The Confidence to Lead, with Audra Dinell, Founder of The Thread

Growing Up Online, Hosted by Learning Lab Kids

Think kids are glued to their phones with no understanding of the risks of being online? Think again. As part of our Creators and Changemakers Week, Aleeya, Piper, Gunnar, Reagan and Rhys share their favorite creators, debate the pros and cons of today's digital world and offer thoughtful perspectives on what kids should know about navigating life online. On our first student-created and hosted podcast episode, these kids shared examples and perspectives. Listen to this week's episode of Let's Get Personal, and hear real talk about social media right from the subject matter experts' mouths.

Engineering a Different Dream, with STEMusic LLC's Roy Moye III

A career pivot sometimes helps you toward your destiny. Roy Moye III achieved his dream of becoming an aerospace engineer, but once he got there, he realized his true passion was music. Instead of ignoring his calling, he took a leap of faith and built a career that combines singing, education, and entrepreneurship. Today, through STEMusic LLC, Roy inspires young people to explore STEAM through music. His unique path has earned him a Grammy and taken him to audiences across the country, but his greatest passion is helping kids discover their own potential. In this episode of Let's Get Personal, Roy shares how following an unexpected path led him to meaningful work. He also plugs his new album, STEMusic Takes Flight, available on streaming platforms now.

The Confidence to Lead, with Audra Dinell, Founder of The Thread

Self compassion is at the root of growing into the best version of ourselves, says Audra Dinell, founder of The Thread and host of A LOT with Audra. In this episode of Let’s Get Personal, Audra reflects on the teacher who first recognized her leadership potential, the joys and challenges of motherhood, and her family's experience with neurodivergence. She also shares how she found the work she was meant to do and what she's learned about building confidence and community. Listen to Audra's podcast, A LOT with Audra, here [https://alotwithaudra.transistor.fm/].

FutureReady: Connecting Students to Careers

How are schools tangibly preparing students for the future workforce? Four years ago, Wichita Public Schools partnered with WSU Tech to launch its first FutureReady Center, giving students hands-on experience in manufacturing. Today, the FutureReady program has expanded from one center to three, with additional opportunities in the works. In this episode, Eric Shipman, principal of FutureReady Centers, discusses why schools should focus on training kids for in-demand jobs, and he shares about the values that have guided his own journey in education.

More Than Books: Inside Wichita Public Library with Savannah Ball

As the literacy services librarian at the Wichita Public Library, Savannah Ball combines her deep commitment to helping people access the resources they need to thrive with her love for books. Driven by a passion for helping others, Ball connects people with resources, opportunities and stories that help them grow. Her own educational journey gives her perspective on the importance of supporting people in finding their own right path. In this episode, Lydia, Kristin and Savannah talk about the role of libraries in a community, swap favorite book recommendations and share practical tips for helping kids become confident readers.