. From launching new programs in recording and production to building partnerships with world-class institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, his work is redefining what’s possible for the next generation of musicians.

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In this episode of Edutainment Learning, we are joined by Maribel Prieto, MBA, HRM, a dynamic education leader dedicated to helping schools grow, innovate, and better serve students. As Senior Director and Dean of Academics at Academica Virtual Education, Maribel supports over 35 schools across the United States and internationally. With more than 15 years of experience in K–12 education, higher education, and virtual learning, Maribel shares valuable insights on academic leadership, enrollment growth, curriculum development, and creating meaningful learning experiences for students in both online and in-person environments. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she is passionate about expanding opportunities for di...

In this inspiring Edutainment Learning interview, students hear from Steven Caulker, a professional footballer whose career has spanned the English Premier League and international competition. From his early days at Tottenham Hotspur to playing for clubs like Swansea City, Cardiff City, and Queens Park Rangers, Steven shares what it takes to succeed in one of the most competitive sports in the world. But his story goes far beyond football. Steven opens up about representing both England national football team and Sierra Leone national football team, as well as his personal journey of overcoming adversity. Through honesty and resilience, he...

In this powerful Edutainment Learning interview, students hear directly from Kody Lostroh, a 10-time PBR World Finals qualifier and the 2009 PBR World Champion. From intense rivalries with legends like J.B. Mauney to earning over $3.2 million and recording 51 elite 90-point rides, Kody shares what it takes to reach the top of one of the toughest sports in the world. But his story goes far beyond bull riding. After retirement, Kody faced a life-threatening tumor near his carotid artery—testing his resilience in a whole new way. Now a coach in the PBR Teams league and a Hall of Fame in...

In this episode of Edutainment Learning, students from around the globe sit down with Steve Iglesias, an educational leader who transformed his career from coaching baseball and campus security into a mission-driven role in teaching and school leadership. Now leading innovative programs within Academica schools, including Mater Brickell, Steve is redefining what education looks like by integrating cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, esports, and biomedical engineering into everyday learning.

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

In this episode of Edutainment Learning, students from around the world meet Vanessa Beatriz Maya Segura, a Chemistry graduate from the University of Zaragoza who is now pursuing a Master’s degree in Nanostructured Materials for Nanotechnology Applications. Vanessa shares her journey from earning both her Spanish Bachiller and U.S. High School Diploma through the Dual Diploma Program to conducting advanced research at the Carbochemistry Institute (ICB) within the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC).

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

In this episode of Edutainment Learning, students from around the world sit down with Jacobi, a men’s fashion designer and entrepreneur known for blending Old World craftsmanship with modern American style. Born in Lebanon and later building his career in the United States, Jacobi shares his journey into fashion, the importance of precision and quality, and what it really takes to succeed as an entrepreneur in a competitive industry.

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

What does it take to make the right decision when everything is on the line? In this powerful Edutainment Learning interview, Trevor Fortner—a former Navy Special Warfare Operator and private military contractor—shares real-world lessons from operating in some of the most high-risk environments imaginable. With experience in missions involving some of the world’s most dangerous threats, Trevor developed a disciplined, step-by-step approach to leadership, resource management, and decision-making under extreme pressure. Now, he works with executives, teams, and leaders, teaching them how to stay calm, think clearly, and avoid critical mistakes when time is limited and the st...

Most students go through high school… Yareli Bolanos chose to lead it. As Student Body President at Mater Academy East, Yareli became the voice for students who often go unheard—taking on real responsibility, leading with purpose, and making sure every decision positively impacts others. But leadership for her isn’t just about completing tasks… It’s about creating a lasting impact. From planning events to mentoring and preparing future student leaders, Yareli is focused on building a strong foundation that continues even after she graduates.

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student wo...

What would you do if everything familiar was taken away? In this powerful episode of Edutainment Learning, students from around the world sit down with Steve Callahan, a man who survived 76 days alone in the Atlantic Ocean after his boat sank during a solo voyage. With no crew, limited supplies, and nothing but a small life raft, Steve faced extreme hunger, dehydration, isolation, and uncertainty. Yet through resilience, problem-solving, and unwavering mental strength, he endured—eventually drifting thousands of miles before being rescued near the Caribbean. His experience became the bestselling book Adrift: Seventy-Six Days Lost at Sea, now wi...

