Shows
Return on ReasonThe Future of Personal FinanceAI, banking innovation, estate planning tools. Why better tools don’t automatically mean better decisions.
Innovation in personal finance is no longer constrained to investments. Access to new tools is expanding. But better information does not eliminate trade-offs.
In Episode 28 of Return on Reason (formerly Greenstream), we explore where innovation genuinely adds value and where judgment, coordination, and incentives still determine results.
You’ll learn:
Where AI and new financial tools genuinely add value and where human judgment still matters
Why “free” financial tools are rarely free and how incentives shape outcomes
How inno...
2026-03-0350 min
Return on ReasonHow Often Should You Rebalance Your Portfolio?Rebalancing may help keep your portfolio aligned with your goals, but how often should you actually do it? In Episode 22 of Greenstream, we break down the research behind rebalancing, why drift matters, and how to use cashflows to rebalance with the least friction and cost. You’ll learn about the:
Why rebalancing works and what the evidence shows about managing portfolio drift
The tradeoffs between calendar schedules, tolerance-band triggers, and using cashflows to stay aligned with your target mix in an effort to minimize taxes and friction
Why a disciplined, rules-based process could help you stay invested during vo...
2025-12-0450 min
Return on ReasonIs There Still a Case for International Investing?After 15 years of U.S. outperformance, many investors are wondering whether global diversification is still worth it. In Episode 21 of Greenstream, we look past recent returns and dig into the long-run evidence of global stock market returns. You’ll learn about:
The academic, risk-adjusted case for international diversification
How global diversification helps protect against a ‘lost decade’ or more in your home country
The case for home bias and how to build a portfolio you can stick with
Subscribe for Email Updates: https://greenspringadvisors.com/greenstream-podcast
Follow on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcas...
2025-11-2043 min
Return on ReasonHow To Build The Perfect Portfolio For YouIt’s one of the most important decisions in personal finance. Research has shown that asset allocation, not the stocks you pick, explains 90% of returns (see sources below). That’s why getting your mix of stocks to bonds right matters most. In Episode 20 of Greenstream, we explain why there is no agreement on the single, optimal portfolio, but how we can find the best portfolio for you.
You’ll learn about:
How to align your portfolio with your risk tolerance, capacity, and need
Why your asset allocation should evolve as you approach, are in, and continue throug...
2025-11-0649 min
Return on ReasonThe Goal of Tax Planning is to Minimize Lifetime TaxesTaxes are one of your largest lifetime expenses, but most people think about them after it’s too late to make a difference. In Episode 19 of Greenstream, we break down the difference between tax preparation (filling out your tax return) and tax planning (proactively shaping your outcomes). You’ll learn about:
How to identify opportunities before year-end that may disappear in January
Why financial advisors and CPAs play complimentary roles in tax strategy
Why reducing the tax drag of your investment portfolio is an integral part of tax planning
Uncovering Opportunities in the New Tax Law "One Big...
2025-10-2356 min
Return on ReasonLindsay Jordan & Robyn Bew on Why Every Organization Needs a Board (and How to Join One)Board service is one of the most impactful ways to shape organizations, give back, and expand your influence. In this episode, Lindsay Jordan and Robyn Bew, board governance experts from EY (sharing personal perspectives), unpack what boards do, why they matter for every organization, and how you can position yourself to join one.
Sources
EY Center for Board Matters – Our latest thinking | EY - US https://www.ey.com/en_us/board-matters
Connect with Lindsay Jordan on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsaygjordan/
Connect with Robyn Bew on Lin...
2025-10-091h 05
Return on ReasonInvesting or Gambling? Where Do You Draw the Line?Are you investing or are you gambling? In episode 17 of Greenstream, we unpack evidence from casinos, sportsbooks, and academic finance to show how the odds work against gamblers but for investors. You’ll learn about:
Why time is an investor’s ally but gambler’s enemy
How the “favorite–longshot bias” from horse racing shows up in lottery stocks and IPOs
Four practical ways to help stack the odds in your favor and invest like the House
Subscribe now so you don’t miss what’s coming next: an inside look at the importance of Boards of Directors for or...
2025-09-2646 min
Return on ReasonInvestor Risk: Behavioral Biases That Can Cost Investors ReturnsInvestment returns are expected, not promised. To capture them, investors should both intelligently take risks and stick around for the return. In episode 16 of Greenstream, we break down the psychological and behavioral biases that can hold us back. Investors should view these as penalties or unforced errors that make winning your game harder.
You'll learn:
What we believe to be biases and how they manifest themselves in portfolios
Why diversification, patience, and tax discipline matter more than you might think
How the Stockdale Paradox provides a framework for long-term resilience
Subscribe for Email U...
2025-09-1254 min
Return on ReasonInvestment Risk Explained: How Much Diversification Do You Need?Investing isn’t about avoiding risk; it’s about taking the right risks and avoiding the wrong risks. In episode 15 of Greenstream, we break down what risk means, the difference between compensated (right) and uncompensated (wrong) risk, and why most investors underestimate risk.
You’ll learn:
What different types of risk matter: catastrophic, opportunity cost, and missed goals
Why individual stocks are riskier than you might think (even Apple and Meta)
How much diversification it takes to move beyond concentration risk
Why risk premiums exist and how we can use them to pursue higher expected returns
Our...
2025-08-2956 min
Return on ReasonGenAI’s Impact on Productivity and Profits: With Steve MoritzIs AI overhyped? Or is it the next big leap in productivity and profits? In this episode, we explore real-world examples of how GenAI is transforming small and medium sized businesses. Our guest, Steve Moritz, 2x AI founder and longtime IT consultant, shares how to start using AI in your business, the risks to mitigate, and why leadership buy-in matters. Plus, we discuss what AI’s expected productivity boost means for your investment portfolio.
Steve Moritz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmoritz/
Subscribe for Email Updates: https://greenspringadvisors.com/greenstream-podcast/
Ch...
2025-08-151h 18
Return on ReasonAre Financial Advisors Worth Their Fee?Do they add enough value to cover their fee? We dive into to unpacking the qualitative and quantitative components of potential value for investors from fee-only advisors. We also compare fee-only advice with other forms of advice and discuss why investment advice alone isn’t enough to justify 1% per year.
Meet with Marcus & Pat: https://outlook.office365.com/book/MarcusCalendaratGreenspringAdvisors@Greenspringos33.onmicrosoft.com
Sign Up for Email Updates: https://greenspringadvisors.com/greenstream-podcast/
Chapters:
00:00 Do Advisors Add Value Beyond Their Fee?
03:48 Investor Motivations for Hiring an Advi...
