Legend Makers

In this inspiring episode of Legend Makers, Scott sits down with Patty Cortez, an educator from Dallas ISD who's transforming the STEM landscape one student at a time. Patty wears many hats: she's a 6th-grade World Cultures teacher, 7th-grade Texas History teacher, 4th-grade Robotics teacher, and a coach for both an all-girls robotics team (The Lady Bots) and a newly formed all-girls drone team. But her journey into STEM? It all started because two determined 3rd-grade girls wouldn’t take no for an answer.

Patty shares how she helped her students host a Girl Powered STEM event, reaching over 80 girls across Dallas ISD, introducing them to coding, robotics, and problem-solving. These young leaders not only organized the event but also fundraised and led every session themselves, proving that girls belong in STEM—and thrive there.

But it’s not just about tech. Patty dives into creative strategies for engaging students, from turning history lessons into gossip-worthy dramas to blending hands-on robotics projects with traditional academics. Her story of a disruptive student finding focus—in a wagon, of all places—shows the power of understanding, flexibility, and meeting students where they are.

We also explore how student-led initiatives are breaking down barriers in STEM, the importance of teacher-student relationships, and how Patty's own teachers inspired her to give back to her community by teaching in the very elementary school she once attended.

Key Takeaways: 🚀 How to foster student leadership in STEM 🎮 Creative ways to blend STEM and history for maximum engagement 🤖 Tips on starting robotics and drone clubs from scratch 🌱 The power of hands-on learning and tactile experiences in boosting retention 💡 Why teachers should embrace failure and learn alongside their students

Connect with Patty Cortez: Follow Patty's journey and see her classroom innovations on Twitter/X: @Mrs_Cortez12

If you’re an educator looking to empower students, promote inclusivity in STEM, and break down barriers for underrepresented communities, this episode is a must-listen.

What if education wasn’t about tests, but about changing the world? 🌍 That’s exactly what Gavin McCormack, co-founder of Upschool.co, is doing.

With 20+ years of experience as a Montessori educator, school builder, author, and TEDx speaker, Gavin is on a mission to revolutionize education—one student, one classroom, and one community at a time.

📌 In this episode, we cover:

✅ Why the traditional education system is broken—and how to fix it

✅ The power of student-led learning and real-world problem-solving

✅ How Upschool.co is providing free world-class education to EVERYONE

✅ The role of teachers as guides, not gatekeepers

✅ How schools and parents can embrace Montessori principles to nurture creativity

✅ Gavin’s amazing work in Nepal, building schools and training teachers

✅ What the future of learning looks like in a rapidly changing world

💡 Want to bring purpose-driven learning to your classroom?

Check out Upschool.co for FREE courses, projects, and resources for educators and students! 🔗 Sign up here → https://upschool.co

📖 Get Inspired! Gavin’s Books & Resources: 📕 "The Potential in Every Child" → https://a.co/d/jbvWS5F 📖

📢 Follow Gavin McCormack:

🔗 Website → https://gavinmccormack.com.au

📺 YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@gavinmccormack

👥 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavinmccormack/

🚀 Join the education revolution—because learning should be about impact, not just grades!

In this inspiring episode of Legend Makers, Scott Buell sits down with veteran educator Andy Losik, who shares powerful insights from his remarkable 30-year career. After dedicating nearly three decades to shaping young minds in Hamilton Community Schools, Andy recently retired—but his mission to impact education is far from over. In this heartfelt conversation, he reflects on his journey, from resisting the “family curse” of teaching to becoming a beloved STEM educator and professional development leader.

Andy dives deep into the core lesson that every teacher—new or experienced—should embrace: be yourself and trust the process. He discusses the importance of play-based learning, fostering creativity, and creating a classroom culture where students feel empowered to fail, learn, and try again. He also shares how building a collaborative, supportive network helped sustain his passion for teaching through the highs and lows.

In addition to recounting memorable moments, Andy offers actionable advice for educators navigating the ever-changing landscape of teaching, including how to handle burnout, embrace technology, and continue learning alongside students. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just starting out, this episode is packed with golden nuggets to motivate and energize you for the year ahead.

Andy’s post-retirement plans? Inspiring even more educators through professional development, writing a book titled STEM from Scratch, and helping teachers create impactful, engaging learning experiences for their students.