In this powerful Edutainment Learning interview, Twan Adams shares his journey from a standout collegiate football player at Tuskegee University to a dedicated coach and mentor shaping the lives of student-athletes. After winning multiple state championships in high school, two conference titles, and an HBCU National Championship in college, Twan found his true purpose beyond the game—impacting the next generation. Now serving as a Defensive Coordinator and future social science teacher at Mater Academy, he is committed to helping students grow both on and off the field. Twan dives into the lessons football taught him about discipline, leadership, an...

What does it take to build a life rooted in discipline, purpose, and high performance? In this powerful Edutainment Learning interview, we sit down with Dr. Jarod A. Nanna—educational leader, veteran, former collegiate athlete, and founder of SelfElite—to explore how faith, resilience, and intentional growth can shape success in every area of life. From his early days growing up in Western Pennsylvania to earning All-Conference honors at Thiel College, Jarod shares how athletics, military service, and education helped him develop a mindset centered on accountability, perseverance, and leadership. Now working with student-athletes and diverse learners in a perf...

From growing up in segregated Texas to becoming a National Park superintendent, J.T. Reynolds shares a story of resilience, service, and passion for the outdoors. Born in Galveston, Texas, J.T. discovered a love for nature early—despite the limitations of the Jim Crow era. Inspired by pioneers like Jackie Robinson, his journey led him through Texas A&M University, service in the U.S. Army, and a groundbreaking career with the National Park Service.

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

What does it take to turn science into the technologies that power our future? In this episode of Edutainment Learning, students from around the world interview Dr. Ryan, Technical Director of the Lithium Americas Technical Center, about his journey from growing up in Carson City, Nevada to becoming a leader in chemical engineering and energy technology. Dr. Ryan earned his BS in Chemical Engineering from the University of Nevada and later completed his PhD at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he focused on catalyst design and converting biomass into fuels and chemicals. Since then, he has worked in...

What does it take to work in Military Intelligence, where decisions must be made with incomplete information and the stakes are often incredibly high? In this episode of Edutainment Learning, students from around the world sit down with Trenton Miguez, a former U.S. Army Military Intelligence Officer who spent more than a decade operating in complex and contested environments across the Middle East supporting counterterrorism, threat reduction, de-escalation, and protection missions. During his Army career, Trenton worked at the intersection of intelligence collection, analysis, and operational decision-making, helping leaders understand threats and act effectively in uncertain situations. He...

In this episode of Edutainment Learning, students connect with John, a United States Army veteran, former combat medic, and now an Assistant Public Defender and legislative advocate in Nevada who is working to make the justice system more fair and compassionate. John’s journey began on the training fields of the U.S. Army, where he served as a combat medic and later led a squad of medics as a sergeant. Those experiences taught him that true leadership is not about rank or titles—it’s about standing beside people when they need someone most. After returning home to Las Ve...

Discover how Amber Ciminise blends more than 15 years of high-level hospitality finance experience with her journey as a Juris Doctor candidate at UNLV’s Boyd School of Law. From directing audits at world-class resorts like Waldorf Astoria, Virgin Hotels, and MGM Resorts, to litigation work with the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, Amber explains how finance and law intersect—and how students can build impactful careers in both fields. This Edutainment Learning interview highlights her path from restaurant operations leadership to forensic accounting, collective bargaining agreement management, legal research, trial prep, and leadership within Boyd Law. If you’re explo...

In this powerful Edutainment Learning interview, we sit down with Brad Lea — entrepreneur, sales expert, and host of the Dropping Bombs podcast — to talk about what it really takes to win in business and in life. Brad shares his no-nonsense approach to sales, personal development, leadership, and building unshakable confidence. From overcoming setbacks to creating massive opportunity, this conversation is packed with real-world strategies and mindset shifts that can elevate your career and your impact.