2025-08-011h 18
Return on ReasonHow to Evaluate Your Advisor's Investment PerformanceHow can you evaluate your advisor’s investment performance? We discuss why it’s an important question to ask, why it’s challenging to answer, and why you should be skeptical if the answer is only about past performance. Investing is different from other disciplines because past performance tends to not persist, even for sophisticated institutional investment managers. We also talk about the ways the industry obfuscates historical benchmark relative performance.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Performance: The Right Questions to Ask Advisors – why it’s a tough question to answer and why it should be that way
2025-07-1851 min
NewsRamp Health & Wellness PodcastSenior Couple Finds Vibrant Lifestyle at Greenspring Senior Living CommunityAfter exploring various senior living options, Gary and Sharon Hagan chose to move to Greenspring in Springfield, Va., where they now enjoy a vibrant and worry-free lifestyle. Meanwhile, ABVC BioPharma Inc. secures a significant licensing payment, while Debt.com's survey reveals alarming emotional impacts of debt. Intelligent Bio Solutions Inc. showcases non-invasive diagnostic tool at a clinical lab expo, and Calidi Biotherapeutics Inc. raises $4.6 million to support its clinical programs. Additionally, Fifty 1 Labs, Inc. and UAV Corp complete a groundbreaking REVIVE Trial for Long COVID treatment, and a new study links traumatic brain injuries in veterans to higher brain cancer...
2025-07-1008 min
NewsRamp Consumer & Lifestyle PodcastDiscovering Vibrant Senior Living Communities: Lantern Hill, Cedar Crest, and GreenspringLearn about the experiences of individuals who found their forever homes at Erickson Senior Living communities - Lantern Hill, Cedar Crest, and Greenspring. Joining the Priority List provides access to informational events, immersive visits, and tailored activities to help prospective residents make informed decisions. Additionally, Debt.com's survey reveals an increase in negative emotions and behaviors related to debt, emphasizing the importance of managing debt for improved emotional well-being.
2025-07-1005 min
NewsRamp Local and Regional News PodcastVibrant Retirement Living at Cedar Crest and GreenspringCedar Crest in Pompton Plains, N.J., and Greenspring in Springfield, Va., offer vibrant retirement living options with immersive visits, personalized tours, and helpful moving resources. Priority List perks at Cedar Crest provide a worry-free lifestyle, while Greenspring provides conveniences like dining options and health care services. Easy Environmental Solutions is combating food insecurity in Africa with its organic microbial fertilizer, Terreplenish, and the Easy FEN Modular Microbe Fertilizer System.
2025-07-1003 min
Return on ReasonGenerating Retirement Income and the Allure of 'Boomer Candy'In this episode, Marcus Schafer and Patrick Collins discuss the intricacies of generating income in retirement. They explore various strategies for withdrawal rates, the importance of asset allocation, and the role of social security. The conversation emphasizes the need for a comprehensive financial plan that includes tax strategies and the evaluation of income-generating products. The hosts advocate for a diversified portfolio approach to ensure long-term financial stability and flexibility in retirement.
Chapters
00:00 Why 4% Withdrawal Rates Are Optimistic1, 2 – we contrast our findings from episodes on Elite Endowment spending policies (EP #4) and an individual’s safe...
2025-07-0353 min
Insights with Don Mills and David Campbell- An Acadia Broadcasting PodcastFrom Rocket Scientist to Insect Farmer in partnership with Greenspring BioInnovation Hub and Bioindustrial Innovation CanadaThis week's Insights Podcast is the second of three in our special series on the bioeconomy sponsored by the Greenspring Bioinnovation Lab and BioIndustrial Innovation Canada and features a very interesting conversation with Greg Wanger, the Founder & CEO of Oberland Agriscience. Oberland has a brand new 100,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Ragged Lake that is nearing completion that uses Black Soldier flies to produce fertilizer for the agricultural sector and feed for the pet food market and the aquaculture and farming sectors. The plant when fully operational will divert 100 tons of organic waste from landfills on a daily basis...
2025-06-271h 03
Return on ReasonHow Much Money Do I Need to Retire?Is an 8% withdrawal rate, like Dave Ramsey says, sustainable? Or is it 4%? We unpack one of the top questions retirees have: How Much Money Do I Need to Retire? We reviewed the research on replacement, spending, and withdrawal rates to understand what a sustainable portfolio withdrawal rate is.
Chapters:
00:00 Understanding How Much Money You Need to Retire – finding a better answer than “more”
04:13 Spending vs. Asset Retirement Targets 1,2,3,4 – two sides of the same coin when it comes to calculating how much you need to retire
07:44 How to Calculate Your Retirement Spending 5 – spending d...
2025-06-2046 min
Return on ReasonReal Estate: Expected Returns and Expected HeadachesIn this conversation, Marcus Schafer and Patrick Collins explore the complexities of real estate investment, discussing whether a home is an asset or a liability, the expected returns on real estate, the risks involved, and the tax implications of investing in property. They emphasize the importance of understanding market dynamics, leveraging unique skills, and conducting thorough analyses to make informed investment decisions. The discussion also includes a real-life case study to illustrate the practical application of these concepts.
Chapters
00:00 The Allure of Real Estate as an Investment¹– recapping the highlights from our last episo...
2025-06-0659 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastCreating and Living Our Values as an Organization with Cassi MackeyCassi Mackey joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to discuss creating and living our values as an organization. As Montessorians, we live from a strong pedagogy, but embodying these values consistently can be challenging. Do our choices, actions, words, and interactions align with our Montessori values, especially in moments of stress, conflict, or uncertainty?
Cassi explains that operationalizing and socializing the community's values is critical so there is a strong understand of "what we do at this school." How do we show up, what do our words sounds like, what do our actions look like, and how...
2025-06-031h 14
Insights with Don Mills and David Campbell- An Acadia Broadcasting PodcastConverting Wood into Low Carbon Renewable Fuel in Partnership with Greenspring BioInnovation Hub and Bioindustrial Innovation CanadaThis week's Insights Podcast is the first in our sponsored BioEconomy Series over the next three months in partnership with the Greenspring BioInnovation Hub and Bioindustrial Innovation Canada and features a conversation with JC Amado, Chief Development Officer with Vyterra Renewals and Cassie Turple, member of the third generation of family owners of Ledwidge Lumber about their interesting collaboration that will see the construction of a 40 million litre plant on Ledwidge's property using Vyterra's proprietary Rapid Thermal Processing (RTP) technology and the wood by products from Ledwidge's operations to convert wood into low carbon fuel. The plant will cost $200...
2025-05-301h 00
Return on ReasonAmerican Dream: Is Your House Your Greatest Investment?36% of Americans believe owning a house is the greatest investment you can make, but is it? In the 8th episode of Greenstream, we breakdown how many of us overestimate our returns by not factoring in true costs, which can be ~5% per year. After costs, fees, and taxes, real estate returns may be underwhelming but viewing a home as a consumption good also has non-monetary benefits. We evaluate how to make the most of your home as an asset, while avoiding overreaching and concentration risks.
Chapters
00:00 The American Dream: Homeownership as an Investment – 36% of Americans believe a...
