Better Learning Podcast

In this episode, Brian Proctor, a former educator and now architect at Ratio Design, discusses the importance of radically student-centered school design. Drawing on his experience as a principal and designer, Brian emphasizes listening to student voices, creating flexible and future-ready learning spaces, and challenging traditional adult-driven decisions. The conversation highlights the value of community involvement, adapting to evolving technology, and ensuring that educational environments truly serve students' needs now and in the future.

Learn More About Kay-Twelve:

Website: https://kay-twelve.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/

Episode 257 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website

In this episode, Kevin interviews Stefee Knudsen, principal at Bora Architecture and Interiors, about designing radically student-centered high schools. Stefee discusses the challenges and opportunities in creating flexible, inspiring educational spaces that adapt to students' needs, highlighting the importance of long-term vision, community investment, and innovation in school design.

Learn More About Kay-Twelve:

Website: https://kay-twelve.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/

Episode 253 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website

In this episode, host Jeff interviews John Pfluger of the Cunningham Group about the award-winning design of Rock Ridge High School and two elementary schools in Minnesota. John shares the philosophy of "Dancing with the Yeti"—embracing challenges with creativity and collaboration—and discusses how student-centered design and a deep connection to the local landscape shaped these innovative educational spaces.

Learn More About Kay-Twelve:

Website: https://kay-twelve.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/

Episode 252 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website

In this episode, Jeff Kubiak interviews Robert Dillon, an influential educator and author known for his work on intentional school design and Radically Student Centered™ learning.

Robert shares insights from his experience as a teacher, principal, and parent, emphasizing the importance of adapting education to meet students' needs and creating modern learning environments. He discusses the value of common language in education, translating research into practice, and advocating for better learning spaces, especially for communities with limited resources.

Learn More About Kay-Twelve:

Website: https://kay-twelve.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/

Episode 251 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website

In this episode, Michelle Klosterman, Assistant Head of School at Forsyth Country Day School, discusses what it means to be "radically student centered" in education. She shares her journey from biomedical engineering to education, emphasizing the importance of making every decision with students' needs at the forefront.

Michelle describes how independent schools can be more agile in implementing innovative learning spaces and highlights the impact of involving students in the design of their environments. She also reflects on the evolving needs of students, the importance of self-regulation, and the necessity for educators to adapt as students change over time. The conversation offers practical insights into creating learning environments that truly prioritize and empower students.

Learn More About Kay-Twelve:

Website: https://kay-twelve.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/

Episode 258 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website

In this episode, architect Jeremy Ortiz of Archis discusses the importance of radically student-centered school design. He explores how thoughtful planning, flexibility, and understanding diverse learning needs are essential for creating effective educational environments. Jeremy and the host reflect on the evolving role of technology, the value of hands-on and personalized learning, and the resurgence of career and technical education (CTE) pathways. The conversation emphasizes lifelong learning, the need for multiple educational paths, and the irreplaceable human element in education.

Learn More About Kay-Twelve:

Website: https://kay-twelve.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/

Episode 254 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website

In this episode, interior designer Courtney Ter-Velde shares her approach to creating student-centered learning environments. She emphasizes the importance of involving students in the design process, understanding their unique needs, and integrating technology thoughtfully. Courtney discusses recent projects, including a new accessible playground, and highlights how technology like VR can enhance both student engagement and design feedback. The conversation underscores the value of listening to students and adapting educational spaces to support diverse learning styles and future needs.

Learn More About Kay-Twelve:

Website: https://kay-twelve.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/

Episode 256 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website

In Pixar's WALL-E, a lonely robot's quest to clean up a deserted Earth becomes a sweeping meditation on sustainability, technology, and the human spirit. As WALL-E and Eve spark change aboard the Axiom, the film asks: what does it take to break free from comfort, complacency, and the status quo? And how can educators plant the seeds of curiosity and responsibility in a world shaped by screens, systems, and inertia?

