Legend Makers

On this episode of Legend Makers, Scott sits down with Naomi Meredith, a former K-5 STEM teacher turned entrepreneur, content creator, and educational innovator. Naomi shares her journey of building a thriving STEM program from scratch, creating impactful resources for teachers, and launching her own business, including her unique after-school program and mobile STEM classroom—a custom-designed trailer.

With a blend of teaching expertise and entrepreneurial drive, Naomi offers actionable insights on empowering students and educators through creativity, real-world connections, and a passion for learning. From tackling the challenges of starting a STEM program with limited resources to balancing the demands of content creation, curriculum development, and teaching, Naomi’s story inspires teachers to take risks, think big, and pursue their passions.

Discover Naomi’s tips for finding support in STEM education through peer communities, leveraging social media as a professional resource, and making learning fun and accessible for all. Plus, Naomi shares her optimism about the evolving role of technology in education, emphasizing the importance of creativity and adaptability in preparing students for the future.

• Check out Naomi Meredith’s Website: naomimeredith.com – Explore Naomi’s curriculum, podcasts, and other STEM resources for educators.
• Follow Naomi on Instagram
• Follow Naomi on TikTok

Key Takeaways

• Building a STEM program is possible even with limited resources—start small, create systems, and connect with your community.
• Teachers can find invaluable support through peer networks, social media, and professional development opportunities.
• Inspiring students through STEM means showcasing creativity, real-world connections, and the exciting possibilities of technology.

Don’t miss this episode full of energy, ideas, and optimism from a true STEM trailblazer!

In this episode of Legend Makers, host Scott Buell welcomes Jill Weaver, a passionate STEM and science educator at Valley View Junior High, with over 20 years of experience. Jill’s journey, from medical technology to the classroom, reveals a relentless drive to spark excitement in her students for STEM and space exploration. Throughout the episode, Jill shares stories that reflect her dedication to providing real-world, hands-on learning experiences that push the boundaries of traditional education.

From partnering with space exploration pioneers to organizing unforgettable events like hot air balloon rides with aviation legends, Jill has successfully inspired students in new ways. A notable aspect of Jill’s teaching approach is her commitment to real-world project-based learning, including high-altitude balloon launches and the creation of experimental “CubeSats.” Jill’s stories of students launching balloon payloads to the stratosphere exemplify her belief in the power of experiential learning and her drive to make science relatable and awe-inspiring for young minds.

Listeners will gain insights into the resources Jill recommends, from summer workshops and research experiences to teacher programs like the National Science Teachers Association and high-altitude balloon projects. She offers actionable advice for new and seasoned teachers on reigniting their passion through immersive summer experiences that bring fresh energy to their classrooms. Jill also opens up about her involvement with the Limitless Space Institute as an Educational Ambassador, connecting educators worldwide to prepare students for the next great frontier—space.

Key Highlights:

• Jill’s journey from medical technology to STEM education and the classroom
• How hands-on, project-based learning is transforming her students’ lives
• High-altitude ballooning with student-designed payloads, capturing imaginations
• Jill’s involvement with the Limitless Space Institute and her hopes for space education
• Practical advice for teachers on staying inspired and energized through experiential learning programs

Resources:

• Limitless Space Institute
• Daily STEM by Chris Woods
• National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)
• JOIDES Resolution Ocean Research Program
• SEEC Conference at Space Center Houston

This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone passionate about the future of STEM and space education. Jill’s inspiring approach and practical advice will leave you ready to reach new heights in your own educational journey!

In this episode of the Legend Makers Podcast, Scott Buell interviews Dustin Goldie, an experienced educator, administrator, and STEM advocate who leads the Panther Success Program at Little Miami High School. With a unique perspective that combines education and entrepreneurship, Dustin shares insights into transforming alternative education with hands-on learning, workforce readiness, and an entrepreneurial spirit. His motto, "Attack Each Day with an Enthusiasm Unknown to Mankind," fuels his mission to equip students with skills and mindsets that go beyond the classroom.