2025-05-2254 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastEssential Tips for Supporting Toddlers through the Early School Days with Michelle BlakeMichelle Blake joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to share strategies Guides can use to help young children make a smooth transition to school. She will discuss things that Guides can do over the summer to build a relationship with the family, how to structure the child's first visit to the classroom, and what to do when children are experiencing a challenging time adjusting to school life.
2025-05-2036 min
Return on ReasonThe Truth About Annuities: Why Their Bad Rap Is (Mostly) DeservedIn episode 7 of Greenstream, Marcus Schafer and Pat Collins unpack why annuities, especially those labeled “deferred” or “variable”, often fail investors. Through the lens of the Rosenthal family’s costly mistake, they explore why annuities are so complex, how high fees and opaque terms work against consumers, and when (if ever) annuities make sense. From fear-based sales pitches to hidden tax pitfalls, this episode is a must-listen for anyone considering annuities as part of a retirement plan.
00:00 The Bad Reputation of Annuities¹ – the Rosenthal Family’s foundation lost money, despite stock markets doubling, while the salesperson got rich
04...
2025-05-0950 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastThe Powerful Effects of Mentoring on Teachers: Evidence Based Best Practices with Ann Epstein and Julia VolkmanAnn Epstein and Julia Volkman join the Voices in Montessori podcast to discuss the preliminary results of a research study examining the effectiveness of mentoring for Primary and Elementary Montessori Guides. Ann and Julia describe the structure of the mentoring program, the qualities of effective mentors, and the results of the study.
2025-04-2953 min
Return on ReasonIs This Time Different?Is the 2025 stock market downturn driven by economic policies, such as tariffs, different from previous market crashes? We're joined by Justin Brown, Greenspring's Director of Investments, to discuss how this time, like every time, is different, but also how drawdowns and volatility are features, not bugs, of markets that reward long-term investors. We outline how investors should respond depending on the preparedness of their portfolio for an unexpected drawdown at an unknown time. We share how we're responding to find a silver lining that may not last long.
Charts discussed:
Full Webinar on Tariffs' Expected...
2025-04-2539 min
Return on ReasonWhat Can We Learn from Elite Endowments?Are Elite Endowment portfolios and returns replicable for other investors? In this episode we unpack what we can learn from some of the most famous institutional investors: endowments. We discuss how their process is repeatable, but the evidence suggests their performance is not. We discuss the challenges of evaluating performance, the debate between whether they are taking more risk vs different risk to achieve higher absolute performance, how lessons from Moneyball can teach investors to play their own game, and more.
Meet with Greenspring: https://greenspringadvisors.com/contact/
Chapters
00:00 Intro - understanding endowments...
2025-04-1848 min
Growing DestinationsEvolving Media, Engaging Communities: Tammy Galvin of Greenspring MediaGreenspring Media is the team behind Minnesota Monthly, Midwest Design, custom content for destinations and a robust lineup of consumer events across the Twin Cities. Tammy Galvin, Publisher of Greenspring Media, has helped lead Greenspring's transformation into a multi-platform, content and experience company, blending print, digital and live events to engage audiences in meaningful ways. Tammy discusses her journey, how Greenspring keeps its brands fresh and the growing role events play in connecting communities.
2025-04-1716 min
Return on ReasonPatrick McQuown on Innovation and Exiting Your BusinessPatrick McQuown joins to discuss exiting your business and innovation in Baltimore. Patrick is a 2x founder and the Executive Director of Entrepreneurship at Towson University, where he leads the StarTUp coworking space, accelerator, and incubator. Pat, Marcus, and Patrick discuss the importance of planning for a transaction in advance, how to execute that plan in a way that fits your goals, and most importantly, what to think about after the sale. They also discuss Patrick’s entrepreneurial journey of operating businesses, advising business owners, and mentoring entrepreneurial ventures. They highlight how the StarTUp is driving innovation in Maryland....
2025-04-0448 min
Return on ReasonWhat is a Financial Plan?Meet with Greenspring Advisors: https://greenspringadvisors.com/contact/
What is financial planning? Join us for a conversation on what financial planning done well looks like and how to tell when it’s done for the wrong reasons – typically if the conclusion is to buy a product a salesperson receives a commission on. We discuss the difference between static versus dynamic plans, how your families’ plan is similar and different to a company’s financial plan, and trade-offs in the accumulation and withdrawal phases of life. And more.
Sources
1 Riskiest Day of Your Life – a flashbac...
2025-03-211h 01
Return on ReasonThe Three Ways to Beat the Market (And Why Most Investors Don't)Pat Collins and Marcus Schafer discuss using evidence to inform your investment philosophy and why it’s important to have one. We dive into the three ways to beat the market, the evidence evaluating if those attempts are successful, and the three things investors can control to maximize their chances of success.
Chapters
00:00 Intro – The difference between the evidence of investing and the act of selling investments.
03:01 Why We Invest – Having your money work as hard as you do to live your ideal life.
05:50 Markets Work¹ – The evidence overwhelmingly suggests f...
2025-03-0746 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastEmotional Resilience and the Elementary Child with Angela MaAngela Ma joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to discuss emotional resilience and the Elementary child. Angela offers practical strategies and helpful perspectives that can help Montessori guides feel confident about empowering their children to handle tough situations, persistent worry, or dysregulation. In addition to an in-depth, brain-based discussion about ways to help our children build the skills to navigate their internal emotional world, Angie Ma authored a book to empower children with information to better understand their emotions and offers a free recording of helpful information for parents. After all, as Angie says, "Emotional resilience is not about...
2025-02-181h 02
Voices in Montessori PodcastThe Delicate Dance of a Montessori Teaching Team with Jonathan WolffJonathan Wolff joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to discuss creating effective teaching partnerships with your co-guide or classroom associate. Jonathan describes this relationship as a "delicate dance" that involves "choreographing a partnership built on trust and understanding, humility and honesty." Jonathan first defines what a well-functioning classroom team looks like. Jonathan then dives into how successful teams overcome common challenges to achieve harmony, cohesiveness, and sustained joy.
Jonathan describes specific strategies to build a successful teaching partnership. We all know it's important to clarify roles and responsibilities of each member of the team. But Jonathan encourages...
2025-02-041h 05
Return on ReasonWhy Greenspring?Pat Collins, CFP®, EA, and Marcus Schafer, CFP®, MBA, explore what sets Greenspring Advisors apart in the world of wealth management. In this episode, we’ll dive into our firm’s mission and vision, exploring how this guides our client-first approach and shapes our core values. We'll also discuss the importance of being an independent financial advisory firm, fostering an ownership mentality among employees, and how this combination leads to a unique and personalized client experience. Stay tuned as we unpack how these values drive long-term success and financial security for their clients, community, and team members.
G...
