Shows
Edvolution PodcastMaking Field Trips Meaningful: Curriculum, Connection and Student VoiceThis episode was supposed to be short… but once we started talking about field trips, we couldn’t stop.
After Mel returned from a field trip, we decided to pivot and unpack a big question: What makes a field trip truly meaningful?
We explore the spectrum of real-world learning experiences from schools that rarely leave campus to fully student-directed trips.
Along the way, we talk honestly about the very real points of resistance:
Cost, logistics, and time
Safety, supervision, and behavior concerns
Administrative pressure about “instructional time”
The overwhelm teachers feel when planning...
2026-03-0232 min
Edvolution PodcastFrom Passion to Practice: Building Systems for Sustainability in Schools (Featuring Clare Garey)In this episode, we’re joined by Claire Gary, founder of Sustainability at School, for a timely and grounded conversation about what it truly means for schools to “get serious” about sustainability.
Claire shares her non-traditional journey from the nonprofit sector into education and explains why sustainability can’t live in one-off eco days or isolated initiatives. Instead, it needs to be woven into a school’s culture, operations, curriculum, and decision-making.
To learn more about how Sustainability at School can help your school reduce its footprint and develop sustainability leadership, visit https://www.sustain...
2026-02-1630 min
Edvolution PodcastTeaching Global Citizenship: What does it mean to be a good person? (featuring D'Arcy Lunn)In this episode, we’re joined by D'Arcy Lunn, founder of Teaspoons of Change and Group Head of Sustainability and Global Citizenship at Education in Motion.
D'Arcy shares his journey from teaching in remote Aboriginal communities in Australia to leading global citizenship work across an international network of schools. Together, we explore what global citizenship really means (beyond travel, language learning, and buzzwords) and how it shows up in everyday school culture, classrooms, and personal choices.
We talk about:
Why global citizenship starts with belonging and being a good person
The power of small, in...
2026-02-0223 min
Edvolution PodcastMore Than Winning: How PE & Athletics Can Shape Changemakers (featuring Dr. Gesa Beecken)In this episode of the Edvolution Podcast, we explore a powerful and often overlooked connection: how athletics and physical education can be a catalyst for service learning, sustainability, global citizenship, and edible education.
We’re joined by Dr. Gesa Beecken, Athletic Director and PE Lead at the International School of Ulm in Germany. Gesa brings a fresh and thoughtful perspective on how movement, play, and competition can support deeper learning and social impact.
Together, we discuss:
How athletics can move beyond winning and losing to build character, empathy, and agency
The natural links between nu...
2026-01-2032 min
Edvolution PodcastSystems not Superheroes: Making Service Learning Sustainable (featuring Crystal Pottebaum)We’re kicking off the new year with inspiration and practical ideas for building sustainable service learning systems in schools!
In this episode, we’re joined by Crystal Pottebaum, Service Learning and Sustainability Coordinator at the International School of Debrecen, Hungary. Crystal shares her journey from classroom teacher to K–12 coordinator and reflects on what it really takes to design programs that last.
Together, we explore:
Why human connection is essential in education today
How to move from mission statements to meaningful action
Building service learning systems that don’t rely on one person
Creating...
2026-01-0522 min
Edvolution PodcastHow Growing & Cooking Cultivate Real World Skills Across CurriculumIn this episode, Laurence interviews Sandy and Mel about how edible education can transform learning. We unpack why it’s more powerful than food tech, how to build meaningful programs in real schools, and how food-based learning enhances rigor, even in AP and high school courses!
Perfect for educators, school leaders, and anyone curious about sustainability, real-world learning, and reconnecting students with the natural world.
Check out the Center for Ecoliteracy and their guide for getting started with a school garden!
2025-12-0830 min
Edvolution PodcastThe Ethics of Global Service (featuring Kimberly Haley Coleman)In this episode of the Edvolution Podcast, we dive into the world of ethical global service learning with Kimberly Haley Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware. With more than 25 years in the field, Kimberly shares how community-driven partnerships, ethical frameworks, and deep cultural engagement create meaningful experiences for both volunteers and host communities.