Episode Highlights:

• Panther Success Academy: Dustin explains how this Tier II Alternative School helps at-risk students by offering flexible paths to graduation, workforce development, and online course options. Here, students find alternative pathways in a supportive environment that meets their unique needs.
• STEM in Real Life: A firm believer that "STEM is everywhere," Dustin incorporates practical STEM skills into his curriculum. From changing car tires to visiting local manufacturing centers, students learn valuable skills that bridge academics and real-world applications.
• Entrepreneurial Drive: As CEO of Goldie Beef, one of Southwest Ohio's largest freezer beef producers, Dustin knows the value of entrepreneurship. He inspires students to explore their own “side hustles” and entrepreneurial ventures, helping them see education as a foundation for future success.
• Meeting Students Where They Are: Dustin emphasizes the importance of adapting education to suit modern students' needs. With empathy and flexibility, he believes teachers can inspire a generation that is tech-savvy, entrepreneurial, and eager for hands-on experience.

Key Takeaways:

• Education must evolve to offer flexible, real-world applications.
• Workforce readiness is essential, especially for students interested in alternative pathways.
• Encourage students’ entrepreneurial spirits through practical skills and a STEM-rich curriculum.

Resources

1. Panther Success Academy – Alternative learning paths for at-risk students.
2. Goldie Beef – Dustin’s entrepreneurial venture: eatgoldiebeef.com.
3. Daily STEM by Chris Woods – STEM resources for educators.
4. Graduation Alliance – Partner for online, flexible learning pathways.
5. Follow Dustin on Twitter (X).

Listen now to learn how Dustin Goldie is empowering the next generation with skills, empathy, and an enthusiasm to change the world.

Welcome to the Legend Makers podcast, where we celebrate the stories and expertise of trailblazing educators. In this episode, Scott Buell sits down with Ekuwah Mends Moses, an award-winning educator, author, and international keynote speaker whose passion for engineering education and literacy is transforming the lives of K-5 students. With 24 years of experience in the Clark County School District, Ekuwah brings her unique approach to STEM, blending creativity, storytelling, and hands-on learning.

Episode Highlights:

• Ekuwah’s Teaching Journey: Discover how Ekuwah, inspired by her educator parents and a deep love for books and storytelling, found her calling in teaching. Initially aiming for collegiate education, her path led her to K-5 engineering education, where she now teaches nearly 800 students on a seven-day rotation.
• The Power of Names: Ekuwah shares the meaning behind her name, rooted in Ghanaian culture, and how it reflects her identity and heritage. Her story forms the foundation of her book, My Name is an Address, which illustrates the connection between names and identity.
• Teaching Philosophy: Ekuwah emphasizes the importance of building a supportive and growth-oriented professional network. She believes in the power of reading broadly, engaging with fellow educators through social media, and being open to new ideas. Her commitment to continuous learning has been pivotal in adapting to changing educational landscapes.
• Engaging Students Through STEM: Ekuwah talks about her passion for K-5 engineering and how she creates open-ended challenges that allow students to explore, build confidence, and make connections across various subjects. She shares her favorite teaching moments, like reading student reflections that reveal their learning journey and personal growth.
• Advice for Educators: Whether you're new to teaching or considering it as a career, Ekuwah’s advice is simple: surround yourself with positive influences, read widely, and build a community of mentors and peers. She highlights the importance of maintaining an authentic teaching style, designed to fit the needs of your specific classroom and community.
• Optimism for the Future: Ekuwah expresses her excitement about the growing emphasis on STEM at the elementary level. By exposing children to engineering concepts early on, she believes educators can inspire the next generation of innovators, creating a diverse and inclusive environment where all students feel seen and valued.

Resources:

• Ekuwah’s website: ekuwah.com (for her full range of resources and professional learning materials)
• Daily STEM by Chris Woods
• Rise and Thrive: Science and Engineering K-5
• Chris Emdin’s book STEM, STEAM, Make, Dream

Tune in to learn how Ekuwah is spreading her wings and inspiring students to discover the engineer within themselves. Follow her journey and gain insights into building a thriving classroom community rooted in creativity, literacy, and STEM innovation.

In this episode of Legend Makers, Scott Buell sits down with Elizabeth Allen, an inspiring STEM advocate and curriculum developer. Elizabeth’s journey in education started in South Korea, where she dove into teaching at a Jesuit immersion school alongside her family. This international experience taught her the power of flexible, creative learning environments. She shares how small class sizes, immersive teaching, and the freedom to go beyond rigid curriculums allowed her to accelerate student growth—like teaching kindergartners to read Harry Potter!

