EduCurious Pods

The EduCurious Podcast: An Interview with Alek Cosio-Altamirano, Co-Owner of Southside Footy

Business Partner and co-owner of Southside Footy indoor training facility in Lakeland, Florida, Alek Cosio-Altamirano, is a first-generation American whose love of soccer translates into helping others achieve their very best. Montessori-style independence, creative thinking, street-style raw training, pain and struggle, develop athletes who can joga bonito (play beautifully). Alek shares how he gamifies concepts to grab attention, engage players, and develop young people. Mixed ages, grouped by skill and obsession, is Southside Footy’s philosophy, disrupting the traditional competitive model and guiding players on the pathway to becoming elite athletes. Finding passion and purpose from internal strength and generosity guides Alek as he envisions his company growing, reaching, and guiding as many kids as possible, while uniting them through the language of soccer. Southside Footy: https://www.southsidefooty.com/ Economist Derek Yonai: https://youtu.be/-8Z7WprYwfA?si=ZJ5ROZlnijPhw_rt Cinco Soccer: https://cincosoccerlakeland.com/ Florida Southern College: https://www.flsouthern.edu/ What is Montessori? https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/articles/what-is-a-montessori-school LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexi-cortez-51657b326/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profe_alekcosio/ https://www.instagram.com/southsidefooty/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alek.cosio https://www.facebook.com/southsidefooty TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@southsidefooty Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alek 01:47 Developing Young Athletes: The Southside Footy Approach 05:08 Breaking Traditional Training Norms 07:28 Success Stories and Community Impact 09:00 Soccer as a Cultural Connector 11:30 Personal Journey and Accomplishments 15:37 Advice for Young People 16:10 Overview of Southside Footy 18:14 Unique Experiences at Cinco Soccer 19:39 Future Aspirations for Southside Footy 22:19 Education Insights and Recommendations Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or just EduCurious, join the community as we explore various educational topics and learn from each other. Subscribe so you’ll see the episodes when they drop! https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts?sub_confirmation=1 Be Social Website: https://educuriouspod.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EduCuriousPod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/49IJd6WG083nXhZeQWt2hk?si=300fba40fb83456c Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educurious-pods/id1798666772 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edu.curious.podcasts/ Email: educuriouspod@gmail.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@educuriouspods About EduCurious EduCurious is an evolving platform dedicated to showcasing the incredible work of exceptional educators and delving into the complex issues facing education today. Through engaging podcasts and insightful interviews, EduCurious provides a space for educators to share their experiences, insights, and innovative approaches to teaching and learning. EduCurious explores a wide range of topics, from cutting-edge technology in the classroom to the latest research in teacher training and professional development. EduCurious is committed to fostering collaborative PD by connecting and empowering educators and facilitating meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities in education. By highlighting the voices and expertise of educators, we can inspire positive change and empower teachers to create impactful learning experiences for their students. Meet the Host: Dr. Amber Love Johnson Dr. Amber Love Johnson is an educator, lifelong learner, and passionate advocate for teachers and students. As the host of the EduCurious Podcast, she is driven by one central question: How can we better support educators and create meaningful learning experiences for all students?

The EduCurious Podcast: An Interview with Stephanie-Grace Bond Lutton: Director of Lake Wales Parks & Recreation

What does it really take to run a city, and why should educators, students, and community members care? 🌐 Learn More: City of Lake Wales: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov Overview: In this episode of The EduCurious Podcast, Dr. Amber Love Johnson sits down with Stephanie-Grace Bond Lutton, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Lake Wales, to explore how local government, education, and community life are deeply connected. Stephanie shares her journey growing up in Lake Wales, her experiences with the YMCA, and how those experiences shaped her approach to youth programming and community engagement. The conversation highlights the role of parks and recreation in supporting student growth, preventing summer learning loss, and providing meaningful opportunities for families and young people. Stephanie also offers insight into how city government operates behind the scenes, from maintaining public spaces to planning future developments like trail systems and community facilities. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how educators, students, and residents can get involved in their community, as well as the wide range of career pathways available in public service. This episode emphasizes the importance of collaboration, civic engagement, and creating spaces where communities can thrive. 🔑 In This Episode: • How Parks & Recreation supports student development and learning beyond the classroom • The role of summer programs in preventing learning loss • Behind-the-scenes insight into how a city operates • The vision for Lake Wales’ expanding trail system and community spaces • Why community involvement and civic engagement matter more than ever • Career pathways for students in government, recreation, and public service • How educators can partner with local government for real-world learning experiences Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:23 Growing up in Lake Wales 01:21 Lessons from the YMCA & STEM programming 02:14 Summer learning & preventing learning loss 02:49 Upcoming summer programs 03:23 What a Parks & Rec Director actually does 04:04 Future trail systems & city planning 05:42 Impact on students & community 06:17 Passion for community events 06:37 Leadership lessons: listening & growth 07:48 Growing up with a parent in city government 08:29 How to get involved in your city 09:45 Opportunities for teachers & students 11:07 How city departments work together 12:14 Youth Leadership & new Youth Advisory Board 13:45 Future projects: parks, trails & facilities 15:42 Transition from YMCA to city-run Rec Center 17:57 Community partnerships (Little League, Boys & Girls Club) 19:34 Career pathways for students 20:41 Tourism & growth in Lake Wales 22:22 How to stay informed 23:00 Closing thoughts 💡 Why This Episode Matters: If you're an educator, school leader, parent, or community member, this episode will shift how you think about learning spaces, student opportunities, and the role of local government in shaping the future. 🔔 Stay Connected: 👉 Subscribe for more conversations with innovative educators and leaders 👉 Share this episode with someone passionate about education or community impact 📢 Hashtags: #EduCurious #EducationPodcast #DrAmberLoveJohnson #CommunityLeadership #ParksAndRecreation #LocalGovernment #STEMEducation #YouthLeadership #LakeWales #CivicEngagement #EducationMatters #PublicService #UrbanPlanning #TeacherLife #CommunityImpact Be Social: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts?sub_confirmation=1 Website: https://educuriouspod.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edu.curious.podcasts/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@educuriouspods Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EduCuriousPod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/49IJd6WG083nXhZeQWt2hk?si=300fba40fb83456c Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educurious-pods/id1798666772 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/educuriouspod/