We unpack the myths of “voluntourism,” discuss the importance of community-led project design, and explore what schools must consider when sending students abroad. Kimberly also shares powerful examples from Globe Aware’s programs in places like Guatemala, Cambodia, Costa Rica, and Ghana — and refl...
2025-11-2430 min
Edvolution PodcastProject Based Learning Meets Global Citizenship (featuring Tristan Reynolds)This week we’re chatting with Tristan Reynolds, educator, writer, and Dean of Academics at VIS@betterworld lab in Taipei. We dive into what it means to build a school as a prototype, connect global citizenship to authentic community learning, and create student-centered systems for both project-based learning and AI use.
Take a look at the fantastic resources Tristan has to share:
Project Based Learning Study
Tristan's Chapter on AI in Schools
Global Schools Program
Institute for Humane Education
PennGSE PBL for Global Climate Justice
Knowles Teacher Initiative
VIS Website
Tristan's Website
2025-11-1028 min
Enterprise ExploresTwo Teachers, One VisionMalaysia’s Ministry of Education has recently announced plans to introduce a co-teaching model by 2027, pairing two teachers in every classroom and weaving moral education into the weekly curriculum. The goal: more engaging lessons, stronger values, and future-ready graduates.But can this approach deliver real change or will it strain an already stretched system?Janice Chong, Co-Founder and Programme Director of Edvolution, shares what it will take for the co-teaching model to work: retraining teachers, preparing schools, and ensuring graduates emerge ready for the modern workplace.Image Credit: Shutterstock...
2025-11-0627 min
Edvolution PodcastBeyond PD Days: How We Help Educators and Schools Deepen LearningIn this episode, we dive into the many ways educators continue to grow both inside and outside the classroom. From Sandy’s unique journey to Italy for a Honey Sommelier certification to Mel’s deep dive into coaching and professional learning, and Laurence’s work with schools around the world, this conversation is all about how authentic learning experiences keep us curious, connected, and inspired.
We explore how personal passions can spark new ideas for teaching and how schools can reimagine professional development as something meaningful, not mandatory.
Learn more about the work that we do and...
2025-10-2725 min
Edvolution PodcastBeyond the Photo Op: Rethinking Service Learning TripsService learning experiences can be deeply meaningful for both students and teachers, but when they’re not thoughtfully planned, they can also lead to unintended consequences.
In this episode, we dive into the behind-the-scenes of those big “Week Without Walls” trips and other school-led service projects. Together, we reflect on how schools can design service learning programs that foster meaningful connections, responsible action, and real learning for everyone involved.
Check out the Complete Guide to Service Learning by our friend Cathy Berger Kaye for an A-Z guide to help you get started, review, or refine your s...
2025-10-1321 min
Edvolution PodcastWhat Schools Miss About Sustainability...and How to Do BetterIn this episode, we dig into why so many schools struggle to truly embrace sustainability and what it takes to move beyond surface-level efforts.
We explore:
Why schools often see themselves as separate from “real life,” avoiding their ethical responsibility to lead by example.
How traditional school structures, teacher practices, and admin mindsets can unintentionally block curiosity and authentic learning.
The missed opportunity when schools fail to train and model sustainability for teachers, staff, parents, and students alike.
But it’s not all challenges! We highlight schools that do great things and share some resources that w...
2025-09-2923 min
Edvolution PodcastThe Stories We Tell: Starting the Year with Purpose and Partnerships (featuring LeeAnne Lavender)In this conversation, we sit down with the fabulous LeeAnne Lavender, a global citizenship and community engagement consultant who brings a passion for storytelling to every project. Together, we unpack some of the common challenges schools face when building service learning programs and explore strategies for creating strong, lasting community partnerships. We also discuss how storytelling can be a powerful tool to kick off the school year, helping educators set the tone, inspire students, and connect purpose with action.
Learn more about LeeAnne and how she supports educators here!
Check out her new course, Authentic Gl...