Key Moments:

• How Andy accidentally discovered his calling for teaching
• Transitioning from a tech educator to a STEM leader
• The two simple rules that defined his classroom culture: Be Nice & Work Hard
• Advice for new teachers: “Find your niche, then find your people”
• How to bring more creativity and curiosity into your classroom
• Andy’s vision for the future of education and why he remains optimistic

Resources:

• Follow Andy Losik on X, BlueSky
• Visit Andy’s website: mrlosik.com
• Stay tuned for Andy’s upcoming Substack for teachers
• Explore the EduProtocols book series for practical teaching strategies

Whether you’re looking for inspiration, practical strategies, or just a heartfelt story about the magic of teaching, this episode is a perfect way to reignite your passion for education. Andy’s journey is a reminder that while the world may change, the power of a great teacher remains timeless.

🎙️ In this episode of The Legend Makers Podcast, we’re joined by Brendan Powell, a dynamic K-2 STEM teacher at Collegium Charter School in Exton, PA. Brendan is not your average teacher—he's a VEX IQ Robotics Coach, a Keystone Technology Innovator, and a ViewSonic Expert, always pushing boundaries in early STEM education with creativity, fun, and hands-on learning.

Brendan shares his journey from doubting he’d ever become a teacher to falling in love with the profession during high school. He talks about his passion for working with young learners, emphasizing how their boundless curiosity, humor, and creativity inspire him every day.

🔍 In This Episode, We Explore:

• Play-Based Learning: Brendan’s architecture unit where students build the Eiffel Tower with blocks after drawing their vision.
• Unplugged Coding: Teaching young learners problem-solving and directions using “human coding” activities.
• AI in the Classroom: Introducing 1st graders to AI with Magic School and teaching them how to interact with chatbots while fostering critical thinking and ethical discussions.
• Behavior Management Hacks: Brendan’s innovative strategies like “Secret Student” and “Roar Points” to gamify classroom management and keep students engaged.
• Teacher Well-Being: His personal strategies for staying balanced, including running, hiking, and keeping a positive mindset.

Brendan also highlights how the new PA STEELS standards are shaping science education and shares resources like the ISTE book, “How to Teach AI”, that helped him enhance his teaching practice.

This episode is packed with practical strategies, inspiring stories, and a lot of laughs. Whether you’re a new teacher, seasoned educator, or just curious about the future of STEM education, this one’s for you!

🔗 Resources & Links:

• Follow Brendan Powell:
  • BlueSky: @MrPowell
  • X (Twitter): @MrPowell20
  • Instagram: @Mr.PAL.10
• Book Recommendation: “How to Teach AI” by ISTE
• PA STEELS Standards: Learn more about the updated science standards in Pennsylvania.

Start your 2025 with an inspiring deep dive into the world of play-based STEM education with Brittney Tarr, a trailblazing STEM specialist at the Thomas Metcalf Laboratory School. As a dedicated educator, doctoral student, and advocate for creative and inclusive STEM learning, Brittney shares her journey from teaching English in South Korea to pioneering innovative STEM practices in early education.

In this episode, Brittney unpacks:

• How play-based learning transforms the way young learners develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• The concept of STEM identity and why fostering belonging and capability is essential for every student.
• Her eye-opening research on early childhood STEM education and the incredible projects her students create, like turning robotics into art and storytelling.
• The power of curiosity, failure, and iteration to spark creativity and innovation in classrooms and beyond.

Discover how Brittney’s groundbreaking work at her lab school bridges cutting-edge research with hands-on teaching strategies that inspire students—and educators alike. Whether you're an educator, parent, or just passionate about the future of learning, this episode will leave you motivated to embrace the transformative power of play in education.

Resources

• Thomas Metcalf School: Learn more about our lab school
• Brittney’s Instagram: @adventures_with_mstarr
• Brittney’s BlueSky: @adventuresmstarr.bsky.social
• Taylor Swift Robotics Project: Watch the creative magic here
• Mariana Bers - Early Childhood + Computer Science Researcher:
  • Beyond Coding
  • Coding as Playground
• Lifelong Kindergarten from the MIT Media Lab:
  • Explore the research lab
  • Lifelong Kindergarten book

Kick off the New Year by tuning into this empowering episode, and let’s make 2025 the year of curiosity, creativity, and play! 🎉

In this thought-provoking episode of Legend Makers, Scott Buell sits down with Dan Leffingwell, Director of the Appalachian STEM Collaborative, to discuss the future of education, personalized learning, and the transformative power of STEM. Dan brings over 36 years of experience as a teacher, coach, high school principal, and superintendent, sharing his deep passion for education and his innovative approaches to preparing students for the careers of tomorrow.