2025-01-2447 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastThe Hidden Epidemic: Cortical Visual Impairment in Children with Pamela ShanksPamela Shanks joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to share information about Cortical Visual Impairment, an underdiagnosed learning difference that affects as many as 1 in 30 children in mainstream classrooms. CVI is often ignored, missed, or misdiagnosed as low vision, behavior problems, or learning disorders. CVI is a neurological visual processing disorder.
While classroom guides are not diagnosticians, you don't need a diagnosis to begin implementing classroom interventions. In this episode, Pam shares just a few of the 47 strategies (offered in Chapter 5 alone!) that classroom teachers can use to support students with visual processing challenges. These include simple...
2025-01-2354 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastBuilding Leadership Skills Through Class Meetings with Chip DeLorenzoChip DeLorenzo joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to discuss the importance of holding regular class meetings as a tool to build students’ leadership skills. He advocates that class meetings are essential to developing a sense of community and belonging for the students in your classroom.
Chip describes the structure and processes involved in successful class meetings. He also shares how to teach the components of the class meetings in isolation at the beginning of each school year, so that the students have the skills to run them, and how to support students during meetings if needed (wi...
2025-01-081h 03
Voices in Montessori PodcastMontessori for the New Society: The Spiritual Preparation of the Educator with Catherine McTamaneyCatherine McTamaney joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to talk about how we commit to Montessori in an open-hearted, horizon-focused way, while caring for our spirits and caring for each other. What draws people to Montessori and why haven't we yet seen the New Society that she promised? How might Montessori practice (and Montessori practitioners) need to commit to a new model of radical love if we are to nurture the next generation? Join us for this inspiring and thought-provoking discussion.
2024-12-1959 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastFrom Connection to Collaboration: Sharing Objective Observations Through a Collaborative Exchange with Families with Gulzar BaboolGulzar Babool joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to talk about how to build trust with families so that we can then share our objective observations through a collaborative exchange. Gulzar discusses how to share observations about what is working for the child and what might be inhibiting their learning in a way that builds partnership with the family. She talks about how to approach families who are hesitant to discuss their child in this way, how to continue serving the child in the meantime, and when to ask for outside expertise. This is a conversation you won't want to m...
2024-12-1056 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastPreparing Inclusive Holiday Celebrations with Lydia Farmer & Kalai RamanathanLydia Farmer and Kalai Ramanathan join the podcast to talk about preparing inclusive holiday celebrations in the classroom.
While some educators choose to avoid all holidays for fear of leaving anyone out, Lydia and Kalai feel that this misses a valuable opportunity to create a sense of belonging for the children. Instead, Lydia and Kalai celebrate a multitude of holidays and celebrations from around the world throughout the year. This allows every child to see themselves reflected in the classroom community and exposes the children to new perspectives.
Lydia and Kalai talk about how they w...
2024-11-1835 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastRevisiting Dr. Montessori's Vision for Adolescents with Patricia LudickPatricia Ludick joins the podcast to revisit Dr. Montessori's wisdom and insights regarding our work as practitioners who are serving Adolescents. Patrica reminds us that we must be constantly growing in our understanding of the mysterious third plane of human becoming. She considers what time and practice has taught us, as well as revisiting Dr. Montessori's vision statement in From Childhood to Adolescence.
Patricia touches on: Preparation for Adult Life, The Essence of a Working Community, The Big Picture of Program Design, The Important Role of the Adult, and then the importance of Grace and Courtesy as...
2024-11-0556 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastCultivating Concentration in Young Children with Alexandra SandsAlexandra Sands joins the podcast to discuss cultivating concentration in young children. She begins with how we set the stage for children's concentration by carefully preparing the environment and with the way we bring new children into the classroom for the first time. She discusses ways we can use art, music, movement, and the outdoors to enhance students' concentration.
Alexandria explains how observation can be used to identify deep concentration (and what that actually looks like), as well as when a child is not concentrating. Then she guides us to look even more closely - what can...
2024-10-1759 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastDemystifying Cosmic Education with Michael DuffyMichael Duffy joins the podcast to talk about Cosmic Education, the central element of Montessori Elementary education. He discusses the nature and purpose of Cosmic Education, as well as how it is implemented in the classroom. Michael implores Montessori teachers not get lost in the emphasis on math and language testing. He explains that as important as math and language are for Elementary students, they are just necessary tools for students to access the full scope of Cosmic Education. Join us for this fascinating discussion!
2024-09-171h 01
Voices in Montessori PodcastEarly Signs of Learning Differences to Look For in the Primary Classroom w/ Dr. Joyce Pickering and Amy CushnerDr. Joyce Pickering and Amy Cushner join the podcast to discuss the early signs of learning differences that Guides can be looking for during the Primary years. They use the acronym CLAPS for the main areas of development:
Coordination
Language & Speech
Attention
Perception
Social-Emotional Development
Joyce and Amy describe typical development in each of these areas, and also signs of atypical development to watch for during the Primary years. They explain how the Montessori materials and lessons can be adapted to meet the needs of a wide variety of learners.
2024-06-131h 11
Voices in Montessori PodcastObservation as LoveKathy Leitch joins the podcast to reframe the Montessori practice of daily observation - not as a chore, but as an act of love. After all, how do we know what to teach? If we're just choosing the next material on the shelf or turning to the next page in our albums, how is that different from conventional education? Our pedagogy is reliant on knowing our children, our relationship with children, and understanding that they will each follow their own path.
Kathy advocates for elevating scientific observation and using it for planning, implementation of our teaching, guiding s...
2024-06-0456 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastUnveiling Common Montessori MythsJana Morgan Herman joins the podcast to discuss some common Montessori myths. As a Montessori historian and researcher, Jana has searched every one of Dr. Montessori's original writings, including those in the archives in Amsterdam, transcribing them from the original Italian, looking for evidence of some commonly held Montessori practices.
Here are some examples of Montessori practices that are not found in Dr. Montessori's writings:
Rugs being used only to frame the work
Ordering materials on the shelves from left to right, top to bottom
The preliminary activities in Practical Life
How to hold the red an...
2024-05-2853 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastCreating a Classroom Culture that Embraces Worthy Challenges, Problem Solving, and Self-ReflectionCheri Gardner joins the podcast to talk about how Elementary and Adolescent Guides can create a classroom culture that embraces worthy challenges, problem solving, and self-reflection.
Cheri talks about the importance of Guides designing follow up work and projects that are "rich tasks." Rather than being procedural or routine, rich tasks are both engaging and challenging. They provide opportunities for problem solving and critical thinking, apply to other areas of the curriculum, and are culturally relevant and meaningful to students.
Cheri advocates for teaching problem skills directly and creating opportunities for students to practice them...
2024-05-2246 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastTaking Montessori Outside! Lessons from a Montessori Forest SchoolHeather Barger joins the podcast to talk about bringing Montessori outside. She shares Dr. Montessori's vision for outdoor learning, which was for children to learn primarily through first-hand experiences in the natural world.