Through the eyes of WALL-E, the Captain, and the humans rediscovering their planet, we see the power of small acts, the danger of losing connection, and the hope that comes from daring to do things differently. The movie reminds us that transformation—of people, schools, or even the world—often begins with a single spark, a question, or a leader willing to make a bold decision.

On this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller and co-host Carla Cummins are joined by Ron Lamarre and Megan Brown to explore what WALL-E reveals about education, leadership, and the urgent need for change in how we learn, build, and care for our communities.

Takeaways:

• True change in education and society starts with leaders willing to challenge the status quo and act with conviction.
• Comfort and convenience can stifle curiosity, connection, and growth—educators must help students (and themselves) break out of complacency.
• Every system, from schools to cities, is shaped by the values and choices of its people; small actions can tip the balance toward regeneration and hope.
• Fostering empathy, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility prepares students not just for tests, but for life on a changing planet.
• Like WALL-E, educators can be the spark that helps others rediscover wonder, care, and the courage to build something better.

About Megan Brown:

Megan Brown

AIA, CPHD, LEED AP BD+C

Associate, FA Energy Team Manager

Megan brings a diverse range of project experiences in various typologies, including laboratories, higher education, civic and cultural projects. Many of these undertakings have been unique and highly technical, such as research greenhouses, cleanrooms, and aerospace engineering labs.

Megan's true passion lies in high-performance buildings, building science, healthy materials, and embodied carbon studies. As a Certified Passive House Designer, she is eager to apply this knowledge to all future projects. She is constantly mindful of the pressing need to reduce carbon emissions in the built environment. Megan thrives on delving into research and technical details to discover more sustainable construction methods.

Megan's initial fascination with architecture stemmed from her love of physics, dating back to her high school days of building egg drop models and toothpick bridges. Her very first architectural drawing, crafted around the age of 10, featured a three-level circular house, complete with spiral staircases. It may have had a few inefficiencies!

Outside of the office, you'll often find Megan in the great outdoors, enjoying quality time with her family and fluffy dog amidst the lush forest behind their home.

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganwbrown16/

About Ron Lamarre:

Ron Lamarre

AIA, ALEP, ALA, LEED-WELL AP, MCPPO, NCARB

Senior Associate, Architect, Accredited Learning Environment Planner

As an architect focused on the planning and design of inspiring and meaningful environments that encourage life-long learning, Ron's success has always been attributed to listening to clients, colleagues, industry partners, and all members of our community. He believes leading the process that creates memorable places and spaces is an honor; requiring constant innovation found in continuous research to understand and implement evolving technologies that enable long-lasting value and a sustainable future. When Ron is not "doing", he's learning, whether the easy way through researching the success of others or the hard way by re-doing failed improvement attempts on his camp in Maine.

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronlamarre/

Learn More About Kay-Twelve:

Website: https://kay-twelve.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/

Episode 250 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website

In Can't Hardly Wait, a graduating class gathers for one unforgettable night — a chaotic, emotional, and often hilarious collision of cliques, identities, and expectations. Beneath the 90s nostalgia and party anthems, the film poses a timeless question for educators: how do young people find belonging and purpose in a world so quick to label and divide them?

Through characters like Preston, Amanda, and Denise, we see the tension between perception and authenticity — between who students think they should be and who they truly are. The movie reminds us that every learner is in their own process of discovery, and that connection and empathy can transform even the most uncertain transitions into opportunities for growth.

On this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Carla Cummins and new co-host Jessica Westerduin sit down with Jay Doherty to unpack what Can't Hardly Wait reveals about identity, belonging, and the powerful role educators play in helping students write their next chapter with confidence and hope.

Takeaways:

• Every student carries a story beyond the surface — belonging starts when educators listen deeply.
• Transitional moments, like graduation, can spark reflection, growth, and the courage to reinvent oneself.
• Schools that embrace diversity of thought, emotion, and identity prepare students for more than success — they prepare them for life.
• When educators foster genuine connection, they help students see that they're already enough, just as they are.