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

What does it take to rise into leadership at one of the largest companies in the world? In this Edutainment Learning interview, students from around the globe sit down with Marc J. Brock, Retail Business Manager with Walmart in Las Vegas, Nevada. With over 15 years of experience in the retail industry, Marc shares how strong communication, networking, and a commitment to service helped him rise to Store Manager in 2021 and earn recognition as a Walmart Brand Ambassador in 2023.

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

In this Edutainment Learning interview, we sit down with Coach Alex VanHouten performance coach, behavior change specialist, and lifelong learner — to explore the science behind human potential. A graduate of Vanderbilt University (2010) with a focus in chemistry and psychology, Coach Alex has since earned multiple certifications through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) in personal training, corrective exercise, performance enhancement, and behavior change. He is also a certified nutritionist and health coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN). With over 500 five-star podcast episodes published and multiple peer-reviewed articles written for the International Sport Science Association (ISSA), Coach Al...

What was it like to work alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement? In this powerful Edutainment Learning interview, students hear firsthand from Dr. Robert L. Green — renowned educator, scholar, and civil rights leader whose work helped shape the modern fight for educational equity in America. As a close advisor and confidant to Dr. King, Dr. Green played a pivotal role in advancing desegregation, expanding access to quality education, and advocating for justice through research, policy, and leadership. His career spans decades of service as a professor, university administrator, and president of the Southern Education Fo...

What does it take to succeed at the highest level in the NBA? In this powerful Edutainment Learning conversation, former NBA player Jerome “Junkyard Dog” Williams shares the mindset, discipline, and relentless work ethic that made him a fan favorite and respected leader throughout his career with the Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors, Chicago Bulls, and New York Knicks. Known for doing the hard work on the court, Jerome talks with students about perseverance, teamwork, leadership, overcoming adversity, and why character matters more than hype. He also shares insights into his philanthropic work through www.shootingforpeace.com and how giving back...

What is the true purpose of a university? In this powerful Edutainment Learning conversation, students from around the world connect with Professor Nicholas B. Dirks, President & CEO of The New York Academy of Sciences and former Chancellor of UC Berkeley. Professor Dirks has led some of the world’s most influential academic institutions and helped launch global initiatives in data science, neuroscience, and international research collaboration.

Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

In this unforgettable Edutainment Learning conversation, students from around the world connect with one of the rarest voices in human history — Charlie Duke, Apollo 16 astronaut and one of only 12 men to ever walk on the Moon. Currently only four are still alive. At just 36 years old, Duke became the youngest person to step onto the lunar surface. A U.S. Air Force Brigadier General, MIT graduate, and former CAPCOM for Apollo 11, he helped guide the first Moon landing — and later experienced it himself. But this story goes beyond space. After his historic mission, Duke experienced a profound personal transformation, beco...

In this powerful Edutainment Learning interview, students meet Dr. Joe Greer, a physician, educator, and national leader in health equity who is redefining what medical education can—and should—look like. Dr. Greer shares his vision for building a bold, mid-21st century medical school in Las Vegas—one that unites students, educators, and the community to design inclusive, compassionate, and real-world healthcare solutions. Drawing from decades of experience serving underserved populations, advising U.S. Presidents, and founding nationally recognized programs like NeighborhoodHELP, Dr. Greer explains why medicine must address not just disease, but the social conditions that shape health...

Maria “Sam” Juan is a U.S. Army veteran, former Special Operations Cultural Support Team leader, artist, and storyteller who is helping young people discover the power of resilience and authentic living. Born in Bahrain and raised in the United States, Sam served in Army special operations before building a career in communications for the Department of Defense. Today, she speaks openly about courage, identity, healing, and what it means to show up as your true self—even when life feels overwhelming. In this powerful Edutainment Learning conversation, students from around the world ask Sam about leadership, resilience, creativity, and he...

n this inspiring Edutainment Learning interview, students from around the world meet Avis Brown-Riley, a true golf trailblazer whose life proves that big dreams and hard work can change everything. Avis made history as the first and only African American to win the San Diego City Women’s Amateur Championship and became one of the few African American women to earn LPGA Class A Golf Professional status—one of the highest honors in golf. From winning her first tournament at age eight to becoming a Junior World Champion and competing in the U.S. Women’s Open, her journey is not...