Heather is the founder of The Montessori Field School in Floyds Knobs, Indiana. She describes how its nature and Montessori-based curriculum supports a hands-on, experiential approach that nurtures the development of the whole child.
Heather shares what a typical day looks like at The Montessori Field School, including the practical logistics. She also shares her discoveries about how learning outside impacts children's...
2024-05-071h 01
Voices in Montessori PodcastBuilding Ecological Awareness in Young ChildrenTammy Oesting joins the podcast to talk about raising ecological awareness in young children, which includes cultivating awe in Montessori classrooms, integrating nature seamlessly, and empowering educators to nurture eco-consciousness. Tammy discusses why is it important to support children with ecological consciousness, and which specific Montessori principles and practices align with nature education. Tammy talks about how Montessori guides can nurture their own sense of ecological wisdom, and then offers some practical strategies for integrating nature education across the planes of development. Finally, Tammy talks about how Montessori communities can collaborate with environmental education initiatives. She also shares some...
2024-04-3053 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastTools for Supporting Learning Environments with Human Development at the CenterSeth Webb joins the podcast to discuss tools that can be used to support Montessori practice, while keeping human development as the focus. Seth starts by highlighting current research about developmental objectives and "dimensions of wellness." He advocates that we redifine educational outcomes to what matters most: executive functions, social fluency and emotional flexibility, linguistic and cultural fluency.
Seth then shares how the Montessori philosophy has human development at its core by focusing on planes of development, human tendencies, spontaneous activity, and a prepared environment. He then shares how we can extend this framework to the school...
2024-04-1645 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastHow the Montessori for Aging and Dementia Movement is Changing Care for EldersMandy Cheskis and Margaret Jarrell join the podcast to discuss Montessori for Aging and Dementia and how this movement is changing care for elders. After painting a picture of the current state of longterm care, our guests then share some exciting research findings about the impact of the Montessori approach on older adults and people living with dementia. They discuss features of a prepared environment for adults that combine best practices for people living with dementia with the Montessori approach of meaningful engagement. Mandy and Margaret talk about the importance of deeply knowing the person and designing individualized activities...
2024-04-0957 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastThe Role of Infant & Toddler Guides as Tone Setters for New Families
Uniit Carruyo visits the podcast to discuss the additional responsibility that Infant & Toddler Guides have to serve as "tone setters" for new families. Many times, this is their child's first experience away from home. 0-3 Guides must shepherd the entire family through the transition to school, thus setting the tone for the way they view Montessori throughout their entire journey.
Tone setting starts with building the relationship with the family and truly getting to know their family culture. Uniit strongly advocates for doing home visits before the school year begins. Tone setting continues through the phase in...
2024-04-021h 05
Voices in Montessori PodcastThe Five Design Elements Essential to a Well Prepared Environment with Sarah MoudryAs Montessorians we thoughtfully prepare our classroom spaces to support children's self-construction. Sarah Moudry, both a Montessorian and an interior designer, joins the podcast to share her knowledge of design research and best practices. She identifies five design elements essential to a well prepared environment that you may not have considered before!
The Invitation
Perspective
Purposeful
Enchantment
Surrender
Join us for this fascinating conversation. You may be inspired to look at your classroom with fresh eyes!
2024-03-1955 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastThe Language of Reverence: An Essential Element of Montessori Practice with Elizabeth SladeIn this episode, we have a conversation with long-time Montessorian, Elizabeth Slade who talks about the importance of using Language of Reverence as a central part of the Montessori practice.
Language of Reverence explores the power of our words and their effects on human flourishing. By examining and changing our word choice to and about children, each other, and ourselves, we can change our sense of the school community and ultimately our impact on each other. The Language of Reverence model emphasizes creating a powerful, shared language that allows all members of the community—children, families, and sc...
2024-03-1257 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastPreparing Adolescents for High School and Beyond
Sylvia Glassco joins the podcast to share how the Adolescent Community prepares students for high school and beyond. As they straddle the line between childhood and adulthood, their time in the Adolescent Community is a time of skill building. Students need to be comfortable with drafting and revision as a writing process; entering into a math problem and searching for a way to represent it; and using evidence to support an argument. They must build executive functioning and self-regulation skills. They must discover what kind of learners they are and build the self-advocacy skills they need in the adult...
2024-03-0558 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastBringing Music Into the Primary Classroom Through the Bells & SongMarcia Perez joins the podcast to share her expertise with Montessori music curriculum and materials. Long before the technology existed to prove it, Montessori realized that music was key to children's neurological development, and language development in particular. The Bells, therefore, can not be thought of as an "extra." Instead, they are an essential part of the Sensorial curriculum in the Primary classroom.
Marcia briefly shares the history of the development of the Bells and Tone Bars. She then encourages Guides who are intimidated by the music work to think of it simply as pitch and rhythm. The...
2024-02-2157 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastProviding Early Art Experiences for Toddlers that Promote CreativitySue Saad joins the podcast to talk about providing early art experiences for toddlers. Sue describes how to lay the groundwork for toddlers to use art experiences in their self-construction. Sue explains that toddlers are in the process of gaining the true creative spirit required for producing innovative art, confident independent thinking, and problem-solving. They are truly absorbed in the process, not the product. Sue shares the art materials and experiences that are appropriate for toddlers and how to refrain from stifling their creativity and learning.
2024-02-1344 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastEducating Families About the Four Planes of Development for Closer Partnership
Junnifa Uzodike and Simone Davies join the podcast to talk about how we can educate families about the Planes of Development to facilitate closer partnership. As Montessorians, we know how vital our understanding of the Planes of Development is in shaping how we approach and respond to children, yet families don't often have this same understanding. The Planes of Development can serve as a "guidebook" for families, helping them to understand the characteristics and needs of their children, manage their expectations, and how better to respond to their children. Junnifa explains that when we give our families the gift o...
2024-02-061h 03
Voices in Montessori PodcastHow to Bring Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Conversations into the Fabric of our School Communities and ClassroomsJen Cort joins the podcast to discuss how to approach diversity, equity, and inclusion conversations with our students. Jen begins by helping to reframe (and detoxify) the terms bias and privilege. She also offers strategies specific for having conversations with children at different ages and how these can be woven into the fabric of our classrooms (rather than designating certain blocks of time to discuss DEI). She also offers some themes we can introduce to our students (i.e., same and different, equity detectives, etc.) and suggests scripts for how to respond to certain questions that may make us fee...
2024-01-231h 05
Voices in Montessori PodcastStanding Strong Against the Push Toward Standardization & Montessori’s Alternative ParadigmAndrew Faulstich joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to discuss resisting the push toward standardization in our current educational system. Andrew discusses how this trend emerged in the 1980’s and continues today. He contends that the question, “What works?” is not the right question to be asking. Andrew argues that standardized education is aimed at an imaginary child “in the middle,” which means it isn’t actually meeting the needs of anyone. And instead of asking, “Are students proficient at x, y, and z skills?”, he wonders why we aren’t instead asking, “What do we want for our students? What kind...
