Empowering Young Minds, the Association of Children’s Museums Podcast

Episode 16: Outstanding Practice Award Winners

In this episode of the ACM podcast, Arthur is joined by Drew Jensen, Executive Director of the Duluth Children’s Museum; Dr. Mort Sajadian, President and CEO of Amazement Square; and Jennifer Farrington, President and CEO of Chicago Children’s Museum. Each leader was recognized with the 2025 ACM Outstanding Practice Award for innovative programs that strengthen their communities and expand access to playful learning. Together, they discuss their leadership journeys, the philosophies that guide their work, and how children’s museums create meaningful learning experiences for both children and caregivers. From exhibit design and community partnerships to initiatives that expand accessibility and inclusion, the conversation highlights how museums of all sizes can spark curiosity, support families, and respond to the evolving needs of their communities. Join Arthur, Drew, Mort, and Jennifer for an inspiring discussion about leadership, creativity, and the powerful role children’s museums play in helping communities learn and thrive.

Episode 15: Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek

In this episode of the ACM podcast, Arthur is joined by Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek [https://kathyhirshpasek.com/biography/], New York Times–bestselling author, Professor of Psychology at Temple University, Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution, and one of the nation’s leading voices on how children learn and develop through play. Arthur and Kathy discuss why play is not separate from learning but fundamental to it, and how active, playful experiences support children’s language, social-emotional growth, and long-term success. Their conversation explores playful learning in everyday spaces, the pressures facing today’s families, and the growing influence of technology and AI on early childhood—along with why human connection remains essential. Many of the ideas Kathy shares about easing the rush of modern parenting and helping children thrive through play are explored more deeply in her award-winning book, Einstein Never Used Flashcards [https://www.amazon.com/s?k=einstein+never+used+flashcards&adgrpid=193184230984&hvadid=792798270149&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9012154&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=7367763076966918128--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=7367763076966918128&hvtargid=kwd-300217158850&hydadcr=12831_13765119_2455708&mcid=6b5f17066f4d3f08a95bbf814d4cc434&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_4vgba095fm_e], which returns in an updated edition on January 20. [https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/594245/einstein-never-used-flash-cards-revised-edition-by-kathy-hirsh-pasek-phd-and-roberta-michnick-golinkoff-phd-with-diane-eyer-phd/9780593980767/] Join Arthur and Kathy for a thoughtful, hopeful conversation about learning, parenting, and creating environments where children can flourish.

Episode 14: Michelle Kang, National Association for the Education of Young Children

In this episode of the ACM podcast, Arthur is joined by Michelle Kang, CEO of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the nation’s leading voice for high-quality early learning. Together, Arthur and Michelle discuss what high-quality early learning looks like in practice, why developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive environments matter, and how early experiences shape lifelong outcomes. Michelle also highlights today’s most pressing challenges in the field—from workforce shortages to inconsistent public investment—and makes a compelling case for why early childhood education is essential to families, communities, and the economy. Join Arthur and Michelle for a thoughtful conversation on elevating early learning, supporting educators, and the important role children’s museums can play in helping every child thrive.

Episode 13: Maria Collins, New York Life

In this episode of the ACM podcast, Arthur is joined by Maria Collins, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility at New York Life and Vice President of the New York Life Foundation, where she leads philanthropic and engagement strategies focused on equity, resilience, and community impact. Together, Arthur and Maria explore how children’s museums and other community institutions can play a vital role in bridging the digital divide and fostering belonging in an increasingly connected world. Drawing on her experience leading national initiatives that address childhood bereavement, education, and family well-being, Maria discusses how partnerships built on trust and empathy can create lasting change. Join Arthur and Maria for a powerful discussion on equity, connection, and the future of learning in a digital age—and discover how children’s museums can empower families to thrive both online and off.

Episode 12: Dr. Daniel J. Julius

In this episode of the ACM podcast, Arthur is joined by Dr. Daniel Julius [http://DanielJJulius.com], Visiting Professor in the Department of Organizational Behavior and Director of Academic Partnerships at the Weatherhead School of Management, Case Western Reserve University, and a Senior Fellow at the Center for Global Work and Employment, School of Management and Labor Relations at Rutgers University. He is a recognized expert in labor management relations, collective negotiations, human resources, conflict resolution, shared governance, effective decision making, and best management practices. Together they discuss the challenges faced by children’s museums and other nonprofits, and explore essential leadership skills, the importance of delegation, financial sustainability, unionization, and the necessity of succession planning.  Join Arthur and Daniel as they discuss the need for empathy and adaptability in leadership roles, providing valuable insights for both new and experienced leaders in the nonprofit sector.