Let's Get Personal : the Learning Lab Podcast

The Power of Child Entrepreneurship

Leah Ellis believes the only thing standing in the way of kids achieving extraordinary success is limitations placed on them by adults.  Ellis is the founder of the Society of Child Entrepreneurs, which provides hands-on learning, business experiences and community spaces for kids ages 6–17. Her work encouraging kids to start businesses builds confidence, independence and real-world skills. An entrepreneur herself, Ellis is a published author and runs a wedding officiant business. Her never-take-no attitude results in innovation wherever she goes.  In this episode of Let's Get Personal, Leah shares why kids are capable of more than we think and what results are possible when we let them lead. Learn more about the Society of Child Entrepreneurs at https://societyofchildentrepreneurs.org/.

Building Community Through Education and Culture with Shane Carter

When Shane Carter came to Wichita in 2025 to start his role as executive director of The Kansas African American Museum, he was no stranger to educational programming.  While leading the Lincoln Community Center in Troy, Ohio, Shane started and grew a successful and effective after-school program. Now, he’s bringing that same energy and vision to TKAAAM’s educational programming and outreach efforts. On this episode of Let’s Get Personal, Shane shares about his background as an athlete, coach and nonprofit executive — and why he believes community-centered education can change lives. He also shares how TKAAM is enriching culture and connection.  Learn more about The Kansas African American Museum at https://www.tkaamuseum.org/.

Teaching High School Students to Lead Now

Everyone can lead, and high school students are no exception. That idea is at the heart of Lead Now, a new curriculum from Kansas Leadership Center designed to empower high school students to lead in their own lives and communities. In this episode, Jason Bosch, KLC’s Director of Curriculum Innovation, shares how the program came to life and how students themselves helped shape it. Jason also reflects on his journey from higher education into this work, and why he’s passionate about helping the next generation grow as leaders.

What It Takes to Start a School – And How Learning Lab Helps

Ever think about starting your own school? At its core, Learning Lab Wichita is designed to support educators and founders starting new K-12 education models, providing families with more options for their children's education.  Learning Lab Wichita hosts seven K-12 education models. In this episode, Lydia and Kristin chat about what it takes Learning Lab does to support these models and why the Lab is an ideal location to start a school.  Although Learning Lab Wichita has no additional space for new resident models during the 2026-2027 academic year, there are still ways to get involved at Learning Lab. Listen to the episode to learn more.

From Division I Basketball Coach to Family & Community Impact

Conner Hampton is a former Division I basketball coach, a fundraising consultant, a national speaker – and he is Learning Lab Executive Director Lydia's husband. On this episode of Let's Get Personal, Conner delves into what school was like for him as an active, social kid and how it informed their decision when he and Lydia chose a better school option for their 7-year-old son.  Bonus: He also shares how he met Lydia and what he admires most about her, giving a glimpse into the partnership behind this Wichita power couple.