2025-09-1529 min
Edvolution Podcast3 Easy-to-do starting points for the year ahead!We’re kicking off Season 2 by sharing how we approach the start of a new school year with purpose and energy. From finding the right thought partners to spark collaboration, to identifying “low-hanging fruit” that builds early wins, we dive into practical ways to set yourself up for success with connection and purpose.
Connect with us!
LinkedIn
Edvolving Education Newsletter
2025-08-3114 min
Edvolution PodcastEp. 6 - Rest, Reflect, Rethink: Why Educators Need a Real BreakIn our final episode of Season 1, we take a step back to talk about something essential: the need to disconnect, reflect, and recharge. As the pace and pressure of the school year ease up, we explore why rest isn’t just important—it’s a genuine act of sustainability in education.
We’re joined by Noan Fesnoux, an innovative educational leader with a fresh perspective on what schools and educators really need to thrive.
Tune in to celebrate the close of our first season and be inspired to pause with purpose. We’ll be back with Seaso...
2025-06-1322 min
Edvolution PodcastEp. 5 - Partnering for Purpose: Schools, Communities, and Meaningful LearningIn this episode, we explore how community partnerships can transform the way schools and students connect with the real world. We share our favorite examples of strong partnerships, discuss why they matter, and unpack strategies for organizing partnerships that are both meaningful and sustainable.
From collaborating with local businesses and NGOs to working with parent groups, we dive into successful models that create authentic, impactful learning experiences for students. We also highlight a fantastic course developed by friends of ours that can help anyone dive deeper into the process of building effective partnerships.
Tune in...
2025-06-0122 min
Edvolution PodcastEp. 4 - Beyond the Classroom: Learning Through Adventure with Matt FarrWhat happens when learning moves beyond the walls of a classroom? In this episode, we dive into the world of experiential education with special guest Matt Farr, director of Mountain Quests—an organization that takes students on meaningful, community-connected adventures across the globe.
Together, we explore:
✅ How experiential learning fosters transformative student growth
✅ The power of connecting students to international communities and cultures
✅ What it means to travel and learn with sustainability in mind
Matt shares powerful insights and stories from the field, reminding us that real-world learning doesn’t just tea...
2025-05-1934 min
Edvolution PodcastEp. 3 - Sustainability in Action: How Schools Can Lead the ChangeIn this episode, we explore what sustainability in schools really looks like and how it continues evolving. We share real examples—from campus-wide initiatives and sustainable facilities planning to edible education through gardens, kitchens, and student-run food projects. We also discuss how data can drive impactful decisions, bridging classroom learning with school operations. Tune in to discover practical ways to embed sustainability into your school’s systems, curriculum, and culture.
Resources mentioned:
Chef Ann Foundation
Edible Schoolyard
Life Lab
🔗 Explore more at Edvolution.Services and email us anytime at edvoluti...
2025-05-0522 min
Edvolution PodcastEp. 2 - Empowering Students to Take ActionWhat does it really look like when students lead the way?
In this episode, we’re exploring powerful examples of student action across grade levels—from elementary changemakers to high school advocates—showing how young people can create real impact both in and beyond the classroom. We’ll share stories of students tackling issues they care about and how schools can create the conditions for meaningful, student-led change.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your program further, this episode is packed with ideas, inspiration, and practical ways to empower your students to take act...
2025-04-2023 min
Edvolution PodcastEp. 1 - Why Service Learning & Sustainability Education Matter Now More Than EverThe world is changing fast, and education needs to keep up. In this episode, we’re diving into why service learning, sustainability, global citizenship, and edible education are more critical than ever—for students, schools, and communities. Check out the sustainability compass we discuss and learn more about Compass Education here: https://compasseducation.org/the-compass-education-toolkit/
Email us at edvolution.services@gmail.com or check out our website at edvolution.services!
2025-04-0818 min
Edvolution PodcastEp. 0 - Get to know the Edvolution team!Ever wondered how educators find their way into service learning, sustainability, and edible education? In this special bonus episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on our own career paths—sharing the twists, turns, and lessons that led us here. If you're curious about careers in this field or just want to get to know us better, this episode is for you! Tune in for personal stories, insights, and a deeper look at what drives our passion for education that makes a difference.
