EPISODE 300: ‘Billy Madison’ with Brian Schoch & Katelyn Forcucci
January 8, 2026
Overview:
In Pixar’s WALL-E, a lonely robot’s quest to clean up a deserted Earth becomes a sweeping meditation on sustainability, technology, and the human spirit. As WALL-E and Eve spark change aboard the Axiom, the film asks: what does it take to break free from comfort, complacency, and the status quo? And how can educators plant the seeds of curiosity and responsibility in a world shaped by screens, systems, and inertia?
Through the eyes of WALL-E, the Captain, and the humans rediscovering their planet, we see the power of small acts, the danger of losing connection, and the hope that comes from daring to do things differently. The movie reminds us that transformation—of people, schools, or even the world—often begins with a single spark, a question, or a leader willing to make a bold decision.
On this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller and co-host Carla Cummins are joined by Ron Lamarre and Megan Brown to explore what WALL-E reveals about education, leadership, and the urgent need for change in how we learn, build, and care for our communities.
Takeaways:
- True change in education and society starts with leaders willing to challenge the status quo and act with conviction.
- Comfort and convenience can stifle curiosity, connection, and growth—educators must help students (and themselves) break out of complacency.
- Every system, from schools to cities, is shaped by the values and choices of its people; small actions can tip the balance toward regeneration and hope.
- Fostering empathy, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility prepares students not just for tests, but for life on a changing planet.
- Like WALL-E, educators can be the spark that helps others rediscover wonder, care, and the courage to build something better.
The Host:
Connect with host, Kevin Stoller:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/
Learn More About Kay-Twelve:
Website: https://kay-twelve.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/
Episode 300 of the Better Learning Podcast
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.
Our Partners:
For more information on our partners:
Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) – https://www.a4le.org/
Education Leaders’ Organization – https://www.ed-leaders.org/
Second Class Foundation – https://secondclassfoundation.org/
EDmarket – https://www.edmarket.org/
Catapult @ Penn GSE – https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/
Read Transcript:
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
Through in-depth conversations, the podcast highlights how Radically Student Centered™ approaches can make a tangible difference in schools, inspiring educators, administrators, designers, and anyone passionate about the future of learning.