Key Highlights:

• The Appalachian STEM Collaborative: Learn how this grassroots organization connects schools, business leaders, and industry professionals to build STEM cultures in schools across 28 Appalachian counties. Dan explains how they align student strengths with industry needs—at no cost to participating schools.
• The Power of Strength-Based Education: Dan shares how identifying and leveraging students' strengths creates engagement, builds confidence, and prepares students to solve real-world problems. His work focuses on helping students align their unique abilities with high-demand career pathways in fields like cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, and IT.
• Innovative Solutions to Burnout: Drawing from his extensive experience, Dan offers insights on keeping teachers engaged and inspired, including the importance of embracing change, adapting to new technologies, and fostering collaboration.
• Future-Proofing Education: Dan discusses how emerging technologies, such as AI, can be integrated into classrooms to create personalized, meaningful learning experiences. He highlights tools like SchoolJoy, which helps align lessons with students' aptitudes and interests.
• Engaging Disengaged Students: Dan shares powerful stories of how the Appalachian STEM Collaborative has re-engaged chronically absent students through hands-on, skills-based learning opportunities that align with their strengths and passions.

Quote of the Episode:

“There is no other career that influences all others like teaching. We’re a big deal.” – Dan Leffingwell

Why Listen?

This episode is a must-listen for educators seeking inspiration, innovative strategies, and a renewed sense of purpose. Whether you’re a veteran teacher, a newcomer, or considering entering the profession, Dan’s perspective will leave you feeling optimistic about the future of education and the critical role teachers play in shaping it.

Follow Dan on X: @LeffingwellDan

In this inspiring episode of the Legend Makers Podcast, Scott Buell sits down with Cran Middlecoat, a retired airline pilot from Brisbane, Australia, whose life took a dramatic turn after being diagnosed with cystic brain disease. Cran shares his incredible journey of resilience, his passion for inspiring young people, and his mission to be the mentor he wished he had when he was growing up.

Cran recounts his early career, flying across Outback Australia, and how his dream of becoming a captain was unexpectedly cut short by a health condition that forced him to undergo life-altering brain surgery. Left unable to fly, Cran faced a crossroads. Instead of letting adversity define him, he found a new purpose: inspiring the next generation of aviators and STEM leaders.

Throughout the episode, Cran and Scott explore topics including:

• Cran’s aviation career: Flying international routes, navigating Outback Australia, and even the unforgettable "coffin run" experience.
• Overcoming challenges: How Cran rebuilt his life after brain surgery and turned personal tragedy into a mission of impact.
• Lessons in resilience: Practical tools Cran teaches students and educators, including why "practice creates confidence" and why aiming for progress, not perfection, is key.
• The role of educators: Cran’s heartfelt gratitude for the teachers who shaped his life and his dedication to being a positive force for students who feel like they don’t fit in.

Cran also dives into his passion for STEM education, his innovative approach to engaging young minds through stories, and his advocacy for embracing technology responsibly. With humor, humility, and wisdom, Cran delivers insights that resonate not only with educators but anyone striving to make a difference in the lives of others.

Key Quotes:

• “I want to be the person I wish I had when I was young.”
• “Practice doesn’t make perfect; practice creates confidence.”
• “Celebrate the fear zone—it means you’re growing.”

Whether you're an educator, a parent, or someone looking for a dose of motivation, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartfelt inspiration.

Follow Cran Middlecoat:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cran-middlecoat-that-pilot-guy/
• Website: CranMiddlecoat.com

Subscribe & Connect: Be sure to subscribe to the Legend Makers Podcast and join us weekly as we highlight educators, innovators, and changemakers who are shaping the future. Follow us on social media @DroneLegends for more updates and inspiration.

In this episode, we’re joined by Molly Dugan, a high school English teacher and rising TikTok star, whose relatable and humorous content has captured the attention of over 260,000 followers. But Molly is much more than her viral videos—she’s a passionate educator navigating the ups and downs of teaching with authenticity and heart.