Elizabeth's approach emphasizes cross-disciplinary learning by integrating arts and reading into STEM to create STEAM or STREAM experiences. For her, making lessons engaging is key to unlocking students’ potential. She advises new teachers to have a clear sense of purpose and be willing to learn from others by observing experienced educators. Elizabeth believes in nurturing curiosity and connecting learning with real-world applications.

A major theme in this episode is Elizabeth’s passion for sustainability and the role of drones in solving global challenges. She highlights projects like Dendra Systems’ tree-planting drones and Scotland’s Ecosene initiative, which turns plastics into rocket fuel. Her vision includes empowering students to engage in youth-led drone-based environmental projects, combining technology and conservation in meaningful ways.

Elizabeth also shares practical advice for classroom management, highlighting the "1-2-3 Magic" method for younger students. She encourages teachers to embrace mentorship and find ways to continuously improve, believing that lifelong learning is essential to staying effective in the classroom.

Why You Should Listen: This episode is a must-listen for educators and innovators looking to enhance student engagement and explore creative STEM teaching methods. Elizabeth’s story demonstrates the power of breaking traditional molds to inspire the next generation of problem-solvers and innovators.

Resources:

• Book: "1-2-3 Magic" for classroom management
• High Tech High
• Experience Corps (by AARP) for in-class reading support
• Cosmos with Cosmos Podcast for science enthusiasts
• Ecosene ecofriendly transformation of plastic

Join us to hear how Elizabeth Allen is redefining STEM education through creativity, sustainability, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

4o

In this episode of the Legend Makers Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Alethea "E.C." Setser, a veteran teacher with over 30 years of experience across all grade levels, from preschool to college. EC shares her inspiring journey, innovative teaching strategies, and passion for empowering students through technology, including drones, 3D printers, and AI.

Highlights from the Episode:

• Alethea’s Background: EC has a strong educational foundation with degrees from Clemson University in Elementary Education and Mathematics, plus two master’s—one in Gifted Education (Converse College) and another in Educational Leadership (The Citadel). She's currently pursuing a Doctorate in Leadership, focusing on AI in education.
• Why She Got into Teaching: EC was inspired by her fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Walker, who showed her the power of creative teaching, like racing sailboats and using fun methods to teach fractions. EC wants to ignite the same love for learning in her students.
• Technology and Innovation in the Classroom: EC uses tools like drones, 3D printers, and LED lights in her gifted classroom. Her passion for tech lets students explore problem-solving and critical thinking. She stresses that students must be ready for jobs that don't yet exist.
• Advice for New Teachers: EC encourages educators to take on challenges and find mentors. She recommends using tools like drones to inspire students and suggests writing grants to fund projects.
• Optimism for the Future of Education: Despite challenges, EC is excited about the future, especially with tech like Zoom, podcasts, and AI opening up new learning possibilities. She believes the best is still to come.

Resources Mentioned:

• Harry Wong’s First Days of School (A must-read for all new educators)
• Girls Who Code (Free resources for coding)
• NXTLVL Problem Solving Olympiad (Collaboration and critical thinking competition)
• Founders podcast (learn life lessons from the greats)
• Govee Curtain Lights (light up your classroom!)

Grants:

• Voya Unsung Heroes Grant
• Bosch Best Teacher Grant
• AIAA Grant
• Donors Choose (for funding classroom projects)

Connect with Alethea “E.C.” Setser:

• LinkedIn
• Instagram

In this dynamic episode of the Legend Makers podcast, we are joined by two inspiring educators, Maureen Tavernaro and Vonae Tanner, who share their unique journeys into the world of teaching and STEM education.

Key Takeaways from Episode 4:

• Vonae Tanner, Director of Curriculum at Drone Legends, steps in as a last-minute guest to talk about her passion for teaching math and her fascinating path from theater and performing arts to STEM education. Vonae discusses her love for working with middle school students and how she uses drones and innovative techniques to keep students engaged and learning through fun and failure.
• Maureen Tavernaro, STREAM Director at St. Agnes, joins the conversation to share her journey into teaching later in life after a career as an industrial engineer. Maureen offers practical advice on leveraging her STEM background to create engaging classroom experiences. She emphasizes the importance of continually learning and taking advantage of opportunities that benefit both teachers and students.