About Jay Doherty:

Jay Doherty is a K–12 Design Principal, Project Architect, and Certified Educational Planner (ALEP) at Lavallee Brensinger Architects in New England. He is passionate about designing educational and inspiring spaces that nurture the next generation of thinkers and doers.

Jay's favorite place to be is at the intersection of art and science—a place where creativity and logic meet. He finds joy in the balance between these disciplines, whether it's expressed through thoughtful architecture, a well-composed piece of music, a carefully crafted beverage, or a beautifully made film.

In addition to his work as an educational architect, Jay is a dedicated film enthusiast and critic. He served as Executive Director of the SNOB (Somewhat North Of Boston) Film Festival for over a decade.

Learn More About Jay Doherty:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jpdoherty3/

Learn More About Lavallee Brensinger Architects:

Website: lbpa.com/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/lavallee-brensinger-architects

Facebook: facebook.com/LavalleeBrensingerArchitects

Connect with host, Carla Cummins:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-cummins-01449659/

Connect with co-host, Jessica Westerduin:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-westerduin-b75454267/

Learn More About Kay-Twelve:

Website: https://kay-twelve.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/

Episode 249 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website

In Real Genius, a group of brilliant college students are pushed to their intellectual limits in a high-pressure, high-stakes environment. But beneath the humor and chaos, the movie explores a question educators still wrestle with today: what happens when learning becomes more about achievement than curiosity?

Through characters like Chris Knight and Mitch Taylor, we see two sides of education collide - rigid academic systems versus authentic discovery and joy in learning. Their journey reminds us that genius isn't just about intelligence. It's about passion, purpose, and the freedom to explore without fear of failure.

On this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, we sit down with Rob Wroble to uncover what Real Genius teaches us about creativity, intrinsic motivation, and how educators can nurture curiosity rather than compliance in today's classrooms.

Takeaways:

• True learning happens when students are encouraged to explore, question, and create — not just perform.
• The pressure to achieve can stifle innovation; curiosity and autonomy unlock it.
• Environments that celebrate experimentation and play can lead to breakthroughs far beyond the traditional definition of "genius."
• Educators who trust students to take risks build confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.

About Rob Wroble:

Rob is a principal and chairman of the board at Legat Architects. He is an accomplished project manager with over 30 years of experience in all phases of programming, project management, design and construction. As the studio director for Legat's Oak Brook office, he not only leads many of the firm's significant educational projects, responsible for client communication, planning, design, cost estimating, scheduling, and consultant management, but he also mentors the next generation of architects in his office. His educational portfolio has specialized in the evaluation, planning and renovation of district-wide school facilities to maximize their life cycle and reduce maintenance costs. Rob has led multi-campus, capital improvement projects for numerous school districts throughout the Midwest. Some of Rob's most notable projects include the A.E.R.O. Therapeutic Center and the Laraway School. The A.E.R.O. Therapeutic Center is a special education cooperative composed of eleven member school districts. The facility is designed for students ages 3-22 who have neurodiversities. The process to create the facility was highly collaborative and research-based. This lead it project to receive two very prestigious awards: Illinois Association of School Boards Award of Merit and the Chicago Building Congress Award of Merit: Education. The other notable project that Rob project managed was the Laraway School, where post-occupancy research was able to determine that the building taught kindness. This facility also received two notable awards: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) – Midwest Great Lakes Region John H. Shaw Award and the Brick Industry Association Brick in Architecture Bronze Award.

Learn More About Rob Wroble:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-wroble-83839518/

Learn More About Legat Architects:

Website: https://www.legat.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legat-architects/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legatarchitects/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legatarchitects/

Twitter: https://x.com/Legat_Architect

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/LegatArchitects

Connect with host, Kevin Stoller:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

Learn More About Kay-Twelve:

Website: https://kay-twelve.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kay-twelve-com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kay_twelve/

Episode 248 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website