EPISODE 127: Rethinking Why and How We Educate

May 10, 2023

With a world that is changing at an breakneck pace, Susannah Johnson and Nick Salmon ask a simple question that could uppend our education system: what if K-12 education wasn't just about getting ready for college? Three for Community, their new initiative advocates that high school graduates spend three years in service to others instead of attending college. Susannah and Nick hope that this change would disrupt the treadmill churn of getting as many kids into college and redirect the focus to human development, creating a better education system, and increasing opportunity for success.

Overview:

Susannah Johnson is the Founder of Individualized Realized, LLC., consulting services, Personalized Learning Project, teaching global cohorts of learners, and IMPACT Bound, education reimagined. Working in partnership with What School Could Be also helps Susannah fulfill her main aim of igniting passion and purpose in education by meeting schools where they are and mapping out a transformation journey.

Nick Salmon is the founder and president of the Collaborative Learning Network. He is a ninth-generation educator focused on educational facility planning, professional development of educators and design support for future-flexible learning environments that cost less to design, build, own, operate and maintain. He is the world’s first self-certified educational furniture whisperer- capable of coaxing the greatest potential out of the unruliest school furnishings.

Meet Our Guest:

For more on Susannah, visit https://www.individualizedrealized.com/.

For more on the Collaborative Learning Network, visit https://www.collaborativelearningnetwork.com/.

The Host:

While students may only be 20%-25% of our population today, they are 100% of our future. That is why education is one of the most important investments a country can make and the sole purpose for the existence of the Better Learning Podcast.

The Better Learning Podcast brings on valued guests that talk about ways we can improve education for our kids. Because after all, they are 100% of our future!

Kevin Stoller:
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

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If you are interested in being on the show or know someone who would be a great guest, please visit the Better Learning Podcast website.

Our Partners:

Kay-Twelve:
Kay-Twelve
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Association for Learning Environments (A4LE):
The Association for Learning Environments (A4LE)
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Second Class Foundation
Second Class Foundation

Be a Guest on the Better Learning Podcast!

Do you have a favorite school-related movie that left a lasting impact? Join us as a guest on the Better Learning Podcast, where we dive into iconic films, break down memorable moments, and hand out fun awards—all while connecting them to real-world education.

From standout teachers to unforgettable one-liners, we’ll explore how these movies reflect (or totally exaggerate!) school life. Plus, you’ll get to share your own insights and experiences in education.

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About the podcast

The Better Learning Podcast combines education and entertainment in a fresh, engaging format where guests share their favorite school-related movies. Host Kevin Stoller leads dynamic conversations, exploring memorable scenes, iconic characters, and timeless lessons through award-style categories like “The John Keating Award” for standout teachers and “Realistic or Ridiculous?” to dissect school life portrayals.

With humor, analysis, and reflection, each episode celebrates the fun, flaws, and impact of these films while sparking nostalgia and insights. Whether you’re an educator, student, or movie buff, join us to relive the movies that shaped how we see school life, and share your favorites.