The EduCurious Podcast: An Interview with Blair Petersen Updike: An Artistic Perspective

What does it really mean to be a creative learner? In this episode of the EduCurious Podcast, Dr. Amber Love Johnson sits down with local artist Blair Petersen Updike for a rich conversation about art, learning, curiosity, and community. Blair shares how boredom, self-directed discovery, and meaningful challenge shaped her as a learner and continue to shape the way she teaches and creates today. Together, they explore the connection between creativity and education, the value of frustration in the learning process, the realities of building a life in the arts, and the role artists can play in conservation, storytelling, and community growth. This episode is full of insight for educators, artists, parents, and anyone interested in how people learn best. In this episode, we discuss: • How curiosity unlocked learning • Why boredom can be productive • Teaching creative and nontraditional learners • The role of challenge in engagement • What art teaches us about life • Building discipline and structure as a creative • Advice for aspiring artists • The power of mentorship and great teachers • Florida landscapes, conservation, and community connection • Why authentic art still matters in the age of AI • The vision behind The Florida Gallery Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Learning 02:25 The Journey of a Creative Learner 05:18 Teaching Art: Insights from Experience 07:57 Navigating Art Education and Career Paths 10:25 Influential Teachers and Life Lessons 13:09 Art and Community Engagement 13:47 Water Conservation Concerns 14:54 Activating Community Awareness 15:53 Future Aspirations for the Florida Gallery 17:06 The Florida Marketing Co-op Explained 19:27 Curating Local Artistry 20:56 Bridging Educational Gaps in Art 22:02 The Impact of AI on Traditional Art 23:21 Memorable Artistic Experiences About Blair Petersen Updike Blair Petersen Updike is a Florida-based artist whose work is deeply connected to landscape, place, and conservation. Her paintings reflect a commitment to beauty, storytelling, and the natural world, while her leadership in The Florida Gallery helps amplify Florida artists through collective visibility and shared purpose. About EduCurious The EduCurious Podcast highlights exceptional educators, artists, thinkers, and community voices while diving deep into complex issues in learning, growth, and human development. #EduCuriousPodcast #BlairPetersenUpdike #CreativeLearner #ArtAndEducation #FloridaArt #ConservationArt #AmberLoveJohnson Watch: https://youtu.be/FXM_tnG-G08 Learn: https://www.thefloridagallery.com/ About EduCurious The EduCurious Podcast is an evolving platform dedicated to showcasing the incredible work of exceptional educators and delving into the complex issues facing education today. Through engaging podcasts and insightful interviews, EduCurious provides educators with a space to share their experiences, insights, and innovative approaches to teaching and learning. Be Social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts?sub_confirmation=1 Website: https://educuriouspod.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edu.curious.podcasts/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@educuriouspods Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EduCuriousPod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/49IJd6WG083nXhZeQWt2hk?si=300fba40fb83456c Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educurious-pods/id1798666772 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/educuriouspod/

The EduCurious Podcast: An Interview with Superintendent Fred Heid: Setting the Vision: High Expectations, Accountability & Trust

