As the literacy services librarian at the Wichita Public Library, Savannah Ball combines her deep commitment to helping people access the resources they need to thrive with her love for books.

Driven by a passion for helping others, Ball connects people with resources, opportunities and stories that help them grow. Her own educational journey gives her perspective on the importance of supporting people in finding their own right path.

In this episode, Lydia, Kristin and Savannah talk about the role of libraries in a community, swap favorite book recommendations and share practical tips for helping kids become confident readers.

Isabel Peine's background is impressive. She earned degrees in biomedical engineering and mathematics while competing as an NCAA Division I cheerleader.

But at NTegrity Athletics in Goddard, Peine uses those talents in a different way. She uses her critical-thinking skills to help kids who have disabilities or other differences take tumbling lessons, and she uses her welcoming personality to make all kids feel like they belong.

In this episode of Let's Get Personal, hear how this STUNT and ninja warrior coach is making her corner of the world a little brighter for kids.

Lauren Mason is often the first face families see when they walk into Learning Lab Wichita, and her warmth, organization and care help set the tone for a positive experience.

Behind the scenes, Lauren plays a vital role in keeping Learning Lab moving forward, combining relationship-building and project management to support our community of students, families and educators.

But, like many people, Lauren did not always know what path she wanted her career to take. An internship at Learning Lab provided a twist she never saw coming.

In this episode of Let's Get Personal, Lauren shares how working in the right environment helped her find fulfillment.

Leah Ellis believes the only thing standing in the way of kids achieving extraordinary success is limitations placed on them by adults. 

Ellis is the founder of the Society of Child Entrepreneurs, which provides hands-on learning, business experiences and community spaces for kids ages 6–17. Her work encouraging kids to start businesses builds confidence, independence and real-world skills.

An entrepreneur herself, Ellis is a published author and runs a wedding officiant business. Her never-take-no attitude results in innovation wherever she goes. 

In this episode of Let's Get Personal, Leah shares why kids are capable of more than we think and what results are possible when we let them lead.

Learn more about the Society of Child Entrepreneurs at https://societyofchildentrepreneurs.org/.

When Shane Carter came to Wichita in 2025 to start his role as executive director of The Kansas African American Museum, he was no stranger to educational programming. 

While leading the Lincoln Community Center in Troy, Ohio, Shane started and grew a successful and effective after-school program. Now, he’s bringing that same energy and vision to TKAAAM’s educational programming and outreach efforts.

On this episode of Let’s Get Personal, Shane shares about his background as an athlete, coach and nonprofit executive — and why he believes community-centered education can change lives. He also shares how TKAAM is enriching culture and connection. 

Learn more about The Kansas African American Museum at https://www.tkaamuseum.org/.

Everyone can lead, and high school students are no exception.

That idea is at the heart of Lead Now, a new curriculum from Kansas Leadership Center designed to empower high school students to lead in their own lives and communities. In this episode, Jason Bosch, KLC’s Director of Curriculum Innovation, shares how the program came to life and how students themselves helped shape it.

Jason also reflects on his journey from higher education into this work, and why he’s passionate about helping the next generation grow as leaders.

Ever think about starting your own school?

At its core, Learning Lab Wichita is designed to support educators and founders starting new K-12 education models, providing families with more options for their children's education. 

Learning Lab Wichita hosts seven K-12 education models. In this episode, Lydia and Kristin chat about what it takes Learning Lab does to support these models and why the Lab is an ideal location to start a school. 

Although Learning Lab Wichita has no additional space for new resident models during the 2026-2027 academic year, there are still ways to get involved at Learning Lab. Listen to the episode to learn more.

Conner Hampton is a former Division I basketball coach, a fundraising consultant, a national speaker – and he is Learning Lab Executive Director Lydia's husband.

On this episode of Let's Get Personal, Conner delves into what school was like for him as an active, social kid and how it informed their decision when he and Lydia chose a better school option for their 7-year-old son. 

Bonus: He also shares how he met Lydia and what he admires most about her, giving a glimpse into the partnership behind this Wichita power couple.

Joe Woodward, Director of Wichita Operations for Stand Together Foundation, leads local efforts to advance bottom-up solutions for economic mobility. His work focuses on strengthening families and neighborhoods, fostering innovation in education, and empowering community members to help one another overcome barriers.

In this episode of Let’s Get Personal, Joe shares his own educational journey and evolving career path. He also offers insight into how Stand Together supports innovation through strategic partnerships  and community-driven solutions.

To learn more about Stand Together's work in Wichita, visit ANFWichita.org and  StandTogether.org/Wichita .

Molly Brown came to Wichita to become a zookeeper, but she stayed because she loved the city. Today, Molly serves as the events and program manager at Learning Lab Wichita, where she designs hands-on, engaging learning activities for kids and adults. 

On this episode, Molly shares stories about her upbringing in rural Wisconsin and reflects on what brings her joy in her work at Learning Lab. (Hint: It always comes back to the kids.)