2024-01-1848 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastSupporting Early and Emergent Readers in the Lower Elementary ClassroomShelley Cruse joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to discuss supporting emergent readers in the Lower Elementary classroom. Rarely does every child entering Lower Elementary come in as a fluent reader. Shelley discusses normalizing that fact that learning to read begins in the toddler and children's house classrooms and it continues in Lower El.
How do you know which students need additional support? Which Montessori materials are appropriate for the Elementary child (and which aren't)? What other activities can you create for emergent readers in the second plane of development? How do you monitor their progress? How do you di...
2024-01-0952 min
Voices in Montessori Podcast5 Anti-Racist Learning GoalsDr. Nicole Evans and Carly Riley join the podcast to share five goals that can support you in developing the stamina and skills for effective anti-racist learning, awareness, and action in your teaching practice and beyond!
Nicole and Carly see anti-racist education as the lever for social transformation. Through their organization, Embracing Equity, they work alongside educators and leaders to co-create authentically equitable organizations through:
Individual learning so people themselves raise their knowledge, awareness, and action when it comes to identifying, analyzing and knowing what to do in the face of oppression.
Interpersonal action because anti-racism wo...
2023-12-1258 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastDeveloping a Culture of Writing in the Primary ClassroomJennifer Shields joins us to talk about creating a culture of writing in the Primary classroom.
Jennifer explains how Montessori Guides first build up children's ability to express themselves orally by talking to them, singing, reciting poetry, and maybe most importantly, by listening to them. In a Montessori setting, children can explode into writing when their hands and minds are indirectly and directly prepared through practical life, sensorial, and through spoken language. The key lessons in sound games, sandpaper letters, and movable alphabet get a child on the road to writing.
Jennifer then details all...
2023-12-051h 06
Voices in Montessori PodcastReconnecting Our Students with Humanity’s First Prepared Environment: The Natural WorldLinda Englehart joins the podcast to talk about supporting children's connection to nature. She talks about how the child's experience of nature has changed over time. Today’s children are “containerized” (examples: playpens, bouncy seats, car seats, strollers, spending more time indoors in general) and cut off from the natural contact that generations past had. Yet physicians, educators, psychologists, sociologists, and others have all discovered many benefits in nature immersion, as well as detriments to health and well-being from nature-deficit disorder.
Linda reminds us that humankind’s first prepared environment was the natural world. Montessori materials--in our second p...
2023-11-211h 03
Voices in Montessori PodcastDeconstructing Montessori to Increase AccessTatenda Blessing Muchiriri joins the podcast to tell the story of how his non-profit organization, Rungano Montessori on Wheels was born. Tatenda's goal is to move education liberation forward by co-creating Montessori-based learning environments within Black and Brown communities, ensuring that children and families can learn, play, and dream together. Tatenda chose to put the classroom on a bus, because as he explains it, "Equity is bringing a service to the families, who otherwise would not have access."
MoW offers parent-partnership programs, small group Montessori experiences, and small group tutoring with trained Montessori guides. Tatenda describes how im...
2023-11-1438 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastSetting and Maintaining Limits in the Montessori Classroom
Chip DeLorenzo joins the podcast to discuss setting and maintaining limits in the Montessori classroom. First Chip distinguishes between setting and maintaining limits, and then share guiding principles for these practices. Chip also describes some roadblocks that teachers encounter when attempting to maintain limits with children, and most importantly, a few effective and respectful tools that help encourage and develop cooperation and follow-through.
One tool that Chip discusses in depth is "the power of silence." So many times, teachers overexplain when maintaining limits. Instead, Chip recommends giving nonverbal prompts (or at least limiting our words) and then...
2023-11-071h 00
Voices in Montessori PodcastStarting a Dual Language Montessori ProgramGabrielle Kotkov joins the podcast to discuss starting a dual language Montessori program. She explains the different models of bilingual education and why the enrichment model is her recommended program structure. Gabrielle describes things to consider when starting a dual language Montessori program, and how to transition an existing monolingual Montessori environment into a dual language environment. Tamara describes Greenspring's journey in creating its own dual language program.
2023-10-2455 minVoices in Montessori PodcastSimple Ways to Optimize the Nervous System for Learning Success: Polyvagal Theory 101
Dr. Debra Em Wilson joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to discuss Polyvagal Theory and how we can apply it to the work we do with our students. Debra is a teacher and the author of The Polyvagal Path to Joyful Learning: Transforming Classrooms One Nervous System at a Time. She explains the three main nervous system states - ventral vagal, sympathetic, and dorsal vagal - and how each state provides valuable information about learning readiness.
Dr. Wilson explains that dysregulation is caused by disconnection from regulating resources. So what are the regulating resources for the nervous...
2023-10-1753 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastExploring the Essence of Montessori
Dr. Philip Snow Gang joins the podcast to revisit the essence of Dr. Montessori's work. In what ways was the discovery of the normalization process revelatory? How was the concept of cosmic education formed, and what impact did it have on her life's work? In what ways has her vision expanded over time?
Dr. Gang poses the question: What is the legacy of Maria Montessori? He highlights the scientific theories and hypotheses that evolved after Dr. Montessori's passing that build upon the great insights she had into the development of humanity.
2023-10-1052 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastForced Independence vs Independence as an InvitationLetty Rising joins the podcast to discuss fostering independence in children – and specifically, the difference between inviting a child to be independent as opposed to forcing it on them. She describes the negative repercussions of mandating independence rather than reframing these moments as opportunities. Letty describes what this looks like at each stage of development – physical independence in the first plane, intellectual independence in the second plane, and social/emotional independence in the third plane. Letty talks about how to collaborate with children to invite them toward independence in a way that respects their needs and development. She also disc...
2023-09-2658 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastOvercoming the Three Most Common Pitfalls of School LeadershipA Montessori leader is invested in growing, developing, and reaching her full potential. While some leaders correspond with others on a transactional level, Montessori leaders transform themselves and others by inviting trust, managing effectively, building teams, and empowering others.
Shawn Edwards joins the podcast to discuss what it means to lead a school with transformational intention. She shares commom pitfalls she has seen that prevent leaders from cultivating the school cultures they are looking for. Then she shares key strategies for overcoming these challenges, so that all members of the school community feel capable, valuable, and powerful.
2023-09-1949 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastThe Real Deal: Understanding and Meeting the Need of Toddlers and Their ParentsSimone Davies joins the podcast to discuss the realities Toddler Guides face after training when they are working with “real” toddlers in the classroom. What does concentration in toddlers actually look like? How do we know whether to observe or give a presentation? How do we meet toddlers’ needs rather than merely redirect their behavior? How do we use the prepared environment to help us set limits? Simone answers these questions and more in a jam-packed conversation with useful tools and techniques for Toddler Guides.