2025-03-0229 min
RonderingsJacquelyn Davis - Stay Clever, Stay CuriousJacquelyn Davis is a nonprofit leader and transformative advisor to philanthropies who dedicated her life to the education sector and social impact. Her life and career are led by constant learning and curiosity. She has launched many organizations and initiatives. EDVolution, a boutique consulting she founded has worked with many national foundations – including the Gates Foundation, the Overdeck Foundation, New Schools Venture Fund, the Wallace Foundation, the Walton Foundation, the Rainwater Foundation, the Alice B and James A Clark Foundation, and the Kern Foundation, among others – and numerous education social impact organizations – including Teach For America, New Leaders, and many m...
2024-05-151h 02
Aprendizaje para el futuroCiudadanía digital: herramientas para prevenir y erradicar el ciberacosoEntrevistados: Alhelí Arrona, Encargada de Formación Docente de Edvolution para Latinoamérica y Patricio Romero, Trainer Ciclo de Talleres de Ciudadanía Digital de Edvolution Chile.
Descripción: Una de las dimensiones de la ciudadanía digital es la protección y la seguridad. Dentro de esta se encuentra el acoso digital o ciberacoso, un problema que durante los meses de octubre y diciembre de 2021 afectó a más de un 22% de estudiantes en Chile según la Encuesta de Participación Ciudadana “Juntos frente al ciberacoso y la violencia digital” aplicada por la Superintendencia de Educación. ¿Qué p...
2022-08-0838 min
EdXpert TalksEdXpert Talk: Tendencias en e-Learning y el futuro de la educaciónEn esta EdXpert Talk invitamos a Anabella Laya, Fundadora y CEO de Acreditta y a Alhelí Arrona, Chief Learning Officer de Edvolution, para conversar con ellas sobre sus ideas y perspectivas sobre las tendencias que están surgiendo dentro de la modalidad de aprendizaje e-Learning y su relacionan con el futuro de la educación.
2022-06-2332 min
Cultivating Connection with KG EducationEp 12: Intentional & Purposeful Use of Technology with Jana GerardIn this episode of the Cultivating Connection podcast, you’ll hear from educator Jana Gerard. Jana works as the coordinator of the EDvolution Center at Southeast Missouri State University. In this role, she supports pre-service teachers and faculty with developing digital competencies. She's passionate about the intentional and purposeful use of technology in education. Listen to this episode for some inspiration on how we can use technology effectively in education.
Show notes available at: https://kgeducation.ca/12janagerard
2022-05-1639 min
Aprendizaje para el futuro¿Cuál es el escenario de las competencias digitales docentes en Chile?En 2021, Edvolution, partner de Google for education, aplicó un diagnóstico de competencias digitales a 3.507 profesionales de la educación en 329 establecimientos, lo que permitió identificar su nivel de competencias digitales durante el periodo de emergencia sanitaria y también, las brechas existentes. Paulina Céspedes, directora de Educación Edvolution Chile, nos cuenta sobre este interesante diagnóstico.
2022-04-2238 min
That's SO EDVOLUTIONARY: A Podcast for K-2 TeachersS2.E1: What is School For- School Board Candidate edition!Welcome back for Season 2!When we left off in Season 1, Annie and Ali were talking about their successes and challenges trying out research-based ideas in the classroom, and the dire need to also push for changes at the systemic level. This led to a podcast pivot to take advantage of a quickly-approaching election season and help get out the word about the different visions that could guide our new superintendent and next Denver Strategic Plan. This is our moment to be informed and involved and truly move toward edvolution. Monday on That's SO EDVOLUTIONARY, Annie and Al...
2021-10-1258 min
Ed Gap EvolutionPam Phillips on Homeschooling, Autism Diagnoses and More Than Good GradesHomeschooling your kid(s) is almost like any other full-time job, except every day is "Bring Your Child To Work Day'' because you are the teacher, principal, lunch lady, and often, you wear every hat in between. In this episode, I interview Pam Phillips. She's a seasoned English teacher, creative tutor, experienced homeschool parent, and … plot twist, she's MY MOM!
