- S2E245: Gifted & Talented Sisters Talk Chess and History (Part 1)
In this episode, MacKenzie sits down with Evie and Mara, two sisters who attend our very own GT School. They share what it’s like to be in a program designed for gifted and talented students, how they both got into chess, and even show off a surprising memorization feat!
- S2E244: From Special Ed to Undefeated MMA Fighter: Daniel Puder’s Story (Part 1)
In this episode of Future of Education, MacKenzie sits down with Daniel Puder, former WWE star and undefeated MMA fighter, for a raw look at the early struggles that shaped him. From being bullied and placed in special ed to cleaning toilets just to afford a gym membership, Daniel shares how adversity fueled his grit and drive. He opens up about going to juvie, facing mental health challenges, and ultimately finding his own unconventional path to success.
- S2E243: Building a Future-Ready School with Gabi Immelman, Creator of Mindjoy
In this episode of Future of Education, MacKenzie sits down with Gabi Immelman, the co-founder & CEO of Mindjoy, to explore how AI-first tools can revolutionize education. They discuss surprising indicators of true school innovation, why student motivation matters more than teacher performance, and how many schools are failing to create the meaning and connection young people need to thrive.
- S2E242: Teachers 2.0 - With Guide Bryan and Student Eddy (Part 1)
In this episode, MacKenzie sits down with Alpha Guide Bryan and his student, Eddy, to discuss the role of Guides at Alpha. They share insight into Alpha’s unique life skills workshops, how students are taught to take ownership of their learning, and what school looks like with no teachers!
- S2E241: Shopping Sprees for Good Grades? Alpha Students Ella and Eva Tell All
Alpha students Ella and Eva join MacKenzie to talk about their mental health app for teen girls, built as part of a school project- but that’s just the beginning. They dive into the unique ways Alpha emphasizes motivation models, including a system where students earn customized rewards for hitting academic goals. From building real-world tools to boosting confidence in and out of the classroom, this episode gives a front-row look at what happens when students take the lead.