2023-09-121h 01
Voices in Montessori PodcastDemocracy, Naturally! Creating Structures for Classroom GovernanceJohn Fowler joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to discuss classroom governance at the Elementary level. In the context of Cosmic Education, John shares a framework for classroom governance that involves students creating their own shared agreements for the classroom, taking on leadership roles (such as president, vice president, and secretary/treasurer), and running their own weekly classroom meetings, during which important discussions are held and collective decisions are made. John makes the case that experiencing democratic governance as a healthy and vital part of Cosmic Education that serves students in both individual and collective ways.
2023-08-2548 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastCreating Space & Structures for Calm and Peace in an Age of OverwhelmRachel Shatananda joins us to talk about supporting children with their spiritual development, particularly by creating space and structures for calm and peace in an age of overwhelm.
What does it look like for us to create space for ourselves as adults?
What does it look like to create space for the child?
What are the tools you use in a Children’s House classroom to support children in developing the skills and tools of mindfulness?
How can we be the Guides that Dr. Montessori envisioned us to be?
Rachel discusses these big ques...
2023-08-151h 00
Voices in Montessori PodcastCharacter Development for the Inspired EducatorTammy Oesting, world-renowned Montessori trainer, consultant, and public speaker, joins us to talk about the preparation of the adult - specifically our own character development. First, Tammy describes the characteristics of an inspired educator. (To inspire others, we ourselves must be inspired!) Tammy also talks about prosocial emotions and their role in this conversation. And finally, she answers the question, "How do we, as adult learners, cultivate these characteristics?" Join Tammy for this lively and inspiring conversation!
2023-08-0858 minVoices in Montessori PodcastMoving Between Concrete and Abstract Exploration in Mathematics with Upper EL & Adolescent StudentsMike Waski joins us to talk about moving between concrete and abstract exploration in Mathematics with Upper Elementary and Adolescent students. This is not a linear progression, but a dance back and forth between both types of exploration.
Mike explains that it's no particular skill that is the most important for students moving from Upper Elementary to the Adolescent Community, but that students are mathematical thinkers. This comes from students being given the time to explore mathematical concepts with hands-on materials. Upper El Guides must resist the temptation to move students too quickly into abstraction a...
2023-07-2554 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastConnecting Young Children to the Natural WorldKathryn Ross, Montessori educator, trainer, and master gardener, joins us to discuss the importance of connecting young children to the natural world. Today, as we observe the deterioration of our natural environment, this connection is more important than ever. Humans learn to love what they are most closely connected to, and that love can form the basis for necessary care - of our rivers and trees, the air we breathe, and the animals we share this planet with. We need our children to love our planet, as they are the ones who will be most impacted by the choices...
2023-07-1853 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastLessons for Creating a Healthy School Community Using the Bowen TheoryKathy Minardi joins us to talk about applying the Bowen Theory of family systems to create a healthy school community. Edwin Friedman, author of A Failure of Nerve, was the first to apply Bowen’s family systems theory to professional organizations, which he argued have personalities, just like families. Friedman’s approach focuses on the importance of leaders being self-differentiated, being non-anxious, and being present with those one is leading. According to Friedman, self-differentiated leadership involves:
the capacity to separate oneself from surrounding emotional processes
the capacity to obtain clarity about one’s principles and vision
the willingness to be e...
2023-07-1132 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastHow to Incorporate Social-Emotional Learning into the Lower Elementary CurriculumJennifer Naiman, a licensed mental health therapist and the Director of Student Support at Greenspring Montessori School, joins us to talk about how to incorporate social-emotional learning into the Lower Elementary curriculum. Jen explains what social-emotional learning really is and shares examples of social-emotional lessons for this age level, such as tattling vs. reporting, personal space, and bucket filling. Jen also walks us through the process of how to introduces these topics with our students - first through direct lessons and then with daily practice - just as we do with Grace and Courtesy! She makes the case for...
2023-07-0458 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastSupporting the Development of Self-Discipline in the Primary ClassroomVeronica Burbano joins us to talk about supporting children in developing self-discipline in the Primary classroom. Montessori discovered (and research now supports) that children develop their will and self discipline during their first six years of life. Veronica explains that these are muscles that must be developed through practice. Veronica describes the Montessori practices that help children build these muscles, including offering appropriate choices, connecting children to work that meets their abilities and interests, and preparing the environment for children's independence. Veronica also gives practical suggestions about how to support children who have not yet developed their will.
2023-06-2754 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastCreating a Positive Social Environment for AdolescentsKelly and Adam Ladd join us to talk about creating a positive social environment for Adolescents. They describe the proactive structures that support a healthy social environment, such as student-created Community Ethics and student-led Council Meetings. Other proactive steps involve the spiritual preparation of the adult and effective parent communication. Kelly and Adam also discuss using a combination of observation and intuition when reacting to situations in real time. Knowing when to sit back and when to step in is an art! Join us for this lively conversation about meeting the social needs of Adolescents.
2023-06-2054 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastThe Importance of Playfulness in the Elementary ClassroomJody Trimm joins us to talk about the importance of playfulness in the Elementary classroom. Elementary aged students are just starting to connect with their teachers and peers in new ways. By nature they are rambunctious, enthusiastic, and daring. At the same time they are thoughtful, sensitive, and caring. And boredom is what they dread the most! As their senses of humor start to develop, lean into it! We can model taking purposeful joy in the things that we do. Building a practice of playfulness fosters peer-peer connections and teacher-student relationships, and can bring life to lessons. Jody talks...
2023-06-1353 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastNormalizing the Pause: An Intentional Reflection on How Our Biases Show Up in the ClassroomCathy Durand-Horne joins us to talk about the importance of reflecting on our own biases. Cathy asserts that to shape children’s thoughts around inclusion, diversity, and equity, we have to take a look at the biases that we each have and intentionally work to change them. We have to begin to make a habit of (i.e., normalize) the process of intentional self-reflection. And the effort must be intentional because some of our biases are unconscious or implicit, so in some cases we do not even realize that they are present and at play.
Once we are...
2023-05-3053 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastA Case for Embedding Writing and Expressive Skills throughout the Adolescent CurriculumCorey Borgman joins us to talk about the de-emphasis of writing in many classrooms - why it’s happening, why it’s important to keep writing and expressive skills as a fundamental part of students’ learning, and how to do that in an authentic Montessori Adolescent program.
Corey describes how key elements of the Montessori approach - student choice, formative feedback & assessment, peer learning & peer feedback, and the interdisciplinary curriculum - inherently support an approach to writing that is authentic, expressive, and culturally relevant.
2023-05-2344 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastCreating Harmony Through Courageous ConversationsCassi Mackey joins us to talk about the need for courageous conversations among educators.
The honesty and partnership we hope for and expect of our students is so often askew from that which we hold for ourselves. This disparity is commonly evident in the manner in which adults, even within a school, interact and communicate. Living the truths of an open and honest culture, where trust is built and leads to belonging and prosperity, is possible. Courageous conversations can be had respectfully and effectively.