We’re talking: What it was like to homeschool four children, solo, as a young mom in the early 2000’s without a blueprint of what it meant to “do it right” and virtually zero community support.
We cover...
2021-05-101h 08Ed Gap EvolutionTondalaya Takapu on STEM for kids with Club Lab Rascals and EntrepreneurshipHailing from Detroit, Michigan, Tondalaya (Tee) Takapu is the CEO of Club Lab Rascals, active-duty Airforce member, wife, and proud mom of two boys. Her company is making space for more children to get excited about learning and build STEM skills through virtual and in-school programs that emphasize hands-on learning.
Not only does the company empower K-5 kids to be doctors, scientists, etc. even as children, but they are inspiring more children of color to explore STEM by inviting STEM professionals of color to make frequent special guest appearances in Club Lab Rascals learning labs.
I...
2021-05-031h 02Ed Gap EvolutionEmily Fleming on Yoga In SchoolsNow more than ever, kids are being bombarded with social and emotional challenges that even us adults are struggling to navigate. In this episode, I interview School Teacher and Yogi, Emily Fleming.
Emily is utilizing the accessibility that public education provides in order to teach kids how to infuse yoga in their day. She has been teaching yoga and mindfulness in school for six years!
Emily believes that yoga adds another tool to a child's toolbox because it provides children with another way to take control of their emotions, lifelong, even when life gets messy.
2021-04-2659 min
PEERS#142. Shireen Jaffer: The Co-Founder of Edvo on How There Is Always A ChoiceShireen Jaffer is the co-founder of Edvo, an edtech company empowering people with the tools to think for themselves and forge their own stories. But two minutes into this chat, we thought she could give Oprah a run for her money.In this uplifting and (damn) motivating interview, Shireen gets real about what actually matters in the real world as opposed to what school and society tells us. She shares her tactics on how to gain clarity on what we want and why committing to ourselves is hard but not impossible.Discover more:
2021-03-2155 min
The New Minds PodcastEmbracing the "G Word" | The New Minds Podcast: Episode 011Award-winning filmmaker Marc Smolowitz and his team are at work on a ground-breaking new documentary that shakes up all our old stereotypes and paradigms about who gets to be gifted and how giftedness manifests in a diverse range of settings and populations. In this beautifully candid conversation, we discuss Marc's impetus for making this the subject of a feature length film project, and hear Marc's "behind the scenes" insights about several aspects of the film. From a super-achieving community at the US-Mexico border, to gifted Shakespeareans in prison, to the unique plights of gifted LGBTQ individuals, this interview, as...
2021-01-1953 min
Brandon Stover On LifeShireen Jaffer on How To Overcome Self Doubt, Personal Learning, & Using Mental Models | Evolve 048Shireen Jaffer is the Co-Founder of EDVO & Founder of Skillify. She went from working multiple part time jobs since the age of 14, even being fired from a yogurt shop, to helping over 50,000 people in their careers over the last 10 years, from recent grads to executives. She is a Forbes 30 under 30, an active angel investor in several successfully growing startups, and a founder of 2 startups that have been aimed at building innovative educational tools to empower lifelong learning for billions around the world.Changing how people are educated and see work in our society, she has supported 220 schools...
2020-11-2456 min
Disruptors for GOOD | Social Entrepreneurs and Social EnterprisesShireen Jaffer // Co-founder & CEO of EdvoIn episode 69 of the Disruptors for GOOD podcast, I speak with Shireen Jaffer CEO of Edvo and Forbes 30 under 30 recipient about building innovative educational tools to empower life long learning for billions around the world.Shireen Jaffer is a second-time founder, Forbes 30 under 30, and CEO of Edvo, a venture-backed startup in Los Angeles that empowers people with the tools to think better and live better. Shireen has helped over 50,000 people in their careers over the last 10 years, from recent grads to executives, and is passionate about helping people build meaningful lives. She has also worked with...
2020-08-2553 min