Molly shares her journey from unsure college student to a middle school teacher to her current role in high school English. Along the way, she opens up about the challenges of imposter syndrome, teacher burnout, and finding joy in the classroom. Her story is a testament to resilience, the power of relationships, and the importance of staying true to yourself as an educator.

In this uplifting and deeply relatable episode, Molly reflects on:

• The differences between teaching middle school and high school.
• Overcoming self-doubt and burnout in the teaching profession.
• The impact of her own teachers in shaping her career.
• Using TikTok as a platform to share humor, humanity, and hope with educators everywhere.
• Why it's okay to explore different paths and redefine what success looks like for you.

Whether you’re a veteran educator or just starting out, Molly’s journey will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt the weight of the classroom—and the joy of making a difference.

✨ Key Takeaways for Teachers:

• Embrace the highs and lows; they’re part of the journey.
• Build relationships with students—it’s the foundation of impactful teaching.
• Don’t let negativity dampen your enthusiasm; protect your passion.
• It’s okay to question your path and adapt as you grow.

Tune in for a conversation filled with laughter, honesty, and inspiration. Molly reminds us all why teaching is a mission that matters.

🎧 Listen now and rediscover your spark for teaching!

Resources Mentioned:

• Follow Molly on TikTok: miss.dugan1
• Molly’s Instagram: Miss.Dugan.1

In this powerful episode of the Legend Makers Podcast, host Scott Buell dives deep with Dr. Dwayne Wood, an accomplished educator, military veteran, and instructional design expert. Dr. Wood's journey from a 22-year career in the U.S. Army to becoming a leader in education offers invaluable lessons for teachers, leaders, and anyone striving to inspire and impact others.

Key Takeaways:

• Teaching as Leadership: Dr. Wood explains how the core principles of leadership align with teaching, emphasizing a student-centered approach that mirrors effective leadership philosophies.
• The Power of Experiential Learning: Discover how Dr. Wood employs "productive failure" to foster critical thinking and uncover misconceptions, helping learners grow through hands-on experiences.
• The Importance of Data: Learn why teachers should embrace qualitative insights—such as observing growth and effort—to complement traditional metrics like test scores.
• Adapting to Challenges: Dr. Wood shares how his military training taught him to anticipate future needs and adapt on the fly, a skill every educator can apply in the classroom.
• AI in Education: Explore how generative AI can augment—not replace—teachers, and why skills like critical thinking and information literacy are more crucial than ever.

This conversation covers a range of thought-provoking topics, from how the military's iterative training approach applies to education to the role of cultural competence and emotional intelligence in the classroom. Dr. Wood’s actionable insights are sure to resonate with educators at all levels.

Resources Mentioned:

• Check out National University here: https://www.nu.edu
• Dr. Dwayne Wood's Paper: Evaluating Generative AIs in Educational Contexts
• Connect with Dr. Wood on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile

Join us for this inspiring discussion, and don’t forget to share the episode with a teacher or leader who would find value in Dr. Wood’s transformative perspective.

Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

In this episode of the Legend Makers podcast, we’re joined by the incredible Dena Scoullos, widely known as Miss Tech Queen. As a technology enrichment teacher, content creator, and entrepreneur, Dena has transformed her love for teaching and technology into a movement that inspires educators and students alike. From starting her own STEM program to creating resources for teachers around the world, Dena’s journey is proof of the power of creativity and persistence.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Teaching From the Heart: Discover how Dena’s passion for connecting with students and encouraging creativity drives her approach to education.
• Innovation in the Classroom: Learn how Dena pioneered Google for Education in her district, brought 3D printing and robotics to her students, and integrates hands-on learning to spark curiosity.
• From Teacher to Entrepreneur: Hear how Dena turned her self-created classroom resources into a thriving online business, helping teachers worldwide implement STEM and technology lessons.
• Balancing Passion with Life: Gain insights on managing the challenges of teaching, entrepreneurship, and parenthood while staying motivated and grounded.
• Inspiration for Educators: Dena’s advice on staying focused, embracing your individuality, and creating a lasting impact will leave you energized and ready to tackle your next big idea.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about education, creativity, and the ever-evolving world of technology.

Resources:

• Miss Tech Queen’s Website: misstechqueen.com
• Miss Tech Queen on Teachers Pay Teachers: Explore Resources
• Follow Miss Tech Queen: Instagram | TikTok