What You’ll Learn:

• Vonae’s journey from math enthusiast to a leading curriculum developer at Drone Legends, and her passion for empowering students to solve problems through STEM.
• Maureen’s transition from the engineering field to education and how her "It's never too late to reinvent yourself" philosophy has shaped her career.
• Insights into building thinking classrooms, where students are encouraged to explore, collaborate, and engage in hands-on learning experiences.
• The importance of using drones, sports, and other tech tools as motivational rewards in the classroom.
• How both Vonae and Maureen emphasize the power of failure as a key step in the learning process, fostering a growth mindset in students.

Episode Highlights:

• From Math to STEM: Vonae shares her love of teaching math and how she integrates fun STEM activities, like drones, into her lessons.
• Embracing the Failures: Both guests touch on the significance of allowing students to fail, learn, and improve, teaching them resilience and critical thinking skills.
• Never Too Late: Maureen’s transition from an industrial engineer to a passionate STEM teacher proves that it’s never too late to follow your calling.
• Creating Engaging Classrooms: Vonae and Maureen discuss the importance of creating safe, engaging, and supportive classroom environments that cater to both academic and emotional needs.

Resources:

• Explore more about the Thinking Classrooms method mentioned by Maureen, and how it can transform learning: Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics, Grades K-12: 14 Teaching Practices for Enhancing Learning: https://a.co/d/i11xHuo
• Learn more about Drone Legends and how Vonae helps students engage with STEM through innovative curricula.

Join the Conversation:

• Follow Maureen Tavernaro on X/Twitter: @MaureenTaverna1
• Connect with Vonae Tanner on LinkedIn

🎙️ Guest: Julie Mavrogeorge, an esports expert and advocate for STEM education, joins us to discuss her journey from IT to education, and her mission to bring esports, drones, and STEM programs to K-12 schools. Julie has an impressive resume, including being the President of the California Esports Association, the 2022 NACAD High School Esports Director of the Year, and the 2024 Guardian of the Year by The GameHers. She’s also the founder of JDog Mav Consulting LLC, where she helps schools launch esports and STEM programs that prepare students for the future.

Episode Highlights:

• Julie’s Path to Esports and STEM Education: Julie shares how she transitioned from a career in IT and event planning to a role in education, where she helped build STEM programs and spearheaded the integration of esports and drones in Fresno Unified School District.
• Launching Her Consulting Business: Learn about Julie’s entrepreneurial journey and how she is helping schools around the world develop esports and STEM programs, offering expertise in program development, curriculum writing, and implementation.
• Advice for Starting Esports Programs: For schools or educators looking to introduce esports programs, Julie provides practical advice on getting started, from setting up a simple club to accessing resources and curriculum, and leveraging community collaboration.
• The Broader Impact of Esports: Julie explains how esports attracts students who may not participate in traditional extracurricular activities and how it helps develop critical 21st-century skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. She also highlights the various career paths associated with esports beyond gaming, including broadcasting, marketing, and audio-visual production.
• Esports and Inclusion: Esports offers an inclusive environment that attracts neurodivergent students, allowing them to excel in ways that traditional education sometimes does not. Julie shares how these programs can help these students develop skills that translate into viable careers.
• Looking to the Future of Education: Julie discusses her excitement about the growing adoption of AI, AR, and VR in education, and how these technologies will continue to reshape the classroom and provide students with real-world skills through interactive, collaborative projects.

Key Takeaways:

• Esports offers more than just gaming—it’s a pathway to developing critical skills and exploring a wide range of careers.
• Educators can start small by launching esports clubs, leveraging free or low-cost resources, and connecting with others in the community for support.
• Esports provides an inclusive space for neurodivergent students, allowing them to shine in areas where they may have previously struggled.
• The future of education will increasingly involve AI, AR, VR, and other advanced technologies, offering students real-world applications of their learning.

🔗 Learn More:

• Follow Julie Mavrogeorge on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliemavro/
• Connect with her on X @jdogmav https://x.com/jdogmav
• Learn more about her consulting services: JDog Mav Consulting LLC

Subscribe to Legend Makers Podcast for more inspiring conversations with the educators who are leading the charge in transforming education through innovation and passion.