What does effective school leadership look like in a fast-growing public school district? In this episode of the EduCurious Podcast, Dr. Amber Love Johnson sits down with Superintendent Fred Heid of Polk County Public Schools to discuss educational leadership, accountability, school culture, student assessment, district growth, and the future of AI in education. Fred Heid shares his journey from biology major to superintendent and offers practical insights on how school districts can build stronger leadership pipelines, support teachers, improve school climate, manage population growth, and create better outcomes for students. The conversation also explores how educators can rethink grading, accountability, and the achievement gap while using innovation and artificial intelligence responsibly. This episode is for: teachers, principals, assistant principals, superintendents, district leaders, instructional coaches, parents, education advocates, and anyone interested in K-12 leadership and school improvement. Visit: https://www.polkschoolsfl.com/ In this conversation: • Fred Heid’s path to becoming a superintendent • What makes Polk County Public Schools unique • Managing district growth and rezoning • Building leadership capacity in education • Accountability for leaders, teachers, and students • Better approaches to student assessment • School culture and parent engagement • Student voice and advocacy in schools • The achievement gap and education policy • AI in education, data privacy, and teacher support • Leadership lessons learned over time If you care about public education, school leadership, AI in schools, student success, and the future of K-12 education, this episode will give you a lot to think about. Subscribe to EduCurious for more conversations with educational leaders, innovators, and changemakers. #EducationLeadership #AIinEducation #SchoolLeadership #FredHeid #PolkCountySchools #EduCurious #K12Education #PublicEducation The EduCurious Podcast explores a wide range of topics, from cutting-edge classroom technology to the latest research in teacher training and professional development. EduCurious is committed to fostering collaborative PD by connecting and empowering educators and facilitating meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities in education. By highlighting educators' voices and expertise, we can inspire positive change and empower teachers to create impactful learning experiences for their students. Meet the Host: Dr. Amber Love Johnson Dr. Amber Love Johnson is an educator, lifelong learner, and passionate advocate for teachers and students. As the host of the EduCurious Podcast, she is driven by one central question: How can we better support educators and create meaningful learning experiences for all students? Through thoughtful conversations with educators and leaders, Dr. Johnson explores the challenges and possibilities in education. Her approach is grounded in curiosity, connection, and a deep belief in educators' power to transform lives. Website: https://amberlovejohnson.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberlovejohnson/ Be Social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts?sub_confirmation=1 Website: https://educuriouspod.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edu.curious.podcasts/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@educuriouspods Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EduCuriousPod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/49IJd6WG083nXhZeQWt2hk?si=300fba40fb83456c Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educurious-pods/id1798666772 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/educuriouspod/

An Interview with Andy Blair: Passion Meets Purpose

What does it really mean to live a fulfilled life? In this episode of the EduCurious Podcast, Dr. Amber Love Johnson sits down with community leader and recovery advocate Andy Blair to explore his journey from outward success to inner transformation. After years of chasing achievement and status, Andy shares how a life-changing turning point led him to recovery and ultimately to a purpose centered on serving others. Together, they dive into the realities educators face when working with students experiencing trauma, instability, and addiction. Andy offers practical insight on how teachers, coaches, and community members can build trust, recognize warning signs, and make a lasting impact, often through something as simple as saying, “I see you.” The conversation also expands into leadership, education systems, and community responsibility, highlighting what it takes to build stronger schools and better opportunities for students. This episode is for educators, parents, leaders, and anyone who believes in second chances, meaningful connection, and the power of showing up for others. ✨ Key topics include: • Recovery and personal transformation • Supporting students facing adversity • Building trust in education • Redefining success and purpose • Leadership and community impact 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join the EduCurious community as we continue to learn and grow together. About EduCurious The EduCurious Podcast highlights exceptional educators and dives deep into complex issues. The EduCurious Podcast is an evolving platform dedicated to showcasing the incredible work of exceptional educators and delving into the complex issues facing education today. Through engaging podcasts and insightful interviews, EduCurious provides educators with a space to share their experiences, insights, and innovative approaches to teaching and learning. The EduCurious Podcast explores a wide range of topics, from cutting-edge classroom technology to the latest research in teacher training and professional development. EduCurious is committed to fostering collaborative PD by connecting and empowering educators and facilitating meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities in education. By highlighting educators' voices and expertise, we can inspire positive change and empower teachers to create impactful learning experiences for their students. Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, or just EduCurious, join the community as we explore various educational topics and learn from each other. Meet the Host: Dr. Amber Love Johnson Dr. Amber Love Johnson is an educator, lifelong learner, and passionate advocate for teachers and students. As the host of the EduCurious Podcast, she is driven by one central question: How can we better support educators and create meaningful learning experiences for all students? Through thoughtful conversations with educators and leaders, Dr. Johnson explores the challenges and possibilities in education. Her approach is grounded in curiosity, connection, and a deep belief in educators' power to transform lives. Be Social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts?sub_confirmation=1 Website: https://educuriouspod.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edu.curious.podcasts/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@educuriouspods Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EduCuriousPod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/49IJd6WG083nXhZeQWt2hk?si=300fba40fb83456c Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educurious-pods/id1798666772 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/educuriouspod/