Cassi has aligned Montessori principles with Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott a...
2023-05-1654 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastCreating a Structure for Successful MicroeconomiesAmy Fagan joins us to talk about the structures that need to be in place for successful microeconomy program in an Adolescent community. These include the prepared adult; a process for applications and training; a division of labor, so adolescents and adults all understand their roles and responsibilities; and a commitment to integrate microeconomy work into all other areas of the curriculum. Amy provides many examples of successful (and not so succesful) projects that her students have run during her years as an Adolescent Guide and Program Director.
2023-05-0937 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastFollowing the Child with Learning Differences in the Montessori ClassroomBarbara Lubosky joins us to talk about "following the child" with learning differences in the Montessori classroom. Many guides don't feel adequately prepared to support students with learning differences. Yes we can start in a familiar place, with observation. Once we have observed and have a sense of the child's needs that are not being met, we can start brainstorming ways to meet the child's needs in our prepared environment. Barbara discusses some specific strategies and tools that guides can utilize in the Montessori classroom to support students with a variety of differences, such as ADHD, dyslexia, auditory processing challenges...
2023-05-0249 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastCreating a Mentally Healthy ClassroomThere is a mental health crisis facing our young people. William ("Biff") Maier joins us to talk about the importance of creating mentally healthy classrooms. You may be wondering, "Why is mental health the work of schools instead of mental health professionals?" Biff proposes that teachers ARE mental health professionals - and the classroom is a therapeutic environment.
Biff calls Montessori environments "living laboratories" for learning executive functions, linguistic and cultural fluency, social fluency, and emotional flexibility. He gives practical strategies and suggestions for how to support students in building these essential skills.
2023-04-2559 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastSupporting Your Students’ Inspiration and Engagement at the Elementary LevelJennifer Dorrell joins us to discuss the keys to inspiring students' engagement in the Elementary curriculum. Jennifer talks about the importance of the Great Lessons in creating a culture of curiosity and student-led inquiry. One key is to be inspired yourself! Jennifer gives advice on how to dig deeper into areas that you aren't naturally drawn to. She also advises that Elementary classrooms must be research-driven. When this is true, all areas of the curriculum can be hooked into a topic that a student is excited about exploring. Jennifer shares her planning for three-year cycles in the Science and...
2023-04-1853 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastFour Pillars of Montessori DisciplineMany of us have had the pleasure of feeling awed by an observation in a Montessori classroom. The children seem peaceful and calm, working and learning alongside their friends, demonstrating self-control and respect, moving and speaking carefully and gracefully. While it can seem miraculous to the outside observer, our guest, Wendy Fisher, explains that what we see in a well-managed Montessori classroom reflects a carefully orchestrated system and a consistent and strict adherence to a special set of values and practices. Wendy shares with us what she sees as the four pillars of Montessori discipline: respect, role modeling, Grace...
2023-04-0435 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastGrace & Courtesy & The Power of Role PlayMontessori consultant and parent coach, Reena Vohra Morgan, joins us to talk about Grace & Courtesy lessons in the Primary classroom. As Montessorians, we offer Grace and Courtesy lessons proactively, and also in response to observations of our students’ needs. But Grace and Courtesy doesn’t end with the lesson; the children need to practice, practice, practice! Reena discusses the power of role play in practicing these essential skills. Join us to learn about the powerful social and emotional benefits of this beautiful work!
2023-03-2135 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastThe Spiritual Work Required to be an Effective Infant/Toddler TeamInfant and Toddler educator, Uniit Carruyo, joins us to talk about the skills needed for effective team teaching, which includes the spiritual preparation of each adult member of the team. Effective team leaders scaffold learning for newer members of the team by setting the tone, normalizing feedback, stepping straight into challenges, and modeling grace. The fabric of successful team work is based on self-reflection and open communication. Uniit shares her unique perspective on the art of collaborating with other Montessori adults.
2023-03-0740 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastThe Four Ways We Deal with Emotions: A Critical Lesson Missing in K-12 EducationMick Scott joins us to discuss what he says is one of the most profound lessons missing in K-12 education: where our emotions come from, what they're pointing toward, and how to experience them in a healthy and empowering way. Mick describes emotions as vibrations within our body that are the dashboard indicators of what’s happening in our minds. While we think our emotions are pointing to our circumstances, they're actually pointing to our minds. There are 4 ways we deal with emotions, and only one of them is reliably healthy for us, the people we care about, and th...
2023-02-141h 01
Voices in Montessori PodcastCreating a Community of Change Makers in the Primary ClassroomIn this episode Shelby Hiken discusses ways to encourage children between the ages of three to six to identify themselves as agents of change - meaning developing them as people who ask themselves, "How can I make this better?" Laying the foundation for this involves preparing the environment for children to take ownership for their community, as well as speaking to students in ways that encourage problem solving and leadership. These are skills that need to be practiced in order to be built! As older children take on the mantle of "change makers," they end up leading and inspiring...
2023-02-0739 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastReaching for Montessori’s Potential: How to Stay Inspired and Engaged in Our ClassroomsPaula Lillard Preschlack joins us to talk about her new book, The Montessori Potential, How to Foster Independence, Respect and Joy in Every Child. Specifically, Paula encourages teachers and school leaders to aim for authentic, proactive practices in Montessori and staying engaged! Paula dives into what this means, the reasons to do so, and how to do it successfully. We hope listeners will leave feeling inspired and confident!
2023-01-3143 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastSkills for Teachers to Step into Daring LeadershipCourage is a skill we can build and practice every day in our schools. Brené Brown defines a leader as anyone who takes responsibility for developing potential in people and processes -- and has the courage to develop this potential. When we think of leadership in this way and not about titles or corner offices, we see that teachers and school leaders are absolutely leaders, developing people every day. This conversation will give us a lot to think about as we attempt to move towards daring leadership in our school communities.
2023-01-2448 min
Voices in Montessori PodcastHow Current Brain Research Shapes Our Work in the Montessori ClassroomJulia Volkman joins us to talk about how current brain research shapes our work in the Montessori classroom. How do we take advantage of brain plasticity? How do we support students in developing self-efficacy? How do we overcome our natural negativity bias? Julia shares current brain research and the implications it has on our classroom practices.
2023-01-1737 min
Kauffman Fellows PodcastVenture Capital Legacy: Chuck Newhall, Greenspring Associates Venture Capitalist on Building a 100-Year FirmContinuing his series on building an enduring investment firm, Mistral Venture Partners Founding Partner, Code Cubitt, sat down with Greenspring Associates Venture Capitalist, Chuck Newhall, to discuss the lessons learned building a 100-year firm. Chuck Newhall is a Chairman Emeritus at Greenspring Associates, a leading global venture capital investment firm that offers institutional and individual investors a comprehensive platform dedicated to the asset class.
2022-06-1522 min