🎙️ Guest: Daniella Rios, an award-winning educator with over 16 years of experience at La Joya ISD, shares her insights on the lasting impact teachers can have by building strong, supportive relationships with their students.

Named La Joya ISD’s District Teacher of the Year in 2013-2014, Daniella holds a Master’s degree in Mathematics from the University of Texas at Arlington, graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Her passion for education and her ability to connect with students are at the heart of her teaching philosophy.

Episode Highlights:

• The Power of a Caring Teacher: Daniella shares a personal story from her childhood when her 4th-grade teacher noticed her struggles and stepped in to help, profoundly changing her life and inspiring her to become a teacher.
• Creating a Safe, Supportive Environment: Daniella explains the importance of giving students ownership of their learning and how establishing routines fosters respect, accountability, and a positive atmosphere in the classroom.
• Long-Lasting Connections: Hear how Daniella’s former students, even years after leaving her classroom, return to share their successes and express their gratitude, reflecting the deep bonds she creates with them.
• Advice for New Teachers: Daniella offers valuable advice for new educators, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with students, setting clear expectations, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
• Staying Optimistic: Daniella talks about why she remains hopeful for the future of education and how the challenges of recent years have made students more resilient and adaptable.

Key Takeaways:

• Building strong, personal relationships with students is the foundation of a successful and impactful teaching career.
• Teachers have the power to create a lasting positive influence, both academically and emotionally, by being attentive and supportive.
• Establishing a classroom culture of respect and responsibility helps students thrive and encourages lifelong learning.

🔗 Learn More:

• Follow Daniella Rios on Twitter (X): @drios1111 for daily inspiration and educational insights.
• Check out her recommended reading list for new teachers:
  • The Happy Teacher Habits: 11 Habits of the Happiest, Most Effective Teachers on Earth
  • 50 Ways to Improve Student Behavior

Subscribe to Legend Makers Podcast for more inspiring conversations with the educators who are shaping the future, one student at a time!

🎙️ Guest: Chris Woods, author of Daily STEM and host of the STEM Everyday podcast, joins us for an inspiring conversation about making STEM education accessible, engaging, and meaningful in classrooms and homes alike.

Episode Highlights:

• Chris' Journey to Teaching: Discover how Chris transitioned from aspiring engineer to passionate educator. He shares how a summer camp experience led him to realize his calling wasn't in a cubicle but in the classroom, helping kids unlock their potential in STEM.
• The Importance of a STEM Culture: Chris emphasizes that STEM isn't just a subject but a culture that schools and communities must nurture. He explains how creating a STEM culture can engage students at every level, both in school and at home.
• STEM for Everyone: Whether it's using 3D printers or finding educational moments in nature (like water droplets on a leaf), Chris believes STEM is all around us. He shares how every teacher, regardless of subject, can incorporate STEM into their classroom.
• Memorable Teaching Moments: Chris reflects on the lasting impact of teaching, recounting stories of students who reached out years later to express their gratitude. He reminds us that, although educators may not see immediate results, the seeds they plant shape futures.
• Advice for New Teachers: Chris offers heartfelt advice for educators just starting out, including the importance of continuous learning and collaboration. He also encourages seasoned teachers to stay in the classroom and inspire the next generation of educators.
• Why Chris is Excited About Education: From accessible tech like 3D printers to livestreams of SpaceX launches, Chris shares his excitement about the tools and resources available to educators today. He highlights how these innovations make it easier than ever to inspire students.

Key Takeaways:

• STEM education isn't confined to the classroom—it's a culture that can be built in any community.
• Continuous learning is essential for both teachers and students.
• Engaging with everyday objects and current technology can ignite students’ curiosity and passion for STEM.

🔗 Learn More:

• Follow Chris Woods on Twitter @dailystem for daily STEM tips and inspiration.
• Check out his book Daily STEM to find practical strategies for creating a STEM culture in your classroom.
• Listen to Chris' own podcast, STEM Everyday, for more discussions on innovative STEM education.

Subscribe to Legend Makers Podcast for more inspiring conversations with education's true heroes!