S6 E28: The Science Behind Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

December 7, 2022

Writing is the only work Ryan knows that gives him an unbeatable excuse to go out and talk to neighbors, to watch Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood on a weekday morning, and to dig deeper into the problems that he cares about.

Overview:

Ryan Rydzewski is an award-winning author and speaker. As a science and education writer, his stories focus on everything from schools to space travel to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, and he regularly leads workshops for educators, parents, and neighbors. He’s the co-author, with Gregg Behr, of WHEN YOU WONDER, YOU’RE LEARNING: MISTER ROGERS’ ENDURING LESSONS FOR RAISING CREATIVE, CURIOUS, CARING KIDS.

As a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, Ryan taught an extraordinary group of fifth graders before earning an MFA in nonfiction from Chatham University. Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood was produced in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania by Mister Rogers’ non-profit production company Family Communications, Inc. which helped form Ryan’s interest in Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Meet Our Guest:

Website Links:
ryanrydzewski.com
LinkedIn
Twitter

The Host:

The Better Learning Podcast is about improving education at all levels – Schools (public, charter, private, independent), Higher Education, & Corporate/Adult Learning. The major theme is to break down the silos and learn from others doing innovative things in education. We highlight innovative programs & initiatives, lessons learned, improvements to educational space, and real-world tactics while getting a deeper understanding of the people behind the innovation. Our guests include Heads of Schools, Superintendents, Principals, Entrepreneurs, Non-profit leaders and other innovators. Hosted by Kevin Stoller, CEO of Kay-Twelve.com & author of Creating Better Learning Environments.

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.

Website – https://www.kay-twelve.local/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/
Podcast – https://www.kay-twelve.local/podcast

If you are interested in being on the show or know someone who would be a great guest, please connect with Kevin Stoller.

Our Partners:

Kay-Twelve
kay-twelve.com
LinkedIn
Twitter

Better Learning Podcast
betterlearningpodcast.com

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE):
a4le.org
LinkedIn
twitter

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.